Psychiatrists in Saint Johnsbury, VT
![Photo of Breck Baker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab6b3a26-3817-40f0-a4f7-729f27773674/1/320x400.jpeg)
Breck Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819 (Online Only)
Life's journey is filled with challenges and seeking support can make all the difference. My mission is to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness and substance use, ensuring access to compassionate, quality care for all. I am committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of my patients by treating each person individually and looking at their specific symptoms rather than their diagnosis. I am dedicated to promoting mental wellbeing for individuals 18 years and older.
Life's journey is filled with challenges and seeking support can make all the difference. My mission is to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness and substance use, ensuring access to compassionate, quality care for all. I am committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of my patients by treating each person individually and looking at their specific symptoms rather than their diagnosis. I am dedicated to promoting mental wellbeing for individuals 18 years and older.
![Photo of Crystal LeBoeuf, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aa753ab-3823-44a4-b460-454535a48ae0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal LeBoeuf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819
At Sage Mental Health we recognize that finding appropriate mental healthcare can be daunting. Taking the step to seek help for one’s mental health can be difficult for many, and it is our goal to make the process as easy as possible. We understand that many of our clients are coming to see us at a difficult time in their lives, already feeling vulnerable, confused, and whether change is possible. The goal at Sage Mental Health is to offer hope that change is possible through education, collaboration, and thoughtful treatment goals.
At Sage Mental Health we recognize that finding appropriate mental healthcare can be daunting. Taking the step to seek help for one’s mental health can be difficult for many, and it is our goal to make the process as easy as possible. We understand that many of our clients are coming to see us at a difficult time in their lives, already feeling vulnerable, confused, and whether change is possible. The goal at Sage Mental Health is to offer hope that change is possible through education, collaboration, and thoughtful treatment goals.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Michael Robustelli - Mood Clinic, PLLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/206ead55-9607-473e-b2d2-8116b08f877a/1/320x400.png)
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
![Photo of Suzan White, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85167d9c-bace-4fce-988b-a660fb78ce46/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are adults motivated to be free of emotional pain and to overcome blockages from past trauma. They are ready to achieve greater ease, resilience and balance through a professional partnership that will help them to discover the root cause of their pain and provide the tools to shift it. They are open to an approach that calls upon the best of Western medicine, functional medicine, holistic practices and ancient wisdom. They are looking for someone smart, down-to-earth and experienced to help them achieve their treatment goals. They understand true healing must consider the needs of mind, body, and heart /soul/spirit.
My clients are adults motivated to be free of emotional pain and to overcome blockages from past trauma. They are ready to achieve greater ease, resilience and balance through a professional partnership that will help them to discover the root cause of their pain and provide the tools to shift it. They are open to an approach that calls upon the best of Western medicine, functional medicine, holistic practices and ancient wisdom. They are looking for someone smart, down-to-earth and experienced to help them achieve their treatment goals. They understand true healing must consider the needs of mind, body, and heart /soul/spirit.
![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!
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist for over 25 years, and though there are positive responses to pharmacology, this is not always the case. These situations are the ones that spurred me on to the study of integrative psychiatry and would be the way I wish all psychiatry would be practiced. Our profession became weighted toward a pharmacology-only model around the 1990's, and left behind the integrated BIO-PSYCHO-SOCIAL model. I can work with you to discern other factors impeding recovery, be they your unique biology, physiology or other health factors. My focus is on nutritional and gut health impact to mental health.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist for over 25 years, and though there are positive responses to pharmacology, this is not always the case. These situations are the ones that spurred me on to the study of integrative psychiatry and would be the way I wish all psychiatry would be practiced. Our profession became weighted toward a pharmacology-only model around the 1990's, and left behind the integrated BIO-PSYCHO-SOCIAL model. I can work with you to discern other factors impeding recovery, be they your unique biology, physiology or other health factors. My focus is on nutritional and gut health impact to mental health.
![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
Charlotte, VT 05445 (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 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
Shelburne, VT 05482
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.
![Photo of Mellen Lovrin - Dr. Mellen Lovrin, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401c87ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychoanalyst, I am qualified to provide comprehensive psychiatric- mental health assessments, psychodynamic psychotherapy and medication management.
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychoanalyst, I am qualified to provide comprehensive psychiatric- mental health assessments, psychodynamic psychotherapy and medication management.
![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 Chukwuka Sopulu Onubogu, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e9462ac-a11e-4f12-9307-211cdc9253c6/4/320x400.jpeg)
Chukwuka Sopulu Onubogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401 (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, schizoaffective disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and OCD. My practice also offers laboratory investigations to support accurate diagnosis. If you're based in Vermont, I am currently accepting new patients and can schedule appointments within 24 to 48 hours without any waitlist.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, schizoaffective disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and OCD. My practice also offers laboratory investigations to support accurate diagnosis. If you're based in Vermont, I am currently accepting new patients and can schedule appointments within 24 to 48 hours without any waitlist.
