Psychiatrists in Alcorn County, MS
![Photo of Toni Angela Williams, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e225763-8b7e-4f9d-9514-7b2d4c011227/1/320x400.jpeg)
Toni Angela Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Corinth, MS 38834 (Online Only)
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
![Photo of Tangular Barnes, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70dcd456-73e2-4d79-b1ed-4959f1273b53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tangular Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Corinth, MS 38834 (Online Only)
I'm Tangular, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Tangular, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
![Photo of Brandi Moore, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/276b369b-9322-458d-9c79-4e3df9042932/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f326798b-823d-49a4-9c59-c82f76f16dea/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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Betty Dobbs - Yeates Consulting, LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29875aac-4f29-48e4-9e0d-dbd199cb1e59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yeates Consulting, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, MS 39701
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS OF ALL AGES! Anxiety, sadness, irritability, and poor sleep are just a few symptoms of mental illness that can affect our quality of life, create unwanted distress, and steal the joy out of life. You may be facing difficult challenges that affect your mood and function, which cause dread of day to day life. There is hope. Regardless of the stage of life you are in, I am an empathetic provider who is looking forward to helping you through the difficult times that affect your ability to enjoy life.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS OF ALL AGES! Anxiety, sadness, irritability, and poor sleep are just a few symptoms of mental illness that can affect our quality of life, create unwanted distress, and steal the joy out of life. You may be facing difficult challenges that affect your mood and function, which cause dread of day to day life. There is hope. Regardless of the stage of life you are in, I am an empathetic provider who is looking forward to helping you through the difficult times that affect your ability to enjoy life.
![Photo of Ginnifer P Hutcheson, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0142af-d3c0-49e0-8056-336c80d3c5f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ginnifer P Hutcheson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hernando, MS 38632
I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My background is in both hospital and private practice settings. I strive to create meaningful connections with my patients. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood. We will work together as a team to come up with a great plan of action. I will ensure that you are provided thorough education about your diagnosis, medication, and treatment plan.
I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My background is in both hospital and private practice settings. I strive to create meaningful connections with my patients. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood. We will work together as a team to come up with a great plan of action. I will ensure that you are provided thorough education about your diagnosis, medication, and treatment plan.
![Photo of Ashley Cooper, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c1a5a92-8c89-4f4f-846a-6bd6821f11b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with greater than 6 years of outpatient experience. I see patients in Southaven, MS at Bobby Scott & Associates Professional Counseling. I offer medication management as treatment for many psychiatric illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorder. In addition to medication management services, my office has multiple extensively trained therapists that can also assist with these issues if therapy is needed.
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with greater than 6 years of outpatient experience. I see patients in Southaven, MS at Bobby Scott & Associates Professional Counseling. I offer medication management as treatment for many psychiatric illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorder. In addition to medication management services, my office has multiple extensively trained therapists that can also assist with these issues if therapy is needed.
![Photo of Colby Ponder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9894e8f-47c3-48b1-9edc-e5723490e265/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colby Ponder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Albany, MS 38652
Welcome! My name is Colby Ponder and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management and brief talk therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults ages six and older in Mississippi. At Sound Mind Psychiatry, we offer in-person and telehealth services.
Welcome! My name is Colby Ponder and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management and brief talk therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults ages six and older in Mississippi. At Sound Mind Psychiatry, we offer in-person and telehealth services.
![Photo of Whitney Tate, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66686227-9be0-42c0-9880-e95bcb60c453/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney Tate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Albany, MS 38652
Hello and welcome! I'm Whitney Tate, a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering medication management and brief talk therapy to children, adolescents, and adults aged six and above in Mississippi. Our services through Sound Mind Psychiatry are available both in-person and through telehealth.
Hello and welcome! I'm Whitney Tate, a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering medication management and brief talk therapy to children, adolescents, and adults aged six and above in Mississippi. Our services through Sound Mind Psychiatry are available both in-person and through telehealth.
![Photo of Erin Harrell, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac0cdcbb-1317-48b2-8d71-0e2821a49eba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Harrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hernando, MS 38632
We provide a welcoming environment to children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Our providers treat autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, dementia, attention-deficit disorders, impulse-control disorders, eating disorders, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, gender identity issues, and anxiety disorders.
We provide a welcoming environment to children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Our providers treat autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, dementia, attention-deficit disorders, impulse-control disorders, eating disorders, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, gender identity issues, and anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Melissa Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e3fd92e-0736-4dd0-880b-2b4c2e1ca054/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
![Photo of Brantley Catlette, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0879dbe-6931-49fa-9350-ace1c89e813f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brantley Catlette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oxford, MS 38655
Whether you are a student looking for a local provider or a Mississippi resident, we provide accessible and individualized care. Our online scheduling is there for you to easily make your first appointment. Brantley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He is dually certified as a family nurse practitioner, and he has been an RN since 2004. His gentle, caring approach puts people at ease as they navigate finding the right treatment.
Whether you are a student looking for a local provider or a Mississippi resident, we provide accessible and individualized care. Our online scheduling is there for you to easily make your first appointment. Brantley is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He is dually certified as a family nurse practitioner, and he has been an RN since 2004. His gentle, caring approach puts people at ease as they navigate finding the right treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Avanti Brown, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73b16dc1-31df-4549-9498-7a9ddb384bf5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Avanti Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Olive Branch, MS 38654
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans, CareCredit, and ScratchPay. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans, CareCredit, and ScratchPay. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
![Photo of Ben Sumerford, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1b03d76-c5f1-4222-986c-bad2270fdaff/2/320x400.jpeg)
We strive to offer holistic integrative care to individuals dealing with acute and chronic mental health issues. I have over 10 years of experience treating individuals 12 years old and up for a variety of mental health issues. In addition, I offer treatment for individuals with alcohol/substance abuse issues. We offer counseling services within our clinic and also offer medical services for those in need of primary health care. I accept most insurances and those without insurance on a sliding fee payment schedule. Our organization is also equipped with a pharmacy that provides discounted drug pricing for those without insurance.
