Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, TN
![Photo of Nikita Duke - Fast Pace Behavioral Health, PMHNP, LPC, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/302c07ff-c732-45ee-8530-f726e410988e/1/320x400.png)
Fast Pace Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceburg, TN 38464
At Fast Pace Health, psychiatric nurse practitioners, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors offer outpatient care to patients ages 5 years old and up with behavioral health issues like major depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders. We have a dedicated team available to schedule appointments with our behavioral health providers. Coming to Fast Pace Health can be a patient’s first step towards treatment and productive years of life.
At Fast Pace Health, psychiatric nurse practitioners, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors offer outpatient care to patients ages 5 years old and up with behavioral health issues like major depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders. We have a dedicated team available to schedule appointments with our behavioral health providers. Coming to Fast Pace Health can be a patient’s first step towards treatment and productive years of life.
![Photo of Katie King, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75d5b64-3fee-4449-b95b-a964433a57e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceburg, TN 38464 (Online Only)
Mind Mend Psychiatric Services is a small telemedicine practice that offers mental healthcare that is both convenient and individualized. We understand that mental wellbeing is not achieved with a "one size fits all" approach. We focus on individuals' unique mental health needs and encourage feedback throughout the treatment process.
Mind Mend Psychiatric Services is a small telemedicine practice that offers mental healthcare that is both convenient and individualized. We understand that mental wellbeing is not achieved with a "one size fits all" approach. We focus on individuals' unique mental health needs and encourage feedback throughout the treatment process.
![Photo of Elaine B Murray - Giles Psychiatric Associates, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b06baa35-a001-4722-abdd-b00a24a64453/3/320x400.jpeg)
Giles Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Lawrenceburg, TN 38464
Elaine Murray is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career in 2005 and has worked in multiple hospitals, outpatient clinics, corporate medical management groups, telepsychiatry groups, centers for substance use disorders, and currently owns and operates Giles Psychiatric Associates. Giles Psychiatric Associates offers a full range of outpatient mental health services. Her palpable desire to provide mental health care is evident in every patient interaction.
Elaine Murray is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career in 2005 and has worked in multiple hospitals, outpatient clinics, corporate medical management groups, telepsychiatry groups, centers for substance use disorders, and currently owns and operates Giles Psychiatric Associates. Giles Psychiatric Associates offers a full range of outpatient mental health services. Her palpable desire to provide mental health care is evident in every patient interaction.
![Photo of Sumitra Patel, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f99429b-8b82-4020-81eb-e10985c5a2e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sumitra Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Lawrenceburg, TN 38464 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Sumitra Patel. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Tennessee. I received my Masters from Walden University and began practicing about three years ago. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and expert care for individuals struggling with mental health disorders. My focus is on comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning tailored to each patient's unique needs. I aim to support individuals on their journey to improved mental well-being, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.
Hello! My name is Sumitra Patel. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Tennessee. I received my Masters from Walden University and began practicing about three years ago. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and expert care for individuals struggling with mental health disorders. My focus is on comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning tailored to each patient's unique needs. I aim to support individuals on their journey to improved mental well-being, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Samantha Hopkins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ce20dfe-eab8-46fb-a60e-7d06bd521592/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Hopkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Samantha is committed to providing top-tier mental health care to individuals of all ages. With a deep understanding of the intricate complexities of mental health, she offers a holistic approach that encompasses medication management, evidenced-based treatments, and unwavering support on the journey to mental well-being.
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Samantha is committed to providing top-tier mental health care to individuals of all ages. With a deep understanding of the intricate complexities of mental health, she offers a holistic approach that encompasses medication management, evidenced-based treatments, and unwavering support on the journey to mental well-being.
![Photo of Miriam Rose, RN, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51f29682-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Miriam Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
![Photo of Tasma Robertson, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92c07783-a49b-4bdb-a02d-39f0494a2d26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tasma Robertson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, TN 38305 (Online Only)
The Graham Approach, PLLC is a psychiatric practice established by Tasma Robertson, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. At The Graham Approach, we are dedicated to delivering the highest quality psychiatric care to our patients in a supportive environment with a goal of improving quality of life.
The Graham Approach, PLLC is a psychiatric practice established by Tasma Robertson, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. At The Graham Approach, we are dedicated to delivering the highest quality psychiatric care to our patients in a supportive environment with a goal of improving quality of life.
![Photo of Lauren Caldwell, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daf43dda-e04b-4ca2-bd12-d29949bab875/4/320x400.jpeg)
While I am certified to provide care across the lifespan, my heart is for child and adolescent psychiatry. My goal is always to listen to kids, advocate for them, and be a support in their mental health journey. It is a role that I cherish and do not take lightly.
While I am certified to provide care across the lifespan, my heart is for child and adolescent psychiatry. My goal is always to listen to kids, advocate for them, and be a support in their mental health journey. It is a role that I cherish and do not take lightly.
![Photo of Hannah Street, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b384e8-37a3-456e-a68f-fb8fa501f199/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Street
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204 (Online Only)
I am so eager to be a resource to you and our community about treating mental health! If you or your child are struggling with their mental health, I am here to guide you to success using medication management as a tool. You and I will work together as a team by designing a treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals in a holistic manner so you can obtain better health mentally, physically, and spiritually. You are not alone in this journey. If you would like to book an appointment with me, go to www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment.
I am so eager to be a resource to you and our community about treating mental health! If you or your child are struggling with their mental health, I am here to guide you to success using medication management as a tool. You and I will work together as a team by designing a treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals in a holistic manner so you can obtain better health mentally, physically, and spiritually. You are not alone in this journey. If you would like to book an appointment with me, go to www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment.
