Psychiatrists in Panama City Beach, FL
![Photo of Hina Smith - Healing Horizons, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b456aca8-1ef3-4c47-88c2-8cb6cf459863/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing is on the Horizon We understand that depression affects each person uniquely, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Our experienced providers use evidence-based techniques and a person-centered approach to tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. We believe in a holistic approach to healing, addressing not only the symptoms of depression but also the underlying causes, helping you build resilience, and fostering a sense of empowerment.
Healing is on the Horizon We understand that depression affects each person uniquely, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Our experienced providers use evidence-based techniques and a person-centered approach to tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. We believe in a holistic approach to healing, addressing not only the symptoms of depression but also the underlying causes, helping you build resilience, and fostering a sense of empowerment.
![Photo of Timothy Gooden - JourneyPure Behavioral Health Counseling, Alcohol, & Drugs, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ad2e68-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
JourneyPure Behavioral Health Counseling
Psychiatrist, Alcohol, & Drugs
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
SUBOXONE® helps you accept treatment when it feels like living without drugs is impossible. The medication is coupled with therapy that fits into your everyday schedule, an iPhone app with games that reinforce healthy habits and your personal Recovery Coach available 24/7. You'll get down to the core of what's fueling the drugs and alcohol use, including issues like depression and anxiety.
SUBOXONE® helps you accept treatment when it feels like living without drugs is impossible. The medication is coupled with therapy that fits into your everyday schedule, an iPhone app with games that reinforce healthy habits and your personal Recovery Coach available 24/7. You'll get down to the core of what's fueling the drugs and alcohol use, including issues like depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Holly Gardner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7dac39b-a916-411a-9ac0-f0e9a3233270/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Gardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (Online Only)
Welcome! Holly Gardner is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. She has over 24 years of medical experience behind her with over 8 years of experience treating child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric clients Across the Lifespan. She is also a veteran with over 19 years of experience working directly with the military and veterans.
Welcome! Holly Gardner is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. She has over 24 years of medical experience behind her with over 8 years of experience treating child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric clients Across the Lifespan. She is also a veteran with over 19 years of experience working directly with the military and veterans.
![Photo of Lorraine Black, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eefe59bd-2b2c-4f8a-b345-42ec43ccfd26/4/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
![Photo of Kayla Roberts - Kayla Roberts, PMHNP, Green Wave Family Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d43c1b27-6b5f-4701-b4b3-8df30b630638/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Roberts, PMHNP, Green Wave Family Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
My ideal client is someone who is serious about improving their mental health. Together, we work to come up with a treatment plan that is based on their individual needs. The goal is to help the client reach and maintain optimum functioning.
My ideal client is someone who is serious about improving their mental health. Together, we work to come up with a treatment plan that is based on their individual needs. The goal is to help the client reach and maintain optimum functioning.
![Photo of Sandra Denise Percy-Smith - MindRest Psychiatry and Mental Health Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a68db7c9-f882-44e2-9968-e4350e0606a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
MindRest Psychiatry and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD or behavioral problems? Are you motivated to improve your mental wellbeing, and open to therapy and medication options if necessary? Are you looking for a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your feelings, thoughts and experiences; to develop coping strategies, and work towards improved emotional stability and overall life satisfaction?
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD or behavioral problems? Are you motivated to improve your mental wellbeing, and open to therapy and medication options if necessary? Are you looking for a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your feelings, thoughts and experiences; to develop coping strategies, and work towards improved emotional stability and overall life satisfaction?
![Photo of Melissa Richmond, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6387a334-dfbd-46df-a4c6-2bc6d5cb8e21/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Richmond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32408
I have experienced my own mental health journey and self-renewal, and seek to help others understand the transformational opportunity that exists during these times. I focus on wellness and wholeness. Under this approach, I partner with patients on their journey to synergize nutrition/lifestyle, hormones, genetics, and nurturing the inner self, in addition to medication to bring about mental wellness. Currently, I see adult and child psychiatric clients. Two locations: 543 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, Suite 402 and 141 Mack Bayou Loop, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, Suite 301.
I have experienced my own mental health journey and self-renewal, and seek to help others understand the transformational opportunity that exists during these times. I focus on wellness and wholeness. Under this approach, I partner with patients on their journey to synergize nutrition/lifestyle, hormones, genetics, and nurturing the inner self, in addition to medication to bring about mental wellness. Currently, I see adult and child psychiatric clients. Two locations: 543 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, Suite 402 and 141 Mack Bayou Loop, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, Suite 301.
![Photo of Safir Azam Md Telpsychiatry Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0152ca-1ab8-4028-b349-e5972ae8e920/3/320x400.png)
Safir Azam Md Telpsychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (Online Only)
In my care will mean you have direct access to me 24/7 (except when I am asleep). I beleive in seamless communication and excellence in providing treatment . I completed my Residency trainings at Royal London Hospital UK , SUNY Downstate Medical Center Brooklyn NY , and a fellowship year at UF. Please make sure you are choosing the best educated doctor for your care bc Psychiatry Physicians have the most extensive training to treat Anxiety, ADHD depressed. Mood , PMS, Bipolar, Sleep issues &most Psychiatric conditions. I believe in the Science of medications and the Arts of Psychotherapy. I believe in enhancing the productivity.
