Psychiatrists in Hermitage, TN
![Photo of Taylor Newsom, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4cc01f5-12aa-4b6c-87a6-e7c3bbc4335f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Newsom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Hermitage, TN 37076
Welcome! I am glad you are here. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that provides medication management and therapy services for children, adolescents and adults. I have been working in the mental health field for over 5 years, and have experience in the in-patient, out-patient, and emergency room settings. I work with clients struggling with emotional disturbances and various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that provides medication management and therapy services for children, adolescents and adults. I have been working in the mental health field for over 5 years, and have experience in the in-patient, out-patient, and emergency room settings. I work with clients struggling with emotional disturbances and various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
![Photo of LeTizia Baxter Smith, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7599309b-1ae8-48da-a2a6-6a8aeedd5201/1/320x400.jpeg)
LeTizia Baxter Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermitage, TN 37076
Welcome! I am proud of you for taking the first step in reaching out for help. I would be honored to hear your story and walk along side you in your healing journey. With over 17 years of experience in the mental health field, I have a variety of tools and knowledge to turn to in order to help assist you with overcoming whatever obstacles you feel are in your way. I am here to help you put all the pieces back together, and get you to the place you deserve to be.
Welcome! I am proud of you for taking the first step in reaching out for help. I would be honored to hear your story and walk along side you in your healing journey. With over 17 years of experience in the mental health field, I have a variety of tools and knowledge to turn to in order to help assist you with overcoming whatever obstacles you feel are in your way. I am here to help you put all the pieces back together, and get you to the place you deserve to be.
![Photo of Bethany Rhoten, PhD, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7f4651e-ee93-4e25-82b5-c1b9a220d7f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Rhoten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hermitage, TN 37076 (Online Only)
Bethany Rhoten, PhD, RN, PMHNP-BC, owner of Andrews Grace Behavioral Health, is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to enhancing the well-being of adults aged 18 and older. Drawing upon more than a decade of experience as a nurse scientist specializing in cancer survivorship research, Bethany has expertise in psychosocial aspects of cancer survivorship. Bethany also sees adults 18+ without a cancer connection.
Bethany Rhoten, PhD, RN, PMHNP-BC, owner of Andrews Grace Behavioral Health, is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to enhancing the well-being of adults aged 18 and older. Drawing upon more than a decade of experience as a nurse scientist specializing in cancer survivorship research, Bethany has expertise in psychosocial aspects of cancer survivorship. Bethany also sees adults 18+ without a cancer connection.
![Photo of Stefanie Kreidler, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7f54b4f-70f6-433f-8b63-8fd371144b20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stefanie Kreidler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hermitage, TN 37076
My name is Stefanie and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I am passionate about creating a respectful and kind space where you can feel well supported. Throughout my diverse career, I've acquired a robust skill set, blending clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the human experience. Proficient in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, I believe in the power of empathy and collaboration in the healing process.
My name is Stefanie and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I am passionate about creating a respectful and kind space where you can feel well supported. Throughout my diverse career, I've acquired a robust skill set, blending clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the human experience. Proficient in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, I believe in the power of empathy and collaboration in the healing process.
![Photo of Heather Greer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/687db3a0-d6b0-4399-92ce-56729648f437/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermitage, TN 37076
I am accepting new clients! I'm Heather, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in mental health. We'll collaborate and navigate your goals in a safe, professional, yet totally approachable space. With a commitment to evidence-based practices and continuous education, I ensure that your treatment plan is not only effective but also tailored to your unique needs. If you're ready for a professional yet personable approach to mental health, let's embark on this journey towards lasting well-being.
I am accepting new clients! I'm Heather, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in mental health. We'll collaborate and navigate your goals in a safe, professional, yet totally approachable space. With a commitment to evidence-based practices and continuous education, I ensure that your treatment plan is not only effective but also tailored to your unique needs. If you're ready for a professional yet personable approach to mental health, let's embark on this journey towards lasting well-being.
![Photo of Ben Leven, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8928aa6-6973-4240-9799-57720be0a15a/1/320x400.jpeg)
We can work together to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, setting boundaries, and PTSD by offering personalized treatment that gets to the root of the problem. You may be struggling recently with mood symptoms or your focus, and want to get back on track. We can work together to get with individualized treatment options, such as medication, supplements, behavior change, labwork, genetic testing, and talk therapy.
We can work together to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, setting boundaries, and PTSD by offering personalized treatment that gets to the root of the problem. You may be struggling recently with mood symptoms or your focus, and want to get back on track. We can work together to get with individualized treatment options, such as medication, supplements, behavior change, labwork, genetic testing, and talk therapy.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kerrie Wilder - Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a56370e7-ddaf-4f11-a3c8-8f84b61fb834/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerrie Wilder - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211 (Online Only)
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7da82399-6fd5-404b-a112-66bd1f6a4443/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Ault, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72167b59-9ef3-4eb3-a1c8-9453cda28a91/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
![Photo of Vedavyasa Biliyar - Tennessee Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29cd6e98-9a46-49f9-9b05-a4b4765c531d/1/320x400.png)
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
![Photo of Lori Jenkins, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a06099df-802a-43f1-8d25-298fd1400d72/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37207 (Online Only)
TREATMENT VIA TELEHEALTH ONLY. In my over 20 years experience I have worked with patients of all ages, ethnicities, and gender/ sexual orientations. After a wholistic assessment identifying which symptoms are causing greatest distress a treatment plan to target those symptoms will be developed. Your input is vital in development and choosing an effective treatment plan that will work best for you. With proper medication and therapy the most troubling times will be more manageable. You may send a message from here or access MindandBodyHealthcare.com website with the button on the left to make an online appointment request.
