Psychiatrists in Franklin County, TN
![Photo of Dr. Bethany Robinson @ Robinson Mental Health, DNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5d51c19-07ce-4d1d-9dfc-2ce8055da12d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bethany Robinson @ Robinson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, RN
Verified Verified
Winchester, TN 37398
At RMC we want to build a strong relationship with you so that you feel comfortable overcoming the stressors that you are having. At RMC you are family. I help young adults to empty nesters who struggle with anxiety, substance use, and PTSD overcome the lack of joy in their lives and reclaim resilience, confidence, and purpose by offering an integrative approach that includes holistic medication management, lifestyle coaching, and self-care reinforcement.
At RMC we want to build a strong relationship with you so that you feel comfortable overcoming the stressors that you are having. At RMC you are family. I help young adults to empty nesters who struggle with anxiety, substance use, and PTSD overcome the lack of joy in their lives and reclaim resilience, confidence, and purpose by offering an integrative approach that includes holistic medication management, lifestyle coaching, and self-care reinforcement.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Brei Chisholm, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b85858e4-2dbd-42a8-94a2-f166e05f1b66/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brei Chisholm is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose journey into mental health care was sparked by a profound passion for guiding individuals toward mental wellness. Brei's approach seamlessly integrates evidence-based with personalized care, emphasizing a holistic perspective that delves beyond symptoms to address the underlying causes.
Brei Chisholm is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) whose journey into mental health care was sparked by a profound passion for guiding individuals toward mental wellness. Brei's approach seamlessly integrates evidence-based with personalized care, emphasizing a holistic perspective that delves beyond symptoms to address the underlying causes.
![Photo of Adriana Beeson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90dc3dd2-3409-4cb2-a2dd-82a6f8b36d0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm glad you're here. My name is Adriana Beeson, and my goal is to help you become the happiest and healthiest version of yourself you can be! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I would love to help you start your mental health journey. Beginning this process can be intimidating, but I strive to make my patients feel comfortable with compassionate and personalized care.
Hi! I'm glad you're here. My name is Adriana Beeson, and my goal is to help you become the happiest and healthiest version of yourself you can be! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I would love to help you start your mental health journey. Beginning this process can be intimidating, but I strive to make my patients feel comfortable with compassionate and personalized care.
![Photo of Percy Ballard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c90fc40-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My joy is in using Internal Family Systems therapy, non-dual meditation, Somatica sex and relationship coaching, and medicine when indicated, to help people discover their true Self and live life from the space of Self acceptance, presence and authenticity. For the most information about who I am and my approach to client care, please visit my personal website, www.percyballardmd.com.
My joy is in using Internal Family Systems therapy, non-dual meditation, Somatica sex and relationship coaching, and medicine when indicated, to help people discover their true Self and live life from the space of Self acceptance, presence and authenticity. For the most information about who I am and my approach to client care, please visit my personal website, www.percyballardmd.com.
![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
Nashville, TN 37211 (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 Stephanie Sweeny - Stephanie Sweeny, Women's Mental Health Specialist, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20078a04-9b61-4e06-9ba7-49ea4f3e3dd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Sweeny, Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211 (Online Only)
The services we provide are designed to alleviate emotional and mental health symptoms for women who feel alone and stuck and are experiencing emotional or mental health symptoms. As women, there is a need for support, guidance, and help to identify what is normal. Our providers strive to help you reach your goals and live a happy and fulfilling life.
