Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY
![Photo of Mariano Galang - Kentucky Mental Health Care, MD, Psc, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c31be3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Kentucky Mental Health Care, we provide psychiatric services such as medication management and medically assisted treatment (Suboxone and more), IOP, and TRP to both Medicaid and commercial insurance clients. The majority of our patients struggle with one or more of the following issues: ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression, substance abuse disorder, addiction, and/or personality disorder.
At Kentucky Mental Health Care, we provide psychiatric services such as medication management and medically assisted treatment (Suboxone and more), IOP, and TRP to both Medicaid and commercial insurance clients. The majority of our patients struggle with one or more of the following issues: ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression, substance abuse disorder, addiction, and/or personality disorder.
![Photo of Heather King, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a22c44c-5472-44b7-9561-d3631da49e4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
![Photo of Precious Sarver, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8b612d6-83ed-4804-8f22-5d3f51c45f0a/1/320x400.png)
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
![Photo of Mariano Abaya Galang III, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cd70443-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
focus on adults psychiatry primarily medication management of patients with anxiety , depression bioolar disorder and ADHD I also treat patients with addiction problems
focus on adults psychiatry primarily medication management of patients with anxiety , depression bioolar disorder and ADHD I also treat patients with addiction problems
![Photo of Chimdiya Osisioma - Now Taking New Patients, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9977274-4506-41c8-afcf-f5ab95f2d9a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chimdiya Osisioma - Now Taking New Patients
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
Hello, I'm Chimdiya, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a robust history of assisting adults in managing mood disorders and various mental health challenges. Are you feeling fatigued from pursuing numerous treatments that have failed to provide enduring relief? Do you find yourself grappling with a diminished sense of control over your mental well-being? I invite you to collaborate with me in breaking these recurrent patterns and seeking sustainable solutions. Together, we will delve into the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and formulate comprehensive treatments.
Hello, I'm Chimdiya, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a robust history of assisting adults in managing mood disorders and various mental health challenges. Are you feeling fatigued from pursuing numerous treatments that have failed to provide enduring relief? Do you find yourself grappling with a diminished sense of control over your mental well-being? I invite you to collaborate with me in breaking these recurrent patterns and seeking sustainable solutions. Together, we will delve into the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and formulate comprehensive treatments.
![Photo of Lisa Green, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a94aef7c-c08a-4ac8-9dfd-350a5616d7b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40299
Accepting new clients: Dr. Lisa Green holds a Doctorate of Nursing Degree & is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). As a Nurse Practitioner, she offers comprehensive evaluations and assessments. She provides holistic and traditional services to help empower clients on their healing journey from anxiety, depression and trauma. She values a collaborative and personalized approach that considers each client's unique preferences including the integration of various modalities to support each individual's mental health and well-being.
Accepting new clients: Dr. Lisa Green holds a Doctorate of Nursing Degree & is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). As a Nurse Practitioner, she offers comprehensive evaluations and assessments. She provides holistic and traditional services to help empower clients on their healing journey from anxiety, depression and trauma. She values a collaborative and personalized approach that considers each client's unique preferences including the integration of various modalities to support each individual's mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Kurt Kristiansen, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aac5871-d7fe-4f79-aaea-ec1caaf7447c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
![Photo of Julie Robinson, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf7f77a5-e95f-4ef7-a17c-ded7e359bc40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40258
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
![Photo of Katie Norris - Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN , RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81fee5d3-b7cf-476e-a05d-335c4bc41bb8/3/320x400.png)
Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40228
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 13 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a REMS prescriber (phetermine) and also a certified medical marijuana prescriber. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 13 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a REMS prescriber (phetermine) and also a certified medical marijuana prescriber. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
![Photo of Mandy Bliss - Bliss Progressive Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17ad8d68-9854-4365-ad10-de4882f6e8e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bliss Progressive Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Are you tired of the 15 minute ‘med check’ style of psychiatric practice? Me, too. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma and/or depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper.” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
Are you tired of the 15 minute ‘med check’ style of psychiatric practice? Me, too. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma and/or depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper.” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
![Photo of Hannah Morrison, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2febba9e-db93-4bc1-b8b3-fb023c9ba483/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Morrison is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She completed her BSN at University of Kentucky and her MSN at Frontier Nursing University. She works with children and adults, ages 6-64, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and medication management of a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), postpartum anxiety/depression, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder.
