Psychiatrists in 37211

I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in 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 in 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.

Lynn Wolf @ Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or life’s transitions can feel overwhelming. Support is here, and healing is possible. A plan tailored to personal needs can restore balance and bring relief. No woman should have to navigate this alone—real solutions start with the right care.
I provide specialized care for women anxiety, depression, ADHD, perinatal mood disorders, and menopause-related challenges ensures women receive support that works. A holistic approach combines medication management, lifestyle adjustments, and personalized care to create lasting results. Balance and healing are within reach.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or life’s transitions can feel overwhelming. Support is here, and healing is possible. A plan tailored to personal needs can restore balance and bring relief. No woman should have to navigate this alone—real solutions start with the right care.
I provide specialized care for women anxiety, depression, ADHD, perinatal mood disorders, and menopause-related challenges ensures women receive support that works. A holistic approach combines medication management, lifestyle adjustments, and personalized care to create lasting results. Balance and healing are within reach.

Kerrie Wilder @ Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or unsure where to turn can be exhausting. Your experiences are real, valid, and worth exploring—whether it’s mood swings, perinatal struggles, personality challenges, or intimacy concerns.
Every woman deserves honest, compassionate care that balances warmth with real talk. Expect support that is direct yet encouraging, with a focus on finding clarity and confidence in mental health and relationships. Motherhood, emotional regulation, and personal fulfillment all come with challenges—but with the right approach, balance is possible. You are seen, heard, and supported here.
Feeling misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or unsure where to turn can be exhausting. Your experiences are real, valid, and worth exploring—whether it’s mood swings, perinatal struggles, personality challenges, or intimacy concerns.
Every woman deserves honest, compassionate care that balances warmth with real talk. Expect support that is direct yet encouraging, with a focus on finding clarity and confidence in mental health and relationships. Motherhood, emotional regulation, and personal fulfillment all come with challenges—but with the right approach, balance is possible. You are seen, heard, and supported here.

You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward—and that’s exactly why you’re here. I work best with people who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or the emotional toll of toxic relationships. Maybe you’ve experienced military-related stress or are healing from narcissistic abuse. Whatever your story, your goal is likely the same: to reclaim your peace, gain clarity, and feel like yourself again. I’m here to help you do just
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward—and that’s exactly why you’re here. I work best with people who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or the emotional toll of toxic relationships. Maybe you’ve experienced military-related stress or are healing from narcissistic abuse. Whatever your story, your goal is likely the same: to reclaim your peace, gain clarity, and feel like yourself again. I’m here to help you do just

My name is Dr. Anthony Ekwo, medical director of Hallmark Psychiatry located at 393 Wallace Rd. Ste. 304, Nashville, 37211 inside Southern Hills Hospital. I am board certified in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine. We support mental conditions through psychotherapy, medication management, ketamine and TMS. We prescribe Buprenorphine and Naltrexone for opioid addiction. We have outpatient, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. Our team of board certified therapists are experts in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma therapy, couple and family therapy. We will listen to you and treat you like family
My name is Dr. Anthony Ekwo, medical director of Hallmark Psychiatry located at 393 Wallace Rd. Ste. 304, Nashville, 37211 inside Southern Hills Hospital. I am board certified in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine. We support mental conditions through psychotherapy, medication management, ketamine and TMS. We prescribe Buprenorphine and Naltrexone for opioid addiction. We have outpatient, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. Our team of board certified therapists are experts in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma therapy, couple and family therapy. We will listen to you and treat you like family

Stephanie Hubbell @ Women's MH Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I founded Women’s Mental Health Specialists to provide a safe, compassionate space where women feel understood and supported. Our team is unique—certified nurse midwives with advanced mental health degrees—dedicated to offering care that truly addresses the unique challenges women face. From managing life transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause to navigating stress, anxiety, and relationships, we deliver holistic, personalized care that nurtures your physical and emotional well-being. Visit our website to see how we can help you feel your best—inside and out!
I founded Women’s Mental Health Specialists to provide a safe, compassionate space where women feel understood and supported. Our team is unique—certified nurse midwives with advanced mental health degrees—dedicated to offering care that truly addresses the unique challenges women face. From managing life transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause to navigating stress, anxiety, and relationships, we deliver holistic, personalized care that nurtures your physical and emotional well-being. Visit our website to see how we can help you feel your best—inside and out!

