Psychiatrists in Hope Mills, NC
![Photo of Jacqueline Wait, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ce9b8c7-02d0-472d-aeb0-ef5051eb8210/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Wait
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Hope Mills, NC 28348 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Francesca Esdaile, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71fd7de9-ca9c-4bf9-ba53-4efccf03d4a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesca Esdaile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management dedicated to making meaningful connections with individuals in need. I specialize in assisting people facing challenges in focus, mood regulation, and overall well-being. I help busy professionals who are diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, and ADHD stop feeling lost and unfulfilled in their personal and professional lives so that they can have the mental capacity to be present with their families. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly express yourself.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management dedicated to making meaningful connections with individuals in need. I specialize in assisting people facing challenges in focus, mood regulation, and overall well-being. I help busy professionals who are diagnosed with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, and ADHD stop feeling lost and unfulfilled in their personal and professional lives so that they can have the mental capacity to be present with their families. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly express yourself.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a87dc48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
![Photo of Katasha Jarrin, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81ec93e3-4a5f-41ad-947e-e456f97145f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katasha Jarrin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a commitment to fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a commitment to fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Heather L Cynowa, DNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec48917f-0b2c-4b5d-85ea-32c552e9dd01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather L Cynowa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt alone, defeated, down, or anxious? Know that you are NOT alone! We have all had these moments, including me. I am Dr. Heather Cynowa, a dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Care. I am passionate about people and their care and want to see them taken care of and receive the care they so richly deserve. I have experience in treating mental health issues and addiction-related challenges, helping to navigate the right therapy for them. I see clients throughout their lifespans.
Have you ever felt alone, defeated, down, or anxious? Know that you are NOT alone! We have all had these moments, including me. I am Dr. Heather Cynowa, a dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Care. I am passionate about people and their care and want to see them taken care of and receive the care they so richly deserve. I have experience in treating mental health issues and addiction-related challenges, helping to navigate the right therapy for them. I see clients throughout their lifespans.
![Photo of Shirley Carrenard-Mcdowell - EtteillaWellness Services, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92bf58c0-99ae-4771-9b01-930b169367d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
EtteillaWellness Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
Hello everyone. I'm NP, Shirley. Welcome to Etteilla Wellness Services. I am so excited to finally share my dream with you of opening a private practice. Etteilla is my mother's name, spelled backward. Her tragic death inspired me to create a platform to help those who feel trapped and lost. I'm dual certified In psychiatric care and family medicine. I have 26 years of medical experience and provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and a purpose-filled life.
Hello everyone. I'm NP, Shirley. Welcome to Etteilla Wellness Services. I am so excited to finally share my dream with you of opening a private practice. Etteilla is my mother's name, spelled backward. Her tragic death inspired me to create a platform to help those who feel trapped and lost. I'm dual certified In psychiatric care and family medicine. I have 26 years of medical experience and provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and a purpose-filled life.
![Photo of Kesha Spaulding, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf04718-9c7f-4ba7-aff3-422b291345ef/1/320x400.png)
Kesha Spaulding
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Stephanie Renfrow Oneal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f95cd93e-1be8-48b5-a2d5-a3115c4bdca7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Renfrow Oneal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Stephanie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. She is very passionate about mental health and its impact on well-being. Stephanie works with individuals in all different stages of life who struggle with behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that prevent them from living the life they want. She can help you experience freedom from the overwhelming hardships making your life difficult to enjoy.
Stephanie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. She is very passionate about mental health and its impact on well-being. Stephanie works with individuals in all different stages of life who struggle with behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that prevent them from living the life they want. She can help you experience freedom from the overwhelming hardships making your life difficult to enjoy.
![Photo of Danyelle Simmons, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f79f1d00-41e3-4926-b13a-c215e9d385d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danyelle Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
My interest is in helping any and all who are in psychiatric need, child or adult.
My interest is in helping any and all who are in psychiatric need, child or adult.
![Photo of Deana Flynn, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f8b426f-2e48-4360-8b48-a88d40dc0401/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deana Flynn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Navigating mental health challenges can be overwhelming, and it’s common to feel stuck and unsure of where to turn. With over 10 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life journeys, I understand the complexities of these struggles. Many people want to understand their mental health better and find a balanced approach that integrates therapy and medication. Your goals might include achieving emotional stability, improving daily life, and embracing healthier lifestyle choices. My focus is on supporting you through these challenges with compassion and tailored care.
Navigating mental health challenges can be overwhelming, and it’s common to feel stuck and unsure of where to turn. With over 10 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life journeys, I understand the complexities of these struggles. Many people want to understand their mental health better and find a balanced approach that integrates therapy and medication. Your goals might include achieving emotional stability, improving daily life, and embracing healthier lifestyle choices. My focus is on supporting you through these challenges with compassion and tailored care.
