Psychiatrists in Hilo, HI

Dr. Shameca Hudson is a Board Certified - Family and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience treating adults, children, and families with mental illness. She takes an integrative and individualized approach to care. She is interested in culture and its impact on mental health..
Dr. Shameca Hudson is a Board Certified - Family and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience treating adults, children, and families with mental illness. She takes an integrative and individualized approach to care. She is interested in culture and its impact on mental health..

Horizon Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Think of our sessions as a private retreat for your mind—intentional, focused, and created to support your personal journey. We’re here to offer care that feels thoughtful, gentle, and aligned with what you need most. Whether you're navigating stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, ADHD, or sleep challenges, we’re here to help you feel more balanced, focused, and connected.
Our clients come from all walks of life—busy professionals, students, caregivers, creatives, and those simply ready to feel better. Many clients want care that’s convenient, effective, and built around their lifestyle.
Think of our sessions as a private retreat for your mind—intentional, focused, and created to support your personal journey. We’re here to offer care that feels thoughtful, gentle, and aligned with what you need most. Whether you're navigating stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, ADHD, or sleep challenges, we’re here to help you feel more balanced, focused, and connected.
Our clients come from all walks of life—busy professionals, students, caregivers, creatives, and those simply ready to feel better. Many clients want care that’s convenient, effective, and built around their lifestyle.

Ann Cox Orchid Isle Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Practicing in Colorado and Hawaii via Telehealth. Dr. Cox has over 40 years experience in healthcare and is dual board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has a vision to build a healthy community of individuals and families in Colorado and the Big Island of Hawaii. By providing compassionate patient-centered care to clients across the life span, her focus is a holistic approach to your treatment plan. Psychotherapy is also provided as part of our services with the primary focus on Medication Management.
Practicing in Colorado and Hawaii via Telehealth. Dr. Cox has over 40 years experience in healthcare and is dual board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has a vision to build a healthy community of individuals and families in Colorado and the Big Island of Hawaii. By providing compassionate patient-centered care to clients across the life span, her focus is a holistic approach to your treatment plan. Psychotherapy is also provided as part of our services with the primary focus on Medication Management.

I'm Annika Alvarez, a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate care for adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia. I believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the strong connection between mental and physical health. I'm here to support your journey to a healthier, happier you.
I'm Annika Alvarez, a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate care for adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia. I believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the strong connection between mental and physical health. I'm here to support your journey to a healthier, happier you.

I’m a board-certified psychiatrist with additional certification in addiction medicine. I offer assessment and treatment via telemedicine for adults anywhere in Hawaii, including psychotherapies grounded in modern behavioral science as well as prescribing medications.
I’m a board-certified psychiatrist with additional certification in addiction medicine. I offer assessment and treatment via telemedicine for adults anywhere in Hawaii, including psychotherapies grounded in modern behavioral science as well as prescribing medications.

April Ann Shintani Kua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, CARNAP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Aloha,
As the founder of Kua Mana'o Kokua, I am committed to helping clients with their struggles with addiction, cravings, cessation, or simply cutting back some. Specializing in both addiction and psychiatry allows me to treat mental ailments associated with substance use. If substance use is not an issue for you, then come and see me for weight management, ADHD, Mood disorders, Psychoses, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Medical Marijuana, or simply Talk Story.
Aloha,
As the founder of Kua Mana'o Kokua, I am committed to helping clients with their struggles with addiction, cravings, cessation, or simply cutting back some. Specializing in both addiction and psychiatry allows me to treat mental ailments associated with substance use. If substance use is not an issue for you, then come and see me for weight management, ADHD, Mood disorders, Psychoses, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Medical Marijuana, or simply Talk Story.

Tara Knight - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.

