Psychiatrists in 37201
![Photo of Betty Jane Kohal, DNP, PMHCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecd0787-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and my best source of referrals are satisfied clients. I work with individuals experiencing all aspects of trauma, grief, bereavement concerns and assist them into recovery. I use a variety of approaches in my therapy with the core being cognitive psychotherapy. I am experienced in marital therapy and assisting individuals to meet their goals. I also have much experience assisting individuals with both depression and anxiety finding healthy coping mechanisms so they can be at their optimum level of functioning. I strive to see clients on a regular basis.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and my best source of referrals are satisfied clients. I work with individuals experiencing all aspects of trauma, grief, bereavement concerns and assist them into recovery. I use a variety of approaches in my therapy with the core being cognitive psychotherapy. I am experienced in marital therapy and assisting individuals to meet their goals. I also have much experience assisting individuals with both depression and anxiety finding healthy coping mechanisms so they can be at their optimum level of functioning. I strive to see clients on a regular basis.
![Photo of Women's Mental Health Expert Maggie Throckmorton, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b280f321-506e-48ba-bf5f-2c98ac769a5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Women's Mental Health Expert Maggie Throckmorton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
My business partner, Brenna O'Brien, LCSW, and I saw a gap in gender specific mental health care for women, which is why we started SHEchiatry, PLLC. We are mental health care for women by women. Women disproportionately experience trauma, anxiety and depression, and you deserve care that is specialized and targeted to your needs and experience as a woman. We want our patients at SHEchiatry to understand that our personal experiences inform the care we provide; we relate, and this makes us more compassionate and informed clinicians.
My business partner, Brenna O'Brien, LCSW, and I saw a gap in gender specific mental health care for women, which is why we started SHEchiatry, PLLC. We are mental health care for women by women. Women disproportionately experience trauma, anxiety and depression, and you deserve care that is specialized and targeted to your needs and experience as a woman. We want our patients at SHEchiatry to understand that our personal experiences inform the care we provide; we relate, and this makes us more compassionate and informed clinicians.
![Photo of Sally Summers, PMHNP, MSN-CNL, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da391e3a-a0de-4671-b550-92064bdefb8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Summers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-CNL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201 (Online Only)
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
![Photo of Dr. Samuel Polek, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02fee66d-4333-4b3c-a322-7805cc2bf68b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Polek is a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to improving mental health through evidence-based therapy and medication management. With over 13 years of experience and expertise in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD, Dr. Polek combines understanding and leading treatments to provide personalized care. Focused on promoting mental health, he helps clients in overcoming hurdles and sustaining well-being for the long term. Available appointment times can be found here: www.therapyportal.com/p/polekmd/
Dr. Polek is a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to improving mental health through evidence-based therapy and medication management. With over 13 years of experience and expertise in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD, Dr. Polek combines understanding and leading treatments to provide personalized care. Focused on promoting mental health, he helps clients in overcoming hurdles and sustaining well-being for the long term. Available appointment times can be found here: www.therapyportal.com/p/polekmd/
![Photo of Brittany Haskell, DNP, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05854f89-b295-4e73-a727-d3c298ab1153/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Haskell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
One of the bravest things anyone can do is ask for help. We are proud of you for taking the first step. Let's be honest, life is not easy. When you are feeling down, anxious, or stressed, life can feel downright overwhelming. Sometimes, even if we are trying our best to help ourselves, getting out of that miserable place can be a challenge. You do not have to do it alone! If you find yourself in this space, it might be time to consider mental health medications.
One of the bravest things anyone can do is ask for help. We are proud of you for taking the first step. Let's be honest, life is not easy. When you are feeling down, anxious, or stressed, life can feel downright overwhelming. Sometimes, even if we are trying our best to help ourselves, getting out of that miserable place can be a challenge. You do not have to do it alone! If you find yourself in this space, it might be time to consider mental health medications.
![Photo of Caleb Gulley, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5149c169-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caleb is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the medical management of mental illness across the lifespan. He uses an evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment. Through assessment of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a condition, he is better able to understand concerns and recommend effective treatment for recovery. The goal is to connect you with the therapies you need to live life more fully.
