Psychiatrists in Franklin County, WA
![Photo of Sussana Howard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ebff7dc-5bfe-45ce-8dee-3ed4c085cc3e/2/320x400.png)
My name is Sussana Howard. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified to treat adolescents through the geriatric population. I am based in Texas. I work with clients statewide through telehealth. My approach to care is using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to provide objective, reliable criteria for identifying and differentiating mental disorders. I use assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health problems in children and adolescents.
My name is Sussana Howard. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified to treat adolescents through the geriatric population. I am based in Texas. I work with clients statewide through telehealth. My approach to care is using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to provide objective, reliable criteria for identifying and differentiating mental disorders. I use assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health problems in children and adolescents.
![Photo of Bahattin Ergin, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5130005-95d9-464c-a742-0783cc8bf30a/1/320x400.png)
Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
Hello. My name is Bahattin Ergin (Bobby). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across lifespan, including ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, and personality disorders. In my role as a medication management provider within mental healthcare, I prioritize a patient-centered methodology, ensuring that pharmacological treatments are precisely tailored to meet individual needs. My approach encompasses a comprehensive evaluation, collaborative medication planning, and ongoing assessment to adjust treatment in response to the patient's changing health status.
![Photo of Dr. Jade Goodloe, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d34a9062-6f31-4488-b7ec-8f32063f53b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
![Photo of Audry Gorman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0748e20-3015-4e13-9c7a-62e643ec1fd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
Dr. Gorman is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. She treats chronic and acute problems including Major Depression and Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety Disorders including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum, and other Psychotic Disorders. Dr. Gorman has a Master of Nursing Degree from the University of South Alabama. She also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Dr Gorman's goal is to design an individual plan of care that will help each patient achieve the best possible outcome.
![Photo of Redempta Mwikya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35999906-75f6-4432-a7ec-9242a8396d89/1/320x400.png)
Ms. Redempta Mwikya is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and has a master’s degree in nursing. Redempta is qualified and experienced to practice in outpatient, inpatient, and telepsychiatry. Redempta works collaboratively with other providers to diagnose and treat mental health issues and psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Patient care requires empathy, understanding, compassion, patience, and love for fellow human beings. Redempta desires to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals who struggle with mental illness.
Ms. Redempta Mwikya is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and has a master’s degree in nursing. Redempta is qualified and experienced to practice in outpatient, inpatient, and telepsychiatry. Redempta works collaboratively with other providers to diagnose and treat mental health issues and psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Patient care requires empathy, understanding, compassion, patience, and love for fellow human beings. Redempta desires to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals who struggle with mental illness.
![Photo of Keyna Omenukor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/948b8519-d825-4283-99f9-0e25c3652720/1/320x400.png)
Keyna Omenukor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Hello there! I am Keyna Omenukor DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a dual-qualified family nurse practitioner and PMHNP working in a clinic setting. I am passionate about providing quality care to promote health and improve patient outcomes. I love to provide selfless care to underserved communities and reach out to the patients of impoverished nations to improve global health. My approach to mental healthcare is informed by a combination of evidence-based practices and a person-centered attitude. I can offer information and support grounded in several key theoretical approaches.
Hello there! I am Keyna Omenukor DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a dual-qualified family nurse practitioner and PMHNP working in a clinic setting. I am passionate about providing quality care to promote health and improve patient outcomes. I love to provide selfless care to underserved communities and reach out to the patients of impoverished nations to improve global health. My approach to mental healthcare is informed by a combination of evidence-based practices and a person-centered attitude. I can offer information and support grounded in several key theoretical approaches.
![Photo of Dr. Kate Omorotionmwan Aibangbee, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/926046c5-bd0b-42c6-acb2-018622772f5a/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Kate Omorotionmwan Aibangbee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasco, WA 99301
Clients should expect a therapeutic environment that is safe, caring and empathetic. Deliver patient centered care. Receive insights into their experiences, advice on how to handle issues, and evidence-based treatment for mental health conditions.
