Psychiatrists in Mcminn County, TN

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Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Toksy Akinleye, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toksy Akinleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Looking for someone who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking to just provide a quick prescription. I understand that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging. I work closely with individuals who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, OCD, PTSD, sleep issues, perinatal issues, and more. My passion is to help my patients achieve and improve their mental well-being. My goal is equitable and inclusive care for every individual I care for. You have taken the first step toward mental health and emotional wellness!
Accepting new clients! Looking for someone who provides non-rushed appointments or someone who’s not looking to just provide a quick prescription. I understand that mental health issues can be debilitating and that seeking mental health care can be challenging. I work closely with individuals who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, OCD, PTSD, sleep issues, perinatal issues, and more. My passion is to help my patients achieve and improve their mental well-being. My goal is equitable and inclusive care for every individual I care for. You have taken the first step toward mental health and emotional wellness!
(865) 351-6256 View (865) 351-6256
Photo of Amber Redfield, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Redfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
(865) 217-0570 View (865) 217-0570
Photo of Sarah Koberlein, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Koberlein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 6 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, perinatal mood disorders, ADHD and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 6 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, perinatal mood disorders, ADHD and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
(865) 234-9605 View (865) 234-9605
Photo of Amy Rosenbalm, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Rosenbalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
(865) 375-9194 View (865) 375-9194
Photo of Krystal Trenchfield, PA, Physician Assistant
Krystal Trenchfield
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Let’s prioritize your mental health together! With specialized care for children, adolescents, and adults, I tailor treatment plans to meet individual needs. My holistic approach integrates both medication management and therapeutic interventions to support your journey to wellness
Let’s prioritize your mental health together! With specialized care for children, adolescents, and adults, I tailor treatment plans to meet individual needs. My holistic approach integrates both medication management and therapeutic interventions to support your journey to wellness
(865) 999-0938 View (865) 999-0938
Photo of Lori Jane Holt, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Lori Jane Holt
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients in the state of Tennessee for virtual medication management appointments with affordable fees and immediate availability. I offer 15 years of experience treating patients with various mental health issues. I have worked in many different settings with multiple populations throughout my career and believe in holistic patient-centered care.
Now accepting new patients in the state of Tennessee for virtual medication management appointments with affordable fees and immediate availability. I offer 15 years of experience treating patients with various mental health issues. I have worked in many different settings with multiple populations throughout my career and believe in holistic patient-centered care.
(865) 448-7332 View (865) 448-7332
Photo of Teresa Arnold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Arnold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 6 years of nursing experience and 2 years of experience in psychiatry. My nursing background is in critical care, and I have experience treating high-acuity and high-risk patient populations across neurological, surgical, medical, trauma, and cardiac intensive-care settings. I transitioned into psychiatry due to my experience with vulnerable mentally ill and substance -addicted populations experiencing acute illness as a result of many years without adequate psychiatric care.
(615) 437-9767 View (615) 437-9767
Photo of Hannah Hutchins, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN-APN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Hutchins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN-APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
(865) 509-9483 x134 View (865) 509-9483 x134
Photo of Edelyn Bishop, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edelyn Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Edelyn is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner receiving her post-masters PMHNP graduate degree from the University of Tennessee in 2021. She received her Bachelor degree in nursing in 1988 from the University of Connecticut, and has had an over 34 year nursing career in various areas of Psychiatric Nursing including inpatient, outpatient, partial programs, and 14 years of emergency room psychiatric crisis work.
Edelyn is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner receiving her post-masters PMHNP graduate degree from the University of Tennessee in 2021. She received her Bachelor degree in nursing in 1988 from the University of Connecticut, and has had an over 34 year nursing career in various areas of Psychiatric Nursing including inpatient, outpatient, partial programs, and 14 years of emergency room psychiatric crisis work.
(865) 503-5497 View (865) 503-5497
Photo of Libby Burns, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Libby Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Libby Burns is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tennessee Wesleyan University, a Master of Science in Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner Certification from Frontier Nursing University, and a post-Master's PMHNP from the University of Tennessee. Libby is a healthcare provider passionate about helping people live their best lives and believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. Libby is here to provide the care and support to overcome your mental health challenges and thrive.
Libby Burns is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tennessee Wesleyan University, a Master of Science in Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner Certification from Frontier Nursing University, and a post-Master's PMHNP from the University of Tennessee. Libby is a healthcare provider passionate about helping people live their best lives and believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. Libby is here to provide the care and support to overcome your mental health challenges and thrive.
(865) 390-3671 View (865) 390-3671
Photo of Bailey Baker, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bailey Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Seymour, TN 37865
I am a dual-board certified nurse practitioner with a passion for helping individuals live their most joyful life. I currently provide and specialize in psychiatry, weight loss management, and hormone replacement therapy. I would love to chat with you about what way I can best serve you in finding the best version of yourself.
