Psychiatrists in Essex, VT
![Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e0362c4-66df-4077-be66-4e1685813978/1/320x400.png)
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Essex, VT 05451
To see available appointments and SELF-SCHEDULE online go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com ONLINE TELEPSYCHIATRY with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This practice is a telepsychiatry practice focusing on caring for you from your home, or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over a decade of psychiatry experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar I & II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, postpartum depression, agoraphobia, and various conditions.
To see available appointments and SELF-SCHEDULE online go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com ONLINE TELEPSYCHIATRY with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This practice is a telepsychiatry practice focusing on caring for you from your home, or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over a decade of psychiatry experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar I & II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, postpartum depression, agoraphobia, and various conditions.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jeffrey M Brown, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b437c9b-eb61-4b8e-b8b5-d4af7093bc97/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer in-person consultations, individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, and medication treatments to adults and adolescents. I take pride in bringing compassion, patience, and transparency to every encounter. I believe each individual is unique and complex, and should play an active role in making decisions related to their health and well-being. I commonly work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, grief, relationships, life transitions, existential angst, sleep or sex dysfunction, and/or those who simply seek to know themselves and improve their health on a more holistic level.
I offer in-person consultations, individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, and medication treatments to adults and adolescents. I take pride in bringing compassion, patience, and transparency to every encounter. I believe each individual is unique and complex, and should play an active role in making decisions related to their health and well-being. I commonly work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, grief, relationships, life transitions, existential angst, sleep or sex dysfunction, and/or those who simply seek to know themselves and improve their health on a more holistic level.
![Photo of Alexis B Ressler, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c3facc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis B Ressler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the privilege of practicing for a decade in Vermont. I relocated to Western North Carolina in 2019. I have devoted myself to outpatient psychiatric and neurological practice specializing in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders in a cognitive behavioral therapy setting as well as dementia care for patients and their families. My role is primarily medication management. Also, I am a veteran Army officer who has experience providing psychiatric care to active duty serice members. My practice is 100% telehealth.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the privilege of practicing for a decade in Vermont. I relocated to Western North Carolina in 2019. I have devoted myself to outpatient psychiatric and neurological practice specializing in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders in a cognitive behavioral therapy setting as well as dementia care for patients and their families. My role is primarily medication management. Also, I am a veteran Army officer who has experience providing psychiatric care to active duty serice members. My practice is 100% telehealth.
![Photo of Kiran Annam - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b81b223e-7ce0-4d31-b124-c9d3ff956fc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Williston, VT 05495 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Johanna Golston, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f6c2edc-cfea-4015-9785-93affb35cb67/3/320x400.jpeg)
Green State Psychiatry offers high quality Psychiatric Evaluation and ongoing treatment. We are currently accepting referrals for patients of all ages, including Perinatal and Post-partum women. We offer in-person appointments at our South Burlington office, as well as Telemedicine appointments. Please see our website www.greenstatepsych.com for details.
Green State Psychiatry offers high quality Psychiatric Evaluation and ongoing treatment. We are currently accepting referrals for patients of all ages, including Perinatal and Post-partum women. We offer in-person appointments at our South Burlington office, as well as Telemedicine appointments. Please see our website www.greenstatepsych.com for details.
![Photo of Darcy Faibish, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bccd69eb-3796-4c41-97ed-7db04cc1f5f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Darcy Faibish
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients for therapy and medication management from Vermont. Please request an appointment on my website ShelburneMindBodyMedicine.com I regularly help individuals facing an array of challenges, which may appear in the form of depression, anxiety, stress, chronic illness, panic, insomnia, focus problems, relationship and work difficulties. We will collaborate to explore the psychological, biological and environmental contributors to the situation and develop an integrated treatment plan that including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, lifestyle and complementary medicine.
I am accepting new clients for therapy and medication management from Vermont. Please request an appointment on my website ShelburneMindBodyMedicine.com I regularly help individuals facing an array of challenges, which may appear in the form of depression, anxiety, stress, chronic illness, panic, insomnia, focus problems, relationship and work difficulties. We will collaborate to explore the psychological, biological and environmental contributors to the situation and develop an integrated treatment plan that including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, lifestyle and complementary medicine.
![Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3b45829-7497-4df1-bfde-1e78757a8570/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits offering psych evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits offering psych evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Dr. Alicia Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/941c2edc-9463-4aaf-a4c3-487afed9d557/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Johnson. I am a double-board certified psychiatric provider. I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. Delivering a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental environment and making a difference is what it is all about. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I am here to help. WEBSITE: www.drjohnsonpsych.com (Book Online Today!)
