Psychiatrists in Spring Hill, FL
![Photo of Jasmin Perry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4938f234-cddd-495e-adc4-3712fc8218a7/1/320x400.png)
Jasmin Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, FL 34604 (Online Only)
I am board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been practicing for over 6 years. I believe in a comprehensive treatment approach in order to understand and treat underlying issues and achieve overall wellness.
I am board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been practicing for over 6 years. I believe in a comprehensive treatment approach in order to understand and treat underlying issues and achieve overall wellness.
![Photo of Paula Reilley, PhD, PMHNPBC, CNS, CNE, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/768e7bf3-9a58-4fa6-83e7-3efe034d0a71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Reilley
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, PMHNPBC, CNS, CNE, MBA
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, FL 34609
My primary focus is on the patient and their mental and physical well being. My philosophy is that the patient is a person who comes to me related to mental health issues. The patient is an individual person that requires an individual treatment plan and medication management.
My primary focus is on the patient and their mental and physical well being. My philosophy is that the patient is a person who comes to me related to mental health issues. The patient is an individual person that requires an individual treatment plan and medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Jackie Ustache - Faith & Hope LLC, Mental Health Practice, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f60346e-7b90-4958-a704-b2b6b8a21d4d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Faith & Hope LLC, Mental Health Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, FL 34606 (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Dr. Jackie Ustache, now offering online virtual visits via Doxy.me in the comfort of your own home. Skip the waiting room, the driving, and traffic, and receive treatment in your own home or office through my online psychiatric services. Evening and weekend appointments are available. At Faith & Hope, we provide evidenced-based treatments and comprehensive evaluations. SCHEDULE ONLINE TODAY by visiting our website https://www.faithhopellc.com or https://headway.co/providers/jacqueline-ustache
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Dr. Jackie Ustache, now offering online virtual visits via Doxy.me in the comfort of your own home. Skip the waiting room, the driving, and traffic, and receive treatment in your own home or office through my online psychiatric services. Evening and weekend appointments are available. At Faith & Hope, we provide evidenced-based treatments and comprehensive evaluations. SCHEDULE ONLINE TODAY by visiting our website https://www.faithhopellc.com or https://headway.co/providers/jacqueline-ustache
![Photo of Remiluc Dumas, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3bd9e5-c5ab-4c9c-9bf6-b2e84b61e3b9/2/320x400.png)
Remiluc Dumas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, FL 34607 (Online Only)
I proudly serve individuals from all walks of life. I encourage each individual to reach out if they need help to overcome their mental illness so that they can keep their lives and families intact and function well in the community again. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
I proudly serve individuals from all walks of life. I encourage each individual to reach out if they need help to overcome their mental illness so that they can keep their lives and families intact and function well in the community again. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
![Photo of Ugonna Duru - Anuri Health and Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d10881b9-f899-4c1d-8a69-01599cfb6eb8/4/320x400.png)
Anuri Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34609
As a psychiatric mental health provider, we offer a range of services designed to help individuals effectively manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. We want you to know that we understand the challenges you may be facing with ADHD, anxiety, or depression. The frustrations, the moments of feeling overwhelmed, and the desire for a better way to navigate your daily life. You are not alone in this journey, and We are here to offer support and guidance.
As a psychiatric mental health provider, we offer a range of services designed to help individuals effectively manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. We want you to know that we understand the challenges you may be facing with ADHD, anxiety, or depression. The frustrations, the moments of feeling overwhelmed, and the desire for a better way to navigate your daily life. You are not alone in this journey, and We are here to offer support and guidance.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e66e6803-c419-4a49-bd84-bb34a9885a2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
![Photo of David Newby, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a37be51-e73c-44cb-9cfb-97e02e69908d/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Newby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34604 (Online Only)
For almost 20 years, I have dedicated my life to the field of mental health. Over the past nearly 7 years I have been board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My passion is in helping adults overcome their mental health challenges. Whether suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, or psychotic disorders, I’m committed to helping you find relief from your mental health problems through my experience, compassion, dedication to my patients, and extensive knowledge of evidence based psychiatric care.
For almost 20 years, I have dedicated my life to the field of mental health. Over the past nearly 7 years I have been board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My passion is in helping adults overcome their mental health challenges. Whether suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, or psychotic disorders, I’m committed to helping you find relief from your mental health problems through my experience, compassion, dedication to my patients, and extensive knowledge of evidence based psychiatric care.
![Photo of Amber Trautman, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3a0be03-3e36-4021-b493-2fb37b187d1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Trautman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, FL 34606
My ideal client is someone who is seeking more than just symptom management—they are looking for a comprehensive approach to mental health that addresses the whole person. You might be experiencing issues like anxiety, depression, or stress, but they are also aware that these challenges are interconnected with other aspects of their life, such as physical health, relationships, and overall well-being.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking more than just symptom management—they are looking for a comprehensive approach to mental health that addresses the whole person. You might be experiencing issues like anxiety, depression, or stress, but they are also aware that these challenges are interconnected with other aspects of their life, such as physical health, relationships, and overall well-being.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c47ca565-cf1b-4340-a63e-c794e89efb8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, Humana and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (813) 491-1956 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, Humana and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (813) 491-1956 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kelly Gordon - All Family Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/184fc16f-79ef-48a7-9547-895da0ff49bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
All Family Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooksville, FL 34613
My name is Kelly, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to you! As a mental health professional, I understand that seeking help can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Therefore, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your concerns and fears. My approach to treatment is collaborative, holistic, and evidence-based. I believe in empowering my clients to take an active role in their care, and I work with each individual to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals.