I am a dual-board certified nurse practitioner with a passion for helping individuals live their most joyful life. I currently provide and specialize in psychiatry, weight loss management, and hormone replacement therapy. I would love to chat with you about what way I can best serve you in finding the best version of yourself.
(865) 674-4509 View (865) 674-4509
Photo of Meredith Simmons, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meredith Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Meredith Simmons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges in the state of Tennessee. She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Studies as well as a bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As an RN, Meredith worked on a senior behavioral unit. She then obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Meredith Simmons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescribing privileges in the state of Tennessee. She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Studies as well as a bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As an RN, Meredith worked on a senior behavioral unit. She then obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(865) 685-8847 View (865) 685-8847
Photo of Dr. Justin Lapollo - Maryville Psychiatry , DO, Psychiatrist
Maryville Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Therapy and Tirzepatide. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Therapy and Tirzepatide. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
(865) 500-3993 View (865) 500-3993
Photo of Darrin Bartell, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Darrin Bartell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.
My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.
(423) 529-5122 View (423) 529-5122
Photo of Karen Norrod, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Norrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Do you have mood swings? Trouble sleeping? Have changes at work or home caused your anxiety to skyrocket? Are you struggling with schizoaffective or schizophrenia symptoms? As a PMHNP-BC, I use an evidence-based approach to assist clients just like you with their medication needs. We will discuss your specific situation and needs so I know how best to help you.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Do you have mood swings? Trouble sleeping? Have changes at work or home caused your anxiety to skyrocket? Are you struggling with schizoaffective or schizophrenia symptoms? As a PMHNP-BC, I use an evidence-based approach to assist clients just like you with their medication needs. We will discuss your specific situation and needs so I know how best to help you.
(931) 348-3889 View (931) 348-3889
Photo of Linda Cabage, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Cabage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently unable to accept new patients. Child and adolescent patients are being referred to Dr. Cynthia Easter at Bright Star Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
I am currently unable to accept new patients. Child and adolescent patients are being referred to Dr. Cynthia Easter at Bright Star Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
(865) 761-4279 View (865) 761-4279
Photo of Charles Hiatt - River City Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
River City Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Hixson, TN 37343
We are here to help you with your mental health needs. Our Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistant are experienced working with a wide range of mental health conditions and we also have multiple therapists on-site for counseling services. Medication management services are provided at our Hixson and Chattanooga locations.
We are here to help you with your mental health needs. Our Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistant are experienced working with a wide range of mental health conditions and we also have multiple therapists on-site for counseling services. Medication management services are provided at our Hixson and Chattanooga locations.
(423) 401-9315 View (423) 401-9315
Photo of Noelle K. Pease, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Noelle K. Pease
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
(865) 412-8736 View (865) 412-8736
Photo of Bright Star Child And Adolescent Psychiatry - Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry provides in-person appointments as well as virtual visits to provide mental health assessments and treatment to children and teens. Dr. Cynthia J. Easter, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing mental health care to children and adolescents. Dr. Easter evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry provides in-person appointments as well as virtual visits to provide mental health assessments and treatment to children and teens. Dr. Cynthia J. Easter, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing mental health care to children and adolescents. Dr. Easter evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
(865) 205-8975 View (865) 205-8975
Photo of Meredith Rappaport, PA, Physician Assistant
Meredith Rappaport
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37929  (Online Only)
I feel incredibly fortunate to contribute to the mental health field, where prioritizing mental well-being is neither shameful nor taboo. Our bodies inherently safeguard our most crucial organ: the brain. It serves as the powerhouse for the entire body, and its well-being is as vital as that of our heart, pancreas, or lungs. My journey in the mental health field began as a social worker and psychotherapist. Over time, I evolved into a physician assistant, equipped to prescribe medications and offer comprehensive medical care. To enhance my capabilities, I pursued and attained additional certification in psychiatry
I feel incredibly fortunate to contribute to the mental health field, where prioritizing mental well-being is neither shameful nor taboo. Our bodies inherently safeguard our most crucial organ: the brain. It serves as the powerhouse for the entire body, and its well-being is as vital as that of our heart, pancreas, or lungs. My journey in the mental health field began as a social worker and psychotherapist. Over time, I evolved into a physician assistant, equipped to prescribe medications and offer comprehensive medical care. To enhance my capabilities, I pursued and attained additional certification in psychiatry
(919) 899-7779 View (919) 899-7779

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Mcminn County, TN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Mcminn County, TN who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Mcminn County, TN see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Mcminn 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.