Psychiatrists in Daniel Island, SC
![Photo of Daniel J Balog, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/471920ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Balog practices adult psychiatry and specializes in the treatment of Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma-Related Disorders. Dr. Balog aims to provide high quality, collaborative, and patient-centered care for patients 18+ years of age.
Dr. Balog practices adult psychiatry and specializes in the treatment of Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma-Related Disorders. Dr. Balog aims to provide high quality, collaborative, and patient-centered care for patients 18+ years of age.
![Photo of Lanier Summerall, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4385d5f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I was fortunate to grow up in Charleston where my family has lived for many generations. I spent my childhood playing on Sullivan's Island and sailing at my grandparents' House on Wadmalaw Island. I attended medical school at the university of Colorado and completed psychiatry residency at Dartmouth. I emphasize a holistic, patient focused treatment built on a foundation of a strong doctor-patient alliance. In 2014 I decided to return home to my family in Charleston. I was in a clinical leadership position downtown at the VA until joining Mt. Pleasant Psychiatry in 2017.
I was fortunate to grow up in Charleston where my family has lived for many generations. I spent my childhood playing on Sullivan's Island and sailing at my grandparents' House on Wadmalaw Island. I attended medical school at the university of Colorado and completed psychiatry residency at Dartmouth. I emphasize a holistic, patient focused treatment built on a foundation of a strong doctor-patient alliance. In 2014 I decided to return home to my family in Charleston. I was in a clinical leadership position downtown at the VA until joining Mt. Pleasant Psychiatry in 2017.
![Photo of Mark Rybakov, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef1b7bf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rybakov is a compassionate and insightful psychiatrist, treating adults, adolescents and children with a variety of issues including attention deficit disorders (ADHD), anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders and post traumatic stress disorders and stress related problems. Dr. Rybakov also provides tele-psychiatry follow up visits for busy adults and students. Dr. Rybakov splits his time between private practice, teaching and being a director of a community mental health center. Dr. Rybakov is not affiliated with any insurance plans. Documentation will be provided that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement.
Dr. Rybakov is a compassionate and insightful psychiatrist, treating adults, adolescents and children with a variety of issues including attention deficit disorders (ADHD), anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders and post traumatic stress disorders and stress related problems. Dr. Rybakov also provides tele-psychiatry follow up visits for busy adults and students. Dr. Rybakov splits his time between private practice, teaching and being a director of a community mental health center. Dr. Rybakov is not affiliated with any insurance plans. Documentation will be provided that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jeffrey Cluver, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa4c7c4f-70fc-4700-8afb-78b8f30f86d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Melissa Marshall, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57dcacfc-c2b3-45a8-a671-493f4c22860c/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in helping my adult clients explore whether medication could help alleviate their current symptoms and struggles. For over ten years I have partnered with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and many other difficulties and life challenges.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in helping my adult clients explore whether medication could help alleviate their current symptoms and struggles. For over ten years I have partnered with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and many other difficulties and life challenges.
![Photo of Haylee Fiddie, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5146a94d-4559-4948-a54e-04b96096a4b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Haylee Fiddie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29492
In addition to medication management and therapy, I am committed to including holistic approaches and meaningful lifestyle changes in your treatment plan to promote lasting well-being.
In addition to medication management and therapy, I am committed to including holistic approaches and meaningful lifestyle changes in your treatment plan to promote lasting well-being.
![Photo of Chantal Stith, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a28683ba-cbd1-4633-8f5a-73d4af638d24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chantal Stith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Charleston, SC 29406
My name is Chantal and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I completed my MSN at Vanderbilt University in August 2023. I received my first nursing degree in 2017. I have worked in behavioral health for most of my nursing career. I have experience working with people across the lifespan with various psychiatric diagnosis.
My name is Chantal and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I completed my MSN at Vanderbilt University in August 2023. I received my first nursing degree in 2017. I have worked in behavioral health for most of my nursing career. I have experience working with people across the lifespan with various psychiatric diagnosis.
![Photo of Donna C Orvin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee5d529f-26d0-4eec-975c-ec8eee948cb0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Orvin combines years of psychiatry experience with an avid concern for keeping up to date in the latest updates in psychiatric practice. Dr. Orvin graduated from Duke University, from George Washington School of Medicine, and then completed her psychiatric residency at Tuft’s New England Medical Center. After her training, she practiced for several years in Harvard affiliated hospitals where her duties included the supervision of psychiatric residents.
Since returning to South Carolina, Dr Orvin has focused her practice on adults in outpatient settings.
Dr Orvin combines years of psychiatry experience with an avid concern for keeping up to date in the latest updates in psychiatric practice. Dr. Orvin graduated from Duke University, from George Washington School of Medicine, and then completed her psychiatric residency at Tuft’s New England Medical Center. After her training, she practiced for several years in Harvard affiliated hospitals where her duties included the supervision of psychiatric residents.
Since returning to South Carolina, Dr Orvin has focused her practice on adults in outpatient settings.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Leigh Price - Stephanie L. Price, DO, LLC, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35bdd970-0bf6-4d9d-afe4-7099773a2657/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
![Photo of Lucretia D Wilson - The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f08e102-7290-4a08-bacf-533faf011398/2/320x400.png)
The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Charleston, SC 29405
Doctorally prepared, I possess the experience, qualities, personality, and credentials for your needs. I am a passionate and seasoned professional with over 30 years of high-profile nursing experience. The experience encompasses a profession in medicine and psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice in face-to-face and online settings. I am also a 30+ year veteran-spouse and mother of a current active-duty military family that fosters the ability to empathize and aid with military-affiliated patients. The tenants of my nursing practice primary aim are to deliver customized, purpose-driven care to all clients.