The services we provide are designed to alleviate emotional and mental health symptoms for women who feel alone and stuck and are experiencing emotional or mental health symptoms. As women, there is a need for support, guidance, and help to identify what is normal. Our providers strive to help you reach your goals and live a happy and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Lee Dockery, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18da1e6d-7bf4-4608-8edb-968e0a159b5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lee Dockery serves as a general pscyhiatry provider for Talkiatry since joining in August 2022. He is board-eligible with expected certification in fall 2022, with further addiction psychiatry board-certification expected in 2023. He has been training and practicing psychiatry since 2018. Dr. Dockery’s practice emphasizes medication management within a therapy-informed framework, utilizing skills from Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness based therapies, motivation interviewing, and supportive therapy. Typically, he offers 60-minute new visits and 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Lee Dockery serves as a general pscyhiatry provider for Talkiatry since joining in August 2022. He is board-eligible with expected certification in fall 2022, with further addiction psychiatry board-certification expected in 2023. He has been training and practicing psychiatry since 2018. Dr. Dockery’s practice emphasizes medication management within a therapy-informed framework, utilizing skills from Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness based therapies, motivation interviewing, and supportive therapy. Typically, he offers 60-minute new visits and 30-minute follow-up visits.
![Photo of David Andrew Vincent - Elite Psychiatry of Tennessee, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89fe067b-2b4d-49c3-9afa-b09caaf3ad7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elite Psychiatry of Tennessee
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dickson, TN 37055 (Online Only)
What sets Elite Psychiatry apart? This is a locally owned practice where you will have continuous and personalized care with the same provider every visit, which is essential for appropriate diagnosis and medication management. We offer compassionate care without judgement; you will feel heard. This is your journey. You will have to put the work in, but we are here to help and pride ourselves on being as invested as you are!
What sets Elite Psychiatry apart? This is a locally owned practice where you will have continuous and personalized care with the same provider every visit, which is essential for appropriate diagnosis and medication management. We offer compassionate care without judgement; you will feel heard. This is your journey. You will have to put the work in, but we are here to help and pride ourselves on being as invested as you are!
![Photo of Justin Malais, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0ca43e7-7978-44f2-8294-9bf98ffe1964/2/320x400.jpeg)
Common clients of mine are children, adolescents, and adults, struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and OCD among other psychiatric conditions. Individuals facing these symptoms may have interruptions of daily functioning. My clients need tools to manage their concerns and open communication to improve themselves and their relationships. Some goals are to control emotions and live a fulfilling life. The clients I see want lasting change because their conditions are keeping them from pursuing their passions and connecting with others.
Common clients of mine are children, adolescents, and adults, struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and OCD among other psychiatric conditions. Individuals facing these symptoms may have interruptions of daily functioning. My clients need tools to manage their concerns and open communication to improve themselves and their relationships. Some goals are to control emotions and live a fulfilling life. The clients I see want lasting change because their conditions are keeping them from pursuing their passions and connecting with others.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist), MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b7eeceb-a338-4bc4-9634-5baabe999815/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist)
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37412 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c5701a8-0b3f-4a02-85fd-0c42e1a9aecb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, TN 37075 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Sherika Cowan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2039c698-b144-427e-8e76-67f1ff81827c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sherika Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 17 years total of nursing experience. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University in 2021. I believe in forming a personalized plan of care that values you and put your feelings first by use of evidence based practice, strong communication, and listening skills.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 17 years total of nursing experience. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University in 2021. I believe in forming a personalized plan of care that values you and put your feelings first by use of evidence based practice, strong communication, and listening skills.
![Photo of Laura Reynolds, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6428626d-f5fd-4cf9-b8fb-58eab6807fb3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Reynolds started her practice to serve her patients and help them lead enriched and fulfilling lives. She will guide and support you as you navigate life’s stressors and challenges. In addition to medication, she will use a comprehensive approach for your mental health needs that focuses on the whole self. It takes courage to ask for help and Dr. Reynolds will use her knowledge and compassion to help you achieve your treatment goals. In-person and Telepsychiatry appointments are available for your convenience.
Dr. Reynolds started her practice to serve her patients and help them lead enriched and fulfilling lives. She will guide and support you as you navigate life’s stressors and challenges. In addition to medication, she will use a comprehensive approach for your mental health needs that focuses on the whole self. It takes courage to ask for help and Dr. Reynolds will use her knowledge and compassion to help you achieve your treatment goals. In-person and Telepsychiatry appointments are available for your convenience.
