Psychiatrists in Monroe, LA
![Photo of Florence C 'crissi' Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa2b4884-b954-42c2-9d85-5f11114c0f18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Florence C 'crissi' Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
My name is Crissi Brooks, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked with people of all ages from many different backgrounds. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, and treatments including medications for many different mental health issues including trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My compassionate approach embraces the diversity of mental health experiences by offering a supportive environment where my patients can find new avenues of growth and healing. My goal is to foster transformative changes that ripple through individuals, families, and communities, resulting in collective healing.
My name is Crissi Brooks, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked with people of all ages from many different backgrounds. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, and treatments including medications for many different mental health issues including trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My compassionate approach embraces the diversity of mental health experiences by offering a supportive environment where my patients can find new avenues of growth and healing. My goal is to foster transformative changes that ripple through individuals, families, and communities, resulting in collective healing.
Rhonda Terese Rushing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
My experience has been almost exclusively in psychiatry, working in inpatient psychiatric hospitals as both a COTA and RN. The ability to establish rapport and build trust is not based on the length of time in practice but more from having compassion and empathy for another human being. I learned through many years of working in psychiatry. My desire is to help my clients attain their goals in life, keep their eyes forward, and learn from the trials of the past. By addressing symptoms with the appropriate medication, I strive to help each client improve their life and continue to grow emotionally.
My experience has been almost exclusively in psychiatry, working in inpatient psychiatric hospitals as both a COTA and RN. The ability to establish rapport and build trust is not based on the length of time in practice but more from having compassion and empathy for another human being. I learned through many years of working in psychiatry. My desire is to help my clients attain their goals in life, keep their eyes forward, and learn from the trials of the past. By addressing symptoms with the appropriate medication, I strive to help each client improve their life and continue to grow emotionally.
![Photo of Jaimie Harris, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/070d01b2-6aeb-428c-8799-6783f2a2c271/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jaimie Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201 (Online Only)
Jaimie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of South Alabama. She is committed to providing quality mental health care for adults and children of all ages. When the term psychiatry was first coined, it literally meant, "treatment of the soul." Jaimie believes in a holistic approach. She takes the time to build rapport with each of her patients in order to understand his or her unique situation. Her goal is individualized treatment plans and goals tailored to each client in an effort to improve overall well-being and daily living.
Jaimie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of South Alabama. She is committed to providing quality mental health care for adults and children of all ages. When the term psychiatry was first coined, it literally meant, "treatment of the soul." Jaimie believes in a holistic approach. She takes the time to build rapport with each of her patients in order to understand his or her unique situation. Her goal is individualized treatment plans and goals tailored to each client in an effort to improve overall well-being and daily living.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fda82c3-5f9a-4aca-81c8-39fd6d64c717/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Laura Bates, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65f2c581-fc73-4d23-be9e-21aeffb4acff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
I believe in a holistic, individualized approach to mental health treatment. There are no cookie-cutter boxes when it comes to psychiatric diagnoses or treatment plans. I take the time to listen to my patients, so that I am assessing the right problems that are important to them. I believe that it is crucial for the patient and mental healthcare provider to develop trust and healthy communication. The patient can achieve the best results for themselves when they are adequately educated and included in the treatment options.
I believe in a holistic, individualized approach to mental health treatment. There are no cookie-cutter boxes when it comes to psychiatric diagnoses or treatment plans. I take the time to listen to my patients, so that I am assessing the right problems that are important to them. I believe that it is crucial for the patient and mental healthcare provider to develop trust and healthy communication. The patient can achieve the best results for themselves when they are adequately educated and included in the treatment options.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Cristina Evans, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/094132d0-866a-4221-a157-d47b785a3594/1/320x400.png)
Cristina Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
West Monroe, LA 71291 (Online Only)
Cristina is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Northwestern State University of Louisiana. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan. Cristina possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Cristina’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, and medication provider.
Cristina is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Northwestern State University of Louisiana. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan. Cristina possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Cristina’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, and medication provider.