TREATMENT VIA TELEHEALTH ONLY. In my over 20 years experience I have worked with patients of all ages, ethnicities, and gender/ sexual orientations. After a wholistic assessment identifying which symptoms are causing greatest distress a treatment plan to target those symptoms will be developed. Your input is vital in development and choosing an effective treatment plan that will work best for you. With proper medication and therapy the most troubling times will be more manageable. You may send a message from here or access MindandBodyHealthcare.com website with the button on the left to make an online appointment request.
![Photo of Janet Webster-Call - Strong Foundation Behavorial Health Clinic, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15bb2acb-e5c8-4b6d-935c-1a49971ec94e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strong Foundation Behavorial Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37217
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
![Photo of Windle Hogue Morgan - NOVO Healthcare, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ea4a7f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOVO Healthcare, LLC. Provides psychiatric services for Nashville and its surrounding communities. We specialized in providing tiered levels of care for individuals to help them recover from life's challenges ranging from everyday stress to fully diagnose clinical syndromes. NOVO Healthcare, LLC is a professional, private, service oriented, behavioral and lifestyle management firm comprised of associates who compassionately assist our clients to renew, refresh, revive and recover form the effects of life's challenges.
NOVO Healthcare, LLC. Provides psychiatric services for Nashville and its surrounding communities. We specialized in providing tiered levels of care for individuals to help them recover from life's challenges ranging from everyday stress to fully diagnose clinical syndromes. NOVO Healthcare, LLC is a professional, private, service oriented, behavioral and lifestyle management firm comprised of associates who compassionately assist our clients to renew, refresh, revive and recover form the effects of life's challenges.
![Photo of Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66288c45-6fc0-4faa-ba23-42c80cefa7dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211 (Online Only)
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
![Photo of Rebecca Hill, PMHNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d38331e-2f4c-4a30-9bc2-939a7f1c34d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She graduated Belmont University’s BSN, RN program in 2015 and Frontier Nursing University’s MSN, PMHNP program in 2022. Rebecca primarily provides medication management services with light, supportive therapy. Rebecca’s philosophy centers around the principles of active listening, thoughtful inquiry, and collaborative partnership with her clients. This dialogue forms the foundation upon which she builds unique and personalized treatment plans that cater to each client’s specific needs.
Rebecca Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She graduated Belmont University’s BSN, RN program in 2015 and Frontier Nursing University’s MSN, PMHNP program in 2022. Rebecca primarily provides medication management services with light, supportive therapy. Rebecca’s philosophy centers around the principles of active listening, thoughtful inquiry, and collaborative partnership with her clients. This dialogue forms the foundation upon which she builds unique and personalized treatment plans that cater to each client’s specific needs.
![Photo of Willie Lemusu, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9152b226-b666-4705-8ae7-70c19448caa9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Willie Lemusu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37217
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6+ years of experience in mental health. I have experience working in the Emergency Room, Psychiatric Hospital, Alcohol & Drug Rehab units, Geriatric Psych Units, Community Clinics, and Psychiatric Home Health allowing me to provide care that keeps into consideration what happens before, during, and after a mental health crisis.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6+ years of experience in mental health. I have experience working in the Emergency Room, Psychiatric Hospital, Alcohol & Drug Rehab units, Geriatric Psych Units, Community Clinics, and Psychiatric Home Health allowing me to provide care that keeps into consideration what happens before, during, and after a mental health crisis.
![Photo of Candise Belmont - Belmont Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5128f992-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Belmont Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37202
Belmont Behavioral Health is a mental health care service provider located in the downtown Clarksville, Tennessee area. We help individuals experiencing various mental health challenges through medication management and counseling. In addition, our role is to teach and explain the specific condition of a client not only to the client but also to his/her family so they are aware of the symptoms, effects, and scenarios that may arise, allowing them to be more prepared to help them mentally and emotionally.
Belmont Behavioral Health is a mental health care service provider located in the downtown Clarksville, Tennessee area. We help individuals experiencing various mental health challenges through medication management and counseling. In addition, our role is to teach and explain the specific condition of a client not only to the client but also to his/her family so they are aware of the symptoms, effects, and scenarios that may arise, allowing them to be more prepared to help them mentally and emotionally.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503eded3-651c-40a1-a024-1bc312ad981b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Karyn L Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f20ec19-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
**I am unable to accept new patients at this time** As a physician, my goal is to perform a thorough diagnostic examination and to develop a treatment plan that allows for improvement in daily quality of life and function. Psychiatric care is my specialty area, but I believe in treating patients as a whole and considering how other medical conditions may be affecting a person's overall mental health.
**I am unable to accept new patients at this time** As a physician, my goal is to perform a thorough diagnostic examination and to develop a treatment plan that allows for improvement in daily quality of life and function. Psychiatric care is my specialty area, but I believe in treating patients as a whole and considering how other medical conditions may be affecting a person's overall mental health.
![Photo of Brian Glass, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/947a217e-cf75-4cff-91d3-e742ab4ce2ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Glass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Brian is an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with almost 30 years’ experience working with severe and persistently mentally ill patients in the middle Tennessee area. Brian has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN. He completed a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in 2007. Over the last 14 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner Brian has been a provider for teams in Nashville, Gallatin, Madison and Clarksville.
Brian is an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with almost 30 years’ experience working with severe and persistently mentally ill patients in the middle Tennessee area. Brian has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN. He completed a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in 2007. Over the last 14 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner Brian has been a provider for teams in Nashville, Gallatin, Madison and Clarksville.
See more therapy options for Hermitage
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hermitage, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hermitage, TN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Hermitage, TN see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hermitage?
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.