Psychiatrists in Hernando, MS
![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 Ethan Smitherman - Hernando Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c6e3ea2-84c0-4180-863c-a554946585d7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hernando Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hernando, MS 38632
ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Depression, Eating Disorders, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Sleeping Disorders,
ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Depression, Eating Disorders, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Sleeping Disorders,
![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 Renee Elizabeth Reichert, APRN, PMHNP, BC, ADHD, CCSD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/352858b2-fe4e-4dae-88dc-cda252c6b088/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Elizabeth Reichert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, ADHD, CCSD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hernando, MS 38632
I strive to cultivate a safe, empathetic environment for all my clients. It is my personal goal to support patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. My hope is to assist all my clients in achieving their best quality of life by working together to build on their strengths and develop positive new practices in everyday living. "Nothing is more beautiful than a smile that has struggled through tears" unknown
I strive to cultivate a safe, empathetic environment for all my clients. It is my personal goal to support patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. My hope is to assist all my clients in achieving their best quality of life by working together to build on their strengths and develop positive new practices in everyday living. "Nothing is more beautiful than a smile that has struggled through tears" unknown
![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
Hernando, MS 38632 (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 Haley E. Vargo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ba6c877-edf7-4dce-8326-0d14ff004361/4/320x400.jpeg)
Haley E. Vargo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hernando, MS 38632
Approximately one in five Americans struggle with depression and anxiety, etc. This can lead to difficulties in occupational performance, negative impacts on life experiences, and impediments in productivity. Depression and anxiety can be isolating and exhausting, preventing future goals and aspirations from being achieved. I strive to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through empathetic support. No one should suffer, as we all struggle with difficulties at some point in our lives. My mission is to help all attain a better life by providing personal care and medication management.
Approximately one in five Americans struggle with depression and anxiety, etc. This can lead to difficulties in occupational performance, negative impacts on life experiences, and impediments in productivity. Depression and anxiety can be isolating and exhausting, preventing future goals and aspirations from being achieved. I strive to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through empathetic support. No one should suffer, as we all struggle with difficulties at some point in our lives. My mission is to help all attain a better life by providing personal care and medication management.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
Horn Lake, MS 38637 (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 Dominique Coley (Transparent Mental Health), DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8cf3cb1-7293-4300-a035-5e884896e594/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dominique Coley (Transparent Mental Health)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Horn Lake, MS 38637 (Online Only)
I am a doctorate prepared, board certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Washington, Colorado and Arizona children, adolescent, and adult residents. I’ve been working in mental health for over a decade. Over 10 years as a nurse and the last 5 years as a Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations with or without medication management. "You can book with me by clicking on my website". You can also email or call.
I am a doctorate prepared, board certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Washington, Colorado and Arizona children, adolescent, and adult residents. I’ve been working in mental health for over a decade. Over 10 years as a nurse and the last 5 years as a Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations with or without medication management. "You can book with me by clicking on my website". You can also email or call.
Online Psychiatrists
![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.
![Photo of Toni Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f1f3d1e-575f-4825-b29a-5fcba2d6277b/1/320x400.png)
Toni Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olive Branch, MS 38654 (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Toni Williams Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP. Toni Williams is a Board-Certified Doctor of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Toni Williams has been in the nursing arena for over 19 years. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she worked as a registered nurse for 10 years with a background in Labor & Delivery, Postpartum, Oncology, and Corrections. She also worked in several leadership roles in nursing as a Clinical Educator and a Regional Nursing Director of Education. Toni Williams became a Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN) in 2014.
Welcome, my name is Toni Williams Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP. Toni Williams is a Board-Certified Doctor of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Toni Williams has been in the nursing arena for over 19 years. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she worked as a registered nurse for 10 years with a background in Labor & Delivery, Postpartum, Oncology, and Corrections. She also worked in several leadership roles in nursing as a Clinical Educator and a Regional Nursing Director of Education. Toni Williams became a Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN) in 2014.
![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.
![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 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 Casey Hester - Life Balance, PLLC, PMHMP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fe47d02-e89a-43be-bf81-e289ab3f3056/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life Balance PLLC, located in Oxford, Mississippi, provides the community and surrounding area with high-quality psychiatric treatment for clients twelve years of age and up. Our clients include people throughout Northern Mississippi as well as Ole Miss students, faculty, and staff. While we provide medication management for mental health purposes, we also cooperate with other local medical providers and counselors to ensure that our clients enjoy well-balanced lives. Our family-owned and operated business has been in the making for a long time, and we are excited to serve all your mental health needs.
Life Balance PLLC, located in Oxford, Mississippi, provides the community and surrounding area with high-quality psychiatric treatment for clients twelve years of age and up. Our clients include people throughout Northern Mississippi as well as Ole Miss students, faculty, and staff. While we provide medication management for mental health purposes, we also cooperate with other local medical providers and counselors to ensure that our clients enjoy well-balanced lives. Our family-owned and operated business has been in the making for a long time, and we are excited to serve all your mental health needs.
![Photo of Jakeisha T Goston, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/116e0d02-97b5-4acb-9ea5-50a8b742f09c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jakeisha T Goston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38671
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
![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 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.
![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 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.
See more therapy options for Hernando
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hernando, MS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hernando, MS who prioritize treating:
86% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
86% | Grief |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Hernando, MS see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hernando?
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.