![Photo of Felicia Thomas, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8eb7e35a-f174-40a7-8926-23ea60760af5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Felicia Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
West Monroe, LA 71291 (Online Only)
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
![Photo of Abigail Speights Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63aabaf3-0636-448f-9b72-fed920bc39c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Speights Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
West Monroe, LA 71291
Abigail has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, both psychiatric and medical. As an experienced healthcare provider, Abigail utilizes her 8 years of experience to assist her patients in improving their quality of life. Abigail provides medication management. It is her goal to help identify the root causes of her patient’s current symptoms by extensive lab testing, ordering genetic testing, and a thorough evaluation. Abigail has developed a referral network with trusted therapists when ongoing therapy is needed. Abigail believes that working together as a team is the best approach to gain successful outcomes for her patients.
Abigail has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, both psychiatric and medical. As an experienced healthcare provider, Abigail utilizes her 8 years of experience to assist her patients in improving their quality of life. Abigail provides medication management. It is her goal to help identify the root causes of her patient’s current symptoms by extensive lab testing, ordering genetic testing, and a thorough evaluation. Abigail has developed a referral network with trusted therapists when ongoing therapy is needed. Abigail believes that working together as a team is the best approach to gain successful outcomes for her patients.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Ellen Grappe, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cfd150-87f9-4fc5-8d91-7ccbc02095c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Grappe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Shreveport, LA 71106 (Online Only)
Ellen is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Ellen began her education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, receiving a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. During this time, she contributed to research on schizophrenia, treatment-resistant depression, and the effect of adverse childhood experiences on mental health. She completed her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nursing from Northwestern State University in Louisiana.
Ellen is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Ellen began her education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, receiving a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. During this time, she contributed to research on schizophrenia, treatment-resistant depression, and the effect of adverse childhood experiences on mental health. She completed her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nursing from Northwestern State University in Louisiana.
![Photo of Jaschandria Bell - It's A Beautiful Mind Consultants, LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c39ef2ec-55d5-4502-a13f-58749c40045f/1/320x400.png)
It's A Beautiful Mind Consultants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Shreveport, LA 71105
As a dual-certified nurse practitioner, I am trained to assess and treat the whole person. Although I focus on mental health in my clinical setting, I understand the integration of medical issues and how they can directly impact mental health. I will work with your primary care medical provider to ensure your treatment benefits you from every angle.
As a dual-certified nurse practitioner, I am trained to assess and treat the whole person. Although I focus on mental health in my clinical setting, I understand the integration of medical issues and how they can directly impact mental health. I will work with your primary care medical provider to ensure your treatment benefits you from every angle.
![Photo of Jadebrey Kennon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbd8c893-e7bb-47e7-9aba-774931098a9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jadebrey Kennon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shreveport, LA 71105 (Online Only)
Jadebrey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD, and sleep/insomnia. She has been in the nursing field for over 20 years. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults of all ages. Jadebrey's philosophy is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Jadebrey believes medication is a tool that can be used in addition to therapy to treat the whole person. Jadebrey encourages her patients to take an active role in their care.
Jadebrey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD, and sleep/insomnia. She has been in the nursing field for over 20 years. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults of all ages. Jadebrey's philosophy is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Jadebrey believes medication is a tool that can be used in addition to therapy to treat the whole person. Jadebrey encourages her patients to take an active role in their care.
![Photo of Anissa Womack - Urgent Mental Health FMLA Evaluations, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8443e084-1167-42da-9c10-cdc6baaee82d/1/320x400.png)
Urgent Mental Health FMLA Evaluations
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Shreveport, LA 71107 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with getting FMLA paperwork completed? Not sure how to get started on your mental health journey? Schedule a psychiatric evaluation today! I specialize in FMLA and short-term disability evaluations that may help you access resources to support your recovery and mental wellness. For your convenience, I provide virtual services, allowing you to complete your requirements from home using your cell phone or laptop. Contact me today at 225-605-3103.
Are you struggling with getting FMLA paperwork completed? Not sure how to get started on your mental health journey? Schedule a psychiatric evaluation today! I specialize in FMLA and short-term disability evaluations that may help you access resources to support your recovery and mental wellness. For your convenience, I provide virtual services, allowing you to complete your requirements from home using your cell phone or laptop. Contact me today at 225-605-3103.
![Photo of Ashley Fell, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e74bfca-6474-4da3-a364-d139c0503eb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Fell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
Shreveport, LA 71106
Ashley believes mental health is best addressed using a combination of traditional, functional, and integrative health strategies, focusing on the root cause of the condition.
