Psychiatrists in Blythewood, SC
![Photo of Deshaunah Dixon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19e6deb7-1fdc-460c-a70e-ea5df85698ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deshaunah Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Blythewood, SC 29016
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgmental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Mary Goldin, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f0cb472-0494-4a54-887b-33b9831536ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
![Photo of Kimberly Hammonds, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c26f36b7-5586-45fd-bde3-67ceaac86fdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
![Photo of Demetris Wright - A Practitioner's Touch, LLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3e63ea6-0081-4f30-b67a-874725f22285/1/320x400.png)
A Practitioner's Touch, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29203 (Online Only)
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
![Photo of Ramesh Gihwala, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/528076a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
![Photo of Melissa Harris Kannaday M. D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520ef763-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
![Photo of Dr. Shy Wilson, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547689cf-fc2b-4c46-ad0f-7102073fab76/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shy Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29223
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jason Alan Flassing, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee7527e7-8453-482c-92d6-a89fc4e7078a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Alan Flassing
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Most of my patients are previously diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Affective Disorder. Many have co-existing anxiety disorders ranging from generalized anxiety disorder to panic disorder with agoraphobia. My patients range in age from teens to seniors.
Most of my patients are previously diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Affective Disorder. Many have co-existing anxiety disorders ranging from generalized anxiety disorder to panic disorder with agoraphobia. My patients range in age from teens to seniors.
![Photo of Dr. Steven Sinderman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36095faf-2a4f-4da8-9bf4-0bac78594a1a/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Steven Sinderman is passionate about providing the best treatment for his patients in a collaborative atmosphere. Dr. Sinderman specializes in adult psychiatry. He was fascinated with the function of the brain and psychology in college, but was side-tracked and pursued a career in neurosurgery.
Dr. Steven Sinderman is passionate about providing the best treatment for his patients in a collaborative atmosphere. Dr. Sinderman specializes in adult psychiatry. He was fascinated with the function of the brain and psychology in college, but was side-tracked and pursued a career in neurosurgery.
![Photo of Melissa Pate, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8758e0d-2422-446d-80ae-6ac3f006bac4/1/320x400.png)
Melissa is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner (NP). She has worked to manage a wide variety of mental health concerns such as crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and social issues, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, caregiver fatigue, and addiction disorders. She is easy to talk to and helps you feel comfortable with sharing in order to best manage your mental and emotional health. She is compassionate in providing comprehensive mental health services to all ages. Melissa's role as a PMHNP includes medication manager, therapist, educator, and mental health advocate.
Melissa is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner (NP). She has worked to manage a wide variety of mental health concerns such as crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and social issues, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, caregiver fatigue, and addiction disorders. She is easy to talk to and helps you feel comfortable with sharing in order to best manage your mental and emotional health. She is compassionate in providing comprehensive mental health services to all ages. Melissa's role as a PMHNP includes medication manager, therapist, educator, and mental health advocate.
![Photo of Laura Law, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/630829c6-990d-4c0e-998a-17ed2a16d690/1/320x400.png)
Laura Law
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615 (Online Only)
Laura is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. She believes strongly that healing begins with a trusting relationship and encourages her patients to be active participants in their care. Laura completed her Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
Laura is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. She believes strongly that healing begins with a trusting relationship and encourages her patients to be active participants in their care. Laura completed her Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
![Photo of Joshua Werblin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9459979-7161-49a1-a987-e2b6238b97f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
Omega Psychiatric Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29203
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
![Photo of Violeta Nistor, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e3707a-7db1-4bdf-bbd7-8cae02c77d58/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are here it means you are ready to start your new life today. My strength is finding the right approach for you, finding the balance between your medical and psychiatric problems for the best outcome available. Here you can safely start your journey to YOU. No matter what your struggles are, I am here with no judgment, just acceptance, readiness to listen and to understand your story.
If you are here it means you are ready to start your new life today. My strength is finding the right approach for you, finding the balance between your medical and psychiatric problems for the best outcome available. Here you can safely start your journey to YOU. No matter what your struggles are, I am here with no judgment, just acceptance, readiness to listen and to understand your story.
![Photo of Felicia M Heyward, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eda0fee2-9d78-4f28-812d-9935a3ce59cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Felicia M Heyward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cayce, SC 29033
Are you struggling with everyday life? Or just not able to push through to find your happy place again? I am a nurse practitioner, board certified in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health, with over 28 years of experience in many areas of healthcare. I am committed to helping patients restore balance by achieving optimal psychological well-being. With extensive experience, my focus is the care of patients with mood and personality disorders, PTSD, and a special focus on mental health conditions in college students. FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING AVAILABLE w/ weekends & evenings.
Are you struggling with everyday life? Or just not able to push through to find your happy place again? I am a nurse practitioner, board certified in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health, with over 28 years of experience in many areas of healthcare. I am committed to helping patients restore balance by achieving optimal psychological well-being. With extensive experience, my focus is the care of patients with mood and personality disorders, PTSD, and a special focus on mental health conditions in college students. FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING AVAILABLE w/ weekends & evenings.
![Photo of Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, AGNP-C, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c434fc1c-e979-40f4-953b-a8e605e018eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, AGNP-C, CDCES
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29303 (Online Only)
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
![Photo of Celena Nicole Shivers, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edcd3df5-010c-450a-9d0f-1b1ef072dc9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Celena Nicole Shivers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Mill, SC 29715
Do you often feel weighed down from feelings of anxiety or depression that may be keeping you up at night? Can’t get past traumas and need someone who can understand? Look no further, allow Celena Shivers Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) to manage your care.
Do you often feel weighed down from feelings of anxiety or depression that may be keeping you up at night? Can’t get past traumas and need someone who can understand? Look no further, allow Celena Shivers Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) to manage your care.
![Photo of Sunil K Bhatia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab7e5cf0-97e7-4534-90f3-85d4291c27c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
![Photo of Dawn Marie DeVaux, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f60861f3-1a62-48b7-8459-e5a2908c3fc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Marie DeVaux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Summerville, SC 29483
Dawn Marie DeVaux is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Dawn offers a holistic, non-judgmental approach to treatment and clients can always expect professionalism, collaboration, respect, and empathy from her as their provider. Outside of work, Dawn enjoys nature hikes, bike riding, live Irish music, and reading non-fiction.
Dawn Marie DeVaux is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Dawn offers a holistic, non-judgmental approach to treatment and clients can always expect professionalism, collaboration, respect, and empathy from her as their provider. Outside of work, Dawn enjoys nature hikes, bike riding, live Irish music, and reading non-fiction.
![Photo of Jessica Stoelting, DNP, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a77eb6b-5afd-48f9-b5a5-fef3aac54a77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Stoelting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating clients with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them with their mental health concerns through diagnosis, medication management and interventions. I believe that clients should be fully participating in their treatment, making goals and reporting their progress in achieving those goals to me. I completed my doctoral work in stress management with a focus on mindfulness practices and meditation in older adults. My patients have been able to successfully implement these interventions to bring a new focus to their lives and help them through stressful moments.
I specialize in treating clients with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them with their mental health concerns through diagnosis, medication management and interventions. I believe that clients should be fully participating in their treatment, making goals and reporting their progress in achieving those goals to me. I completed my doctoral work in stress management with a focus on mindfulness practices and meditation in older adults. My patients have been able to successfully implement these interventions to bring a new focus to their lives and help them through stressful moments.
See more therapy options for Blythewood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Blythewood, SC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Blythewood, SC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Blythewood, SC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Blythewood?
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.