Psychiatrists in Durham, NH
![Photo of Suellen Drake, NP, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460e0b04-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Suellen Drake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Durham, NH 03824
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in Medications for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Attacks, and related issues. I am licensed in Psychiatry and Family Practice which allows me to see the patient as a whole. I strive to treat a patient's symptoms as one problem, not as individual symptoms. This frequently allows for less medication and maybe a reduction in your current medication. I have over 15 years experience. I welcome the opportunity to visit with you to see if your life could be much better !
I specialize in Medications for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Attacks, and related issues. I am licensed in Psychiatry and Family Practice which allows me to see the patient as a whole. I strive to treat a patient's symptoms as one problem, not as individual symptoms. This frequently allows for less medication and maybe a reduction in your current medication. I have over 15 years experience. I welcome the opportunity to visit with you to see if your life could be much better !
![Photo of Roberta Stanhope - Roberta Stanhope Arnp,Pmh,Cns,BC,PLLC, ARNP, PMH, CNS, BC, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfe62aae-4fe0-4ea3-b73e-75768bc116d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roberta Stanhope Arnp,Pmh,Cns,BC,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMH, CNS, BC, PLLC
Verified Verified
Durham, NH 03824
Not accepting new clients
I have been in practice for over 30 years as a Psychiatric NP, and 10 years prior as an RN. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, and pharmacological management, with a focus on non-addictive, yet clinically effective treatments. I am experienced with treating psychiatric issues including but not limited to, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD, Grief, Psychotic Disorders, ADHD, and Recovery. I obtained my BSN at Boston University and MSN at USF. Subsequently, I worked with terminally ill cancer patients at a Mass General-affiliated hospital.
I have been in practice for over 30 years as a Psychiatric NP, and 10 years prior as an RN. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, and pharmacological management, with a focus on non-addictive, yet clinically effective treatments. I am experienced with treating psychiatric issues including but not limited to, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD, Grief, Psychotic Disorders, ADHD, and Recovery. I obtained my BSN at Boston University and MSN at USF. Subsequently, I worked with terminally ill cancer patients at a Mass General-affiliated hospital.
![Photo of Elizabeth Steward, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810a76c4-5c05-4020-b5d4-2ee89848d54f/1/320x400.png)
Elizabeth Steward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Durham, NH 03824 (Online Only)
I am dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. This dual specialty gives me knowledge and perspective on both mental and physical health, allowing me to approach your treatment comprehensively while helping you regain balance within your life. My approach to psychiatric care is supported by evidence-based interventions.
I am dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. This dual specialty gives me knowledge and perspective on both mental and physical health, allowing me to approach your treatment comprehensively while helping you regain balance within your life. My approach to psychiatric care is supported by evidence-based interventions.
![Photo of Nyla Gardner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/532e084a-f717-4508-a0a5-882d4e2d53e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nyla Gardner is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2013. Nyla offers empathy and understanding. She is a good listener and offers a positive outlook by focusing on the person’s strengths, rather than their weaknesses. Outside of work, Nyla enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, reading, and following the Red Sox.
Nyla Gardner is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2013. Nyla offers empathy and understanding. She is a good listener and offers a positive outlook by focusing on the person’s strengths, rather than their weaknesses. Outside of work, Nyla enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, reading, and following the Red Sox.
![Photo of Richard Tomb, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8743b126-61bf-48b9-9683-11b30ccb725f/1/320x400.png)
Treatment is a cooperative effort between the individual and the physician. To that end, education about the disorder, as well as available treatments, both medical and nonmedical, is important. The individual’s goals in treatment are key. Dr. Tomb’s clinical interests include the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders, with a special interest in treatment resistant depressions. He is also interested in the interface between primary care and psychiatry, and in the psychological and psychiatric aspects of weight loss and obesity.
Treatment is a cooperative effort between the individual and the physician. To that end, education about the disorder, as well as available treatments, both medical and nonmedical, is important. The individual’s goals in treatment are key. Dr. Tomb’s clinical interests include the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders, with a special interest in treatment resistant depressions. He is also interested in the interface between primary care and psychiatry, and in the psychological and psychiatric aspects of weight loss and obesity.
![Photo of David Schmidt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b9d226b-32c1-4a5f-b309-740739e603cf/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Schmidt specializes in a collaborative approach to psychiatric medication management of the major psychiatric disorders and is not doing general counseling at this time. He also offers transcranial magnetic stimulation for resistant depression. See brainsway.com for details of this therapy.
Dr. Schmidt specializes in a collaborative approach to psychiatric medication management of the major psychiatric disorders and is not doing general counseling at this time. He also offers transcranial magnetic stimulation for resistant depression. See brainsway.com for details of this therapy.
![Photo of Richard Naimark, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ea79313-3ea0-4608-95f9-bc08491fea63/1/320x400.png)
Practicing psychopharmacology for 30 years, work with all diagnoses which medication could be beneficial.
Practicing psychopharmacology for 30 years, work with all diagnoses which medication could be beneficial.
![Photo of Michael Knight, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c282308d-3321-4355-ba27-9e3f4fc71390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Knight believes in tailoring treatment to each individual's unique needs. Through a blend of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, he collaborates closely with his clients, ensuring they feel heard and empowered throughout their journey to well-being. Beyond his practice, Dr. Knight leads a vibrant life filled with diverse interests. From woodworking to outdoor adventures, he finds joy in every moment. Whether he's enjoying play time with his beloved dog, cherishing family activities (especially with his grandkids), or diving into new hobbies like piano and water coloring, Dr.
