Psychiatrists in Crestview, FL
![Photo of Kelli E. Pruitt, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/550db90c-2743-494b-9263-36a647733bce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli E. Pruitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32539 (Online Only)
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
![Photo of Kelli E Pruit, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feed23ab-1aa0-4317-855d-16e562795cbc/1/320x400.png)
Kelli E Pruit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Crestview, FL 32539 (Online Only)
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
![Photo of Summer Sievert, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b25bb1d7-e0ad-48ad-b3a1-1f677a653caf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Sievert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32536 (Online Only)
Depressed? Anxious? Moods Up & Down? Can't Focus and Concentrate? New Patient Management from $200 and follow ups from $75. Insight Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida and Kentucky, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care. Or see us in person in Central and North Florida or Bowling Green, KY. We are dedicated to providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs.
Depressed? Anxious? Moods Up & Down? Can't Focus and Concentrate? New Patient Management from $200 and follow ups from $75. Insight Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida and Kentucky, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care. Or see us in person in Central and North Florida or Bowling Green, KY. We are dedicated to providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs.
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f106e2b7-3ee4-48c2-8ec3-a203f75ea159/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Tamara Russell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99dc56af-e1bf-4b45-9704-1b245f1de108/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
Dr. Tamara Russell is a highly passionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of professional experience. She earned a doctorate degree in nursing practice. She is double board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Her experience in the field is varied and dynamic - she has worked in a variety of mental health settings including community mental health, and private clinics. As a seasoned healthcare professional, her patients can expect a holistic approach that incorporates a range of evidence-based, time-tested treatment modalities.
![Photo of Tara Kidd, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e78f82e-5ba4-4fba-94fb-be27f92fda07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Kidd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Tara Kidd is a board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides care to patients struggling with mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and other behavioral and mood disorders. She is a member of the American Nurse Association, American Psychiatric Nurses Association, The American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and International Association of Forensic Nurses.
Tara Kidd is a board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides care to patients struggling with mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and other behavioral and mood disorders. She is a member of the American Nurse Association, American Psychiatric Nurses Association, The American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and International Association of Forensic Nurses.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf417214-ef5e-4fd9-bdbb-009eb601ca80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb3aa629-2809-4cbc-b357-1222cdf332b1/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d5fb9f8-9834-495a-b733-d3e040703237/1/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Angela Doughty Sanders, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, CMHIP, ADHDCSP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/decb4e0c-6289-466d-9920-14d4bb1b7406/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Doughty Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, CMHIP, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Navarre, FL 32566
I am certified and trained to treat and manage medical and psychiatric conditions. I focus on prevention, wellness (women's and men's healthcare) , and treat and manage chronic illnesses. I am a certified ADHD Clinical Services Professional and certified as a Mental Health Integrative Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced in treating psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD/ADD, sleep disorders, and substance abuse to include suboxone therapy. We also offer IV nutrition therapy and somatic psychotherapy/energy healing.
I am certified and trained to treat and manage medical and psychiatric conditions. I focus on prevention, wellness (women's and men's healthcare) , and treat and manage chronic illnesses. I am a certified ADHD Clinical Services Professional and certified as a Mental Health Integrative Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced in treating psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD/ADD, sleep disorders, and substance abuse to include suboxone therapy. We also offer IV nutrition therapy and somatic psychotherapy/energy healing.
![Photo of Angela Sanders - Seaside Wellness & Peace of Mind Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, AGPCNP, ADHDCSP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba784d6c-77fe-48d0-9c7f-4eb028030076/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seaside Wellness & Peace of Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, AGPCNP, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
Navarre, FL 32566
I am a integrative family psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I specialize and am certified as an ADHD clinical service provider and mental health integrative practitioner. I am here to help you overcome obstacles, restore balance, and renew mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I am currently accepting new patients in Nevada and Florida.
I am a integrative family psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I specialize and am certified as an ADHD clinical service provider and mental health integrative practitioner. I am here to help you overcome obstacles, restore balance, and renew mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I am currently accepting new patients in Nevada and Florida.
![Photo of Jennifer Upcraft, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a69c19e8-f49b-46bf-8dc8-419a11aa914c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Upcraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32526 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Jennifer. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. I provide an integrative approach to treatment which includes lifestyle modification, supplements, and medication management without the use of controlled substances. I offer a free 15 minute consultation prior to scheduling your first appointment.