My ideal client is someone who's motivated to improve their mental health. They're tired of being tormented by depression, suicidality, anxiety, insomnia, mania, psychosis, addictions, trauma, or a combination of these. Their goal is to experience less suffering in the form of symptom reduction and improved functioning and coping. They're in need of medication management and counseling, or they may be seeking ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) because other treatments failed, they're disillusioned with psychiatry, and/or they feel inadequately supported by ketamine providers that neglect the importance of psychedelic integration.
My ideal client is someone who's motivated to improve their mental health. They're tired of being tormented by depression, suicidality, anxiety, insomnia, mania, psychosis, addictions, trauma, or a combination of these. Their goal is to experience less suffering in the form of symptom reduction and improved functioning and coping. They're in need of medication management and counseling, or they may be seeking ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) because other treatments failed, they're disillusioned with psychiatry, and/or they feel inadequately supported by ketamine providers that neglect the importance of psychedelic integration.

Eric Alarcon - Mind Wellness Hawaii
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
There are times when it seems like the world is going against you and that nothing seems to work regardless of how hard you try. You do not have to do this alone. Seeking help in mental health is the first step in getting your life back on track and living to your fullest.
There are times when it seems like the world is going against you and that nothing seems to work regardless of how hard you try. You do not have to do this alone. Seeking help in mental health is the first step in getting your life back on track and living to your fullest.

Most patients are suffering from burnout, stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mental health disorders. They want to return to a manageable life with a convenient, thorough, personalized treatment plan.
Most patients are suffering from burnout, stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mental health disorders. They want to return to a manageable life with a convenient, thorough, personalized treatment plan.

Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Marquita Granda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Aloha kākou. I am dually certified as a psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. I see emotional, physical, mental and spiritual health as interdependent and while I emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle and social connection, I understand that psychotropic medications can serve an important role in facilitating mental wellness and in treating chemical dependency.
Aloha kākou. I am dually certified as a psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. I see emotional, physical, mental and spiritual health as interdependent and while I emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle and social connection, I understand that psychotropic medications can serve an important role in facilitating mental wellness and in treating chemical dependency.
Online Psychiatrists

I am passionate about behavioral health- both personally and professionally. My superpower is building relationships and using empathy to meet with clients where they are. I believe medication management is part of a three-legged stool. When paired with therapy and self-care the most optimal outcomes can be achieved and the stool will be balanced.
I am passionate about behavioral health- both personally and professionally. My superpower is building relationships and using empathy to meet with clients where they are. I believe medication management is part of a three-legged stool. When paired with therapy and self-care the most optimal outcomes can be achieved and the stool will be balanced.

Pacific Academy of the Healing Arts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Elizabeth (Liz) Bush has practiced mental health nursing on the Big Island since 1999 and trains substance abuse counselors in her spare time. She has also served as a mental health provider in the immediate vicinity of the September 11th tragedy and has worked with Combat Veterans, Native American tribes and Pacific Islanders, as well as in East coast inner cities.
Elizabeth (Liz) Bush has practiced mental health nursing on the Big Island since 1999 and trains substance abuse counselors in her spare time. She has also served as a mental health provider in the immediate vicinity of the September 11th tragedy and has worked with Combat Veterans, Native American tribes and Pacific Islanders, as well as in East coast inner cities.

The role of the PMHNP is to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of clients. PMHNPs provide therapy and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders or substance abuse problems.
The role of the PMHNP is to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of clients. PMHNPs provide therapy and prescribe medications for patients who have mental health disorders or substance abuse problems.

Christina Gaspar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96745
As a dedicated dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-C), I understand the immense challenges that individuals face when navigating their mental health journeys. Often, many feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or trauma, and navigating the health system. I am here to walk alongside you, providing a safe and compassionate space.
As a dedicated dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-C), I understand the immense challenges that individuals face when navigating their mental health journeys. Often, many feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or trauma, and navigating the health system. I am here to walk alongside you, providing a safe and compassionate space.

I like to focus on how our environment, behaviors, and beliefs impact our experience with the world. I work to empower my clients to help them realize their goals.
I like to focus on how our environment, behaviors, and beliefs impact our experience with the world. I work to empower my clients to help them realize their goals.
See more therapy options for Hilo
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hilo, HI
10+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Hilo, HI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
92% | Anxiety |
92% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
78% | Hawaii Medical Services Association |
67% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Hilo, HI see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hilo?
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.