Psychiatrists in Greenville County, SC
![Photo of Dr. Asa T Briggs, DNP, PMHNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f82f918-4eed-49b6-b712-44ca733d9583/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Asa T Briggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience treating adults from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of mental health related illnesses.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience treating adults from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of mental health related illnesses.
![Photo of Tiffany Stewart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f9e0c3b-d8e9-40af-aae4-b1bbd64e5d42/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615 (Online Only)
Dr. Tiffany Stewart is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina. She has worked in healthcare for the past 18 years, with the last 7 as an Advanced Practice Provider. Dr. Stewart holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Clemson University, where she also teaches graduate nursing students in the area of mental health.Dr. Stewart’s practice mission is to guide patients toward their best life by addressing the combination of mental, spiritual, and physical health.
Dr. Tiffany Stewart is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina. She has worked in healthcare for the past 18 years, with the last 7 as an Advanced Practice Provider. Dr. Stewart holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Clemson University, where she also teaches graduate nursing students in the area of mental health.Dr. Stewart’s practice mission is to guide patients toward their best life by addressing the combination of mental, spiritual, and physical health.
![Photo of Steven Krozer, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/796cd89c-fd5c-41d7-8b78-2c6a2325c9a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Krozer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I received my education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN and am proficient in treating clients across the lifespan, starting at age 10. I have experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings and have managed both acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I am SAMSHA trained and certified to prescribe to and manage clients with suboxone / buprenorphine and substance abuse backgrounds. I look forward to working with you!
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I received my education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN and am proficient in treating clients across the lifespan, starting at age 10. I have experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings and have managed both acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I am SAMSHA trained and certified to prescribe to and manage clients with suboxone / buprenorphine and substance abuse backgrounds. I look forward to working with you!
![Photo of Amanda Groome, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78abf18d-9277-4015-8620-71631cc8781b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Groome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Hello, I am a certified AGNP and PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I am honored to have now been in the nursing field for over fifteen years. I have always held an interest in the mind and human behavior. Working in the adult outpatient program (PHP) program taught me a lot about the intertwined roles of nursing and social work, as well as allowed me the opportunity to teach coping skill classes (e.g., guided imagery, self-esteem, sleep hygiene, and medication adherence). Serving both private practice and elderly care clients, I specialize in treating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and dementia.
Hello, I am a certified AGNP and PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I am honored to have now been in the nursing field for over fifteen years. I have always held an interest in the mind and human behavior. Working in the adult outpatient program (PHP) program taught me a lot about the intertwined roles of nursing and social work, as well as allowed me the opportunity to teach coping skill classes (e.g., guided imagery, self-esteem, sleep hygiene, and medication adherence). Serving both private practice and elderly care clients, I specialize in treating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and dementia.
![Photo of Svetlana Robinson, FNP-C, MS, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87129cc7-ecc1-4bed-abfb-39c5327d2574/1/320x400.jpeg)
Svetlana Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, MS, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I look look forward to working with patients of all ages over 18 years old. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, insomnia, grief, separation disorders, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
I look look forward to working with patients of all ages over 18 years old. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, insomnia, grief, separation disorders, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
![Photo of Dannah Michele Moore, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d45538de-c9d3-46d6-a682-3b2cd7a283fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dannah Michele Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Each of us are unique beings worthy of love, belonging, purpose, self-acceptance, happiness, and peace. Attainment of these beliefs and practices may come as a challenge for those struggling with their mental health. My passion is to walk alongside children, teens, and their families and work to eliminate barriers which limit their potential for joy, success, and personal growth. I believe in a holistic approach, using medications, as well as recommendations for supplements, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and behaviors related to autism.
Each of us are unique beings worthy of love, belonging, purpose, self-acceptance, happiness, and peace. Attainment of these beliefs and practices may come as a challenge for those struggling with their mental health. My passion is to walk alongside children, teens, and their families and work to eliminate barriers which limit their potential for joy, success, and personal growth. I believe in a holistic approach, using medications, as well as recommendations for supplements, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and behaviors related to autism.
![Photo of Julia Rodriguez, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58623d5f-5e7d-4bbe-8250-b5fe49ab8ef2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Rodriguez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2012. She has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the College of Charleston and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the Medical University of SC. Julia works with clients who suffer from a broad range of mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and schizophrenia. She also works with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such the death of a loved one or the end of relationship.
Julia Rodriguez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2012. She has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the College of Charleston and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the Medical University of SC. Julia works with clients who suffer from a broad range of mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and schizophrenia. She also works with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such the death of a loved one or the end of relationship.
![Photo of Chrissie Marie Middleton, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83c18139-6f07-4d8f-99b2-9b3722689f7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chrissie Marie Middleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615 (Online Only)
Thank you for visting my page. I am Dr. Chrissie Middleton, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been in healthcare for the last thirty years and I have practiced as a family medicine provider for the last 15 years. Within my role as a family healthcare practitioner, I have cared for many clients with anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Thank you for visting my page. I am Dr. Chrissie Middleton, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been in healthcare for the last thirty years and I have practiced as a family medicine provider for the last 15 years. Within my role as a family healthcare practitioner, I have cared for many clients with anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
![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 Anglique Rich, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8931145c-722f-46e5-bd70-2f6ce7830425/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anglique Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
![Photo of Clay Watson, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd32e30d-cbfc-4368-b79e-fdbecb5d06c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Clay and I am a board certified physician assistant in the state of South Carolina. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. My goal of treatment is to help completely resolve current symptoms and also prevent future symptoms from occurring. My approach is compassionate, thoughtful and relaxed - aiming to put you at ease.