Caleb is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the medical management of mental illness across the lifespan. He uses an evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment. Through assessment of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a condition, he is better able to understand concerns and recommend effective treatment for recovery. The goal is to connect you with the therapies you need to live life more fully.
![Photo of Marilynn Yvette Richardson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f7f8cfc-c380-43f7-a1ed-6cb58c435b77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marilynn Yvette Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Marilynn Richardson. I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden, University in 2020. I have a deep commitment to compassionate and effective care. I provide medication management for adults 18 and older for symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. I provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. I help clients manage their conditions effectively and improve their overall well-being.
Hello, I am Marilynn Richardson. I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden, University in 2020. I have a deep commitment to compassionate and effective care. I provide medication management for adults 18 and older for symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. I provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. I help clients manage their conditions effectively and improve their overall well-being.
![Photo of Ladonna Hubbard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a111cde-ded5-451c-8946-ac484030ddec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ladonna Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201 (Online Only)
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Are you looking to make changes in your life to maximize your mental health? Are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions? Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder. We can help! Telemed offers you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your home or wherever you have a cellular connection.
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Are you looking to make changes in your life to maximize your mental health? Are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions? Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder. We can help! Telemed offers you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your home or wherever you have a cellular connection.
![Photo of Sonya Butler, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab47aee4-435b-433c-8a00-bb9d4ec4f69f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sonya Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201 (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with numerous years of dedicated experience, Sonya is deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and various thought and mood disorders. Her passion lies in helping her clients achieve mental well-being and regain control of their lives. She has honed her skills in treating anxiety and depression, recognizing that these conditions can profoundly impact an individual's daily functioning and overall quality of life.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with numerous years of dedicated experience, Sonya is deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and various thought and mood disorders. Her passion lies in helping her clients achieve mental well-being and regain control of their lives. She has honed her skills in treating anxiety and depression, recognizing that these conditions can profoundly impact an individual's daily functioning and overall quality of life.
![Photo of Brandee Madden, PMHNP, DNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/637a69b0-7c48-4544-a916-ec6ca02a38b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
GateHouse Treatment is a drug and alcohol rehab center in the Nashville, Tennessee area. We offer Partial Hospitalization (PHP,) Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Outpatient (OP) services with an associated sober living component to help our clients achieve sobriety. Our medical professionals and staff are focused on the full recovery of the clients that walk through our doors. With decades of experience on the front lines of treating addiction, our professional and certified staff are well equipped to help empower our patients to overcome the helplessness, despair, and guilt that is common with substance abuse.
GateHouse Treatment is a drug and alcohol rehab center in the Nashville, Tennessee area. We offer Partial Hospitalization (PHP,) Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Outpatient (OP) services with an associated sober living component to help our clients achieve sobriety. Our medical professionals and staff are focused on the full recovery of the clients that walk through our doors. With decades of experience on the front lines of treating addiction, our professional and certified staff are well equipped to help empower our patients to overcome the helplessness, despair, and guilt that is common with substance abuse.
![Photo of Marilyn D Haymaker, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ea03008-87de-45a6-9808-3adfe5c8d3aa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn D Haymaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
Originally from Columbia Falls, Montana, Marilyn has lived in Tennessee since the late 80’s. She attended Tennessee State University, where she received her RN in 1992. Marilyn was drawn to the field of mental health after working in substance abuse treatment as a registered nurse, and returned to graduate school to further her education, earning her MSN and certification as Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from the Vanderbilt School of Nursing. With over 29 years in healthcare, including 11 in mental health, Marilyn brings extensive knowledge to her practice. She draws from experience in a multitude of settings.
Originally from Columbia Falls, Montana, Marilyn has lived in Tennessee since the late 80’s. She attended Tennessee State University, where she received her RN in 1992. Marilyn was drawn to the field of mental health after working in substance abuse treatment as a registered nurse, and returned to graduate school to further her education, earning her MSN and certification as Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from the Vanderbilt School of Nursing. With over 29 years in healthcare, including 11 in mental health, Marilyn brings extensive knowledge to her practice. She draws from experience in a multitude of settings.
