Psychiatrists in Pikeville, KY
Harold Bedu-Addo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501 (Online Only)
I am part of a group practice that works with adults of all ages. I am a licensed PMHNP, psychiatric mental health provider, in Kentucky with 2+ years of experience in public mental health.
I am part of a group practice that works with adults of all ages. I am a licensed PMHNP, psychiatric mental health provider, in Kentucky with 2+ years of experience in public mental health.
![Photo of Rhonda Blevins - Rhonda Blevins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60090b1c-ab42-4344-bcfb-40eed3dabfda/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Blevins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501 (Online Only)
As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe in taking a holistic approach to mental health, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of each individual. Through active listening and building a therapeutic relationship, I am able to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly express their concerns. By understanding your unique experiences and needs, I can develop personalized treatment plans that promote overall well-being.
As a PMHNP, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe in taking a holistic approach to mental health, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of each individual. Through active listening and building a therapeutic relationship, I am able to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly express their concerns. By understanding your unique experiences and needs, I can develop personalized treatment plans that promote overall well-being.
![Photo of Sarah Schirmer, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60bf1a0a-7c34-4d68-b938-09362f4951e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Schirmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501
I work with people who encounter frequent, strong emotions that they experience as problematic and then find themselves avoiding the life they want to live. My patients may struggle with intense anxiety and worry, distressing depression, or problems with focus, concentration, and productivity. We work together to remind you of your strengths, values, and goals and create a holistic plan that works for you. Instead of avoiding your life, you will learn to accept and tolerate your emotions and get back to doing the things that are meaningful for you.
I work with people who encounter frequent, strong emotions that they experience as problematic and then find themselves avoiding the life they want to live. My patients may struggle with intense anxiety and worry, distressing depression, or problems with focus, concentration, and productivity. We work together to remind you of your strengths, values, and goals and create a holistic plan that works for you. Instead of avoiding your life, you will learn to accept and tolerate your emotions and get back to doing the things that are meaningful for you.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, DO, MS, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/138b86d8-f0d7-45f0-b4c7-6eb12546beb9/3/320x400.jpeg)
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a
![Photo of Jessica Ann Maupin, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7392cce-9a71-4c74-9796-bdea69bd85ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Ann Maupin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, KY 41102
Hi! I go by Jess. I've been a psychiatric nurse practitioner over 2 years now and have been in healthcare since 2013. I treat ages 6+ and specialize in ADHD and substance use disorders; however, I also treat all co-occurring psychiatric conditions. I offer ADHD diagnosis and treatment for ages 6-60 utilizing Qb testing combined with clinical judgement.
Hi! I go by Jess. I've been a psychiatric nurse practitioner over 2 years now and have been in healthcare since 2013. I treat ages 6+ and specialize in ADHD and substance use disorders; however, I also treat all co-occurring psychiatric conditions. I offer ADHD diagnosis and treatment for ages 6-60 utilizing Qb testing combined with clinical judgement.
![Photo of Laura Pohl - Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17d82f88-d5ec-479f-aa6c-b97699c75b4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PHNP
Verified Verified
London, KY 40744 (Online Only)
I’m dedicated to helping women thrive amidst life’s pressures and challenges. With specialized expertise in managing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I provide compassionate and expert support tailored to your needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’m passionate about guiding women through every stage of mental health, including during breastfeeding—many women have the wrong information about medication options, but I’m here to ensure you have accurate, supportive care.
I’m dedicated to helping women thrive amidst life’s pressures and challenges. With specialized expertise in managing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I provide compassionate and expert support tailored to your needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’m passionate about guiding women through every stage of mental health, including during breastfeeding—many women have the wrong information about medication options, but I’m here to ensure you have accurate, supportive care.
![Photo of Anna Schoeneman, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d6110c8-ec86-46c6-9b81-d282977251fb/1/320x400.png)
Anna Schoeneman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, CCRN
Verified Verified
London, KY 40744
Mental health impacts everyone in a slightly different way. It is my goal to help you reach your mental health goals. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma, allow me to help you facilitate the best quality of life and help you reach your goals.
Mental health impacts everyone in a slightly different way. It is my goal to help you reach your mental health goals. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma, allow me to help you facilitate the best quality of life and help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Sandra Edwards, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88245594-7f20-4f85-9b8f-68e993c48f06/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
![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 Rebekah Easton-Hogg, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4827a0e-2d5b-4996-a6cb-8cfbc2ff4af8/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Megan Jo Enyart - Tri-State Progressive Health, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/138e5c31-1c06-4df2-944e-599698ad7813/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tri-State Progressive Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ashland, KY 41101 (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile! I'm Megan Enyart, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner certified in both primary and mental health care. My mission is to deliver personalized, evidence-based care to people from all walks of life. In 2021, I took the leap to establish Tri-State Progressive Health, where I oversee both the business side and patient care. I manage a wide range of health needs, from mental health support to acute medical conditions, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and treatment they deserve.
Welcome to my profile! I'm Megan Enyart, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner certified in both primary and mental health care. My mission is to deliver personalized, evidence-based care to people from all walks of life. In 2021, I took the leap to establish Tri-State Progressive Health, where I oversee both the business side and patient care. I manage a wide range of health needs, from mental health support to acute medical conditions, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and treatment they deserve.
![Photo of Leslie Powell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36dde250-ed4f-4c62-9df4-28349b956ed7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
![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 Kristin Farnsley, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, IMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aff5b225-df39-4a8a-a178-02f2ca36ee25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Farnsley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, IMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, KY 40475 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients at PsychMind Counseling and Psychiatry. Kristin has been a nurse practitioner since 2015. After graduating with her BSN in 2010, Kristin worked at Kosair Children’s hospital on the pediatric psych unit and the TCU step down/burn unit. In 2015 she graduated with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree. She practiced as an FNP from 2015-2019, working with clients with intellectual disabilities resulting from traumatic brain injuries before the age of 18 through geriatric patients. Kristin takes an integrative approach to mental health care and emphasizes the value of a healthy mind and body with her patients.
Accepting NEW clients at PsychMind Counseling and Psychiatry. Kristin has been a nurse practitioner since 2015. After graduating with her BSN in 2010, Kristin worked at Kosair Children’s hospital on the pediatric psych unit and the TCU step down/burn unit. In 2015 she graduated with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree. She practiced as an FNP from 2015-2019, working with clients with intellectual disabilities resulting from traumatic brain injuries before the age of 18 through geriatric patients. Kristin takes an integrative approach to mental health care and emphasizes the value of a healthy mind and body with her patients.
![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!
![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 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 Nicole Asante, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5879dc80-d55b-4d87-a617-945ca0ee97f3/1/320x400.png)
Nicole Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville Tennessee and working with clients Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville Tennessee and working with clients Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
![Photo of Linda Thomas - Parsons Medication Management, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482bfdcc-3e1c-4378-a701-a57cb120d907/1/320x400.png)
Parsons Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Berea, KY 40403
At Parsons Counseling, we believe each person deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood. Our goal is to care for you, your family, and your unique situation to help you learn, heal, and thrive! When counseling alone falls short, our psychiatric nurse practitioners are here to support you and help find the right solution for your mental health.
At Parsons Counseling, we believe each person deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood. Our goal is to care for you, your family, and your unique situation to help you learn, heal, and thrive! When counseling alone falls short, our psychiatric nurse practitioners are here to support you and help find the right solution for your mental health.
See more therapy options for Pikeville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pikeville, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Pikeville, KY who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Coping Skills |
67% | Depression |
67% | Addiction |
67% | Eating Disorders |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Pikeville, KY see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pikeville?
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.