Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, NC
![Photo of Katasha Jarrin, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81ec93e3-4a5f-41ad-947e-e456f97145f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katasha Jarrin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a commitment to fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a commitment to fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Mariah Hazen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/455abe47-0adb-42fd-b762-7ad79e8b51ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariah Hazen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Please EMAIL for faster response. Mariah Hazen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. Her integrative approach to treatment allows her to deliver care that is holistic and patient-centered. She has over 18+ years in the nursing field and has a special interest in treating bipolar disorders in addition to depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. She works closely with her clients during their treatment and provides plans tailored to fit their needs.
Please EMAIL for faster response. Mariah Hazen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. Her integrative approach to treatment allows her to deliver care that is holistic and patient-centered. She has over 18+ years in the nursing field and has a special interest in treating bipolar disorders in addition to depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. She works closely with her clients during their treatment and provides plans tailored to fit their needs.
![Photo of Katasha Jarrin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cb0336b-da07-4b62-91c9-c5152eb816d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
![Photo of Dr. Timothy Newsome, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/090e2354-90a2-4ed7-89b8-71ae4b8ea62d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Timothy Newsome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28301
Timothy is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, advocating for holistic healthcare that encompasses the mind, body, soul, and spirit. His objective is to deliver evidence-based, compassionate, and non-judgmental care through collaboration with clients, helping them overcome mental health challenges with the aid of medication management and a therapeutic partnership.
Timothy is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, advocating for holistic healthcare that encompasses the mind, body, soul, and spirit. His objective is to deliver evidence-based, compassionate, and non-judgmental care through collaboration with clients, helping them overcome mental health challenges with the aid of medication management and a therapeutic partnership.
![Photo of Casey Scott - Mending Minds Behavioral Health, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8a7c590-2b99-4dfc-8410-d0ed3aeadc97/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mending Minds Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
I offer medication management for a vast array of mental health issues, ages 4 and up, along with supportive therapy during your appointments. When necessary, I will assist with referrals such as psychological testing or specialized therapy tailored to individual needs.
I offer medication management for a vast array of mental health issues, ages 4 and up, along with supportive therapy during your appointments. When necessary, I will assist with referrals such as psychological testing or specialized therapy tailored to individual needs.
![Photo of Kimberly McAllister, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbfd88d2-f4a9-45bf-8d20-2984c195d5a6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly McAllister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
I am known for empathetic listening and genuine concern for my patients' overall well-being. I believe that effective mental health treatment begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect. My approach integrates evidence based practices with a personalized touch, ensuring that you feel heard and understood every step of the way. I offer both in-person appointments in Lumberton, NC and virtual sessions for your convenience.
I am known for empathetic listening and genuine concern for my patients' overall well-being. I believe that effective mental health treatment begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect. My approach integrates evidence based practices with a personalized touch, ensuring that you feel heard and understood every step of the way. I offer both in-person appointments in Lumberton, NC and virtual sessions for your convenience.
![Photo of Glory Gilbert, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1659d47e-84c0-4692-8bdd-f2ce101398c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Glory Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304 (Online Only)
Hello I'm Glory and I am here to assist you with any needs or concerns based on my expertise. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat each person in the way I would like to be treated. Each person and/or needs are different. Therefore, I treat each person with an individualized treatment plan that is person-centered. I look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals.
Hello I'm Glory and I am here to assist you with any needs or concerns based on my expertise. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat each person in the way I would like to be treated. Each person and/or needs are different. Therefore, I treat each person with an individualized treatment plan that is person-centered. I look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals.
![Photo of Heather L Cynowa, DNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec48917f-0b2c-4b5d-85ea-32c552e9dd01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather L Cynowa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt alone, defeated, down, or anxious? Know that you are NOT alone! We have all had these moments, including me. I am Dr. Heather Cynowa, a dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Care. I am passionate about people and their care and want to see them taken care of and receive the care they so richly deserve. I have experience in treating mental health issues and addiction-related challenges, helping to navigate the right therapy for them. I see clients throughout their lifespans.
Have you ever felt alone, defeated, down, or anxious? Know that you are NOT alone! We have all had these moments, including me. I am Dr. Heather Cynowa, a dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Care. I am passionate about people and their care and want to see them taken care of and receive the care they so richly deserve. I have experience in treating mental health issues and addiction-related challenges, helping to navigate the right therapy for them. I see clients throughout their lifespans.
