Psychiatrists in Ellisville, MS
![Photo of LaTesha Williams, PMHNP, GNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee422681-1cbb-441e-869f-0212be05e254/1/320x400.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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Terkita Kennedy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afdcfa1f-8d29-4033-92ec-7b175be8dbf0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Terkita Kennedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Meridian, MS 39305 (Online Only)
My goal is to focus on holistic treatment to help alleviate problems that affect daily activities and to enhance clients' knowledge of mental disorders. The effect of mental illness can cause individuals to feel overwhelmed and alone.
My goal is to focus on holistic treatment to help alleviate problems that affect daily activities and to enhance clients' knowledge of mental disorders. The effect of mental illness can cause individuals to feel overwhelmed and alone.
![Photo of Dorothy Adams, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c3222d7-cdca-4ab3-b648-edeacf9a8660/1/320x400.png)
Dorothy Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, MS 39211 (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. They want to feel understood, respected, and supported in their journey toward mental well-being. Their goals include finding effective strategies to cope with their challenges, gaining control over their emotions, and building resilience. They value accessible care and a collaborative approach to treatment that empowers them to achieve lasting mental health.
My ideal client struggles with issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. They want to feel understood, respected, and supported in their journey toward mental well-being. Their goals include finding effective strategies to cope with their challenges, gaining control over their emotions, and building resilience. They value accessible care and a collaborative approach to treatment that empowers them to achieve lasting mental health.
![Photo of Kelli Elizabeth Pruit, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/487c151a-3a5b-4990-82d2-8dabe82ab4e7/1/320x400.png)
Kelli Elizabeth Pruit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, MS 39560 (Online Only)
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
![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
Picayune, MS 39466 (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 Maurice Carter, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/077c4945-10fb-4d6e-8037-75e46f510bc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maurice Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brandon, MS 39042 (Online Only)
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner that has been treating children, adolescents, and adults for the past 20 years. I like clients to feel comfortable with being honest with me about their mental health needs and their response to treatment. This information is used to help guide treatment options and modifications that promote clients’ optimum mental health
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner that has been treating children, adolescents, and adults for the past 20 years. I like clients to feel comfortable with being honest with me about their mental health needs and their response to treatment. This information is used to help guide treatment options and modifications that promote clients’ optimum mental health
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25728dc8-32f0-4cee-9c4e-465760ab355e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Dr. Kaitlyn Salter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87b113f0-052d-4a9c-88a4-2005145661a3/2/320x400.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 Mary Turner - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1dc077-0dd0-49d9-a75d-b7826fc6d5ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gulfport, MS 39507 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Richard W George, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b0c07c5-3855-42be-b343-14d35d07c2db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Richard W George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Hello, I'm Rick. I have been a practicing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 19 years. I treat the whole person-body, mind, and soul- which is the key to healing and well-being. True healing cannot come from medication alone; listening, understanding, searching, and finding the missing connectedness to the life we were designed to live is necessary for complete healing. I approach your counseling and mental health care as your tour guide on your journey to a more meaningful and purposeful Life.
Hello, I'm Rick. I have been a practicing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 19 years. I treat the whole person-body, mind, and soul- which is the key to healing and well-being. True healing cannot come from medication alone; listening, understanding, searching, and finding the missing connectedness to the life we were designed to live is necessary for complete healing. I approach your counseling and mental health care as your tour guide on your journey to a more meaningful and purposeful Life.
![Photo of Lindsey J Rogers, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5298377-d3a3-4974-8a5f-87427034affe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey J Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Meridian, MS 39305 (Online Only)
I have over 18 years of nursing experience with roughly ten of those years in the mental health field. I have gained experience by providing optimal care for diverse populations, managing various diagnoses, and incorporating multiple treatment modalities across vastly different cultures. My philosophy of care includes integrating therapeutic perspectives between each client, the clinician, family members or support persons, and the environment while accommodating fluctuation of mental states, stressors, financial status, social stigmas, and access to care.
I have over 18 years of nursing experience with roughly ten of those years in the mental health field. I have gained experience by providing optimal care for diverse populations, managing various diagnoses, and incorporating multiple treatment modalities across vastly different cultures. My philosophy of care includes integrating therapeutic perspectives between each client, the clinician, family members or support persons, and the environment while accommodating fluctuation of mental states, stressors, financial status, social stigmas, and access to care.
![Photo of Katrina Dryer, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98f55f82-c002-4971-8c96-488fefe6e1a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katrina Dryer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
McComb, MS 39648 (Online Only)
Our mission at Innovative Healthcare Management is to provide holistic care by treating the whole person. Through evidence-based practices, compassionate support, and patient empowerment, we strive to focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of issues to promote overall well being.
Our mission at Innovative Healthcare Management is to provide holistic care by treating the whole person. Through evidence-based practices, compassionate support, and patient empowerment, we strive to focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of issues to promote overall well being.
![Photo of Felicia McNeil - MindWorks Wellness, AGNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e5a440c-1698-4cab-b143-aa35895a0417/1/320x400.png)
MindWorks Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lucedale, MS 39452
Depression? There are new treatment options offering relief from depression in as little as 2 weeks! Not your usual SSRI’s or SNRI's. Is it covered by insurance? Yes. There is help & hope for you. Binge eating disorder? We offer individualized treatment. ADHD focused care assessed with Testing and once a day treatments available! We offer Psychiatric Medication Management online throughout Mississippi. We also have in person visits available.