Ashley believes mental health is best addressed using a combination of traditional, functional, and integrative health strategies, focusing on the root cause of the condition.
![Photo of Cynthia Welch - Cynthia Welch - A Better Day Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d208b33f-0b14-4a47-bddb-ef8e626477fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Welch - A Better Day Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Minden, LA 71055
Mental health is fundamental to a fulfilling life. We all experience and react to life differently. There are times when life forces us to seek the opportunity to accept help. My practice prioritizes accurate diagnostic assessments and building a strong therapeutic alliance to tailor treatments to individual needs. I take an evidence-based approach and focus on improving relationships, work-life balance, and self-acceptance by using therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and when necessary, medication. My goal is to help you have a better day.
Mental health is fundamental to a fulfilling life. We all experience and react to life differently. There are times when life forces us to seek the opportunity to accept help. My practice prioritizes accurate diagnostic assessments and building a strong therapeutic alliance to tailor treatments to individual needs. I take an evidence-based approach and focus on improving relationships, work-life balance, and self-acceptance by using therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and when necessary, medication. My goal is to help you have a better day.
![Photo of Wakanda Mason - A Healthy Mind Mental Health Services, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bde3e0bf-7b9e-40f7-8273-0a815ba60ee4/1/320x400.png)
A Healthy Mind Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, LA 71301 (Online Only)
Hi my name is Wakanda. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am excited you have taken the first step to fostering a “A Healthy Mind.”
Hi my name is Wakanda. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am excited you have taken the first step to fostering a “A Healthy Mind.”
![Photo of Katina Williams Jones, PhD, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d0248d9-0e37-42d1-b822-874318c92199/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katina Williams Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bastrop, LA 71220 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management of psychiatric disorders. I currently accept new children, adolescents, and adult patients via telehealth throughout Louisiana. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure appropriate treatment is established.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management of psychiatric disorders. I currently accept new children, adolescents, and adult patients via telehealth throughout Louisiana. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure appropriate treatment is established.
![Photo of Rosaline Darty, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e0a6a65-9391-4fa5-887e-9d6b418099f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rosaline Darty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shreveport, LA 71104
Dr. Rosaline Darty, NP is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has served her community by providing superior healthcare across the lifespan for 26 years. She strives to provide personalized, holistic, and high-quality care. She provides medication management and psychotherapy to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. Her goal is to empower clients by building relationships, providing education, and focusing on strengths and abilities to improve lifestyle and manage life’s challenges.
Dr. Rosaline Darty, NP is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has served her community by providing superior healthcare across the lifespan for 26 years. She strives to provide personalized, holistic, and high-quality care. She provides medication management and psychotherapy to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. Her goal is to empower clients by building relationships, providing education, and focusing on strengths and abilities to improve lifestyle and manage life’s challenges.
![Photo of Sarah Rettstatt, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83da771f-1caf-475f-be71-24586c991b7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Rettstatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
Shreveport, LA 71106 (Online Only)
Sarah is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, she completed an internship as a health coach on a hospital outpatient transition team. There, she discovered her passion for patient care. Sarah attended Southeastern Louisiana University where she acquired a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and, four years later, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
Sarah is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, she completed an internship as a health coach on a hospital outpatient transition team. There, she discovered her passion for patient care. Sarah attended Southeastern Louisiana University where she acquired a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and, four years later, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
![Photo of Claudia V Orellana, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b54ddb07-845d-43cc-ad63-fc5ced483c5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive psychiatric services and excellent healthcare. Our team takes pride in our expertise in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses, and we believe that the relationship between healthcare provider and patient is paramount. We adopt a balanced approach that goes beyond symptom relief, helping you find ways to revitalize your life and thrive in all your endeavors.
We are committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive psychiatric services and excellent healthcare. Our team takes pride in our expertise in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses, and we believe that the relationship between healthcare provider and patient is paramount. We adopt a balanced approach that goes beyond symptom relief, helping you find ways to revitalize your life and thrive in all your endeavors.
See more therapy options for Monroe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Monroe, LA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Monroe, LA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Monroe, LA see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Monroe?
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.