Psychiatrists in Mount Pleasant, SC
![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 Victoria D. Simpson, PMHNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04567967-de42-406d-acb0-ec18bd817ce6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria D. Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Victoria D. Simpson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Science Nursing (MSN), Summa Cum Laude, a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN), Summa Cum Laude, and an Associate in Applied Science, Nursing. With her thirty years of nursing experience, Victoria provides a non-judgmental environment to anyone struggling with any aspect of their mental health. Her role is multifaceted including educator, mental health advocate, and medication management.
Victoria D. Simpson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Science Nursing (MSN), Summa Cum Laude, a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN), Summa Cum Laude, and an Associate in Applied Science, Nursing. With her thirty years of nursing experience, Victoria provides a non-judgmental environment to anyone struggling with any aspect of their mental health. Her role is multifaceted including educator, mental health advocate, and medication management.
![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!
![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 Abbey Borich, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/310e630d-2bc8-4acc-8808-98b02a6a8c79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Borich is a seasoned child and adolescent psychiatrist dedicated to providing extraordinary care to children, adolescents, and young adults. With a wealth of experience spanning over a decade, Dr. Borich brings a compassionate, individually tailored, and evidence-based approach to every patient interaction. Dr. Borich has extensive inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room experience, and specializes in a wide range of pathologies including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, psychosis, mania, and behavioral disorders.
Dr. Borich is a seasoned child and adolescent psychiatrist dedicated to providing extraordinary care to children, adolescents, and young adults. With a wealth of experience spanning over a decade, Dr. Borich brings a compassionate, individually tailored, and evidence-based approach to every patient interaction. Dr. Borich has extensive inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room experience, and specializes in a wide range of pathologies including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, psychosis, mania, and behavioral disorders.
![Photo of Brittany Albright - Sweetgrass Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5670588b-4472-4fee-9ea0-39a2430b9a14/1/320x400.jpeg)
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
![Photo of Mallory Darnell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/037a7fba-b894-4a1d-89fa-e67e92212792/1/320x400.png)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience with children and adults, I am aware that all individuals are unique and bring with them their own experiences and beliefs. In our work together, I will provide you with an open and supportive environment, so you will feel comfortable sharing and discussing your concerns. I will partner with you in your treatment process and truly listen to ensure you meet your personal mental health goals. I believe in treating each of my patients with a holistic approach, incorporating lifestyle and medication changes when beneficial.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience with children and adults, I am aware that all individuals are unique and bring with them their own experiences and beliefs. In our work together, I will provide you with an open and supportive environment, so you will feel comfortable sharing and discussing your concerns. I will partner with you in your treatment process and truly listen to ensure you meet your personal mental health goals. I believe in treating each of my patients with a holistic approach, incorporating lifestyle and medication changes when beneficial.
![Photo of John Ganz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4642addc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I recognize the importance of a client-centered medical experience, which inspires me to create strong and long-lasting bonds with each of my patients. It's a privilege to serve the community of Charleston by providing quality medical attention through sound therapeutic advice and evidence-based treatment. For years, patients have depended on me to provide therapy in combination with medication management to best treat a multitude of conditions. I offer this and other individualized options to clients in need of a Psychiatrist they can trust. I'm dedicated to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity.
I recognize the importance of a client-centered medical experience, which inspires me to create strong and long-lasting bonds with each of my patients. It's a privilege to serve the community of Charleston by providing quality medical attention through sound therapeutic advice and evidence-based treatment. For years, patients have depended on me to provide therapy in combination with medication management to best treat a multitude of conditions. I offer this and other individualized options to clients in need of a Psychiatrist they can trust. I'm dedicated to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity.
![Photo of Dr. Brandon Lilly, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9367cb83-9d59-453b-8af4-39004131405e/1/320x400.png)
Turnwell Mental Health provides comprehensive mental health services for adults and children aged 10 and up in Charleston and the surrounding areas. Our board certified psychiatrist, Dr. Brandon Lilly, has experience treating all forms of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD and many other diagnoses.
Turnwell Mental Health provides comprehensive mental health services for adults and children aged 10 and up in Charleston and the surrounding areas. Our board certified psychiatrist, Dr. Brandon Lilly, has experience treating all forms of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD and many other diagnoses.
![Photo of Ashley Collins, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caeedc3-f470-4b2f-89ee-365ecd73ad43/1/320x400.jpeg)
Turnwell Mental Health provides comprehensive mental health services for adults and children aged 10 and up in Charleston and the surrounding areas. Our board certified psychiatrist, Dr. Ashley Collins has experience treating all forms of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD and many other diagnoses.
Turnwell Mental Health provides comprehensive mental health services for adults and children aged 10 and up in Charleston and the surrounding areas. Our board certified psychiatrist, Dr. Ashley Collins has experience treating all forms of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD and many other diagnoses.
![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.
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Being alive in today's world can often mean feeling overworked, under-supported, and filled with insecurities and instability. Navigating this on our best day can be challenging, and if you find yourself dealing with sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, rage, it starts to feel nearly impossible to put one foot in front of the other day by day. Because so much of today's world is out of our control, it is important to grasp onto the things we do have control of, namely our mental health. If you, your job, your relationships, your world are struggling because of your mental health, I am here to help.
Being alive in today's world can often mean feeling overworked, under-supported, and filled with insecurities and instability. Navigating this on our best day can be challenging, and if you find yourself dealing with sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, rage, it starts to feel nearly impossible to put one foot in front of the other day by day. Because so much of today's world is out of our control, it is important to grasp onto the things we do have control of, namely our mental health. If you, your job, your relationships, your world are struggling because of your mental health, I am here to help.
