Psychiatrists in Etowah, TN
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Tennessee below.Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66288c45-6fc0-4faa-ba23-42c80cefa7dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923 (Online Only)
I’m dedicated to helping women thrive amidst life’s pressures and challenges. With specialized expertise in managing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I provide compassionate and expert support tailored to your needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’m passionate about guiding women through every stage of mental health, including during breastfeeding—many women have the wrong information about medication options, but I’m here to ensure you have accurate, supportive care.
I’m dedicated to helping women thrive amidst life’s pressures and challenges. With specialized expertise in managing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I provide compassionate and expert support tailored to your needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’m passionate about guiding women through every stage of mental health, including during breastfeeding—many women have the wrong information about medication options, but I’m here to ensure you have accurate, supportive care.
I am a kind and compassionate Christian provider committed to providing excellent care. I offer Christian counseling, Evidence-based counseling, and psychiatric medication management as needed, to people of all ages.
I am a kind and compassionate Christian provider committed to providing excellent care. I offer Christian counseling, Evidence-based counseling, and psychiatric medication management as needed, to people of all ages.
Preserve Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dandridge, TN 37725
Our office has a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and depression. We strive to have patients of all ages across the life span achieve a better physiologic and mental state by offering medication management, as well as, provide counseling and educational services.
Our office has a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and depression. We strive to have patients of all ages across the life span achieve a better physiologic and mental state by offering medication management, as well as, provide counseling and educational services.
![Photo of Stephanie Hubbell ~ Women's Mental Health Specilaists, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf30f849-d19f-46c2-97b3-42154a1ae92d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Hubbell ~ Women's Mental Health Specilaists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921 (Online Only)
I help women from all walks of life who are struggling with lifecycle events and ongoing mental health illnesses. My dual degrees as a nurse midwife and mental health nurse practitioner will be utilized as I understand that you need support, help determining what is normal, and someone to help you get unstuck. I specialize on getting you on track with the right meds (if needed) the right therapists (if needed) and the right plan for YOU!
I help women from all walks of life who are struggling with lifecycle events and ongoing mental health illnesses. My dual degrees as a nurse midwife and mental health nurse practitioner will be utilized as I understand that you need support, help determining what is normal, and someone to help you get unstuck. I specialize on getting you on track with the right meds (if needed) the right therapists (if needed) and the right plan for YOU!
![Photo of Edyth (Edy) Patricia Cerone - Edy Cerone, PMHNP, LLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d5f456-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Edy Cerone, PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
I am very passionate about providing care to those suffering from symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, ADHD, insomnia, OCD, and other mental disorders. It is important for me to listen to my patient and include their concerns and needs in the plan of care. I started my own business in order to be able to spend time getting to know my patients. My goal is to assist my patients in ways to improve their mental wellbeing and have a more fulfilling life through medication management and counseling.
I am very passionate about providing care to those suffering from symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, ADHD, insomnia, OCD, and other mental disorders. It is important for me to listen to my patient and include their concerns and needs in the plan of care. I started my own business in order to be able to spend time getting to know my patients. My goal is to assist my patients in ways to improve their mental wellbeing and have a more fulfilling life through medication management and counseling.
![Photo of Meredith Simmons, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0899f43f-fc8d-46e5-b20d-d97e081b793d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932 (Online Only)
Meredith Simmons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges in the state of Tennessee. She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Studies as well as a bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As an RN, Meredith worked on a senior behavioral unit. She then obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Meredith Simmons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges in the state of Tennessee. She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Studies as well as a bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As an RN, Meredith worked on a senior behavioral unit. She then obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
![Photo of Katy Nottingham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/266ab8ec-08f5-4e28-a130-38565bed5a75/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katy Nottingham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
![Photo of Kerrie Wilder - Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a56370e7-ddaf-4f11-a3c8-8f84b61fb834/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerrie Wilder - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408 (Online Only)
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
![Photo of Martha Rumble, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26cf74f6-76e9-40d3-b314-1375af874499/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Rumble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I have played a supportive role in people’s mental health journeys for over a decade. Presently, I provide medication management and diagnostic services for individuals with mood, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms. I also offer consults for TMS and Spravato services which are offered at our clinic.
I have played a supportive role in people’s mental health journeys for over a decade. Presently, I provide medication management and diagnostic services for individuals with mood, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms. I also offer consults for TMS and Spravato services which are offered at our clinic.
![Photo of Shannon Leah Hutchison, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc6f0bca-5570-4620-bce1-24cfa009a86b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Leah Hutchison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Lynn Wolf, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/064a0d84-9db9-4e92-9821-37848bdd85f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Certified Nurse Midwife and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in women’s mental health across the lifespan. I enjoy connecting with women who are struggling with mood disorders while fostering a therapeutic relationship conducive to healing.
I am a Certified Nurse Midwife and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in women’s mental health across the lifespan. I enjoy connecting with women who are struggling with mood disorders while fostering a therapeutic relationship conducive to healing.