My name is Dr. Johnson. I am a double-board certified psychiatric provider. I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. Delivering a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental environment and making a difference is what it is all about. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I am here to help. WEBSITE: www.drjohnsonpsych.com (Book Online Today!)
![Photo of Susan P Lax, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3125ac42-2069-4819-b4d7-df73eb286ec6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan P Lax
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel that life is hard and not as satisfying as you would like it to be? Did you experience neglect or abuse as a child? Do you often feel sad, depressed, irritable, anxious, or blah? Do you lack confidence and worry about not being good enough? Is it difficult for you to trust people? Do you experience relationships as confusing, hurtful, or hard to manage? Do you sometimes cope by overeating, restricting, or using substances? These are common human problems that I have helped people overcome.
Do you feel that life is hard and not as satisfying as you would like it to be? Did you experience neglect or abuse as a child? Do you often feel sad, depressed, irritable, anxious, or blah? Do you lack confidence and worry about not being good enough? Is it difficult for you to trust people? Do you experience relationships as confusing, hurtful, or hard to manage? Do you sometimes cope by overeating, restricting, or using substances? These are common human problems that I have helped people overcome.
![Photo of Harris Strokoff - Green State Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d40cf40-8d77-44f5-ad70-d79718fc870a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Green State Psychiatry offers high quality Psychiatric Evaluation and ongoing treatment. We are currently accepting referrals for patients of all ages, including Perinatal and Post-partum women. We offer in-person appointments at our South Burlington office, as well as Telemedicine appointments. Please see our website www.greenstatepsych.com for details.
Green State Psychiatry offers high quality Psychiatric Evaluation and ongoing treatment. We are currently accepting referrals for patients of all ages, including Perinatal and Post-partum women. We offer in-person appointments at our South Burlington office, as well as Telemedicine appointments. Please see our website www.greenstatepsych.com for details.
![Photo of Michael O’Toole - Michael O'Toole DNP, APRN College St Mental Health, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a08fe2bd-9ecb-46f8-9b24-08410f1cea8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael O'Toole DNP, APRN College St Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
Please reach out to us directly by email to schedule an appointment (please check spam if you don't hear from us)! Ongoing enrollment for CT and VT residents. As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) - Certified Integrative Mental Health Provider (CIMHP), with Functional Nutrition and Telehealth Certification - we are licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan and collaborate with patients to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy.
Please reach out to us directly by email to schedule an appointment (please check spam if you don't hear from us)! Ongoing enrollment for CT and VT residents. As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) - Certified Integrative Mental Health Provider (CIMHP), with Functional Nutrition and Telehealth Certification - we are licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan and collaborate with patients to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy.
![Photo of Sammy Abusrur - Maple Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51174bac-95d0-4698-8c3a-552d29aa660c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I’m a board-certified child, adolescent, and young adult psychiatrist. I see patients primarily for medication management with or without psychotherapy. I do not see patients solely for therapy. I see patients from age 5 to 26.
Hi! I’m a board-certified child, adolescent, and young adult psychiatrist. I see patients primarily for medication management with or without psychotherapy. I do not see patients solely for therapy. I see patients from age 5 to 26.
![Photo of Dr. Andrés Abreu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfba0698-fe68-4598-b31d-999a4ccbe25d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Andrés Abreu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.
The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.
![Photo of Rebecca A Brooklyn, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f82fdf6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca A Brooklyn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Williston, VT 05495 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a health care provider for 30+ years starting as a Certified Nurse Midwife. Returning for a second degree in Psychiatry in 2013. I practice patient and family centered psychiatry with individuals and families to help people create a life that has dignity, meaning and joy. My practice consists of clients from 5-95 years of age. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier.
I have been a health care provider for 30+ years starting as a Certified Nurse Midwife. Returning for a second degree in Psychiatry in 2013. I practice patient and family centered psychiatry with individuals and families to help people create a life that has dignity, meaning and joy. My practice consists of clients from 5-95 years of age. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier.
![Photo of Dr. Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings - Welina Psychiatric Health Services, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ca27b51-3215-4911-a6fb-aba99cc14c09/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welina Psychiatric Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
VIRTUAL visits in AZ, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, NM, NY, ND, SC, SD,UT, VT, WA, OR, MD, IA, & MT. Dr. Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings is a doctoral prepared, board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 18 years of experience in the Dept of Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. Dr. Buchanan-Cummings earned a BS in Nursing from the College of New Rochelle, NY, a Master of Science in Nursing and Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the Medical University of South Carolina. Our prescriber can prescribe all medications excluding Controlled Substances such as Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Ritalin, Adderall, and others in some states.