Clients should expect a therapeutic environment that is safe, caring and empathetic. Deliver patient centered care. Receive insights into their experiences, advice on how to handle issues, and evidence-based treatment for mental health conditions.
![Photo of Jason Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa837c1e-5df6-41f0-8669-1ca86d40893d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Dr. Jason Johnson, DNP. With expertise in psychiatry, men's health, addiction, and weight loss, I take a comprehensive and personalized approach to healthcare. My method integrates therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormone treatments to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being. In providing mental healthcare, my approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on integrating various treatment modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. I utilize a combination of therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormones to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jason Johnson, DNP. With expertise in psychiatry, men's health, addiction, and weight loss, I take a comprehensive and personalized approach to healthcare. My method integrates therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormone treatments to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being. In providing mental healthcare, my approach is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on integrating various treatment modalities to address the unique needs of each individual. I utilize a combination of therapy, medications, vitamins, exercise, and hormones to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
![Photo of Abebe Belete, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/635db9fc-cd1e-4311-9f53-668556e294a8/2/320x400.png)
I am Abebe Belete, a doctoral nurse practitioner (DNP) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board-certified (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based practices with empathetic listening to address the unique needs of each client. With a focus on individual therapy and medication management, Dr. Belete specializes in treating mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders, as well as providing support for individuals navigating life transitions and managing stress.
I am Abebe Belete, a doctoral nurse practitioner (DNP) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board-certified (PMHNP-BC) with a holistic approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based practices with empathetic listening to address the unique needs of each client. With a focus on individual therapy and medication management, Dr. Belete specializes in treating mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders, as well as providing support for individuals navigating life transitions and managing stress.
![Photo of Branden Heath, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b741859b-6437-465b-8477-9c2b0fe0a565/2/320x400.jpeg)
My patients are often battling the shortage of mental health care and unable to get help when they need it the most. My clients have been coping with anxiety of the future or depression of the past and need someone who will believe their experience. My patients have been living with mental illness, in varying degrees, which has inhibited their potential socially and personally.
My patients are often battling the shortage of mental health care and unable to get help when they need it the most. My clients have been coping with anxiety of the future or depression of the past and need someone who will believe their experience. My patients have been living with mental illness, in varying degrees, which has inhibited their potential socially and personally.
![Photo of Tchido Yao - Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8358d20-ebe1-435d-bc9d-41d34e6b7f4c/1/320x400.png)
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
15 Second Videos
Sussana Howard
Bahattin Ergin
Jade Goodloe
Audry Gorman
Redempta Mwikya
Keyna Omenukor
Jason Johnson
Abebe Belete
Martha McCool
Steven K Elrod
Uloma Ugbaja
Zachary Gilliam
Shola Adewunmi
Cassandra Thomas Jingles
Daniel Okoro
Jabari Dobson
Tshaun Grant
Kemi Fawehinmi
Macbarbara Amaechi
Kadjatou Niangadou
Olivier Djoumessi
Jashunta Carson
Nicholas Hatcher
Shantel Escobar
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Youwen Hu
![Photo of Martha McCool, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5adc52a5-253e-467d-8519-6584c64fc8fa/2/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Martha McCool. I am a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I offer evidence-based and patient-centered care. I believe in the collaborative care process. I explore what matters to each patient and identify the best treatment. I work with patients suffering from major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, personality disorders, alcohol use disorder, and bipolar disorder. I provide a calm, non-judgmental space to explore feelings and thoughts.
Hello, my name is Martha McCool. I am a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I offer evidence-based and patient-centered care. I believe in the collaborative care process. I explore what matters to each patient and identify the best treatment. I work with patients suffering from major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, personality disorders, alcohol use disorder, and bipolar disorder. I provide a calm, non-judgmental space to explore feelings and thoughts.