Hi! My name is Clay and I am a board certified physician assistant in the state of South Carolina. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. My goal of treatment is to help completely resolve current symptoms and also prevent future symptoms from occurring. My approach is compassionate, thoughtful and relaxed - aiming to put you at ease.
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![Photo of Sarah McNight, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dabd34f8-b3ac-4cbd-8938-f008277e58d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah McNight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Ms. McNight began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Ms. McNight worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
Ms. McNight began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Ms. McNight worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
![Photo of Luron Fleming, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02f96cf3-7e91-421f-aca3-b045fa6ef8b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Luron Fleming
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My medical career began when I joined the United States Army Reserve as a Medic. I then went on to finish my Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Wofford College. After leaving active duty in 2002, I did full-time ministry as a Church Administrator, Music Director, Youth Director, Outreach Director, and Director of Addictions Ministry. This has led to have a profound commitment to the mental health profession.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My medical career began when I joined the United States Army Reserve as a Medic. I then went on to finish my Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Wofford College. After leaving active duty in 2002, I did full-time ministry as a Church Administrator, Music Director, Youth Director, Outreach Director, and Director of Addictions Ministry. This has led to have a profound commitment to the mental health profession.
![Photo of Sejal Bhula, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fc53000-6dd6-470a-bce3-561baae9d01e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sejal Bhula
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. Areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorders. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. Areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorders. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.
![Photo of Mel Brown, WHNP-BC, PMH-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f1b3426-761d-43c6-8b3b-f7a09b1ffffe/2/320x400.png)
Mel Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, WHNP-BC, PMH-C, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Women's Health Nurse Practitioner with additional training in perinatal mental health and psychotropic medications. I am an advocate of psychopharmacology as well as behavioral therapy, and I believe strongly in the wellness approach when it comes to treating mental health conditions.
I am a board-certified Women's Health Nurse Practitioner with additional training in perinatal mental health and psychotropic medications. I am an advocate of psychopharmacology as well as behavioral therapy, and I believe strongly in the wellness approach when it comes to treating mental health conditions.
![Photo of Gregory Smith - Frame of Mind Psychiatry, LMFT, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b62599-2ae5-45f9-8b62-116886b0c7d1/1/320x400.png)
Frame of Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
At Frame of Mind Psychiatry our clinicians and prescribers are passionate in working closely with one another for all patients receiving both therapy and medication management. Your clinician is also open to working with any of your healthcare providers that you deem important. We hold treatment team meetings to devise the best plan of treatment once per week, to make certain you are receiving the best possible treatment from every angle because we know that you are worth it!
At Frame of Mind Psychiatry our clinicians and prescribers are passionate in working closely with one another for all patients receiving both therapy and medication management. Your clinician is also open to working with any of your healthcare providers that you deem important. We hold treatment team meetings to devise the best plan of treatment once per week, to make certain you are receiving the best possible treatment from every angle because we know that you are worth it!
![Photo of Consola Esambe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd5b8ac3-529a-4ab4-8fba-7a7d9d6d0d97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Consola Esambe is a Psychiatrist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the Brody School of Medicine. Dr. Esambe believes in forming a partnership with the patient so that they are an integral part of their health journey. This leads to buy in which fosters a better therapeutic alliance with the patient. Outside of work, Dr. Esambe enjoys watching TV, spending time with friends and family, reading and traveling.
Dr. Consola Esambe is a Psychiatrist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the Brody School of Medicine. Dr. Esambe believes in forming a partnership with the patient so that they are an integral part of their health journey. This leads to buy in which fosters a better therapeutic alliance with the patient. Outside of work, Dr. Esambe enjoys watching TV, spending time with friends and family, reading and traveling.
![Photo of Sunil K Bhatia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc517bf5-e610-44d0-ae55-3895810aeb77/1/320x400.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 Rielle Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31c8cc3e-d91d-4158-ab84-70218e8618af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rielle Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
My ideal client is one that is honest about where they are so that I can meet them there, open to the process of working as a team to explore their needs and goals, and motivated to do the work necessary for their self-improvement and healing.
My ideal client is one that is honest about where they are so that I can meet them there, open to the process of working as a team to explore their needs and goals, and motivated to do the work necessary for their self-improvement and healing.
![Photo of Dr. Brad Wuerfel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f261ef90-8126-4e4d-9a50-cbd1b42154d7/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Brad Wuerfel struggled with mental health symptoms during his adolescence and has received treatment that changed his life, ultimately pushing him into a mental health career. He is most passionate about educating patients about their conditions and helping them understand their diagnosis is not what defines them.
Dr. Brad Wuerfel struggled with mental health symptoms during his adolescence and has received treatment that changed his life, ultimately pushing him into a mental health career. He is most passionate about educating patients about their conditions and helping them understand their diagnosis is not what defines them.
See more therapy options for Greenville County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Greenville County, SC
60+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in Greenville County, SC who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
80% | Medication Management |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
77% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Greenville County, SC see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Greenville County?
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.