![Photo of Myra Dorothea Pinckney - Juniper Tree Counseling, LLC, PMHNP, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f13fb07f-6644-467a-9709-f615a8472f06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juniper Tree Counseling, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, my goal is to help you identify troubling thoughts that cause dysfunctional behaviors and emotional distress. We can work together to modify behaviors. I specialize in mood disorders, behavioral issues, anxiety disorders. sleep disorders, marital conflict, and problems secondary to chronic medical conditions. I provide psychotherapy and medication management for clients ages 6 to 75. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, please contact me for individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, my goal is to help you identify troubling thoughts that cause dysfunctional behaviors and emotional distress. We can work together to modify behaviors. I specialize in mood disorders, behavioral issues, anxiety disorders. sleep disorders, marital conflict, and problems secondary to chronic medical conditions. I provide psychotherapy and medication management for clients ages 6 to 75. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, please contact me for individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
![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 Ricardo (Ric) Jose Fermo - Fermo Psychiatric Solutions, INC., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405ac5bc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Adult / Child and Adolescent who has been practicing for over 25 years. I practice on the principle of "Biopsychosocial Model", providing a psychiatric evaluation, building a strong therapeutic alliance, being patient oriented, providing psychoeducation on diagnosis(s), treatment options and interventions. I practice evidence based medicine, standard of care, and cutting edge psychotropic interventions when necessary. I provide psycho-educational support to my patients and their families.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Adult / Child and Adolescent who has been practicing for over 25 years. I practice on the principle of "Biopsychosocial Model", providing a psychiatric evaluation, building a strong therapeutic alliance, being patient oriented, providing psychoeducation on diagnosis(s), treatment options and interventions. I practice evidence based medicine, standard of care, and cutting edge psychotropic interventions when necessary. I provide psycho-educational support to my patients and their families.
![Photo of Laura Burdette, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da9dc244-8b6a-4647-9352-cd65c3840106/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
![Photo of Patrick Mcarthur, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb61d19-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Mcarthur
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Not accepting new clients
I have practiced Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in Mount Pleasant for over 19 years, and in Murrell's Inlet, SC for two years. I offer experienced, confidential and solution-focused treatment for all ages. In every session I do both talk therapy and (when indicated) medication management. The success of my practice is based on my taking the time to really know each patient and his/her needs and to develop mutual trust with each patient.
I have practiced Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in Mount Pleasant for over 19 years, and in Murrell's Inlet, SC for two years. I offer experienced, confidential and solution-focused treatment for all ages. In every session I do both talk therapy and (when indicated) medication management. The success of my practice is based on my taking the time to really know each patient and his/her needs and to develop mutual trust with each patient.
![Photo of Dr. Alex M McNabb, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5875c2d1-ebdb-4359-9d5a-a45909ca4ef0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. McNabb is licensed in SC, NC, and VA. Please note: Unfortunately, this practice does not accept any insurance plans directly, though you may seek out-of-network reimbursement. To request an appointment, please go to mcnabbpsych.com and then click on the request appointment link. This is a required first step! Other frequently asked questions may be found at mcnabbpsych.com/faq.
Dr. McNabb is licensed in SC, NC, and VA. Please note: Unfortunately, this practice does not accept any insurance plans directly, though you may seek out-of-network reimbursement. To request an appointment, please go to mcnabbpsych.com and then click on the request appointment link. This is a required first step! Other frequently asked questions may be found at mcnabbpsych.com/faq.
![Photo of Sarah Dalechek, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ff7ca87-027d-4ac4-bf7e-4f2c548c5db6/3/320x400.jpeg)
We offer collaborative and patient-centered care through the use of medication and therapy as forms of treatment for a wide array of mental health needs. Whether you have been experiencing mental health issues your whole life or have just recently developed disruptions in mood, anxiety, etc. we are here to assist you. Also, we help those who are stable on their current medication regimens with medication management appointments for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder just to name a few.
We offer collaborative and patient-centered care through the use of medication and therapy as forms of treatment for a wide array of mental health needs. Whether you have been experiencing mental health issues your whole life or have just recently developed disruptions in mood, anxiety, etc. we are here to assist you. Also, we help those who are stable on their current medication regimens with medication management appointments for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder just to name a few.
![Photo of Dr. Abby Kent, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/975d7abd-05a2-4957-9959-587d8784bead/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Abby Kent, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats children, adolescents, and adults. She has an integrative and family-centered approach to care and believes all aspects of a person’s life affect one’s well-being. She works closely with other physicians, therapists, teachers, and guidance counselors. Dr. Kent has worked in the mental health field for ten years with patients of all ages. She has experience working on inpatient units with all spans of life, most notably Active Duty Military members and their families, patients suffering with substance use, and pediatric patients.
Dr. Abby Kent, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats children, adolescents, and adults. She has an integrative and family-centered approach to care and believes all aspects of a person’s life affect one’s well-being. She works closely with other physicians, therapists, teachers, and guidance counselors. Dr. Kent has worked in the mental health field for ten years with patients of all ages. She has experience working on inpatient units with all spans of life, most notably Active Duty Military members and their families, patients suffering with substance use, and pediatric patients.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mount Pleasant, SC
30+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Mount Pleasant, SC who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
87% | Medication Management |
81% | ADHD |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Optum |
86% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Mount Pleasant, SC see their clients
91% | In Person and Online | |
9% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
52% | Female | |
48% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant?
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.