Psychiatrists in Mililani, HI

Photo of Ashley A. Renea, DNP, MSN/MEd, APRN-RX, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley A. Renea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/MEd, APRN-RX, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mililani, HI 96789  (Online Only)
Aloha! I am a Doctorally-prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and provide both psychotherapy and medication management across the lifespan. Every session is tailored to each client's needs. I will meet you where you are and support you every step of the way. I could not have made it to where I am today without those who have helped me. I want to help you live life with more abundance and purpose. Please note I am not currently taking new therapy patients nor do I prescribe controlled substances. These include, but are not limited to: Adderall, Concerta, Vyvanse, etc. (stimulants) or Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, etc. (benzodiazepines)
Aloha! I am a Doctorally-prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and provide both psychotherapy and medication management across the lifespan. Every session is tailored to each client's needs. I will meet you where you are and support you every step of the way. I could not have made it to where I am today without those who have helped me. I want to help you live life with more abundance and purpose. Please note I am not currently taking new therapy patients nor do I prescribe controlled substances. These include, but are not limited to: Adderall, Concerta, Vyvanse, etc. (stimulants) or Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, etc. (benzodiazepines)
(808) 435-7822 View (808) 435-7822
Photo of Dana Monday, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Monday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Mililani, HI 96789  (Online Only)
I am Dana Monday, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adults with a wide range of psychiatric concerns. Some areas where my experience and expertise shine brightest are in the peripartum period and with integrative and functional approaches to mental health.
I am Dana Monday, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adults with a wide range of psychiatric concerns. Some areas where my experience and expertise shine brightest are in the peripartum period and with integrative and functional approaches to mental health.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Jeffrey Wright Bayless, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeffrey Wright Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mililani, HI 96789  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
(208) 675-9338 View (208) 675-9338

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Hyesu Shin, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hyesu Shin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearl City, HI 96782
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
Aloha! I am Hyesu(HEY-SU), Board Certified in Psychiatry and Family Health NP in Hawaii. With over 10 years of dedicated practice, I’ve gained diverse experience, serving the underprivileged population in the Bronx, NY to Medicare Kapuna in Hawaii. I aspire to be an advocate and reduce the stigma surrounding Psychiatry. My goal is to contribute to my community by promoting serene and contented mental health, helping individuals achieve their goals, and fostering meaningful life experiences.
(808) 393-6566 View (808) 393-6566
Photo of Dr. Jay Nichols, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jay Nichols
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kapolei, HI 96707  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, I invite you to take the first step towards a brighter future! I specialize in helping professionals who are experiencing burnout in their careers due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and have extensive experience working with professionals such as CEO’s, lawyers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to find renewed balance and reconnect with purpose in their lives. I also have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community who might be struggling with sexual identity and are ready to start experiencing their true authentic life.
(808) 736-5912 View (808) 736-5912
Photo of Colleen Sanders Alford, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-Rx, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Colleen Sanders Alford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-Rx, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96818
Aloha! I am a holistic and integrative psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I promote well-being through prevention and education, in addition to assessment, diagnosis, care, and treatment of mental health and substance use disorders. I provide medication management and supportive therapy throughout all of life’s stages. I take time to build the therapeutic relationship, becoming familiar with your story and challenges in order to better understand and support you. My focus is on helping patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders, and postpartum depression.
Aloha! I am a holistic and integrative psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I promote well-being through prevention and education, in addition to assessment, diagnosis, care, and treatment of mental health and substance use disorders. I provide medication management and supportive therapy throughout all of life’s stages. I take time to build the therapeutic relationship, becoming familiar with your story and challenges in order to better understand and support you. My focus is on helping patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders, and postpartum depression.
(808) 481-5584 View (808) 481-5584
Photo of Kourtney Tapnio - Ohana Holistic Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ohana Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kapolei, HI 96707
October 2024, Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I'm Kourtney Tapnio, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep-seated commitment to providing holistic and empathetic care in the realm of mental health. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in devising comprehensive treatment plans that address the individual needs of my patients, ensuring a balanced approach to mental wellness. My practice is built on the cornerstone of compassion and the relentless pursuit of understanding the unique challenges faced by each person I have the privilege to work with.
