Psychiatrists in Pike County, MS
![Photo of Tomekia Yvette Luckett - A Safe Place Wellness Solutions LLC, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/323f958a-2f07-4da3-90be-d0321f536c09/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Safe Place Wellness Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Summit, MS 39666 (Online Only)
I am committed to helping those who struggle with mental health issues that are common to us all. I enjoy helping children and adults who have experienced trauma. Additionally, I specialize in helping those who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety ADHD, PTSD, and anger.
I am committed to helping those who struggle with mental health issues that are common to us all. I enjoy helping children and adults who have experienced trauma. Additionally, I specialize in helping those who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety ADHD, PTSD, and anger.
![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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jefferson Rogers, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b2036b3-b80e-481d-96fd-59c53ab3ee74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for whole-person treatment for your mental health that goes beyond medication management? I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in a multi-specialty team that offers thorough testing, assessment and treatment of mental health problems, heart, mind and soul. I highly value collaboration with my clients and colleagues to find a personalized treatment plan based on feedback and evidenced-based medicine. Symptoms of negative thinking patterns, anxious worries, attention problems, substance abuse and other mental health problems are best addressed through a support network of collaborating specialists.
Are you looking for whole-person treatment for your mental health that goes beyond medication management? I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in a multi-specialty team that offers thorough testing, assessment and treatment of mental health problems, heart, mind and soul. I highly value collaboration with my clients and colleagues to find a personalized treatment plan based on feedback and evidenced-based medicine. Symptoms of negative thinking patterns, anxious worries, attention problems, substance abuse and other mental health problems are best addressed through a support network of collaborating specialists.
![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 Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f0c566b-daa8-4a64-b88d-6825641a723f/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 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, sleep issues or a situational issue 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, sleep issues or a situational issue 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 Grace Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6828b868-fb15-4ce8-941a-4d928da908d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you felt overwhelmed, hopeless, or just not like yourself? Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer comprehensive medication management services to individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges. With a focus on evidence-based practices and a commitment to holistic care, I work closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans to address their unique needs and goals. I am currently accepting new patients and work with a compassionate team of therapists to deliver a comprehensive approach tailored to address your mental health needs.
Have you felt overwhelmed, hopeless, or just not like yourself? Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer comprehensive medication management services to individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges. With a focus on evidence-based practices and a commitment to holistic care, I work closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans to address their unique needs and goals. I am currently accepting new patients and work with a compassionate team of therapists to deliver a comprehensive approach tailored to address your mental health needs.
![Photo of Dustin Marmalich - Safe Harbor Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46adae92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
We treat a variety of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults including but not limited to: ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Trouble, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. We provide comprehensive care for those who suffer from addiction or dependence to pain pills, heroin, and other opioids/opiates.
We treat a variety of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults including but not limited to: ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Trouble, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. We provide comprehensive care for those who suffer from addiction or dependence to pain pills, heroin, and other opioids/opiates.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1db33368-abc9-4885-b4e4-cf620c957e26/1/320x400.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 LaTrinia Payne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df97ea51-f3b2-4a29-a28e-869757428bd6/2/320x400.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 Adriane Harvey, PMHNP, APRN , MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d86a89bf-2432-417c-962f-8a6989c39a5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adriane Harvey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Verified Verified
Pearl, MS 39208 (Online Only)
I am Adriane Harvey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and I am delighted to be your new healthcare collaborator. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, and managing medication therapies. I am driven by a strong passion for mental health and a deep commitment to providing patient-centered care.
I am Adriane Harvey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and I am delighted to be your new healthcare collaborator. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, and managing medication therapies. I am driven by a strong passion for mental health and a deep commitment to providing patient-centered care.
![Photo of Danielle Pugh, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a85f640-06c2-40b8-899f-5e629d4d64b9/1/320x400.png)
Danielle sees patients from all walks of life. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings and is interested in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and military Veterans. She is known for her ability to establish strong therapeutic relationships with her patients and for her commitment to providing evidence-based, holistic care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of mental health. Danielle encourages her patients to make lifestyle changes, such as exercising, eating healthily, and seeking social support to improve their overall well-being.
Danielle sees patients from all walks of life. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings and is interested in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and military Veterans. She is known for her ability to establish strong therapeutic relationships with her patients and for her commitment to providing evidence-based, holistic care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of mental health. Danielle encourages her patients to make lifestyle changes, such as exercising, eating healthily, and seeking social support to improve their overall well-being.
![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
Flowood, MS 39232 (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 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 Gloria Areghan Ogiamien - Ovathera, PhD, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffef658b-c0f8-416d-8e9c-373b9dee9d31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) provoke monthly symptoms of anxiety and depression among other symptoms. If you are experiencing severe mood swings, irritability and thinking you are losing your mind, I can help. We provide integrative care that includes using lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, medication management. Our goal is to get you from where you are to where you want to be. We manage you mood and physical symptoms associated with PMDD/PMS including anxiety and depression.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) provoke monthly symptoms of anxiety and depression among other symptoms. If you are experiencing severe mood swings, irritability and thinking you are losing your mind, I can help. We provide integrative care that includes using lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, medication management. Our goal is to get you from where you are to where you want to be. We manage you mood and physical symptoms associated with PMDD/PMS including anxiety and depression.
![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 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 Katie Ann G. Ray, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/919ec33d-feb0-4d06-a9b3-6bae73d86cfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Ann G. Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Gulfport, MS 39503 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
![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.
See more therapy options for Pike County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pike County, MS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Pike County, MS who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Pike County, MS see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pike 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.