Psychiatrists in Hollis, NH
![Photo of Tonya Watkins, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6defe449-2fbb-4f16-9d8a-93c92fa01bf1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tonya Watkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hollis, NH 03049 (Online Only)
As of 6/24 I have daytime availability! I have been a nurse practitioner for over 10 years, helping my clients to become their healthiest and best selves. I practice primarily as a women's health psychiatric nurse practitioner, focusing on treating issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, women's issues, chronic pain, and eating issues. I particularly enjoy working with college students, so if you're in that group, please reach out!
As of 6/24 I have daytime availability! I have been a nurse practitioner for over 10 years, helping my clients to become their healthiest and best selves. I practice primarily as a women's health psychiatric nurse practitioner, focusing on treating issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, women's issues, chronic pain, and eating issues. I particularly enjoy working with college students, so if you're in that group, please reach out!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Emmanuella Edekobi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5b83fea-c0be-4160-9eb3-fcfea362cf3f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuella Edekobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060 (Online Only)
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the healthcare field, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience in the healthcare field, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
![Photo of Adrienne Pitts, DNP, APRN, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0378196-5c1a-4e38-9b31-f1472db108bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Pitts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060 (Online Only)
I have current openings (as of 5/24). I enjoy getting to know my patients and consider that the best part of my job. I provide medication management services and won’t rush you through appointments and will take time getting to know you. I believe that quality care takes into account the whole person. As a specialist in women’s health, have spent years working in obstetrics and now as a psychiatric NP. I am passionate about serving as a support for women who may be coping with hormonal concerns like PMDD, anxiety, depression, postpartum adjustment, or dealing with the stress that often accompanies the early parenting years.
I have current openings (as of 5/24). I enjoy getting to know my patients and consider that the best part of my job. I provide medication management services and won’t rush you through appointments and will take time getting to know you. I believe that quality care takes into account the whole person. As a specialist in women’s health, have spent years working in obstetrics and now as a psychiatric NP. I am passionate about serving as a support for women who may be coping with hormonal concerns like PMDD, anxiety, depression, postpartum adjustment, or dealing with the stress that often accompanies the early parenting years.
![Photo of Jeremy Freund, MA, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6423f022-b641-4322-89a1-f5f1fffe2db9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mr. Freund's clinical focus is general adult psychiatry: the holistic care of patients with attention to psychiatric, medical, and addictions issues. He has worked with a number of specialized populations including military veterans, patients with severe mental illness and health co-morbidities, and the elderly. Mr. Freund is knowledgeable in the treatment of a broad spectrum of mental health issues with extensive knowledge of the impact of trauma(s). He places the patient at the center of their own care, emphasizing education so the patient may make fully informed decisions.
Mr. Freund's clinical focus is general adult psychiatry: the holistic care of patients with attention to psychiatric, medical, and addictions issues. He has worked with a number of specialized populations including military veterans, patients with severe mental illness and health co-morbidities, and the elderly. Mr. Freund is knowledgeable in the treatment of a broad spectrum of mental health issues with extensive knowledge of the impact of trauma(s). He places the patient at the center of their own care, emphasizing education so the patient may make fully informed decisions.
![Photo of Ry Billadeau, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd338354-6c11-4117-9c2d-0f0d15f08322/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients! With avaialbility within 1-2 weeks.
Now accepting new clients! With avaialbility within 1-2 weeks.
![Photo of Sherry Kahn, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13299501-94c4-40ad-8645-3a99a35e6b1a/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been an advanced practice nurse for over 20 years. For much of that time I had the honor to work with veterans in a federal facility, and prior to that I had experience in hospice and home care nursing. I have training and experience with a broad array of mental health conditions in adults age 18 and up. I believe in a compassionate and non-judgmental approach that will lay the groundwork for treatment planning. Your goals and desires for better health and wellness and your best life are central to treatment success.
I have been an advanced practice nurse for over 20 years. For much of that time I had the honor to work with veterans in a federal facility, and prior to that I had experience in hospice and home care nursing. I have training and experience with a broad array of mental health conditions in adults age 18 and up. I believe in a compassionate and non-judgmental approach that will lay the groundwork for treatment planning. Your goals and desires for better health and wellness and your best life are central to treatment success.