![Photo of Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f964041-b3df-42c8-87f8-0acbe717823a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Anger? A psychiatric evaluation and research backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Anger? A psychiatric evaluation and research backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
![Photo of Uloma Ugbaja, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1b15fb3-1701-4402-bdf8-cabcd20e931d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Uloma! My name is Uloma Ugbaja and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with patients across the lifespan. I offer talk therapy and medication management for anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, and much more. I create an environment that helps establish a therapeutic patient-provider relationship. My approach to care is specific and based on the needs of the patients. I most frequently use Medication Management and Talk therapy. Both approaches help patients who are struggling with their mental health and enable support for mental wellness goals.
Hello, I'm Uloma! My name is Uloma Ugbaja and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with patients across the lifespan. I offer talk therapy and medication management for anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, and much more. I create an environment that helps establish a therapeutic patient-provider relationship. My approach to care is specific and based on the needs of the patients. I most frequently use Medication Management and Talk therapy. Both approaches help patients who are struggling with their mental health and enable support for mental wellness goals.
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a886743d-d473-428d-9ab2-e5cf64f3db85/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasco, WA 99301 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Shola Adewunmi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c111938-8bd3-4167-ac21-41e661b21f55/2/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm Shola, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with five years of experience in mental health care. I've worked with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and more, and I'm passionate about providing personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each individual. In my practice, I prioritize building trusting relationships with my patients. I believe in collaborative decision-making and integrating various treatment modalities for comprehensive mental health care.
Hello, I'm Shola, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with five years of experience in mental health care. I've worked with patients of all ages, from children to seniors, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and more, and I'm passionate about providing personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each individual. In my practice, I prioritize building trusting relationships with my patients. I believe in collaborative decision-making and integrating various treatment modalities for comprehensive mental health care.
![Photo of Cassandra Thomas Jingles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0675107-f6fc-42b4-b84e-9b1d33872b93/1/320x400.png)
Cassandra Thomas-Jingles Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC I am a native of Louisiana, and a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have training and experience in treating patients with psychiatric and medical disorders across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Southern University A & M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a Postmaster of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from McNeese State University.
Cassandra Thomas-Jingles Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC I am a native of Louisiana, and a dual board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have training and experience in treating patients with psychiatric and medical disorders across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Southern University A & M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a Postmaster of Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from McNeese State University.
![Photo of Daniel Okoro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4192126-29e8-41e2-bfb3-52e8bdbff4a8/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients, and is able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions. Nees to approach the patient with compassion and assure that you will provide personalized care because each patient is unique
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients, and is able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions. Nees to approach the patient with compassion and assure that you will provide personalized care because each patient is unique
![Photo of Jabari Dobson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb1aba52-0a42-4eb3-915a-48dd033f64e8/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I’m Jabari Dobson. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental nurse practitioner for all ages. I provide medication management, psychotherapy, and other great care. My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and more. My therapeutic approach is to use a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic methods to achieve healing and understanding within all of my patients. My patient focus is not limited to any specific group as I wish to serve anyone within need of care.
Hi, I’m Jabari Dobson. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental nurse practitioner for all ages. I provide medication management, psychotherapy, and other great care. My specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and more. My therapeutic approach is to use a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic methods to achieve healing and understanding within all of my patients. My patient focus is not limited to any specific group as I wish to serve anyone within need of care.
![Photo of Tshaun Grant, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0c9ff10-be3a-48f7-87ba-ed4d4831bd95/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about treatment, and I want each client to have a memorable experience. I am diligent in making sure each patient is treated equally and receives optimum care within a safe space.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health disorders. I am passionate about treatment, and I want each client to have a memorable experience. I am diligent in making sure each patient is treated equally and receives optimum care within a safe space.
See more therapy options for Franklin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Franklin County, WA
50+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Franklin County, WA who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Sleep or Insomnia |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Franklin County, WA see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Franklin County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.