Doctorally prepared, I possess the experience, qualities, personality, and credentials for your needs. I am a passionate and seasoned professional with over 30 years of high-profile nursing experience. The experience encompasses a profession in medicine and psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice in face-to-face and online settings. I am also a 30+ year veteran-spouse and mother of a current active-duty military family that fosters the ability to empathize and aid with military-affiliated patients. The tenants of my nursing practice primary aim are to deliver customized, purpose-driven care to all clients.
![Photo of W Rodney Andrews - Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health, AGNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98aac361-db71-44c8-a822-c977531ac50b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
![Photo of Michael Kundert, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59b1ea37-b938-4196-b7c5-3844e376d223/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Kundert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
Casey Kundert is a boardCertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. Casey provides patientcentered holistic care with each patient and actively listens to each individual’s detailed concerns. Casey and clients work together to form a treatment plan that takes into account each person’s uniqueness while focusing on continued improvement. Casey is dedicated to helping you on your journey and you will always be treated with courtesy and respect along the way.
Casey Kundert is a boardCertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. Casey provides patientcentered holistic care with each patient and actively listens to each individual’s detailed concerns. Casey and clients work together to form a treatment plan that takes into account each person’s uniqueness while focusing on continued improvement. Casey is dedicated to helping you on your journey and you will always be treated with courtesy and respect along the way.
![Photo of Debbie White, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb61f5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have about 35 years experience in psychiatry, including residency, and only do outpatient psychiatry in recent years. I provide both medicine management and individual therapy. My approach is as a partnership- input from from a patient is valued and not ignored. What works for one person often does not work for another. My strengths include spending time with people (sometimes at the expense of punctuality). There is always an emergency system in place - I handle my own after hour calls. My areas of expertise include mood and anxiety disorders, women's issues, addictions, relationship issues, pharmacology, among others.
I have about 35 years experience in psychiatry, including residency, and only do outpatient psychiatry in recent years. I provide both medicine management and individual therapy. My approach is as a partnership- input from from a patient is valued and not ignored. What works for one person often does not work for another. My strengths include spending time with people (sometimes at the expense of punctuality). There is always an emergency system in place - I handle my own after hour calls. My areas of expertise include mood and anxiety disorders, women's issues, addictions, relationship issues, pharmacology, among others.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71e153e6-b130-4a02-b01b-52d67e36881c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Carla Warren, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43485bb0-f569-4abf-9aa4-4a67bc29ca60/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
![Photo of Adam Mullet, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e37a66a7-6241-428b-bf50-04fdf582fa1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I completed my residency training in psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina where I served as chief resident and completed extensive training in both medication management and therapy. In patient care I adopt a collaborative, personalized, and holistic approach emphasizing growth, meaning, relationships, and community. I am a proud Roanoke native and am grateful for the opportunity to serve the community I love. I see patients in person and through tele in Roanoke and also offer tele appointments to patients in South Carolina.
I completed my residency training in psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina where I served as chief resident and completed extensive training in both medication management and therapy. In patient care I adopt a collaborative, personalized, and holistic approach emphasizing growth, meaning, relationships, and community. I am a proud Roanoke native and am grateful for the opportunity to serve the community I love. I see patients in person and through tele in Roanoke and also offer tele appointments to patients in South Carolina.
![Photo of Casey Lee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34310ca4-ebe3-4926-b061-f9c273b11fb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Michael B Mefford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/137e43ce-ac13-4f1c-8607-3435121ef5a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
![Photo of Amy James, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68dffcb5-f4b4-4705-8552-f348970a0bb3/1/320x400.png)
My 22 years of nursing experience has been dedicated to working with military Veterans in inpatient, outpatient, and community health care settings. In 2016, I started a DNP program at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) specializing in Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practice. During this time, I completed over 1160 clinical hours treating various mental health disorders.
My 22 years of nursing experience has been dedicated to working with military Veterans in inpatient, outpatient, and community health care settings. In 2016, I started a DNP program at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) specializing in Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practice. During this time, I completed over 1160 clinical hours treating various mental health disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Ashley Royer, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cf2b010-2f9f-4082-abea-c497eec4844b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ashley Royer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CCRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Hi, I’m Ashley! I help children, adolescents, families, couples, and adults with anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and addictions build self-confidence, clarify their inner purpose, establish calmness of mind, and find fulfillment in life and in love. I am an animal lover and nurse, with decades of experience, who has overcome depression and alcohol use disorder through nutritional psychiatry, holistic wellness, mindfulness, and spiritual exploration - these experiences are close to my heart and inform my practice. if you are ready to leave behind what no longer serves you, I’m here and ready to help!
Hi, I’m Ashley! I help children, adolescents, families, couples, and adults with anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and addictions build self-confidence, clarify their inner purpose, establish calmness of mind, and find fulfillment in life and in love. I am an animal lover and nurse, with decades of experience, who has overcome depression and alcohol use disorder through nutritional psychiatry, holistic wellness, mindfulness, and spiritual exploration - these experiences are close to my heart and inform my practice. if you are ready to leave behind what no longer serves you, I’m here and ready to help!
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Nearby Searches for Daniel Island
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Daniel Island, SC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Daniel Island, SC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Daniel Island, SC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Daniel Island?
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.