Hello I'm Tami, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a medical professional since 2010 in a variety of fields including mental health, Med-Surg, Nephrology among others. My experience in the various medical fields as a nurse led me to my passion, which is mental health. I treat each individual with empathy and absolute positive regard. Depending on your needs, I customize your treatment plan to achieve your goals and overall well being. This may include therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I use evidence based practice to ensure you are receiving the care needed to obtain optimal wellness.
Hello I'm Tami, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a medical professional since 2010 in a variety of fields including mental health, Med-Surg, Nephrology among others. My experience in the various medical fields as a nurse led me to my passion, which is mental health. I treat each individual with empathy and absolute positive regard. Depending on your needs, I customize your treatment plan to achieve your goals and overall well being. This may include therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I use evidence based practice to ensure you are receiving the care needed to obtain optimal wellness.

Hello! I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. I completed a 1-year residency at a VA Medical Center and have been serving patients from ages 5 and up for the past 3 years. My approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. I believe in treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being. My goal is to create a therapeutic partnership with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey.
Hello! I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. I completed a 1-year residency at a VA Medical Center and have been serving patients from ages 5 and up for the past 3 years. My approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. I believe in treating the whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being. My goal is to create a therapeutic partnership with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey.

Hi, I'm Dr. Katelyn Dunn, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. I received my doctorate from The University of South Carolina; I also have a master’s degree in Nursing Education from the University of Texas at El Paso and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Hi, I'm Dr. Katelyn Dunn, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. I received my doctorate from The University of South Carolina; I also have a master’s degree in Nursing Education from the University of Texas at El Paso and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

My name is Jordan Bollinger and I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am committed to providing personalized and evidence-based care to individuals across all stages of life, from adolescents to adults and geriatrics. With extensive experience in managing a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, Autism, PTSD and OCD, I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment for every patient.
My name is Jordan Bollinger and I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am committed to providing personalized and evidence-based care to individuals across all stages of life, from adolescents to adults and geriatrics. With extensive experience in managing a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, Autism, PTSD and OCD, I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment for every patient.

I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Tennessee. With a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach, I am dedicated to assisting patients across all age groups and mental health disorders. My goal is to ensure that patients feel heard and genuinely cared for, working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans that promote a normal and fulfilling life.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Tennessee. With a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach, I am dedicated to assisting patients across all age groups and mental health disorders. My goal is to ensure that patients feel heard and genuinely cared for, working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans that promote a normal and fulfilling life.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Hello, my name is Dr. Ola Alabi, and I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). I specialize in mental health care and substance use disorder treatment, and my approach focuses on providing compassionate, patient-centered care to help clients transition to wellness. With over a decade of experience in diverse clinical settings, I’m dedicated to supporting you in achieving your mental health goals in a way that respects your unique needs and background.
Hello, my name is Dr. Ola Alabi, and I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). I specialize in mental health care and substance use disorder treatment, and my approach focuses on providing compassionate, patient-centered care to help clients transition to wellness. With over a decade of experience in diverse clinical settings, I’m dedicated to supporting you in achieving your mental health goals in a way that respects your unique needs and background.

My ideal client is an adult seeking clarity and support for their mental health concerns. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, and they desire a safe, compassionate space to discuss their concerns. Their goal is to gain a better understanding of their condition, improve their emotional well-being, and develop strategies to live a more fulfilling life. They seek personalized, empathetic care because they want to feel heard, valued, and supported in their journey to mental wellness.
My ideal client is an adult seeking clarity and support for their mental health concerns. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, and they desire a safe, compassionate space to discuss their concerns. Their goal is to gain a better understanding of their condition, improve their emotional well-being, and develop strategies to live a more fulfilling life. They seek personalized, empathetic care because they want to feel heard, valued, and supported in their journey to mental wellness.

Hello! My name is Crystal Lane, and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am based in East Tennessee and offer medication management with supportive therapy statewide by telehealth. My approach to mental health care is holistic and integrative. I believe all components of one's health and lifestyle should be considered when ruling out underlying causes of symptoms and developing a tailored approach to each individual's needs. While medication can drastically improve one's functioning, it should not be the sole source of treatment in most cases.
Hello! My name is Crystal Lane, and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am based in East Tennessee and offer medication management with supportive therapy statewide by telehealth. My approach to mental health care is holistic and integrative. I believe all components of one's health and lifestyle should be considered when ruling out underlying causes of symptoms and developing a tailored approach to each individual's needs. While medication can drastically improve one's functioning, it should not be the sole source of treatment in most cases.