![Photo of Dorine Henrietta Martin - Mindology, MSN, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/171670d8-0095-4906-b8ed-ef3822056c6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
![Photo of Tamiqua Jackson Luckey, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4f541e5-5ee9-4811-99c3-84b360d2e8e6/1/320x400.png)
Tamiqua Jackson Luckey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Tamiqua is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) who diagnoses, treats, and manages various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, trauma/PTSD, and many others. Her practice foundation is built upon compassion and empathy, focusing on the care of young and older adults.
Tamiqua is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) who diagnoses, treats, and manages various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, trauma/PTSD, and many others. Her practice foundation is built upon compassion and empathy, focusing on the care of young and older adults.
![Photo of Gretchen Barnes, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be369b1e-3a0f-4ef9-8c2c-e5fc4b1b859a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gretchen Barnes
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
I'm a board-certified PA who offers medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients proactively improve their mental wellbeing.
I'm a board-certified PA who offers medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients proactively improve their mental wellbeing.
![Photo of Katasha Jarrin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cb0336b-da07-4b62-91c9-c5152eb816d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
![Photo of Alison Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8a1d1e4-6fb1-4f94-99c8-c9f1a1f46fbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Alison Graham is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has worked with a spectrum of patients from adolescence to geriatrics. She has helped these individuals with depression and anxiety, all the way to psychosis and self-harm.
Alison Graham is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has worked with a spectrum of patients from adolescence to geriatrics. She has helped these individuals with depression and anxiety, all the way to psychosis and self-harm.
![Photo of Christina Stevenson - Virtuous Total Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3f50605-aa64-4167-a38f-3b906bc20037/2/320x400.jpeg)
Virtuous Total Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results. EMAIL US!
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results. EMAIL US!
![Photo of Kimberly McAllister, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbfd88d2-f4a9-45bf-8d20-2984c195d5a6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly McAllister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
I am known for empathetic listening and genuine concern for my patients' overall well-being. I believe that effective mental health treatment begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect. My approach integrates evidence based practices with a personalized touch, ensuring that you feel heard and understood every step of the way. I offer both in-person appointments in Lumberton, NC and virtual sessions for your convenience.
I am known for empathetic listening and genuine concern for my patients' overall well-being. I believe that effective mental health treatment begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect. My approach integrates evidence based practices with a personalized touch, ensuring that you feel heard and understood every step of the way. I offer both in-person appointments in Lumberton, NC and virtual sessions for your convenience.
![Photo of Sheila J Cannon, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a4fdcea-3bfd-4fc7-9b15-87bcf6430d93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila J Cannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
Dr. Sheila Cannon’s experiences in psychiatry have spanned over 36 years. She has been an RN for 39 years and an educator for 29 years. She is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in psychiatric mental health (PMHCNS), a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and an approved Buprenorphine provider. She has years of practice experience in inpatient psychiatric arenas and as a psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist in VA, MA, NC & DE. She is licensed to practice in NC and DE. She has expertise in trauma-informed CBT and specializes in PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and many others.
Dr. Sheila Cannon’s experiences in psychiatry have spanned over 36 years. She has been an RN for 39 years and an educator for 29 years. She is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in psychiatric mental health (PMHCNS), a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and an approved Buprenorphine provider. She has years of practice experience in inpatient psychiatric arenas and as a psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist in VA, MA, NC & DE. She is licensed to practice in NC and DE. She has expertise in trauma-informed CBT and specializes in PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and many others.
Philip Russell Couch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28302
I am a provider who believes in treating the "whole person" which is why I am credentialed as an FNP and a PMHNP. I can help patients with their medical issues as well as their mental health needs. We also have therapists on staff to help those who benefit best from therapy. I believe if the medical side can speak to the mental health side it ensures a more thorough level of care. I enjoy working with elderly, adults, teens who present with a variety of medical and mental health needs.
I am a provider who believes in treating the "whole person" which is why I am credentialed as an FNP and a PMHNP. I can help patients with their medical issues as well as their mental health needs. We also have therapists on staff to help those who benefit best from therapy. I believe if the medical side can speak to the mental health side it ensures a more thorough level of care. I enjoy working with elderly, adults, teens who present with a variety of medical and mental health needs.
![Photo of Dr. Timothy Newsome, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/090e2354-90a2-4ed7-89b8-71ae4b8ea62d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Timothy Newsome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28301
Timothy is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, advocating for holistic healthcare that encompasses the mind, body, soul, and spirit. His objective is to deliver evidence-based, compassionate, and non-judgmental care through collaboration with clients, helping them overcome mental health challenges with the aid of medication management and a therapeutic partnership.
Timothy is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, advocating for holistic healthcare that encompasses the mind, body, soul, and spirit. His objective is to deliver evidence-based, compassionate, and non-judgmental care through collaboration with clients, helping them overcome mental health challenges with the aid of medication management and a therapeutic partnership.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Hope Mills, NC
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Psychiatrists in Hope Mills, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Eating Disorders |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hope Mills, NC see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hope Mills?
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.