Hi! My name is Jennifer. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. I provide an integrative approach to treatment which includes lifestyle modification, supplements, and medication management without the use of controlled substances. I offer a free 15 minute consultation prior to scheduling your first appointment.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b94f056-8957-4785-a3e9-56297c86d1cd/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Michelle Mottern, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b36704a-5b85-4513-89ea-633e999cbbda/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Michelle and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Mosaic Brain Health. At Mosaic Brain Health we strive to destigmatize mental health and emphasize brain health. We provide a comprehensive set of services to help boost your confidence and offer support as you navigate your personal brain health and wellness challenges.
Hi! My name is Michelle and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Mosaic Brain Health. At Mosaic Brain Health we strive to destigmatize mental health and emphasize brain health. We provide a comprehensive set of services to help boost your confidence and offer support as you navigate your personal brain health and wellness challenges.
![Photo of Nancy Hart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2e511ce-5d9f-4b86-8664-7129dd0d1559/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner based in Florida. I do medication management, equine therapy and traditional therapy. I am Board Certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health for the past 19 years. I am familiar with mental health medications as well as various counseling techniques. In addition to my education as a Nurse Practitioner, I have a master's degree in counseling psychology.
I am an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner based in Florida. I do medication management, equine therapy and traditional therapy. I am Board Certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health for the past 19 years. I am familiar with mental health medications as well as various counseling techniques. In addition to my education as a Nurse Practitioner, I have a master's degree in counseling psychology.
![Photo of Therese J Calabrese, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13d38686-b2f5-4a70-8e15-3b64025567c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therese J Calabrese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
![Photo of Kristen Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8c4e6c6-9bc0-4e84-a4a6-5ce0239acac1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Clarity Mental Health in Panama City, FL. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also treat Opiate addiction with the use of Suboxone.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Clarity Mental Health in Panama City, FL. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also treat Opiate addiction with the use of Suboxone.
![Photo of Sandra Denise Percy-Smith - MindRest Psychiatry and Mental Health Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a68db7c9-f882-44e2-9968-e4350e0606a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
MindRest Psychiatry and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32401
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD or behavioral problems? Are you motivated to improve your mental wellbeing, and open to therapy and medication options if necessary? Are you looking for a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your feelings, thoughts and experiences; to develop coping strategies, and work towards improved emotional stability and overall life satisfaction?
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD or behavioral problems? Are you motivated to improve your mental wellbeing, and open to therapy and medication options if necessary? Are you looking for a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your feelings, thoughts and experiences; to develop coping strategies, and work towards improved emotional stability and overall life satisfaction?
![Photo of Kimberly Murphy, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a61e718-8b99-456d-8d91-88085909b5b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Kimberly Murphy and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe there is no true benefit to the traditional fast-paced outpatient psychiatric environment and feel a patient care model should give more input to the treatment care plan where it belongs...the patient. If you choose to join me at Essential Grace Mental Health Services, LLC, you will find that I provide a compassionate and evidence-based treatment approach to help patients manage their mental health. You will also find I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life.
My name is Kimberly Murphy and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe there is no true benefit to the traditional fast-paced outpatient psychiatric environment and feel a patient care model should give more input to the treatment care plan where it belongs...the patient. If you choose to join me at Essential Grace Mental Health Services, LLC, you will find that I provide a compassionate and evidence-based treatment approach to help patients manage their mental health. You will also find I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Kayla Roberts - Kayla Roberts, PMHNP, Green Wave Family Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d43c1b27-6b5f-4701-b4b3-8df30b630638/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Roberts, PMHNP, Green Wave Family Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32401
My ideal client is someone who is serious about improving their mental health. Together, we work to come up with a treatment plan that is based on their individual needs. The goal is to help the client reach and maintain optimum functioning.
My ideal client is someone who is serious about improving their mental health. Together, we work to come up with a treatment plan that is based on their individual needs. The goal is to help the client reach and maintain optimum functioning.
See more therapy options for Crestview
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Crestview, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Crestview, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Eating Disorders |
75% | Grief |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Crestview, FL see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Crestview?
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.