October 2024, Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I'm Kourtney Tapnio, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep-seated commitment to providing holistic and empathetic care in the realm of mental health. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in devising comprehensive treatment plans that address the individual needs of my patients, ensuring a balanced approach to mental wellness. My practice is built on the cornerstone of compassion and the relentless pursuit of understanding the unique challenges faced by each person I have the privilege to work with.
(346) 239-8809 View (346) 239-8809
Photo of Dr. Tracy Ingram, DNP, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tracy Ingram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-Rx, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aiea, HI 96701  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is on understanding and meeting the unique needs of each client. I believe that every individual has the potential to achieve a fulfilling and balanced life, and my goal is to support this journey through personalized care. By combining medication management, supportive therapies, and lifestyle modifications, I create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each client’s specific circumstances. What sets me apart is my holistic and collaborative approach. I take the time to listen and understand the physical, spiritual, cultural, and emotional aspects of my clients' lives.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is on understanding and meeting the unique needs of each client. I believe that every individual has the potential to achieve a fulfilling and balanced life, and my goal is to support this journey through personalized care. By combining medication management, supportive therapies, and lifestyle modifications, I create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each client’s specific circumstances. What sets me apart is my holistic and collaborative approach. I take the time to listen and understand the physical, spiritual, cultural, and emotional aspects of my clients' lives.
(808) 515-3405 View (808) 515-3405
Photo of Henry Lou-Goode - SynCare Behavioral Health, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SynCare Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pearl City, HI 96782
Have you been spending some time in psychotherapy and wondering if medication might help with your progress and wellbeing? Have you recently moved and needed an expert to continue your psychiatric care? Do you feel that your psychiatric provider is not listening to you or rushing through your appointments? Aloha! my name is Henry and I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I invite you to schedule an appointment with me to discuss whether I could be of help with your journey to your best self.
Have you been spending some time in psychotherapy and wondering if medication might help with your progress and wellbeing? Have you recently moved and needed an expert to continue your psychiatric care? Do you feel that your psychiatric provider is not listening to you or rushing through your appointments? Aloha! my name is Henry and I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I invite you to schedule an appointment with me to discuss whether I could be of help with your journey to your best self.
View
Photo of Christa DeGrazia, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christa DeGrazia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96818  (Online Only)
Aloha, I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women’s Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families who are experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges, developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I embrace diversity and am honored to help others find answers, healing and hope. Passionate about the mind-body connection, I believe in addressing the underlying causes of mental health issues and helping individuals to find the right medications for their unique body.
Aloha, I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Women’s Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience working within diverse clinical settings. I have partnered with individuals and families who are experiencing a myriad of mental and physical challenges, developing deep empathy for the human experience in all of its complexity. I embrace diversity and am honored to help others find answers, healing and hope. Passionate about the mind-body connection, I believe in addressing the underlying causes of mental health issues and helping individuals to find the right medications for their unique body.
(808) 736-5083 View (808) 736-5083
Photo of Shanea McDaniel, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shanea McDaniel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
Shanea is a highly motivated board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has 16+ years of clinical nursing experience. She specializes in treating adolescents and adults with mild to moderate mental health conditions. As a nurse practitioner she can diagnose and treat many mental health disorders in hopes of producing the best possible outcomes. Telehealth appointments are available in Florida, New Mexico, New Hampshire, Washington, Georgia, Hawaii, Arizona and Kansas. Make an appointment today.
Shanea is a highly motivated board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has 16+ years of clinical nursing experience. She specializes in treating adolescents and adults with mild to moderate mental health conditions. As a nurse practitioner she can diagnose and treat many mental health disorders in hopes of producing the best possible outcomes. Telehealth appointments are available in Florida, New Mexico, New Hampshire, Washington, Georgia, Hawaii, Arizona and Kansas. Make an appointment today.