![Photo of Carolyn Simmons Gaeckle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f1534d0-1e4f-41d7-823c-9aa22ec4443a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Simmons Gaeckle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northfield, VT 05663 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I started my nursing career in community health where I quickly realized the great need for psychiatric care providers. I transitioned into psychiatric care six years ago because I believe that all people should have access to care that will allow them to reach their full potential. I believe in a holistic practice, treating the body, mind, and spirit as a whole.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I started my nursing career in community health where I quickly realized the great need for psychiatric care providers. I transitioned into psychiatric care six years ago because I believe that all people should have access to care that will allow them to reach their full potential. I believe in a holistic practice, treating the body, mind, and spirit as a whole.
![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 Oshetisi Stanney - Towerlight Health and Wellness , CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afd27f45-2eff-47cb-9cf1-bc8006c2a2db/1/320x400.png)
Towerlight Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelburne, VT 05482 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Oshetisi Stanney and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I see patients via telehealth in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Florida. Please visit my practice website to schedule your first appointment - www.towerlightcapecod.com. The care that I provide integrates talk therapy, psychiatric assessment and medication education and management. This means that as we talk, we will utilize psychotherapy techniques to chat about your past, your current mental health state, and uncover and help you reach your mental health goals!
Hello! My name is Oshetisi Stanney and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I see patients via telehealth in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Florida. Please visit my practice website to schedule your first appointment - www.towerlightcapecod.com. The care that I provide integrates talk therapy, psychiatric assessment and medication education and management. This means that as we talk, we will utilize psychotherapy techniques to chat about your past, your current mental health state, and uncover and help you reach your mental health goals!
![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 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. David Mooney, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd48422-d6d8-41b4-b7d8-601b39439c94/1/320x400.jpeg)
When it comes to your mental and emotional well-being, having a compassionate and experienced guide can make all the difference. Dr. David Mooney is that guide, a dedicated psychiatrist who empowers his patients to overcome obstacles, heal, and thrive. With an inviting and empathetic demeanor, he creates a safe and non-judgmental space for you to express your thoughts and feelings, free of stigma or fear. Please note, although telehealth appointments are available to established patients, the initial visit must be completed in person.
When it comes to your mental and emotional well-being, having a compassionate and experienced guide can make all the difference. Dr. David Mooney is that guide, a dedicated psychiatrist who empowers his patients to overcome obstacles, heal, and thrive. With an inviting and empathetic demeanor, he creates a safe and non-judgmental space for you to express your thoughts and feelings, free of stigma or fear. Please note, although telehealth appointments are available to established patients, the initial visit must be completed in person.
![Photo of Ann Marie L Dryden, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b9a962a-f718-44fc-bc23-a09b25330ce2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Marie L Dryden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, VT 05661
Emotional and Mental dis-ease often are the foundation of our ills. When addressed with an open heart and willingness to explore, change can happen. By exploring together, new insights can be gained and can allow for the potential for an empowering and healing experience. I offer individualized and longer visit sessions. Personalized treatment options are explored & can include therapeutic, prescribing/deprescribing, and integrative approaches, a decision made and agreed upon as a team. I offer a supportive environment to patients and clients and meet then where they are at!
Emotional and Mental dis-ease often are the foundation of our ills. When addressed with an open heart and willingness to explore, change can happen. By exploring together, new insights can be gained and can allow for the potential for an empowering and healing experience. I offer individualized and longer visit sessions. Personalized treatment options are explored & can include therapeutic, prescribing/deprescribing, and integrative approaches, a decision made and agreed upon as a team. I offer a supportive environment to patients and clients and meet then where they are at!
![Photo of Megan Buhr, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6cdec21-fce5-4975-b0ea-dfed2631f224/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Buhr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
As a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness and healing for adolescents and adults of all ages. I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care by integrating psychotherapy and medication management services, fostering a holistic approach to mental health. Using a person-centered approach, I ensure that each patient's needs, goals, and values are at the forefront of their care. Please note, although telehealth appointments are available to established patients, the initial visit must be completed in person.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness and healing for adolescents and adults of all ages. I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care by integrating psychotherapy and medication management services, fostering a holistic approach to mental health. Using a person-centered approach, I ensure that each patient's needs, goals, and values are at the forefront of their care. Please note, although telehealth appointments are available to established patients, the initial visit must be completed in person.
![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
Milton, VT 05468
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!
See more therapy options for Saint Johnsbury
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Saint Johnsbury, VT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Saint Johnsbury, VT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
50% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Saint Johnsbury, VT see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Saint Johnsbury?
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.