Dr. Knight believes in tailoring treatment to each individual's unique needs. Through a blend of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, he collaborates closely with his clients, ensuring they feel heard and empowered throughout their journey to well-being. Beyond his practice, Dr. Knight leads a vibrant life filled with diverse interests. From woodworking to outdoor adventures, he finds joy in every moment. Whether he's enjoying play time with his beloved dog, cherishing family activities (especially with his grandkids), or diving into new hobbies like piano and water coloring, Dr.
![Photo of George Nowak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0d97ce9-3d4a-4943-bb07-162cbf1760c9/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Nowak is an independent consultant engaged in psychiatric evaluations and medication management for LifeStance Health.
Dr. Nowak is an independent consultant engaged in psychiatric evaluations and medication management for LifeStance Health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9480ddf-7b4f-49bc-898b-13a5e2bc5732/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Stephanie Johnson - Stephanie Johnson PMHNP, LLC, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38d1617a-80f0-4a8a-a866-2feacbd7e323/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Johnson PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820
Medication Management for Children and Adolescents. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents with various concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism.
Medication Management for Children and Adolescents. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents with various concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism.
![Photo of Haulek Tawmging, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31f433e5-7ec3-4ace-a1ee-337253d54335/2/320x400.jpeg)
Haulek Tawmging
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03802 (Online Only)
Traditional psychiatry has its place in helping millions, but what if you're looking for a more nutritional point of view. We are what we eat, and we suffer when if we do not have the essentials for a healthy body. I focus on lifestyle, psychosocial, physical, spiritual, and nutritional perspective. I connect with teens, collegiate, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, bipolar disorder, PMDD, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
Traditional psychiatry has its place in helping millions, but what if you're looking for a more nutritional point of view. We are what we eat, and we suffer when if we do not have the essentials for a healthy body. I focus on lifestyle, psychosocial, physical, spiritual, and nutritional perspective. I connect with teens, collegiate, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, bipolar disorder, PMDD, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
![Photo of Michael Robustelli - Mood Clinic, PLLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/184e4c32-c555-4107-8375-33bdb907db1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
![Photo of Susan Fratoni - The Right Mind Psychiatric Services™, Sue Fratoni, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/049ac0fa-1be2-4fbf-9d91-b0aff838ed94/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Right Mind Psychiatric Services™, Sue Fratoni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to a collaborative partnership with my clients, because I want you to have a voice in how your treatment is managed. My goal is to help you feel your best with the most effective and concise medication regimen. We will work together to optimize your treatment, and get the most out of each medication. I am a firm believer that less is best, and I will work with you to maintain a healthy balance that improves your mental health with the least amount of side effects possible. If you are already on medication or have never had treatment, now is the time to start!
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to a collaborative partnership with my clients, because I want you to have a voice in how your treatment is managed. My goal is to help you feel your best with the most effective and concise medication regimen. We will work together to optimize your treatment, and get the most out of each medication. I am a firm believer that less is best, and I will work with you to maintain a healthy balance that improves your mental health with the least amount of side effects possible. If you are already on medication or have never had treatment, now is the time to start!
![Photo of Elizabeth Downs, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b30681ca-7eac-4840-809d-9201752e744c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Downs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions. My goal is to truly listen to your concerns and needs and treat you as a whole person. I run a telemedicine only independent practice serving patients throughout New Hampshire. I accept several insurances and private pay. I am able to provide patients with a Super Bill for out of network reimbursement by request.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions. My goal is to truly listen to your concerns and needs and treat you as a whole person. I run a telemedicine only independent practice serving patients throughout New Hampshire. I accept several insurances and private pay. I am able to provide patients with a Super Bill for out of network reimbursement by request.
![Photo of Virginia Roper, PhD, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4c6d6a6-5c46-4af5-8ef6-ab9a193ec2f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you moody or anxious? Do you struggle with attention? Do you often feel distrustful of others or out of control? I am both a clinical psychologist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner and integrate both roles to help relieve symptoms of emotional distress and improve everyday functioning. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for close to a decade, caring for patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions in community mental health and acute psychiatric settings. I presently specialize in medication management only services.
Are you moody or anxious? Do you struggle with attention? Do you often feel distrustful of others or out of control? I am both a clinical psychologist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner and integrate both roles to help relieve symptoms of emotional distress and improve everyday functioning. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for close to a decade, caring for patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions in community mental health and acute psychiatric settings. I presently specialize in medication management only services.
![Photo of Adam Horn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2730983-f1c9-47b2-9ee0-d5519c97eb1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820 (Online Only)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bafb3627-096c-4446-a33f-0d0df93e5745/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
![Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/554ad1b1-a173-4870-b356-f85f6bc6c680/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madbury, NH 03820 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Lori Eaton, APRN, BC-PMHN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e89deb3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified - Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have worked with PTSD, anxiety disorder, insomnia, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder. Over the years I have learned that marijuana is true medication. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner I am able to assist clients to secure a medical marijuana card. As I work in psychiatry I am able certify people who struggle with PTSD and or insomnia in the state of NH. While it's true people can go to MA and Maine for recreational marijuana, a medical card will save you the high taxes imposed on recreational.
I am a Board Certified - Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have worked with PTSD, anxiety disorder, insomnia, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder. Over the years I have learned that marijuana is true medication. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner I am able to assist clients to secure a medical marijuana card. As I work in psychiatry I am able certify people who struggle with PTSD and or insomnia in the state of NH. While it's true people can go to MA and Maine for recreational marijuana, a medical card will save you the high taxes imposed on recreational.
See more therapy options for Durham
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Durham, NH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Durham, NH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
89% | ADHD |
89% | Sleep or Insomnia |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Durham, NH see their clients
89% | In Person and Online | |
11% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
55% | Male | |
45% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Durham?
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.