Psychiatrists in Lakeland, TN
![Photo of Brittany Moten - New Vision Psychiatry , MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d785f43-5286-4810-ac64-aa22b3362fb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Vision Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lakeland, TN 38002
New Vision Psychiatry was created to provide accessible psychiatric medication management services to those in Memphis, Tennessee and surrounding areas. Our mission is to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment, so that people of all ages feel comfortable seeking help. No more feeling unheard or waiting several weeks for your medication to be refilled. We pride ourselves in providing thorough and timely care. New clients can submit a new patient inquiry on our website- www.newvisionpsych.com
New Vision Psychiatry was created to provide accessible psychiatric medication management services to those in Memphis, Tennessee and surrounding areas. Our mission is to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment, so that people of all ages feel comfortable seeking help. No more feeling unheard or waiting several weeks for your medication to be refilled. We pride ourselves in providing thorough and timely care. New clients can submit a new patient inquiry on our website- www.newvisionpsych.com
![Photo of Toni Williams, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dae89c51-8ca8-4fcc-b53d-8d6ae620ab97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Toni Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Lakeland, TN 38002 (Online Only)
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Melanie Anon, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d254ea97-803f-44d8-9751-ab9e93949514/1/320x400.jpeg)
I view mental health as a regular part of our routine healthcare needs and hope to reduce stigmas in my office. My goal is for patients to participate in a non-judgmental session where they feel comfortable to be open and honest about their goals. As a provider, my goal is to provide a holistic treatment approach while respecting your autonomy, lifestyle, goals, spirituality, socioeconomic factors, and personal beliefs.
I view mental health as a regular part of our routine healthcare needs and hope to reduce stigmas in my office. My goal is for patients to participate in a non-judgmental session where they feel comfortable to be open and honest about their goals. As a provider, my goal is to provide a holistic treatment approach while respecting your autonomy, lifestyle, goals, spirituality, socioeconomic factors, and personal beliefs.
![Photo of Tamika Beecham, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54efd838-2d24-45ac-8db5-f50cc56f60bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals and their families by providing a safe, nonjudgemental environment that fosters a strong therapeutic alliance. I thoroughly enjoy direct patient care and values the therapeutic relationship between patient/family and provider as the foundation for success in outpatient psychiatry. In this relationship, I will provide you with relevant education, knowledge, and resources to better assist you in your own unique journey to healing and recovery from mental illness to mental wellness.
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals and their families by providing a safe, nonjudgemental environment that fosters a strong therapeutic alliance. I thoroughly enjoy direct patient care and values the therapeutic relationship between patient/family and provider as the foundation for success in outpatient psychiatry. In this relationship, I will provide you with relevant education, knowledge, and resources to better assist you in your own unique journey to healing and recovery from mental illness to mental wellness.
![Photo of Tamara Johnson, PHMNP, FNP, CIMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a097ab2-78e1-417e-8909-70220496fe1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, FNP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cordova, TN 38018 (Online Only)
Are you seeking a provider who will listen and guide you on your journey to mental wellness? Are you ready for a more personalized touch to mental health care? Are you tired of your mood keeping you from living your best life? If you said yes to any or all of these questions, I would love to assist you.
Are you seeking a provider who will listen and guide you on your journey to mental wellness? Are you ready for a more personalized touch to mental health care? Are you tired of your mood keeping you from living your best life? If you said yes to any or all of these questions, I would love to assist you.
![Photo of Dr. Arif K Mirza - Dr. Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab2e9873-78af-475b-abf7-c98849d8a78d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Arlington, TN 38002 (Online Only)
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of Dr. Twila Marie Worlock - Radiance Psychiatrics, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45047424-42bb-4574-834b-9b56084de0e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Radiance Psychiatrics, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bartlett, TN 38134
Hello, I am Dr. Twila Worlock ARNP, DNP, PMHNP and I am here to help you with life's challenges that make it difficult to live your best life. Imagine overcoming the stress in your daily life whether it be ADHD, grief, depression, anxiety, PTSD, a mood disorder or even schizophrenia that you are dealing with. With counseling and medication management we can work through the stresses together. Now accepting new patients with immediate availability. Call today for your appointment.
Hello, I am Dr. Twila Worlock ARNP, DNP, PMHNP and I am here to help you with life's challenges that make it difficult to live your best life. Imagine overcoming the stress in your daily life whether it be ADHD, grief, depression, anxiety, PTSD, a mood disorder or even schizophrenia that you are dealing with. With counseling and medication management we can work through the stresses together. Now accepting new patients with immediate availability. Call today for your appointment.
![Photo of Tanci Burrow - At Home Assistance LLC, DNP, FPMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ed4ec44-f08f-42c2-8ba5-bdfb88ef8bfb/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Home Assistance LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPMHNP, BC
Not Verified Not Verified
Bartlett, TN 38134
I have been in mental health for over 20 years I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient facilities. I have gained a multitude of knowledge from my clients and their families. I have witnessed many of them suffer in silence making mental health a convenience instead of a necessity. When the medical community understand the mental well being is just as important as physical well being the healing can begin.
I have been in mental health for over 20 years I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient facilities. I have gained a multitude of knowledge from my clients and their families. I have witnessed many of them suffer in silence making mental health a convenience instead of a necessity. When the medical community understand the mental well being is just as important as physical well being the healing can begin.
![Photo of Latasha Garrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c426bc30-88d4-48ef-9089-ff05302eee92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health disorders often go untreated & suppressed due to the stigma surrounding seeking help & treatment for mental health conditions. Symptoms often associated with depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, insomnia, grief, attention deficit disorder can lead to disturbances in your personal and professional lives. Seeking professional help and treatment for mental health conditions can often be met with apprehension but at Peace of Mind Mental Health & Wellness Center, the goal is to ease that apprehension and provide a calm & stress free environment to meet your needs. We assure you will be seen and heard.
