Psychiatrists in Sunset, LA
![Photo of Wronetta Charles, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/721208b0-85b2-42e9-93c4-afd919274503/1/320x400.png)
Wronetta Charles
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
61 Endorsed
Sunset, LA 70584
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering high quality mental health care. I collaborate with a psychiatrist and a variety of other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible treatment for my clients. My office is located at 1119 Prudhomme Circle, Suite B, in Opelousas, LA. I look forward to working with you. You may reach me at the office at 337-678-0366 or via fax at 337-223-8301. Email: wcharles@mindandbodyconnections.org
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering high quality mental health care. I collaborate with a psychiatrist and a variety of other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible treatment for my clients. My office is located at 1119 Prudhomme Circle, Suite B, in Opelousas, LA. I look forward to working with you. You may reach me at the office at 337-678-0366 or via fax at 337-223-8301. Email: wcharles@mindandbodyconnections.org
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Christopher Guedry, MD, ABPN, ABPM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3abbc66-10f0-4b7a-80c2-56713d9678bb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Guedry
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABPM
Verified Verified
Carencro, LA 70520
Not accepting new clients
Board-certified in Psychiatry by the ABPN and Addiction Medicine by the ABPM. Dr. Guedry is a native of Morganza, Louisiana. His medical school training was completed at LSUHSC-Shreveport, followed by a residency in Psychiatry at LSU and Ochsner's combined program in New Orleans. Treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Panic Disorder, Substance Use/Addiction, and more. Offering in-person and telehealth visits.
Board-certified in Psychiatry by the ABPN and Addiction Medicine by the ABPM. Dr. Guedry is a native of Morganza, Louisiana. His medical school training was completed at LSUHSC-Shreveport, followed by a residency in Psychiatry at LSU and Ochsner's combined program in New Orleans. Treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Panic Disorder, Substance Use/Addiction, and more. Offering in-person and telehealth visits.
![Photo of Helen Ajala - Royal Health & Wellness Clinic LLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d2dab38-a77b-45a4-9c17-d0b71dd40463/3/320x400.jpeg)
Royal Health & Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Opelousas, LA 70570
My name is Helen Ajala. I am a doctoral-prepared Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a graduate of the Loyola University of New Orleans and Frontier Nursing University, Versailles Kentucky, I have over 35 years of experience in healthcare. I treat patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My philosophy is an all-inclusive patient-centered approach. Our team of dedicated professionals provides fully integrated primary care and behavioral health services for children and adults.
My name is Helen Ajala. I am a doctoral-prepared Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a graduate of the Loyola University of New Orleans and Frontier Nursing University, Versailles Kentucky, I have over 35 years of experience in healthcare. I treat patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My philosophy is an all-inclusive patient-centered approach. Our team of dedicated professionals provides fully integrated primary care and behavioral health services for children and adults.
![Photo of Addie Snyder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/892f746c-64fa-4e13-891e-11be0c2c1a5b/2/320x400.png)
Willow Mental Wellness & Recovery offers outpatient mental health services treating psychiatric disorders, such as, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Substance abuse disorders. We have licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners who offer medication management. Most private insurances accepted. Opioid addiction treatment and Suboxone treatment offered. Now offering in-house Spravato Treatment.
Willow Mental Wellness & Recovery offers outpatient mental health services treating psychiatric disorders, such as, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Substance abuse disorders. We have licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners who offer medication management. Most private insurances accepted. Opioid addiction treatment and Suboxone treatment offered. Now offering in-house Spravato Treatment.
![Photo of Sreelatha Pulakhandam, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418d2661-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Twelve-Step programs are sometimes critical of medication-assisted treatment, discouraging members by saying they are not really sober if they are taking prescription drugs for their dependency. Despite the evidence that medication-assisted treatment help patients with chemical dependency, using drugs carries a stigma. Many Professional scoff at medication-assisted treatment, dismissing it as a temporary fix or taking the easy way out. This is so disheartening to those that it has helped stay sober. Rather, the physician will coordinate the use of medication with other facets of care to ensure that it is used effectively.
Twelve-Step programs are sometimes critical of medication-assisted treatment, discouraging members by saying they are not really sober if they are taking prescription drugs for their dependency. Despite the evidence that medication-assisted treatment help patients with chemical dependency, using drugs carries a stigma. Many Professional scoff at medication-assisted treatment, dismissing it as a temporary fix or taking the easy way out. This is so disheartening to those that it has helped stay sober. Rather, the physician will coordinate the use of medication with other facets of care to ensure that it is used effectively.
![Photo of Deidra Thompson - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f88bbae-7145-44b3-bbff-be98fe9700f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70507 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Larnaisha Q Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23aee4ba-a709-4d8a-9f87-ca0bceec7d2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larnaisha is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about mental health, and understanding. She is a skilled nursing professional with 9 years of experience working in various clinical settings include in-patient and outpatient psychiatric facilities. She is certified to provide quality, compassionate, and efficient comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP-BC is multifaceted including advocating for patients, providing evidence-based education and management, and providing patient-centered psychiatric care.
Larnaisha is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about mental health, and understanding. She is a skilled nursing professional with 9 years of experience working in various clinical settings include in-patient and outpatient psychiatric facilities. She is certified to provide quality, compassionate, and efficient comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP-BC is multifaceted including advocating for patients, providing evidence-based education and management, and providing patient-centered psychiatric care.