In my care will mean you have direct access to me 24/7 (except when I am asleep). I beleive in seamless communication and excellence in providing treatment . I completed my Residency trainings at Royal London Hospital UK , SUNY Downstate Medical Center Brooklyn NY , and a fellowship year at UF. Please make sure you are choosing the best educated doctor for your care bc Psychiatry Physicians have the most extensive training to treat Anxiety, ADHD depressed. Mood , PMS, Bipolar, Sleep issues &most Psychiatric conditions. I believe in the Science of medications and the Arts of Psychotherapy. I believe in enhancing the productivity.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kristen Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8c4e6c6-9bc0-4e84-a4a6-5ce0239acac1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Clarity Mental Health in Panama City, FL. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also treat Opiate addiction with the use of Suboxone.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Clarity Mental Health in Panama City, FL. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also treat Opiate addiction with the use of Suboxone.
![Photo of Kimberly Clayton, FNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5817136f-8f6f-489b-87e0-1ea60ddf278a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, NP
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32401 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
![Photo of Joe Mertes, ARPN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8587dd40-de01-4a22-9b93-80aaf4517534/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joe Mertes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Panama City, FL 32401
With over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field, I have always felt drawn to the mental health community. From my time spent working for an inpatient psychiatric facility, to the time spent on an acute care medical floor, I have always been fortunate to have the opportunity to be a voice and advocate for these patients. As I embark on this new journey as a clinician in a private office, my goal is to continue to be the advocate and voice for my patients. Through compassionate care, my goal is to give my patients back the life that they feel their mental illness has taken from them.
With over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field, I have always felt drawn to the mental health community. From my time spent working for an inpatient psychiatric facility, to the time spent on an acute care medical floor, I have always been fortunate to have the opportunity to be a voice and advocate for these patients. As I embark on this new journey as a clinician in a private office, my goal is to continue to be the advocate and voice for my patients. Through compassionate care, my goal is to give my patients back the life that they feel their mental illness has taken from them.
![Photo of Denayer Mueller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9ffc59b-b690-4efd-bac8-b34e8e41c22f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denayer Mueller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32403 (Online Only)
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized mental health care through both outpatient and inpatient settings. With extensive experience in tele-psychiatry and treating diverse patient populations, I am dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based care.
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized mental health care through both outpatient and inpatient settings. With extensive experience in tele-psychiatry and treating diverse patient populations, I am dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based care.
![Photo of Tamara Russell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99dc56af-e1bf-4b45-9704-1b245f1de108/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kathleen M Johnson - Psychiatry 360, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff2401f8-402f-407b-947c-4c912c6d3137/1/320x400.png)
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d5fb9f8-9834-495a-b733-d3e040703237/1/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Emani Cheng, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc3c5d02-d336-4c3c-87b7-d9bc7c98494c/1/320x400.png)
Emani Cheng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32312
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
![Photo of Heather R Warren, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/002e78da-bc18-4476-ba87-a8119bb1466e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather R Warren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32311 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with people to overcome life's challenges. I value each person's perspective and focus on treating each person individually to meet their needs in a collaborative way.
I am dedicated to working with people to overcome life's challenges. I value each person's perspective and focus on treating each person individually to meet their needs in a collaborative way.
![Photo of Dr. Ronica Mukerjee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/959001a2-e98b-4bc2-b5cc-dafa05df7e5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ronica Mukerjee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301 (Online Only)
Ronica Mukerjee (they/she) is a psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner as well as acupuncturist and herbalist. They are an assistant professor at Columbia University. Dr. Mukerjee is passionate about racial, economic, and healthcare justice. They focus on trauma-informed care for LGBTQIA folks, refugees, migrant communities, people with substance use disorders, and people living with HIV. She is the creator and former coordinator of the Gender and Sexuality Health Justice concentration at Yale School of Nursing.
Ronica Mukerjee (they/she) is a psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner as well as acupuncturist and herbalist. They are an assistant professor at Columbia University. Dr. Mukerjee is passionate about racial, economic, and healthcare justice. They focus on trauma-informed care for LGBTQIA folks, refugees, migrant communities, people with substance use disorders, and people living with HIV. She is the creator and former coordinator of the Gender and Sexuality Health Justice concentration at Yale School of Nursing.
![Photo of Kristina Ann Rickman-Sykes - Professional Mental Health Wellness Services LLC, MSN, PMHN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22f6c850-2bed-4061-b030-f194cea2cff3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Professional Mental Health Wellness Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHN, BC
Verified Verified
Bristol, FL 32321
I am the founder of Professional Mental Health Weness Services, LLC. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My educational background includes a Master of Science in Nursing and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization from Walden University.
I am the founder of Professional Mental Health Weness Services, LLC. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My educational background includes a Master of Science in Nursing and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization from Walden University.
![Photo of Pwint Phyu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38bb1d3a-a68d-4b4f-878f-983e32fad647/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Pwint Phyu is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. She has a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and works diligently to help her patients overcome their struggles and improve their overall well-being. Whether she is providing therapy, medication management, or other forms of treatment, Dr Phyu is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to all of her patients.
Dr. Pwint Phyu is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. She has a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and works diligently to help her patients overcome their struggles and improve their overall well-being. Whether she is providing therapy, medication management, or other forms of treatment, Dr Phyu is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to all of her patients.
See more therapy options for Panama City Beach
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Panama City Beach, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Panama City Beach, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Anger Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Panama City Beach, FL see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Panama City Beach?
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.