Psychiatrists in 40601

Photo of Shirley Beth Hicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shirley Beth Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Beth Hicks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Beth always shows clients empathy for what they've been through and shows personal interest in their care. She builds a good rapport that is healthy and caring. Outside of work, Beth loves yoga, cooking new recipes, traveling, and reading.
Beth Hicks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Beth always shows clients empathy for what they've been through and shows personal interest in their care. She builds a good rapport that is healthy and caring. Outside of work, Beth loves yoga, cooking new recipes, traveling, and reading.
(502) 317-0399 View (502) 317-0399
Photo of Rebecca O'Hair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Rebecca O'Hair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
(502) 369-0510 View (502) 369-0510
Photo of Sooksai Kaewbua - New Horizons Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
New Horizons Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
New Horizons Psychiatry is a private, outpatient, mental-health practice that offers evidence-based and patient-centered mental-health care in a private, discrete, and convenient setting in downtown Frankfort. I will see psychiatric mental-health clients of all ages for evaluation and medication management. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages, including veterans and police officers. I have helped clients with depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, etc. My training has prepared me to understand the relationship between physical and mental health. Now accepting new clients!
New Horizons Psychiatry is a private, outpatient, mental-health practice that offers evidence-based and patient-centered mental-health care in a private, discrete, and convenient setting in downtown Frankfort. I will see psychiatric mental-health clients of all ages for evaluation and medication management. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages, including veterans and police officers. I have helped clients with depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, etc. My training has prepared me to understand the relationship between physical and mental health. Now accepting new clients!
(502) 289-5809 View (502) 289-5809
Photo of Dr. Ramesh Ghanta - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(502) 385-3757 View (502) 385-3757
Photo of Kristen Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristen Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Kristen Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Kristen implements caring and compassion to her patients. She listens to their needs and uses clinical judgement to best help them. Kristen truly loves what she does, and helping people is a passion of hers. Outside of work, Kristen like to run; she has completed a few half marathons before. She loves spending time with her family and husband and their 12yearold pitbull.
Kristen Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Kristen implements caring and compassion to her patients. She listens to their needs and uses clinical judgement to best help them. Kristen truly loves what she does, and helping people is a passion of hers. Outside of work, Kristen like to run; she has completed a few half marathons before. She loves spending time with her family and husband and their 12yearold pitbull.
(502) 427-1544 View (502) 427-1544
Photo of Ramesh Ghanta, Psychiatrist, MD
Ramesh Ghanta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Dr. Ramesh Ghanta is a dedicated psychiatrist providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout Kentucky. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, he specializes in treating alcohol and drug use issues, bipolar disorder, and depression. His goal is to help individuals regain stability, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve long-term recovery through personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Dr. Ghanta has extensive experience supporting individuals who have recently been discharged from psychiatric hospitals.
Dr. Ramesh Ghanta is a dedicated psychiatrist providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout Kentucky. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, he specializes in treating alcohol and drug use issues, bipolar disorder, and depression. His goal is to help individuals regain stability, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve long-term recovery through personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Dr. Ghanta has extensive experience supporting individuals who have recently been discharged from psychiatric hospitals.
(502) 427-7778 View (502) 427-7778
Photo of Ashley Staten - Brightside Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(502) 401-1872 View (502) 401-1872
Photo of Andrea L Semones - Compass Medical Group, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Compass Medical Group, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hello! I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters degree from the University of South Alabama and have over 14 years of experience in my field. I provide medication management in a peaceful, relaxing office space or via telehealth if the patient prefers. I also utilize several tools to help pinpoint your diagnosis to maximize treatment success! Private and secure Telehealth services are a special focus for me and Telehealth is currently the best option to observe health and safety guidelines and pairs perfectly with mental health treatment if preferred.
Hello! I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters degree from the University of South Alabama and have over 14 years of experience in my field. I provide medication management in a peaceful, relaxing office space or via telehealth if the patient prefers. I also utilize several tools to help pinpoint your diagnosis to maximize treatment success! Private and secure Telehealth services are a special focus for me and Telehealth is currently the best option to observe health and safety guidelines and pairs perfectly with mental health treatment if preferred.
(502) 237-4635 View (502) 237-4635
Photo of Holly Gray, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Holly Gray
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
(502) 754-3938 View (502) 754-3938
Photo of Mark Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mark Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Mark Martin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2010. Mark believes in treating people with respect and having an unbiased approach to each person's needs. In his spare time, Mark enjoys golf.
Mark Martin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2010. Mark believes in treating people with respect and having an unbiased approach to each person's needs. In his spare time, Mark enjoys golf.
(502) 427-6324 View (502) 427-6324
Photo of Lauren M Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP
Lauren M Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
(502) 352-2208 View (502) 352-2208
Photo of Robert Bentley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Robert Bentley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Robert Bentley my patients and colleagues call me "Dr. Bob." I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with a DNP bringing over 23 years of expertise in public and mental health, specializing in ADHD, PTSD, addictions, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression. My patients know me for my compassionate approach, I offer tailored treatments, including alcohol medication-assisted therapy, controlled substance tapers, and focused care for panic and sleep disorders. I am committed to treating patients like family, ensuring personalized, attentive care for every individual.
I am Dr. Robert Bentley my patients and colleagues call me "Dr. Bob." I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with a DNP bringing over 23 years of expertise in public and mental health, specializing in ADHD, PTSD, addictions, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression. My patients know me for my compassionate approach, I offer tailored treatments, including alcohol medication-assisted therapy, controlled substance tapers, and focused care for panic and sleep disorders. I am committed to treating patients like family, ensuring personalized, attentive care for every individual.
(859) 374-3157 View (859) 374-3157
Photo of Nicole Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville, Tennessee, and working with clients in Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville, Tennessee, and working with clients in Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(859) 696-7861 View (859) 696-7861
Photo of Dr. Linda Mays - Family Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Family Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
“I believe one of the bravest things you can do for yourself is to take control of your happiness." Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, feel confident you have made the right decision in choosing me. I listen to you and partner with you to restore you to your healthy place. I am a prescriber, but I am not a pill pusher. I used state-of-the-art clinical research to guide my recommendations to you. If you are looking for a REAL solution to heal your mind, body, and soul, look no further. Call Family Psychiatric Services for medication management, medical cannabis treatment (in KY), and psychiatric evaluations.
“I believe one of the bravest things you can do for yourself is to take control of your happiness." Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, feel confident you have made the right decision in choosing me. I listen to you and partner with you to restore you to your healthy place. I am a prescriber, but I am not a pill pusher. I used state-of-the-art clinical research to guide my recommendations to you. If you are looking for a REAL solution to heal your mind, body, and soul, look no further. Call Family Psychiatric Services for medication management, medical cannabis treatment (in KY), and psychiatric evaluations.
(270) 838-2235 View (270) 838-2235
Photo of Kalyan Subedi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kalyan Subedi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
(859) 374-2204 View (859) 374-2204
Photo of Leslie Powell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leslie Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
(859) 765-7260 View (859) 765-7260
Photo of Tiffiney Burchett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffiney Burchett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
(859) 328-6931 View (859) 328-6931
Photo of Elizabeth Templeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Elizabeth Templeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
(859) 340-8958 View (859) 340-8958
Photo of Angel Opara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angel Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
(859) 712-1041 View (859) 712-1041
Photo of Tina Shelton-Coomer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina Shelton-Coomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
(859) 648-3035 View (859) 648-3035
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See more therapy options for 40601

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40601

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 40601 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
96% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
70% Trauma and PTSD
59% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
56% Psychosis

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
92% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 40601 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40601?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.