![Photo of Ana Gomes - New England Psychiatry PC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/240eb06a-e114-4779-9108-62cecaf13964/2/320x400.png)
New England Psychiatry PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060
New England Psychiatry is accepting new patients. Please complete the intake form at newenglandpsychiatry.org/patient-intake-form/
New England Psychiatry is accepting new patients. Please complete the intake form at newenglandpsychiatry.org/patient-intake-form/
![Photo of Carla Delcambre - Delcambre Mental Health P.L.L.C., MSN, BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49738a44-8b2d-4313-80d5-0f587e4cc13e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Delcambre Mental Health P.L.L.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060 (Online Only)
As a highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a comprehensive range of specialized services to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. With 7 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, evidence-based treatment modalities, and the unique needs for my patients. My services encompass both medication management and counseling, allowing me to provide holistic care that addresses the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors affecting mental health. My approach is nonjudgmental and collaborative
As a highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a comprehensive range of specialized services to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. With 7 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, evidence-based treatment modalities, and the unique needs for my patients. My services encompass both medication management and counseling, allowing me to provide holistic care that addresses the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors affecting mental health. My approach is nonjudgmental and collaborative
![Photo of Almos Nagy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab18063c-86aa-4db7-8965-5482a320d5df/1/320x400.png)
As a general and geriatric psychiatrist, Dr. Nagy has experience in diagnosing and providing psychopharmacological treatment to patients with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depressive disorders, trauma related and anxiety conditions, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders as well as addiction related conditions. From 2014 to 2020 Dr. Nagy worked at the Bedford, Massachusetts VA Medical Center as the program psychiatrist for the severely mental illness (SMI) program, for which he received the I CARE award of the VA Medical Center.
As a general and geriatric psychiatrist, Dr. Nagy has experience in diagnosing and providing psychopharmacological treatment to patients with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depressive disorders, trauma related and anxiety conditions, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders as well as addiction related conditions. From 2014 to 2020 Dr. Nagy worked at the Bedford, Massachusetts VA Medical Center as the program psychiatrist for the severely mental illness (SMI) program, for which he received the I CARE award of the VA Medical Center.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/263aa5b5-e532-49cd-a67f-0a6951dac400/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in New Hampshire for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in New Hampshire for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Katherine Brock, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39fb9a00-2dc2-4211-bc6d-bf1692e92345/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Brock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03062
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP=BC) who works in the outpatient setting providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I take a holistic approach in treating those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP=BC) who works in the outpatient setting providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I take a holistic approach in treating those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more.
![Photo of Carissa Kajenski, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b888c876-202e-454b-b93e-ca500a931146/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carissa Kajenski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03063 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to our psychiatric practice! For the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of serving patients and connecting with the community. The practice specializes in providing support to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar disorder. I understand the importance of accessibility and flexibility, which is why I offer virtual and in-person visits to ensure that patients can receive the care they need, regardless of their location or circumstances. I accept various insurance plans, including Anthem BlueCross and BlueShield, Harvard Pilgrim, Health Plans, Optum, Tufts, UMR, United Healthcare.
Welcome to our psychiatric practice! For the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of serving patients and connecting with the community. The practice specializes in providing support to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar disorder. I understand the importance of accessibility and flexibility, which is why I offer virtual and in-person visits to ensure that patients can receive the care they need, regardless of their location or circumstances. I accept various insurance plans, including Anthem BlueCross and BlueShield, Harvard Pilgrim, Health Plans, Optum, Tufts, UMR, United Healthcare.
![Photo of Sarah Clement - Granite State Family Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b5809f0-a4f1-4a30-a350-7f939a85744c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Granite State Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
Sarah is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to all of her patients. She provides comprehensive behavioral health services including psychiatric assessments, diagnostic formulation, medication management, and psychoeducation for an array of mental health disorders. Her areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Sarah is currently accepting new patients ages 18 and older. She is currently licensed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts and is able to see clients in person or telehealth
Sarah is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to all of her patients. She provides comprehensive behavioral health services including psychiatric assessments, diagnostic formulation, medication management, and psychoeducation for an array of mental health disorders. Her areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Sarah is currently accepting new patients ages 18 and older. She is currently licensed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts and is able to see clients in person or telehealth
![Photo of Richard Carey, MSN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed91de28-d54a-43be-9e58-8e08e320c217/1/320x400.png)
Mr. Carey obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Premedicine from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, and then went on to earn his Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science in nursing from Regis College in Weston, MA. At Regis College, Mr. Carey completed the Family Nurse Practitioner track which encompasses all aspects of medical treatment across the lifespan. Mr. Carey earned the American Nurses Credentialing Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Mr. Carey obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Premedicine from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, and then went on to earn his Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science in nursing from Regis College in Weston, MA. At Regis College, Mr. Carey completed the Family Nurse Practitioner track which encompasses all aspects of medical treatment across the lifespan. Mr. Carey earned the American Nurses Credentialing Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Temilola Oladotun, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b1bf597-8bdf-43c5-872c-636ccafbd02b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients. With a distinctive dual background as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a unique blend of expertise encompassing general healthcare and specialized psychiatric care. My unwavering dedication to your comprehensive well-being is the driving force behind my patient-centered approach, offering personalized mental health support grounded in robust evidence-based practices.