My name is Kelly, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to you! As a mental health professional, I understand that seeking help can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Therefore, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your concerns and fears. My approach to treatment is collaborative, holistic, and evidence-based. I believe in empowering my clients to take an active role in their care, and I work with each individual to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Charlene Desrosiers, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5878139d-d70c-41e0-8b9f-fb0c79daeafa/5/320x400.jpeg)
Charlene Desrosiers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34613 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and I see adults 18 and older who suffer from psychiatric/mental health disorders. I graduated from Florida Atlantic University with my Masters Degree in Nursing as well as my Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and I see adults 18 and older who suffer from psychiatric/mental health disorders. I graduated from Florida Atlantic University with my Masters Degree in Nursing as well as my Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
![Photo of Lillian Ingram, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e1dadc2-6e3a-4736-9917-b15c1dd5afa3/1/320x400.png)
Lillian Ingram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Brooksville, FL 34601
At Learning to Achieve Wellness we work to meet each client's needs individually though the offering of a variety of services and specialties by well qualified processionals. If you have not found the services that you need reach out us, we will work to meet your goals!
At Learning to Achieve Wellness we work to meet each client's needs individually though the offering of a variety of services and specialties by well qualified processionals. If you have not found the services that you need reach out us, we will work to meet your goals!
![Photo of Michelle Desarmes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22e56d65-ad08-4b7c-ae64-c36d974e1202/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle is a passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past 5 to 6 years, she has tirelessly served as a board-certified professional, specializing in psychiatry. My genuine love for the subject shines through in my daily interactions with patients, as I strive to make a positive impact on their mental well-being. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I embrace the role of a nurturing mother to five beautiful children. Balancing my career and family responsibilities, I exemplify resilience and devotion, both at home and in my practice.
Michelle is a passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past 5 to 6 years, she has tirelessly served as a board-certified professional, specializing in psychiatry. My genuine love for the subject shines through in my daily interactions with patients, as I strive to make a positive impact on their mental well-being. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I embrace the role of a nurturing mother to five beautiful children. Balancing my career and family responsibilities, I exemplify resilience and devotion, both at home and in my practice.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09b9564b-a333-43af-9885-4602afdaf882/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
![Photo of Evelyn Hamman - Lievy Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN-ED, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7686ed66-0d3a-4c04-ad98-7ac53bc843bd/1/320x400.png)
Lievy Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN-ED
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brooksville, FL 34605
My name is Evelyn Hamman and I am the founder of Lievy Psychiatry, LLC. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm offering tele-psychiatric behavioral health services for ages 12-60. I love serving the community and I'm trained to treat depression, anxiety, panic disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD/ADD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. Now offering Genesight testing! Now offering student preceptorship.
My name is Evelyn Hamman and I am the founder of Lievy Psychiatry, LLC. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm offering tele-psychiatric behavioral health services for ages 12-60. I love serving the community and I'm trained to treat depression, anxiety, panic disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD/ADD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. Now offering Genesight testing! Now offering student preceptorship.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31a93776-24d4-498d-974f-df792a78d1eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Michelle Knapp, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1011a1bb-99c7-462f-8f8b-14f98be171a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michelle Knapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly 20 years of experience in general and addiction psychiatry. Most of my clinical expertise was developed in New York City and San Francisco treating children, adolescents, and adults with an extremely wide array of problems. I also served as the Director of the New York University Nurse Practitioner program. Authenticity and non-judgment drive my practice. I believe that people change at different paces and that is part of being human. Ideally, we change from the inside out.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly 20 years of experience in general and addiction psychiatry. Most of my clinical expertise was developed in New York City and San Francisco treating children, adolescents, and adults with an extremely wide array of problems. I also served as the Director of the New York University Nurse Practitioner program. Authenticity and non-judgment drive my practice. I believe that people change at different paces and that is part of being human. Ideally, we change from the inside out.
![Photo of Mary Louise Stedman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a32a473-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dedicated research facility. Qualified patients receive study medication, exams and labs at no cost to them and will be compensated for their time and travel. Specializing in Alzheimer's disease, Bipolar Disorder, and Depression. Visit my profile for more information. We are currently enrolling in several studies for memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I also have a private practice for Psychiatric Patients.
Dedicated research facility. Qualified patients receive study medication, exams and labs at no cost to them and will be compensated for their time and travel. Specializing in Alzheimer's disease, Bipolar Disorder, and Depression. Visit my profile for more information. We are currently enrolling in several studies for memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I also have a private practice for Psychiatric Patients.
![Photo of Tracey Rzepka, MS, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1d1382-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Rzepka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34239
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
Tracey Rzepka is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology. She provides management of psychiatric medications along with some therapy. She is great with clients on multiple medications and is able to get clients on the right medication or remodel them as needed or even wean clients off medication if desired. She has a background in general medicine and offers holistic care addressing the body, mind and spirit providing personal, compassionate care. Her visits are longer than most psychiatrists providing more time for counseling and support. Follow up visits are 30 minutes.
![Photo of Mary Kathryn Parham, FNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/558c8b63-4f03-4ab4-ab43-985561d44126/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Kathryn Parham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Valrico, FL 33596 (Online Only)
Dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
Dual-board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner operating a private practice seeing patients via secure online video visits as a modern era house call. Trained in primary care at the University of South Carolina and in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University, my board certifications are in family medicine and in general child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. My approach is to observe and listen with curiosity and optimism to the individual seeking mental health care, so that we may then have a conversation and learn how to best collaborate to secure all the good that is possible.
See more therapy options for Spring Hill
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Spring Hill, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Spring Hill, FL who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Medication Management |
56% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Aetna |
75% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Spring Hill, FL see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Spring Hill?
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.