We strive to offer holistic integrative care to individuals dealing with acute and chronic mental health issues. I have over 10 years of experience treating individuals 12 years old and up for a variety of mental health issues. In addition, I offer treatment for individuals with alcohol/substance abuse issues. We offer counseling services within our clinic and also offer medical services for those in need of primary health care. I accept most insurances and those without insurance on a sliding fee payment schedule. Our organization is also equipped with a pharmacy that provides discounted drug pricing for those without insurance.
Embrace Renewed Balance with Precision Medication Management As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals find relief from mental health challenges through personalized medication management. I believe that medication, when used judiciously, can be a powerful tool for restoring balance and enhancing emotional well-being.
Embrace Renewed Balance with Precision Medication Management As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals find relief from mental health challenges through personalized medication management. I believe that medication, when used judiciously, can be a powerful tool for restoring balance and enhancing emotional well-being.
![Photo of Felicia Gathings, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d7774cc-a276-4dfe-adcf-b7a8b87a4ed2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Felicia Gathings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, MS 39701
Are you feeling stressed? Are you isolating from friends and family? Sadness, anxiousness and feelings of just wanting to give up seem to not go away? Are you finding it difficult to get going in the morning, to get through the day, or even sleep through the night? Never dealt with trauma or past experiences? Are these things affecting your family, friends, work, school or interest? Are you wondering if medication could help? I’m here to help you along this journey because things can get better.
Are you feeling stressed? Are you isolating from friends and family? Sadness, anxiousness and feelings of just wanting to give up seem to not go away? Are you finding it difficult to get going in the morning, to get through the day, or even sleep through the night? Never dealt with trauma or past experiences? Are these things affecting your family, friends, work, school or interest? Are you wondering if medication could help? I’m here to help you along this journey because things can get better.
![Photo of Lisa Lippincott, PMHNP-B, CBT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cc7f034-0663-40bd-b7b3-8dfe7d8dc870/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Lippincott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tupelo, MS 38801
Focus is on building a therapeutic relationship with patients through open and direct communication, conceptualizing the patient as a whole and taking physical, social, and emotional well-being into account. When creating a treatment plan, encourages patients to be an active participant and takes time to make sure her patients know their treatment options.
Focus is on building a therapeutic relationship with patients through open and direct communication, conceptualizing the patient as a whole and taking physical, social, and emotional well-being into account. When creating a treatment plan, encourages patients to be an active participant and takes time to make sure her patients know their treatment options.
![Photo of Emily Mccormac, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a2ba4d0-7128-4f08-b57f-c348876511a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Mccormac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pontotoc, MS 38863
I specialize in supporting individuals facing the dual challenges of mental health issues and addiction. My approach provides a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where clients can feel safe to share their experiences. I offer tailored, integrated treatment plans designed to help clients achieve sustained sobriety, improve mental health, and develop effective coping strategies. My goal is to assist clients in rebuilding relationships, regaining self-worth, and leading fulfilling, balanced lives. I am committed to offering hope, healing, and guidance on their journey to recovery.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing the dual challenges of mental health issues and addiction. My approach provides a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where clients can feel safe to share their experiences. I offer tailored, integrated treatment plans designed to help clients achieve sustained sobriety, improve mental health, and develop effective coping strategies. My goal is to assist clients in rebuilding relationships, regaining self-worth, and leading fulfilling, balanced lives. I am committed to offering hope, healing, and guidance on their journey to recovery.
![Photo of Olamide Alabi - Transcultural Care, DNP, PMHNP, MILD, BSN, BA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4489526e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Transcultural Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MILD, BSN, BA
Verified Verified
Oxford, MS 38655
I am a Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Mississippi & Tennessee. I see clients for psychotherapy, medication assessment and management. I take a sensitive approach, informed by an understanding that treatment is a partnership. My practice is open to clients with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns including ADHD, Alzheimer's, anxiety, bipolar, dementia, depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. I enjoy treating patients collaboratively and holistically with communication, a key component to my practice. I honor my patients' input in tailoring treatment to suit their needs and I am respectful of their work with other health professionals.
I am a Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Mississippi & Tennessee. I see clients for psychotherapy, medication assessment and management. I take a sensitive approach, informed by an understanding that treatment is a partnership. My practice is open to clients with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns including ADHD, Alzheimer's, anxiety, bipolar, dementia, depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. I enjoy treating patients collaboratively and holistically with communication, a key component to my practice. I honor my patients' input in tailoring treatment to suit their needs and I am respectful of their work with other health professionals.
![Photo of Destinee Woods, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95594466-5335-45a8-bfab-ee5bb6c46006/1/320x400.jpeg)
Destinee Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38672
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My journey in the mental health field began at the San Antonio State Hospital in San Antonio, TX. I have a passion for special needs children and their families.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My journey in the mental health field began at the San Antonio State Hospital in San Antonio, TX. I have a passion for special needs children and their families.
See more therapy options for Alcorn County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Alcorn County, MS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Alcorn County, MS who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Alcorn County, MS see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Alcorn County?
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.