Accepting New Patients. With a distinctive dual background as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a unique blend of expertise encompassing general healthcare and specialized psychiatric care. My unwavering dedication to your comprehensive well-being is the driving force behind my patient-centered approach, offering personalized mental health support grounded in robust evidence-based practices.
![Photo of DeAnna Pangione, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa816bd-f516-42b4-b678-0f37a75a3afa/1/320x400.jpeg)
DeAnna Pangione
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03062
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you exhausted your usual coping mechanisms? Is everyday life becoming more difficult? While all of us experience difficulties at some point in our life, when feelings of anxiety or sadness become your "normal," I can help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you exhausted your usual coping mechanisms? Is everyday life becoming more difficult? While all of us experience difficulties at some point in our life, when feelings of anxiety or sadness become your "normal," I can help.
![Photo of Amanda LeFort - Granite State Family Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ca73733-4b17-4b0e-9d98-4cc0e3b347df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Granite State Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS OF ALL AGES BOTH IN PERSON AND VIA TELEHEALTH (VIDEO)* I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), nationally accredited to provide psychiatric services across the lifespan. I provide comprehensive behavioral health services including consultation, psychiatric assessment, diagnostic formulation, medication management, and education. I provide care to children ages 5 and up including adolescents/teens, college students, young professionals, adults, and geriatrics.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS OF ALL AGES BOTH IN PERSON AND VIA TELEHEALTH (VIDEO)* I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), nationally accredited to provide psychiatric services across the lifespan. I provide comprehensive behavioral health services including consultation, psychiatric assessment, diagnostic formulation, medication management, and education. I provide care to children ages 5 and up including adolescents/teens, college students, young professionals, adults, and geriatrics.
![Photo of Cara-Jean Donaghey, MSN, APRN, ANP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29e71e17-dca5-4509-8a13-51b20f6e043c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cara-Jean Donaghey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03062
As a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Nurse Practitioner, with a background in internal medicine, I have extensive experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns in the setting of physical health. Comprehensive services include consultation, psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment with particular focus on development of a strong therapeutic partnership. I provide primarily medication management, some psychotherapy and alternative modalities to adolescents and adults, ages 18 and up. Appointments are offered in person or via telehealth.
As a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Nurse Practitioner, with a background in internal medicine, I have extensive experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns in the setting of physical health. Comprehensive services include consultation, psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment with particular focus on development of a strong therapeutic partnership. I provide primarily medication management, some psychotherapy and alternative modalities to adolescents and adults, ages 18 and up. Appointments are offered in person or via telehealth.
![Photo of Joseph Insler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ba9798-8a2a-47c6-b701-77614f66241a/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Insler graduated from Emory University in 2006 with a BA in psychology, and then attended Tulane University School of Medicine where he received his MD in 2010 and was selected by his peers to receive the Gold Humanism Honor Society Award. He completed his psychiatry residency at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital (Mount Sinai) in 2014, and then went on to complete a fellowship in addiction psychiatry at Boston University Medical School in 2015. Dr. Insler previously worked as a psychiatry attending at the VA Boston Healthcare System where he treated veterans with mental health and substance use disorders.
Dr. Insler graduated from Emory University in 2006 with a BA in psychology, and then attended Tulane University School of Medicine where he received his MD in 2010 and was selected by his peers to receive the Gold Humanism Honor Society Award. He completed his psychiatry residency at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital (Mount Sinai) in 2014, and then went on to complete a fellowship in addiction psychiatry at Boston University Medical School in 2015. Dr. Insler previously worked as a psychiatry attending at the VA Boston Healthcare System where he treated veterans with mental health and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Danielle Smith, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53fba94e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060 (Online Only)
I recognize how difficult it is to find someone both knowledgeable about medications used to treat mental health concerns and who is a down to earth, real person at the same time. My clients have told me that I am easy to talk to and provide good clinical insight. I provide medication management services for women 18 and over for a variety of mental health concerns including adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD/ADD, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, perinatal mood disorders, mood disorders in menopause, compulsive over-eating, and binge eating disorder.
I recognize how difficult it is to find someone both knowledgeable about medications used to treat mental health concerns and who is a down to earth, real person at the same time. My clients have told me that I am easy to talk to and provide good clinical insight. I provide medication management services for women 18 and over for a variety of mental health concerns including adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD/ADD, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, perinatal mood disorders, mood disorders in menopause, compulsive over-eating, and binge eating disorder.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hollis, NH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hollis, NH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in Hollis, NH see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hollis?
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.