VIRTUAL visits in AZ, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, NM, NY, ND, SC, SD,UT, VT, WA, OR, MD, IA, & MT. Dr. Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings is a doctoral prepared, board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 18 years of experience in the Dept of Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. Dr. Buchanan-Cummings earned a BS in Nursing from the College of New Rochelle, NY, a Master of Science in Nursing and Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the Medical University of South Carolina. Our prescriber can prescribe all medications excluding Controlled Substances such as Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Ritalin, Adderall, and others in some states.
![Photo of Shawn R. May And Vermont Mental Health Clinic, PA-C, LICSW, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c98de04-97fb-487e-86b4-5b94aa582193/2/320x400.png)
Shawn R. May And Vermont Mental Health Clinic
Physician Assistant, PA-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Follow the link to my WEBSITE. www.vermontmentalhealth.org and click "Become a New Patient." You will have access to my calendar to set your first apt. Vermont Mental Health Clinic (VMCH) offers psychiatric & social work services to individuals who are motivated to improve mental health and well-being. Psychiatric assessment, medical mgt, and psychotherapy provided. Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, Addiction, and behavioral disturbance. My patients work to reclaim ultimate responsibility of their own mental health and stability. Age 14+; LGBTQ safe. All are welcome!
Follow the link to my WEBSITE. www.vermontmentalhealth.org and click "Become a New Patient." You will have access to my calendar to set your first apt. Vermont Mental Health Clinic (VMCH) offers psychiatric & social work services to individuals who are motivated to improve mental health and well-being. Psychiatric assessment, medical mgt, and psychotherapy provided. Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, Addiction, and behavioral disturbance. My patients work to reclaim ultimate responsibility of their own mental health and stability. Age 14+; LGBTQ safe. All are welcome!
![Photo of Juliana Pires, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a98335d-8c2c-4b78-b954-25e32827a7db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juliana Pires
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Burlington, VT 05403 (Online Only)
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
![Photo of Lisa Hardy - OptiMind Mental Health & Wellness, APRN, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a14e121-3df0-4a14-a206-bfa06b491af9/3/320x400.jpeg)
OptiMind Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
VERMONT-BASED. I specialize in helping women to achieve optimal mental wellness. As an Ivy-league-trained and dual board-certified Nurse-Midwife and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to caring for you and listen very carefully to your concerns. Please visit my website for a more comprehensive description of my services, practice philosophy, and pricing model and to get in touch with me. I look forward to hearing from you!
VERMONT-BASED. I specialize in helping women to achieve optimal mental wellness. As an Ivy-league-trained and dual board-certified Nurse-Midwife and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to caring for you and listen very carefully to your concerns. Please visit my website for a more comprehensive description of my services, practice philosophy, and pricing model and to get in touch with me. I look forward to hearing from you!
![Photo of Jess Jawidzik, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcc57aad-f161-45cc-aeae-cb3f89049f6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jess Jawidzik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Williston, VT 05495 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering medication management with or without therapy. Prior to my work as a prescriber, I gained experience as a psychiatric nurse for just under ten years in a wide variety of settings, as I have always been passionate about mental health. My approach is non-judgmental, holistic, and trauma-informed. I incorporate therapy as I believe that true, long-lasting change is achieved through a combination of strategies rather than solely focusing on medication.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering medication management with or without therapy. Prior to my work as a prescriber, I gained experience as a psychiatric nurse for just under ten years in a wide variety of settings, as I have always been passionate about mental health. My approach is non-judgmental, holistic, and trauma-informed. I incorporate therapy as I believe that true, long-lasting change is achieved through a combination of strategies rather than solely focusing on medication.
![Photo of Dr. Alisson Richards, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/999b5ad9-6d51-4dbb-b908-281e53c0ee50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new patients through request on my website www.evenstarpsychiatry.com I am passionate about listening and trying different approaches when other types of traditional psychiatry have not worked. Women and men seeking help with mood symptoms related to changes in our hormonal systems, individuals seeking assistance with mood and weight loss, families seeking guidance, support and treatment for their children or young adults as they transition into the world.
Currently accepting new patients through request on my website www.evenstarpsychiatry.com I am passionate about listening and trying different approaches when other types of traditional psychiatry have not worked. Women and men seeking help with mood symptoms related to changes in our hormonal systems, individuals seeking assistance with mood and weight loss, families seeking guidance, support and treatment for their children or young adults as they transition into the world.
See more therapy options for Essex
Nearby Searches for Essex
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Essex, VT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Essex, VT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Other |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Essex, VT see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Essex?
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.