![Photo of Kari Edick, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72701ef9-852d-4134-aabb-ef0ed26700ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kari is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for all ages. She has experience treating a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to: bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD and personality disorders.
Kari is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for all ages. She has experience treating a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to: bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD and personality disorders.
![Photo of Lara Kierlin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e900dd4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Sleep Medicine. My focus is the behavioral treatment of insomnia. I provide medical supervision provided to those desiring taper off sleep medications. Telehealth is offered. Please note I do not accept insurance. Email me for rates and details: nwsleepandbehavior@gmail.com. I am currently only accepting patients located in Tennessee.
I am a psychiatrist board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Sleep Medicine. My focus is the behavioral treatment of insomnia. I provide medical supervision provided to those desiring taper off sleep medications. Telehealth is offered. Please note I do not accept insurance. Email me for rates and details: nwsleepandbehavior@gmail.com. I am currently only accepting patients located in Tennessee.
![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
Nashville, TN 37211 (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.
![Photo of Allison Richardson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b98b488a-d1cf-4b61-a38f-fbc9ca554c63/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Mercy Community Healthcare offers comprehensive primary and mental healthcare to adults and children. Mercy’s psychiatric services enhance the quality of excellence in assessment, diagnosis, medication administration, evaluation and professional education. Mercy employs board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Mercy Community Healthcare offers comprehensive primary and mental healthcare to adults and children. Mercy’s psychiatric services enhance the quality of excellence in assessment, diagnosis, medication administration, evaluation and professional education. Mercy employs board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
![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 Dana D. Verner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a61c7ab7-70a3-4421-bef5-8f0cb7d571b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
*** TO SCHEDULE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AND CLICK ON THE “REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT” LINK.*** Dr. Dana D. Verner is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with 15+ years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a variety of mental health needs. Dr. Verner grew up in Nashville and graduated from Harpeth Hall School. She received her B.A. from Princeton University and her M.D. from Vanderbilt School of Medicine. She completed five years of residency and fellowship training in general and child psychiatry at Vanderbilt Medical Center. She served as chief resident in her final year of training.
*** TO SCHEDULE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AND CLICK ON THE “REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT” LINK.*** Dr. Dana D. Verner is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with 15+ years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a variety of mental health needs. Dr. Verner grew up in Nashville and graduated from Harpeth Hall School. She received her B.A. from Princeton University and her M.D. from Vanderbilt School of Medicine. She completed five years of residency and fellowship training in general and child psychiatry at Vanderbilt Medical Center. She served as chief resident in her final year of training.
![Photo of Angela Casto, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7757270f-5575-420d-8664-e6a798f58782/2/320x400.png)
Angela Casto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37127 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Arizona, Tennessee, and Ohio. I am willing to work with patients of all ages to help them identify and manage their psychiatric symptoms. As your provider, we will work together and create a treatment plan that is right for you to improve your quality of life. I have 14 years experience in nursing, including critical care, prior to obtaining my Masters Degree in Mental Health. I completed graduate school through Chamberlain University in Chicago, IL.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Arizona, Tennessee, and Ohio. I am willing to work with patients of all ages to help them identify and manage their psychiatric symptoms. As your provider, we will work together and create a treatment plan that is right for you to improve your quality of life. I have 14 years experience in nursing, including critical care, prior to obtaining my Masters Degree in Mental Health. I completed graduate school through Chamberlain University in Chicago, IL.
![Photo of Seth Christman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abdd921f-b852-4fe0-babb-19b9d09b6b7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
East Nashville Wellness Center is a nonprofit mental health clinic focusing on the mental health needs of Nashvillians. We use integrated care to work with a broad range of mental health problems including mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance use.
East Nashville Wellness Center is a nonprofit mental health clinic focusing on the mental health needs of Nashvillians. We use integrated care to work with a broad range of mental health problems including mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance use.
![Photo of Caroline Drake, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25656d4b-2732-423a-b5a9-9407b974b6e9/2/320x400.png)
Stacie (Caroline) Drake, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner-BC. She practices with the belief that people need empathy, compassion, and the whole person understanding to live authentically. Caroline meets patients where they are. She treats mental health issues holistically from a patient-centered perspective: Supportive Therapy, Medications, Patient Education, and Integrative Natural Approaches Caroline is a graduate of Maryville University in St Louis, MO; she graduated Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing; She is also a member of the American Nurses Association.
Stacie (Caroline) Drake, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner-BC. She practices with the belief that people need empathy, compassion, and the whole person understanding to live authentically. Caroline meets patients where they are. She treats mental health issues holistically from a patient-centered perspective: Supportive Therapy, Medications, Patient Education, and Integrative Natural Approaches Caroline is a graduate of Maryville University in St Louis, MO; she graduated Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing; She is also a member of the American Nurses Association.
![Photo of Antonio L Eddings Sr., MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3c81bba-c8f5-4e9f-b1b6-123af39689c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Antonio L Eddings Sr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.
![Photo of Ja'quay Brister, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3b5d311-c9ee-4e89-996d-ce3daea6b28f/1/320x400.png)
Ja'quay Brister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013 (Online Only)
Hello! 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 serving patients from ages 5 and up for the past 3 years. My approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. I believe in treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being. My goal is to create a therapeutic partnership with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey.
Hello! 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 serving patients from ages 5 and up for the past 3 years. My approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. I believe in treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being. My goal is to create a therapeutic partnership with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey.
See more therapy options for Lawrence County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, TN who prioritize treating:
50% | Depression |
50% | Anxiety |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Grief |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
50% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, 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 Lawrence 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.