Cinderella Marie Broussard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70507
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Khristopher Fuselier, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4daff225-178f-4b07-b00b-8fa21283a347/1/320x400.jpeg)
Khristopher Fuselier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Lake Charles, LA 70605
I am driven to provide the finest mental health treatment for my patients. I am accepting new patients for telehealth/phone call visits for Louisiana residents, or in-person visits. I am also currently able to get patients scheduled quickly. As a dual certified nurse practitioner, I offer the ability for the patient to get both their medical and psychiatric needs addressed and managed, and will be offering primary care option in the future.
I am driven to provide the finest mental health treatment for my patients. I am accepting new patients for telehealth/phone call visits for Louisiana residents, or in-person visits. I am also currently able to get patients scheduled quickly. As a dual certified nurse practitioner, I offer the ability for the patient to get both their medical and psychiatric needs addressed and managed, and will be offering primary care option in the future.
![Photo of Paige Skinner deClouet, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/276501d9-343f-4e32-b7e3-45d4079d72d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a graduate of McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA. I have 10+ years of direct patient care experience.
I am Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a graduate of McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA. I have 10+ years of direct patient care experience.
![Photo of Ellie Parrish - Always Hope LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e16d792-82db-4c46-a156-7b4cd9619f63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairieville, LA 70769 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
![Photo of Felix Geller - Modern Psychiatry, MD, LCSW, LMFT, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbe60142-9036-4c7e-ba21-40af658b3b07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - - We are a team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, case managers and primary care physicians offering convenient and comprehensive mental health treatment across multiple states, both in-person and virtually. We specialize in treating a multitude of conditions therefore are able to match you with a provider best suited to meet your specific needs. Let us help you achieve a higher quality of life and overall sense of wellbeing. Contact us today!
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - - We are a team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, case managers and primary care physicians offering convenient and comprehensive mental health treatment across multiple states, both in-person and virtually. We specialize in treating a multitude of conditions therefore are able to match you with a provider best suited to meet your specific needs. Let us help you achieve a higher quality of life and overall sense of wellbeing. Contact us today!
![Photo of Dr. Jeremy Bernard Sanders - Jeremy Sanders Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8438ca08-ffe7-491c-927f-ab380e34f549/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Sanders Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Dr. Jeremy Sanders, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner licensed by the State of Louisiana to provide patient centered mental health services to patients ages 21 and older. Jeremy's combination of clinical education and experience provides a strong foundation for meeting the complex behavioral health needs. He has been an asset to the community in the southern Louisiana area. He believes in building a trusting relationship with patients.
Dr. Jeremy Sanders, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner licensed by the State of Louisiana to provide patient centered mental health services to patients ages 21 and older. Jeremy's combination of clinical education and experience provides a strong foundation for meeting the complex behavioral health needs. He has been an asset to the community in the southern Louisiana area. He believes in building a trusting relationship with patients.
![Photo of Dominque Jones, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d06667d-73a3-4371-8415-379732be7490/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dominque Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70501
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
![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 Johnathan T Larroquette, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9c7fb31-92d9-4a18-8a25-7edebf95f162/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that solution-focused care tailored to the individual is effective to achieve optimal functioning in daily life. My goal is to provide an improvement in the patient's quality of life.
I believe that solution-focused care tailored to the individual is effective to achieve optimal functioning in daily life. My goal is to provide an improvement in the patient's quality of life.
![Photo of Ashley Albarado, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5382eb31-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. I am a medical doctor (MD) and my specialty is medication management of psychiatric disorders. I work closely with counselors, therapists, psychologists and other mental health providers.
I am board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. I am a medical doctor (MD) and my specialty is medication management of psychiatric disorders. I work closely with counselors, therapists, psychologists and other mental health providers.
![Photo of Alyssa LaBiche deClouet, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f31ca3fc-7ed1-42c9-bbe1-dad520e000b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa LaBiche deClouet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Iberia, LA 70560
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and specialize in medication management of psychiatric disorders. I treat patients of all ages and am currently accepting new patients at two locations in Lafayette and New Iberia. I treat a variety of disorders with a special interest in anxiety and mood disorders. I work closely with therapists, psychologists, and other mental health care providers to provide you with an individualized treatment plan.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and specialize in medication management of psychiatric disorders. I treat patients of all ages and am currently accepting new patients at two locations in Lafayette and New Iberia. I treat a variety of disorders with a special interest in anxiety and mood disorders. I work closely with therapists, psychologists, and other mental health care providers to provide you with an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1c9d049-1d09-43b6-9ad2-d7c62dd321c8/1/320x400.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 Ibh Baton Rouge - Integrated Behavioral Health-Baton Rouge, PMHNPBC, LPC-S, LCSW, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1257e842-d2d8-42a3-84c0-446c10342808/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Behavioral Health-Baton Rouge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, LPC-S, LCSW, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
This location is currently accepting patients ages 5 and older for general psychiatry and therapy both in person and virtually. At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older. Our Baton Rouge team includes Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (Nurse Practitioner-In Person and telehealth appointments available in Baton Rouge and New Orleans), Casey Sommers, LPC-S (Associate Clinical Director), Elizabeth Standifer LCSW, Daja Williams, M.S., LPC. Our other location is on Poydras Street in New Orleans. Please call today or contact us on our website, www.ibhpsych.com
This location is currently accepting patients ages 5 and older for general psychiatry and therapy both in person and virtually. At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older. Our Baton Rouge team includes Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (Nurse Practitioner-In Person and telehealth appointments available in Baton Rouge and New Orleans), Casey Sommers, LPC-S (Associate Clinical Director), Elizabeth Standifer LCSW, Daja Williams, M.S., LPC. Our other location is on Poydras Street in New Orleans. Please call today or contact us on our website, www.ibhpsych.com
See more therapy options for Sunset
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sunset, LA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sunset, LA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
19 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | AmeriHealth |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Sunset, LA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sunset?
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.