Mental health disorders often go untreated & suppressed due to the stigma surrounding seeking help & treatment for mental health conditions. Symptoms often associated with depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, insomnia, grief, attention deficit disorder can lead to disturbances in your personal and professional lives. Seeking professional help and treatment for mental health conditions can often be met with apprehension but at Peace of Mind Mental Health & Wellness Center, the goal is to ease that apprehension and provide a calm & stress free environment to meet your needs. We assure you will be seen and heard.
![Photo of Kristin Stewart, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46498c69-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cordova, TN 38018
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in various capacities. I have treated patients of all ages with a variety of mental illnesses ranging from depression and anxiety to severe thought and mood disorders and psychosis. My main focus is on medication management in combination with brief supportive psychotherapy. My goal is to provide my clients with the tools to improve functioning in their daily lives.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in various capacities. I have treated patients of all ages with a variety of mental illnesses ranging from depression and anxiety to severe thought and mood disorders and psychosis. My main focus is on medication management in combination with brief supportive psychotherapy. My goal is to provide my clients with the tools to improve functioning in their daily lives.
![Photo of Hortense K Bissila - Asparkle Inclusive Care, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce112fc4-2166-486e-ac06-241c5f5b131d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Asparkle Inclusive Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cordova, TN 38016
Each individual comes with unique qualities and challenges, while teaming with you we will always strive to provide a holistic centered treatment plan
Each individual comes with unique qualities and challenges, while teaming with you we will always strive to provide a holistic centered treatment plan
![Photo of Jakeisha T Goston, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/116e0d02-97b5-4acb-9ea5-50a8b742f09c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jakeisha T Goston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bartlett, TN 38134
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
![Photo of Heather Delay, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85442ddd-dd07-4671-8d26-08316a02e934/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Delay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bartlett, TN 38133
Hello! I’m Heather, a family nurse practitioner who’s excited to help you reach your full potential. I understand just how scary it can be to take the first step towards seeking help for your mental wellbeing. That’s why we’ve created a safe space for healing and growth, where you’re free to ask as many questions as you need, and are encouraged to be honest about your struggles, fears, and hesitations when it comes to mental health. At Life Wellness Clinic, we offer individual and couples/marriage counseling, as well as medication management for anyone who is struggling with the pressures of life.
Hello! I’m Heather, a family nurse practitioner who’s excited to help you reach your full potential. I understand just how scary it can be to take the first step towards seeking help for your mental wellbeing. That’s why we’ve created a safe space for healing and growth, where you’re free to ask as many questions as you need, and are encouraged to be honest about your struggles, fears, and hesitations when it comes to mental health. At Life Wellness Clinic, we offer individual and couples/marriage counseling, as well as medication management for anyone who is struggling with the pressures of life.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7da82399-6fd5-404b-a112-66bd1f6a4443/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist 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 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 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.
![Photo of Talley Flowers - Talley Flowers, PMHNP at LifeWorks Resources LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fec79ff3-26b3-4b8a-95b8-77adae71ae96/1/320x400.png)
Talley Flowers, PMHNP at LifeWorks Resources LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TN 38002
Have you recently encountered feelings of sadness, depression, or a pervasive lack of motivation to engage in tasks? Are you grappling with the ceaseless torrent of racing thoughts, feeling overwhelmed by their incessant barrage? Perhaps the weight of constant worry about impending responsibilities has begun to bear down on you. It is plausible that you may have maintained a façade of composure for an extended period, yet now find yourself in need of supplementary assistance. Is your struggle with mental health more pronounced than before, prompting contemplation of counseling or medication management?
Have you recently encountered feelings of sadness, depression, or a pervasive lack of motivation to engage in tasks? Are you grappling with the ceaseless torrent of racing thoughts, feeling overwhelmed by their incessant barrage? Perhaps the weight of constant worry about impending responsibilities has begun to bear down on you. It is plausible that you may have maintained a façade of composure for an extended period, yet now find yourself in need of supplementary assistance. Is your struggle with mental health more pronounced than before, prompting contemplation of counseling or medication management?
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Avanti Brown, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73b16dc1-31df-4549-9498-7a9ddb384bf5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Avanti Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Bolivar, TN 38008
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans, CareCredit, and ScratchPay. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans, CareCredit, and ScratchPay. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
![Photo of Crystal Harris, PMHNPBC, MSN, PMCFNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58ed9f71-d362-424d-97c3-f040659d5669/1/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, PMCFNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cordova, TN 38018
Memphis native, Crystal Harris, is ANCC board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Tennessee. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2006) and Master of Science in Nursing as an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (2013) from Union University. Additionally, she holds a post-master’s certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner from University of Massachusetts at Boston (2018).
Memphis native, Crystal Harris, is ANCC board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Tennessee. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2006) and Master of Science in Nursing as an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (2013) from Union University. Additionally, she holds a post-master’s certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner from University of Massachusetts at Boston (2018).
![Photo of Jaquay Brister, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0429309-b9df-4c39-842e-46c2b0767d33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jaquay Brister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38125 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Tennessee. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. I completed a 1 year residency at a VA Medical Center and have been practicing for 3 years. I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, with a focus on promoting holistic wellness and empowering individuals to achieve their mental health goals.
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Tennessee. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. I completed a 1 year residency at a VA Medical Center and have been practicing for 3 years. I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, with a focus on promoting holistic wellness and empowering individuals to achieve their mental health goals.
See more therapy options for Lakeland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lakeland, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lakeland, TN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lakeland, TN see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lakeland?
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.