![Photo of Justin Lapollo, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8435352f-a1e0-43d0-8eb8-f8e91228d94d/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Justin Lapollo was raised in east Tennessee and graduated from high school at Farragut High School. He obtained his undergraduate degree from East Tennessee State University in Psychology and later graduated from the Virgina College of Osteopathic Medicine at Virginia Tech in 2009. He did his residency training in Hawaii at Tripler Army Medical Center. He has served in numerous clinical and administrative leadership roles during his 15 years working as a clinical psychiatrist, both in the active-duty military as well as the private sector.
Dr. Justin Lapollo was raised in east Tennessee and graduated from high school at Farragut High School. He obtained his undergraduate degree from East Tennessee State University in Psychology and later graduated from the Virgina College of Osteopathic Medicine at Virginia Tech in 2009. He did his residency training in Hawaii at Tripler Army Medical Center. He has served in numerous clinical and administrative leadership roles during his 15 years working as a clinical psychiatrist, both in the active-duty military as well as the private sector.
![Photo of Linda Cabage, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22b10fbc-ced1-4722-a5ec-dd056ac9271d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Cabage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently unable to accept new patients. Child and adolescent patients are being referred to Dr. Cynthia Easter at Bright Star Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
I am currently unable to accept new patients. Child and adolescent patients are being referred to Dr. Cynthia Easter at Bright Star Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
![Photo of Libby Burns, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58458f9c-d848-4050-b97b-88d9245a62ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Libby Burns is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tennessee Wesleyan University, a Master of Science in Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner Certification from Frontier Nursing University, and a post-Master's PMHNP from the University of Tennessee. Libby is a healthcare provider passionate about helping people live their best lives and believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. Libby is here to provide the care and support to overcome your mental health challenges and thrive.
Libby Burns is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tennessee Wesleyan University, a Master of Science in Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner Certification from Frontier Nursing University, and a post-Master's PMHNP from the University of Tennessee. Libby is a healthcare provider passionate about helping people live their best lives and believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. Libby is here to provide the care and support to overcome your mental health challenges and thrive.
![Photo of Teresa Arnold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dcd9096-288c-423b-9439-794d89a06e53/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
![Photo of Melissa Mann Stuntz - Melissa S, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9717cc7c-dcb4-4ca7-b947-b6b471b8c671/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa S
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37402 (Online Only)
Hey! I am Melissa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I love working with individuals experiencing anxiety, and depression. I have a trauma informed approach to process feelings of shame or guilt, low self-esteem, excessive working, trouble concentrating, etc. in a judgement free zone. The more you feel comfortable with me, the more you share, leading to a more effective treatment plan.
Hey! I am Melissa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I love working with individuals experiencing anxiety, and depression. I have a trauma informed approach to process feelings of shame or guilt, low self-esteem, excessive working, trouble concentrating, etc. in a judgement free zone. The more you feel comfortable with me, the more you share, leading to a more effective treatment plan.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9ba4ee4-77af-4588-bb13-9d592f79da79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Jana Arwood, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c598e1db-cdf2-4221-98dc-ed20c71e1dfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Graduated from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville with a BA in Chemistry. Graduated from Quillen College of Medicine-East Tennessee State University with Medical Degree. Completed General Psychiatry Residency Washington University St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in General Psychiatry. Lifetime Member of American Psychiatric Association and the Tennessee Psychiatric Association.
Graduated from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville with a BA in Chemistry. Graduated from Quillen College of Medicine-East Tennessee State University with Medical Degree. Completed General Psychiatry Residency Washington University St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in General Psychiatry. Lifetime Member of American Psychiatric Association and the Tennessee Psychiatric Association.
![Photo of Rachel Tamaroff, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5287c1a2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
![Photo of Meredith Rappaport, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535ce393-0b22-44b9-a23e-23124daf5ef8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Rappaport
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37929 (Online Only)
I feel incredibly fortunate to contribute to the mental health field, where prioritizing mental well-being is neither shameful nor taboo. Our bodies inherently safeguard our most crucial organ: the brain. It serves as the powerhouse for the entire body, and its well-being is as vital as that of our heart, pancreas, or lungs. My journey in the mental health field began as a social worker and psychotherapist. Over time, I evolved into a physician assistant, equipped to prescribe medications and offer comprehensive medical care. To enhance my capabilities, I pursued and attained additional certification in psychiatry
I feel incredibly fortunate to contribute to the mental health field, where prioritizing mental well-being is neither shameful nor taboo. Our bodies inherently safeguard our most crucial organ: the brain. It serves as the powerhouse for the entire body, and its well-being is as vital as that of our heart, pancreas, or lungs. My journey in the mental health field began as a social worker and psychotherapist. Over time, I evolved into a physician assistant, equipped to prescribe medications and offer comprehensive medical care. To enhance my capabilities, I pursued and attained additional certification in psychiatry
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Number of Psychiatrists in Etowah, TN
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Psychiatrists in Etowah, TN who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Etowah, TN see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Etowah?
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.