![Photo of laurie Ann Powers - Sleep & Diet Restoration with Laurie Powers PA-C, PA-C , CAQ, CCMS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4388a01c-4dbb-4593-8738-985bd001b3a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sleep & Diet Restoration with Laurie Powers PA-C
Physician Assistant, PA-C , CAQ, CCMS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Are you as frustrated with the medical system as I am? Do you wish your provider had more time to spend with you? Do you wish you were on less meds – or in some cases - none at all? Do you wish you felt healthy and well, both mentally and physically? Hi! My name is Laurie Powers and I have been a medical provider for over 30 years, more than 20 of these in psychiatry. I am a PA certified in Psychiatry and Primary Care. Frustrated with the system, I decided to go back to school to learn how to treat disease using a healthy lifestyle, something that is lacking in our American medical system that focuses on Big Pharma.
Are you as frustrated with the medical system as I am? Do you wish your provider had more time to spend with you? Do you wish you were on less meds – or in some cases - none at all? Do you wish you felt healthy and well, both mentally and physically? Hi! My name is Laurie Powers and I have been a medical provider for over 30 years, more than 20 of these in psychiatry. I am a PA certified in Psychiatry and Primary Care. Frustrated with the system, I decided to go back to school to learn how to treat disease using a healthy lifestyle, something that is lacking in our American medical system that focuses on Big Pharma.
![Photo of Connie Baxter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7942dbe6-844c-43bc-93ec-4d6e5bfeee7a/2/320x400.png)
Connie Baxter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
As a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my goal is to provide you with a safe and caring environment to discuss your thoughts and feelings as well as provide medication management. My focus is to enhance and assist your strengths and coping skills with any challenges you may be facing.
As a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my goal is to provide you with a safe and caring environment to discuss your thoughts and feelings as well as provide medication management. My focus is to enhance and assist your strengths and coping skills with any challenges you may be facing.
![Photo of Shuntrickia Taylor, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07864684-e5fe-4883-b276-f0b4f91cc116/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shuntrickia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
Shuntrickia is committed to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a patient-centered approach, Shuntrickia emphasizes collaborative care, actively involving patients in treatment planning and decision-making processes. Through empathetic listening and effective communication, she establishes a therapeutic alliance built on trust and mutual respect, fostering a supportive environment.
Shuntrickia is committed to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a patient-centered approach, Shuntrickia emphasizes collaborative care, actively involving patients in treatment planning and decision-making processes. Through empathetic listening and effective communication, she establishes a therapeutic alliance built on trust and mutual respect, fostering a supportive environment.
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![Photo of Adrian Lennon, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f79c45bb-427c-4054-9b0f-f434af704cf1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Adrian Lennon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with sadness, nervousness, poor focus, or poor concentration? Has your mood and behavior affected your relationships and school or work performance. Has a traumatic event changed your life and you can't seem to find yourself again? Most importantly, have you had experiences where the provider rushed you in and out and simply didn't take the time to LISTEN? Do you suffer from medical problems that make your mental health even more challenging? We know these struggles and we WANT to listen and get in the boat with you on a journey of healing, restoration, and improved quality of life.
Are you struggling with sadness, nervousness, poor focus, or poor concentration? Has your mood and behavior affected your relationships and school or work performance. Has a traumatic event changed your life and you can't seem to find yourself again? Most importantly, have you had experiences where the provider rushed you in and out and simply didn't take the time to LISTEN? Do you suffer from medical problems that make your mental health even more challenging? We know these struggles and we WANT to listen and get in the boat with you on a journey of healing, restoration, and improved quality of life.
![Photo of Francesca Esdaile, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71fd7de9-ca9c-4bf9-ba53-4efccf03d4a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesca Esdaile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management dedicated to making meaningful connections with individuals in need. I specialize in assisting people facing challenges in focus, mood regulation, and overall well-being. I help busy professionals who are diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, and ADHD stop feeling lost and unfulfilled in their personal and professional lives so that they can have the mental capacity to be present with their families. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly express yourself.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management dedicated to making meaningful connections with individuals in need. I specialize in assisting people facing challenges in focus, mood regulation, and overall well-being. I help busy professionals who are diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, and ADHD stop feeling lost and unfulfilled in their personal and professional lives so that they can have the mental capacity to be present with their families. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly express yourself.
![Photo of Danyelle Simmons, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f79f1d00-41e3-4926-b13a-c215e9d385d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danyelle Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
My interest is in helping any and all who are in psychiatric need, child or adult.
My interest is in helping any and all who are in psychiatric need, child or adult.