![Photo of Luis Dulin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bd24ed5-70b6-4237-9008-4d8aa6fe30a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Open Minds Mental Health Services we believe in evidence based treatment with a collaborative approach. We practice holistic interventions that incorporate a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to better your overall mental health. Our practice treats mental health conditions across the lifespan including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Addiction Issues. Luis Dulin is fluent in Spanish and offers culturally sensitive care, however an interpreter will be necessary to schedule the initial appointment with the front desk to begin treatment.
At Open Minds Mental Health Services we believe in evidence based treatment with a collaborative approach. We practice holistic interventions that incorporate a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to better your overall mental health. Our practice treats mental health conditions across the lifespan including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Addiction Issues. Luis Dulin is fluent in Spanish and offers culturally sensitive care, however an interpreter will be necessary to schedule the initial appointment with the front desk to begin treatment.
![Photo of Dwight King - Tennessee Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fad887a-5b76-4d7e-ba1a-3030f1e2dea2/1/320x400.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 Diana Santiago, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35541551-2195-44f9-9abe-6f7f591221bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Santiago is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Her treatment is provided in English or Spanish. Serving the States of Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Appointments are available via telemedicine, at the comfort of your home or your own space. In Person appointments available in GA only.
Dr. Santiago is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Her treatment is provided in English or Spanish. Serving the States of Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Appointments are available via telemedicine, at the comfort of your home or your own space. In Person appointments available in GA only.
![Photo of David Wells, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c947b0d3-36f0-44ec-a68d-ff387a282c30/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Wells PMHNP-BC is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. With extensive hospital nursing experience, he saw the urgent need for mental health services in his community. Motivated to make a difference, he pursued higher education to become a PMHNP. David believes in holistic care, prioritizing trust and empathy in patient relationships. He creates safe spaces for open dialogue and personalized and evidence based treatment plans. Practice specialties include anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
David Wells PMHNP-BC is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. With extensive hospital nursing experience, he saw the urgent need for mental health services in his community. Motivated to make a difference, he pursued higher education to become a PMHNP. David believes in holistic care, prioritizing trust and empathy in patient relationships. He creates safe spaces for open dialogue and personalized and evidence based treatment plans. Practice specialties include anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
![Photo of Alicia Ellis, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abc16a2d-a28e-479c-b9e4-57c55ef3e7ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Alicia Ellis. Choosing you is the first step towards gaining control over your mental health because, honestly – initiating therapy can be scary and enlightening all at the same time. I am passionate about assisting patients who have experienced trauma-related experiences. I can assist Veterans that experienced PTSD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and depression. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows my clients to explore their triggers that have caused them undue trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and/or self-care.
Hello! I'm Alicia Ellis. Choosing you is the first step towards gaining control over your mental health because, honestly – initiating therapy can be scary and enlightening all at the same time. I am passionate about assisting patients who have experienced trauma-related experiences. I can assist Veterans that experienced PTSD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and depression. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows my clients to explore their triggers that have caused them undue trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and/or self-care.
![Photo of Richard Brown - In Focus Mental Health PLLC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dae5d7a-31ac-448b-856d-acdb4dd3f21e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
Our patients are seeking to understand and manage emotions, navigate life's challenges, and achieve personal growth. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and seek a supportive, empathic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They desire a deeper understanding of themselves and a meaningful, fulfilled life.
![Photo of Phillip Connors - Renewed Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bb42e6c-4b9c-48c6-8812-cc9945c8d1e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renewed Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
Waitlist for new clients
When your mental health is suffering hope is often elusive. I take great joy in assisting children and adults find renewal through the challenges they face and directing you towards the appropriate medication to bring about this change. Based upon self-report measures my patients dealing with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress experience 50-60 percent improvement in symptoms within 3 months while people suffering from ADHD experience 60-80 percent improvement in symptoms within 3 months. When the right medication is combined with therapy patients report even higher rates of response.
When your mental health is suffering hope is often elusive. I take great joy in assisting children and adults find renewal through the challenges they face and directing you towards the appropriate medication to bring about this change. Based upon self-report measures my patients dealing with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress experience 50-60 percent improvement in symptoms within 3 months while people suffering from ADHD experience 60-80 percent improvement in symptoms within 3 months. When the right medication is combined with therapy patients report even higher rates of response.
See more therapy options for 37201
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 37201
10+
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in 37201 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
61% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
85% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 37201 see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
54% | Female | |
46% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 37201?
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.