Hannah Morrison is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She completed her BSN at University of Kentucky and her MSN at Frontier Nursing University. She works with children and adults, ages 6-64, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and medication management of a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), postpartum anxiety/depression, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder.
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Gabrielle Caniglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223 (Online Only)
I have been in practice as a nurse practitioner since 2016 working in various outpatient settings. I treat children, adolescents and adults. Let’s work together as a team to create a treatment plan that best suits you as an individual. I accept most insurances as well as cash pay. I currently only offer telehealth sessions.
I have been in practice as a nurse practitioner since 2016 working in various outpatient settings. I treat children, adolescents and adults. Let’s work together as a team to create a treatment plan that best suits you as an individual. I accept most insurances as well as cash pay. I currently only offer telehealth sessions.
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf14a64a-b71c-434a-9066-7ccb4a8ec603/1/320x400.png)
I'm Lacy Pippin, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner serving patients in Illinois and Kentucky. With over 6 years of experience in psychiatric-mental health and substance use settings, I specialize in treating various mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Trauma, and Grief. My approach focuses on patient-centered care, empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey. Together, we navigate the process of mental health, fostering understanding and healing.
I'm Lacy Pippin, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner serving patients in Illinois and Kentucky. With over 6 years of experience in psychiatric-mental health and substance use settings, I specialize in treating various mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Trauma, and Grief. My approach focuses on patient-centered care, empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey. Together, we navigate the process of mental health, fostering understanding and healing.
![Photo of William Nunley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36be5966-45f6-4fed-9204-e97a0ac48c08/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
![Photo of Morgan Smither, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df07c36-942f-4c8b-b06f-cfc3a0a0419d/1/320x400.png)
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
![Photo of Melissa Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4cde8d2-cfc5-44f2-aaf3-2758ebb16432/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Sullivan is a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky. She attended medical school at the University of Louisville and completed a four-year residency training at the University of Louisville. She offers medication management in a therapeutic setting for a variety of disorders. Patients will receive an individualized treatment plan that will be designed in collaboration with Dr. Sullivan at the first appointment. Treatment will be offered in a caring and confidential setting where the goal is to help you, the patient, feel better as quickly as possible. Most patients can be seen within three weeks.
Dr. Sullivan is a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky. She attended medical school at the University of Louisville and completed a four-year residency training at the University of Louisville. She offers medication management in a therapeutic setting for a variety of disorders. Patients will receive an individualized treatment plan that will be designed in collaboration with Dr. Sullivan at the first appointment. Treatment will be offered in a caring and confidential setting where the goal is to help you, the patient, feel better as quickly as possible. Most patients can be seen within three weeks.
![Photo of Maryl Smith, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35f227ab-f4d7-4bcd-b92f-2f82a1869071/1/320x400.png)
Maryl Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
![Photo of Jen Sherohman, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0c4ffdb-6823-4180-933e-0df410c6f2cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jen Sherohman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40218 (Online Only)
Ready for a change but don't know where to start? At the end of your rope and struggling to hang on? Having panic attacks and feel like no one gets it? Mind all over the place and you can't keep your focus? Struggling with up and down moods? Having flashbacks or nightmares? You are not alone!
Ready for a change but don't know where to start? At the end of your rope and struggling to hang on? Having panic attacks and feel like no one gets it? Mind all over the place and you can't keep your focus? Struggling with up and down moods? Having flashbacks or nightmares? You are not alone!
![Photo of Charlie Ren Scheuerman, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3feb80fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charlie Ren Scheuerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Louisville, Kentucky. I work with patients with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar and Mood Spectrum, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Eating Disorders, and Panic Disorders. I also welcome anyone in the LGBTQ community.
Hello, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Louisville, Kentucky. I work with patients with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar and Mood Spectrum, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Eating Disorders, and Panic Disorders. I also welcome anyone in the LGBTQ community.
![Photo of Teresa Ament, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c19ade13-7ebc-4ce2-9e02-b42be45adc18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
See more therapy options for Louisville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY
100+
Average cost per session
$174
Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Medication Management |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Louisville?
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.