![Photo of Christine Villagomez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c31f07ca-63ed-4912-b74e-03b65dd0fe16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine is the daughter of a refugee from Vietnam; she grew up listening to the stories of her mother and the other Vietnamese survivors in her community. It was her first exposure to the power of healing through listening and the importance of caring for yourself physically and mentally. Christine wanted to learn more to help others who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
Christine is the daughter of a refugee from Vietnam; she grew up listening to the stories of her mother and the other Vietnamese survivors in her community. It was her first exposure to the power of healing through listening and the importance of caring for yourself physically and mentally. Christine wanted to learn more to help others who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
![Photo of Sheila J Cannon, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a4fdcea-3bfd-4fc7-9b15-87bcf6430d93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila J Cannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
Dr. Sheila Cannon’s experiences in psychiatry have spanned over 36 years. She has been an RN for 39 years and an educator for 29 years. She is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in psychiatric mental health (PMHCNS), a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and an approved Buprenorphine provider. She has years of practice experience in inpatient psychiatric arenas and as a psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist in VA, MA, NC & DE. She is licensed to practice in NC and DE. She has expertise in trauma-informed CBT and specializes in PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and many others.
Dr. Sheila Cannon’s experiences in psychiatry have spanned over 36 years. She has been an RN for 39 years and an educator for 29 years. She is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in psychiatric mental health (PMHCNS), a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and an approved Buprenorphine provider. She has years of practice experience in inpatient psychiatric arenas and as a psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist in VA, MA, NC & DE. She is licensed to practice in NC and DE. She has expertise in trauma-informed CBT and specializes in PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and many others.
![Photo of Stephanie Renfrow Oneal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f95cd93e-1be8-48b5-a2d5-a3115c4bdca7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Renfrow Oneal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Stephanie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. She is very passionate about mental health and its impact on well-being. Stephanie works with individuals in all different stages of life who struggle with behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that prevent them from living the life they want. She can help you experience freedom from the overwhelming hardships making your life difficult to enjoy.
Stephanie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. She is very passionate about mental health and its impact on well-being. Stephanie works with individuals in all different stages of life who struggle with behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that prevent them from living the life they want. She can help you experience freedom from the overwhelming hardships making your life difficult to enjoy.
![Photo of Mary Denina, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08914242-d1d7-4e26-8632-d8e02a3b9905/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Denina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Mary Denina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who treats a variety of mental health concerns including, women's issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, grief, and loss. She is a fierce advocate for reducing the stigma of mental health issues in the adult and geriatric populations. Her role as a PMHNP includes education, medication management, advocacy, and counseling. Mary completed her Master's degree at East Carolina University and her studies included psychopharmacology, therapy modalities, and working with populations across the lifespan.
Mary Denina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who treats a variety of mental health concerns including, women's issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, grief, and loss. She is a fierce advocate for reducing the stigma of mental health issues in the adult and geriatric populations. Her role as a PMHNP includes education, medication management, advocacy, and counseling. Mary completed her Master's degree at East Carolina University and her studies included psychopharmacology, therapy modalities, and working with populations across the lifespan.
![Photo of LaToya Harley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ced7721e-db4f-48e5-8b11-b6ba62ee01c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
LaToya Harley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
LaToya Harley is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. . She received her Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry at the University of South Alabama. She has worked in medical, psychiatric, and community health settings. She has also worked in the field, specifically in ADHD. LaToya has witnessed others struggling with the burden of mental illness and felt compelled to make a difference. She is most passionate about destigmatizing mental illness and helping patients improve their quality of life.
LaToya Harley is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. . She received her Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry at the University of South Alabama. She has worked in medical, psychiatric, and community health settings. She has also worked in the field, specifically in ADHD. LaToya has witnessed others struggling with the burden of mental illness and felt compelled to make a difference. She is most passionate about destigmatizing mental illness and helping patients improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Lolade Ogunleye - Cana Psychiatric Health, DNP, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453d493c-4c88-438f-9f9f-35f9b11f3d1c/1/320x400.png)
Cana Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Are you suffering from Anxiety? Hopelessness, helplessness, lack of self-worth, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, ANGER, ADHD, unsure of your diagnosis, or any other mental health disorders? Are you feeling a low mood? I am Board-Certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP-BC) offering TELEPSYCH services in RTP and the surrounding area in North Carolina.
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Are you suffering from Anxiety? Hopelessness, helplessness, lack of self-worth, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, ANGER, ADHD, unsure of your diagnosis, or any other mental health disorders? Are you feeling a low mood? I am Board-Certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP-BC) offering TELEPSYCH services in RTP and the surrounding area in North Carolina.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, NC
40+
Average cost per session
$149
Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, NC who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | ADHD |
57% | Medication Management |
55% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Fayetteville, NC see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
92% | Female | |
8% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fayetteville?
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.