My name is Brittany Moten and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take a holistic and evidenced-based approach to mental healthcare. I also implement treatment plans that are tailored to each client's needs and comfort. I take a holistic approach to providing mental healthcare, as I understand that simply prescribing medications isn't enough to help an individual get to the root cause of their concerns. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Brittany Moten and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take a holistic and evidenced-based approach to mental healthcare. I also implement treatment plans that are tailored to each client's needs and comfort. I take a holistic approach to providing mental healthcare, as I understand that simply prescribing medications isn't enough to help an individual get to the root cause of their concerns. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.

Dr. Chinenye Ezeudemba, DNP, PMHNP Hello, I’m Dr. Chinenye Ezeudemba, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to patient-centered mental healthcare. My approach prioritizes personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that integrate medication management with a holistic understanding of each patient’s unique needs.
Dr. Chinenye Ezeudemba, DNP, PMHNP Hello, I’m Dr. Chinenye Ezeudemba, DNP, PMHNP, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to patient-centered mental healthcare. My approach prioritizes personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that integrate medication management with a holistic understanding of each patient’s unique needs.

Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Life places immense demands on women - balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. Navigating these challenges shouldn’t be done alone. With a compassionate and holistic approach, support is here to help regain balance and clarity.
Specialized care in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD ensures treatment is tailored to unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, experience in guiding women through pregnancy, early motherhood, and menopause brings deep understanding of life’s transitions. These changes can be difficult, but with the right support, confidence and well-being are within reach.
Life places immense demands on women - balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. Navigating these challenges shouldn’t be done alone. With a compassionate and holistic approach, support is here to help regain balance and clarity.
Specialized care in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD ensures treatment is tailored to unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, experience in guiding women through pregnancy, early motherhood, and menopause brings deep understanding of life’s transitions. These changes can be difficult, but with the right support, confidence and well-being are within reach.

Hello All. I am Alicia Wilson. I am a doctorally prepared, board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I strive to make sure that each of my patients and their families are reassured that I listen and hear them. Each treatment plan is individualized and supported by standard-of-care guidelines. I utilize my diverse experience as a provider in the emergency room, a family medicine clinic, hospice, urgent care, and a nursing home to apply thorough treatment. With my vast knowledge, I am motivated and dedicated to helping treat a person physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Hello All. I am Alicia Wilson. I am a doctorally prepared, board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I strive to make sure that each of my patients and their families are reassured that I listen and hear them. Each treatment plan is individualized and supported by standard-of-care guidelines. I utilize my diverse experience as a provider in the emergency room, a family medicine clinic, hospice, urgent care, and a nursing home to apply thorough treatment. With my vast knowledge, I am motivated and dedicated to helping treat a person physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Hi there, I'm Adam Cooper, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, I am a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Biologic, psychological, and social components of illnesses are explored and understood in treatment of the whole person. Tools used may include diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications, evaluation and treatment of psychological and interpersonal problems with individuals and families, and intervention for coping with stress, crises, and other problems.
Hi there, I'm Adam Cooper, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, I am a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Biologic, psychological, and social components of illnesses are explored and understood in treatment of the whole person. Tools used may include diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications, evaluation and treatment of psychological and interpersonal problems with individuals and families, and intervention for coping with stress, crises, and other problems.

I am Linda Trentham, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to provide a safe environment that is encouraging and supportive. My approach is a medley of evidence based practice as well as personal and professional experiences. Challenging patients to "think outside of the box". Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are strong bases to my approach. I work with all ages, genders, sexual orientations, or religions without bias or judgment. I am proficient in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, and personality disorders.
I am Linda Trentham, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to provide a safe environment that is encouraging and supportive. My approach is a medley of evidence based practice as well as personal and professional experiences. Challenging patients to "think outside of the box". Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are strong bases to my approach. I work with all ages, genders, sexual orientations, or religions without bias or judgment. I am proficient in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, and personality disorders.
See more therapy options for 37211
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 37211
30+
Average cost per session
$127
Psychiatrists in 37211 who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
64% | ADHD |
58% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 37211 see their clients
77% | Online Only | |
23% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
90% | Female | |
10% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 37211?
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.