Depression? There are new treatment options offering relief from depression in as little as 2 weeks! Not your usual SSRI’s or SNRI's. Is it covered by insurance? Yes. There is help & hope for you. Binge eating disorder? We offer individualized treatment. ADHD focused care assessed with Testing and once a day treatments available! We offer Psychiatric Medication Management online throughout Mississippi. We also have in person visits available.
![Photo of Rose Casano, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/705f155e-e768-4a4a-9dff-269f2c333a73/1/320x400.jpeg)
I like to spend quality time to get to the root of my patient's problems. Using the practice of integrative psychiatry, all attempts should be made to get to the correct diagnosis for every individual. This can be a complex process. In the meantime, evidence-based medicine and common sense practices can be used to improve patients' mental and physical health. Personalized medicine can be a useful tool to assist clinicians in this day and age. I have been blessed to have 35 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings and would like to get to know you.
I like to spend quality time to get to the root of my patient's problems. Using the practice of integrative psychiatry, all attempts should be made to get to the correct diagnosis for every individual. This can be a complex process. In the meantime, evidence-based medicine and common sense practices can be used to improve patients' mental and physical health. Personalized medicine can be a useful tool to assist clinicians in this day and age. I have been blessed to have 35 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings and would like to get to know you.
![Photo of Sharon Nightengale - Sharon Nightengale , PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4acba37c-fdb6-487d-acff-590641c71ff5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Nightengale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Hattiesburg, MS 39402
My goal is for you to think better, feel better, and ultimately be better! Whether it's depression, anxiety, situational or sleep issues that brings you in for care, I'm here to help. I will work to develop an individualized treatment plan with a holistic approach to healing which may include medication management, and ongoing therapy. Please allow me the opportunity to use my knowledge and expertise in assisting you in improving your mental wellness, overcoming life's challenges to live your best life!
My goal is for you to think better, feel better, and ultimately be better! Whether it's depression, anxiety, situational or sleep issues that brings you in for care, I'm here to help. I will work to develop an individualized treatment plan with a holistic approach to healing which may include medication management, and ongoing therapy. Please allow me the opportunity to use my knowledge and expertise in assisting you in improving your mental wellness, overcoming life's challenges to live your best life!
![Photo of Felix Aron Geller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f800003-0b3a-4128-a813-dc2ab229b56f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a firm believer in individualized medicine. Therefore, I usually take time to get to know the person and their life first and then evaluate the medical information in the context of that individual's experiences. I believe that this approach makes for an effective diagnosis and treatment process.
I am a firm believer in individualized medicine. Therefore, I usually take time to get to know the person and their life first and then evaluate the medical information in the context of that individual's experiences. I believe that this approach makes for an effective diagnosis and treatment process.
![Photo of G. F. Televet Arizona And Mississippi Locations - G.F. TeleVet, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf4f498e-647f-4a02-9212-756d2915344f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, and welcome to G.F. TeleVet Healthcare! We provide in- person & online medication management & therapy appointments to children and adults in Mississippi. We accept insured and uninsured patients. We are not your typical mental health clinic. We treat our patients like family, not numbers. Please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our director, Ms. Lee, will be waiting to answer your questions!
Hello, and welcome to G.F. TeleVet Healthcare! We provide in- person & online medication management & therapy appointments to children and adults in Mississippi. We accept insured and uninsured patients. We are not your typical mental health clinic. We treat our patients like family, not numbers. Please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our director, Ms. Lee, will be waiting to answer your questions!
![Photo of Dr. Arif K Mirza - Dr. Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fb2b632-7a68-4f15-8dc3-b492b6bcd7f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Madison, MS 39110 (Online Only)
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of LATONYA McGOWAN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d1125d2-b243-43ea-839c-63f064ec4275/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm LaTonya, and I believe that trust is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. With 20+ years of experience in healthcare, I've dedicated myselff to providing exceptional service and building lasting partnerships with my clients. I prioritize clear communication, transparency, and a commitment to always deliver results that exceed expectations. I look forward to the opportunity to earn your trust and work together to achieve your goals.
Hello, I'm LaTonya, and I believe that trust is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. With 20+ years of experience in healthcare, I've dedicated myselff to providing exceptional service and building lasting partnerships with my clients. I prioritize clear communication, transparency, and a commitment to always deliver results that exceed expectations. I look forward to the opportunity to earn your trust and work together to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Rebecca Pugh - TLC Complete Mental Wellness, LLC, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/054d73cf-ce01-4c61-a903-f2c7809e0ed3/2/320x400.jpeg)
TLC Complete Mental Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Sumrall, MS 39482 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to providing care always begins establishing a safe, non-judgmental environment. I establish a trusting relationship with active listening, a conversation-like dialogue, and providing empathy and understanding while assessing and identifying areas of need. I utilize the Recovery Model, which is a patient driven model that encourages a partnership for developing an individual treatment plan. I prescribe according to FDA recommendations and utilize evidenced-based best practices. I am passionate about being part of the solution in correcting the stigma against mental health.
My approach to providing care always begins establishing a safe, non-judgmental environment. I establish a trusting relationship with active listening, a conversation-like dialogue, and providing empathy and understanding while assessing and identifying areas of need. I utilize the Recovery Model, which is a patient driven model that encourages a partnership for developing an individual treatment plan. I prescribe according to FDA recommendations and utilize evidenced-based best practices. I am passionate about being part of the solution in correcting the stigma against mental health.
See more therapy options for Ellisville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ellisville, MS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ellisville, MS who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Ellisville, MS see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ellisville?
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.