![Photo of Jason C. Pooler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d0c5ce5-fb61-40ca-b464-06537a0e4583/3/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Psychiatry is intended to do more than help you manage your symptoms. It is designed to help you live a complete, healthy, fulfilling life. Dr. Pooler will collaborate with you to identify potential factors and contributors to your mental health. This collaboration may include blood work, genetic testing, assessment of gut function, and hormone panels, to name a few. The results of these tests and discussions will help to formulate your specific treatment plan. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, stress reduction techniques, exercise regimens, trauma therapy, diet changes, and more can all be part of your treatment plan.
Integrative Psychiatry is intended to do more than help you manage your symptoms. It is designed to help you live a complete, healthy, fulfilling life. Dr. Pooler will collaborate with you to identify potential factors and contributors to your mental health. This collaboration may include blood work, genetic testing, assessment of gut function, and hormone panels, to name a few. The results of these tests and discussions will help to formulate your specific treatment plan. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, stress reduction techniques, exercise regimens, trauma therapy, diet changes, and more can all be part of your treatment plan.
![Photo of Rachel Ortiz, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60ffd781-31af-4b35-ae9b-d9ec9091783e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Ortiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
Waitlist for new clients
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.
![Photo of Sandra Okengwu - Sandra Okengwu (Licensed in Tennessee/New York), PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82b8787e-5067-43f2-8ead-2446df8c0f28/7/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Okengwu (Licensed in Tennessee/New York)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Lookout Mountain, TN 37350 (Online Only)
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.
![Photo of Nicole Hart, PMHNP, BC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0d3e2a0-df84-4a2f-95a0-d63f531b047b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders take charge of their lives by offering personalized, responsible care with psychotherapy and medication management. I do not participate in any insurance plans, however, invoices can be provided for you to submit to insurance for reimbursement or toward your deductible. For a consultation, please visit my website: nicolehartnp.com
I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders take charge of their lives by offering personalized, responsible care with psychotherapy and medication management. I do not participate in any insurance plans, however, invoices can be provided for you to submit to insurance for reimbursement or toward your deductible. For a consultation, please visit my website: nicolehartnp.com
![Photo of Kevin Adams, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7a57073-8fa8-4422-b223-54ec274a70b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience treating patients with various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in Medication Management of mental health symptoms, yet approach treatment from a holistic perspective that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of my patients. My experience has enabled an understanding that life creates stressors for people in diverse occupations, difficulties within relationships and families, and while pursuing educational milestones, and realize treatment must be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience treating patients with various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in Medication Management of mental health symptoms, yet approach treatment from a holistic perspective that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of my patients. My experience has enabled an understanding that life creates stressors for people in diverse occupations, difficulties within relationships and families, and while pursuing educational milestones, and realize treatment must be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
![Photo of Alicia Batson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22b2dba5-4f0c-4788-9ce4-c46ada3bcb80/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Batson is board-certified in psychiatry and dual-trained in internal medicine. Since recovering from her own chronic pain journey, she has specialized in the education, diagnosis, and treatment of Chronic Primary Pain and other Psychophysiologic Disorders. She works with each patient to determine the best course of treatment for them - medication management, lifestyle modification, psychotherapy, or a combination depending on each patient’s particular diagnosis and needs. She also refers patients to various print and online resources to help them better understand their conditions.
Dr. Batson is board-certified in psychiatry and dual-trained in internal medicine. Since recovering from her own chronic pain journey, she has specialized in the education, diagnosis, and treatment of Chronic Primary Pain and other Psychophysiologic Disorders. She works with each patient to determine the best course of treatment for them - medication management, lifestyle modification, psychotherapy, or a combination depending on each patient’s particular diagnosis and needs. She also refers patients to various print and online resources to help them better understand their conditions.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcc5acc8-d9eb-454c-9ba1-3c0097041791/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee. 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.
See more therapy options for Franklin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Franklin County, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Franklin County, TN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Divorce |
Average years in practice
28 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Franklin County, TN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Franklin 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.