(470) 634-5922 View (470) 634-5922
Photo of Soonja Tyrrell, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Soonja Tyrrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Waipahu, HI 96797
Now accepting new clients. Medication management appts available in as soon as one week. Let's work together to see how we can best meet your mental wellness needs.
Now accepting new clients. Medication management appts available in as soon as one week. Let's work together to see how we can best meet your mental wellness needs.
(808) 201-0594 View (808) 201-0594
Photo of Bradley Kuo, DNP, MEd, FNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bradley Kuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MEd, FNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
Looking for someone to work with who is compassionate, puts you at ease, and does not pass judgement? We will collaborate to develop an individualized plan facilitating stability and further growth and development. This includes medication management, therapy, and lifestyle modifications. We will work together to assess your goals, consider the best approaches to meet them, and continue to find ways to improve yourself, relationships, work, and overall life. We can work in a fluid and flexible fashion to enhance your life. If you already work with a therapist, we would be happy to assist with medication management.
Looking for someone to work with who is compassionate, puts you at ease, and does not pass judgement? We will collaborate to develop an individualized plan facilitating stability and further growth and development. This includes medication management, therapy, and lifestyle modifications. We will work together to assess your goals, consider the best approaches to meet them, and continue to find ways to improve yourself, relationships, work, and overall life. We can work in a fluid and flexible fashion to enhance your life. If you already work with a therapist, we would be happy to assist with medication management.
(808) 638-3661 View (808) 638-3661
Photo of Eric Alarcon - Mind Wellness Hawaii, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric Alarcon - Mind Wellness Hawaii
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96709
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.
(808) 378-7153 View (808) 378-7153
Photo of Shameca Hudson, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shameca Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707  (Online Only)
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..
(808) 746-8806 View (808) 746-8806

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of George Mackel - Ohanapsych, MSN, APRN-RX, NP-C, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George Mackel - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-RX, NP-C, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817  (Online Only)
After 38 years of nursing experience, George completed advanced training at North Georgia College and State University where he earned a Master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. George worked for several years with indigenous people on the Cherokee Indian reservation where he found a calling to help people with mental health and addiction issues. He completed a Post-Master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at East Carolina University and a certification as a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice.
After 38 years of nursing experience, George completed advanced training at North Georgia College and State University where he earned a Master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. George worked for several years with indigenous people on the Cherokee Indian reservation where he found a calling to help people with mental health and addiction issues. He completed a Post-Master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at East Carolina University and a certification as a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice.
(808) 755-3906 View (808) 755-3906
Photo of Allison Sikorsky - AtYourServicePsychiatry.com, PMHNP, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
AtYourServicePsychiatry.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
To see available times and schedule an appointment, go online to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com; there's no need to call an office. 100% online visits, with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer via Zoom. With decades of healthcare experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and more.
To see available times and schedule an appointment, go online to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com; there's no need to call an office. 100% online visits, with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer via Zoom. With decades of healthcare experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and more.
Photo of Demetra E Adams - Mental Health Wellness LLC, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814
Many of our clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or intrusive thoughts. Our clients need a listening ear and a genuine concern for the issues that affect their daily lives. Our goal is to help our clients regain control of their lives, manage their personal and professional relationships, and continue to grow into the best version of themselves.
Many of our clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or intrusive thoughts. Our clients need a listening ear and a genuine concern for the issues that affect their daily lives. Our goal is to help our clients regain control of their lives, manage their personal and professional relationships, and continue to grow into the best version of themselves.
(808) 736-0495 View (808) 736-0495
Photo of Tara Knight - Ohanapsych, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tara Knight - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
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.
(808) 378-7113 View (808) 378-7113
Photo of LaShaun Perry - Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness , APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Body Connection Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! Most Major Insurances Accepted Our Clinic offers General and Integrative Psychiatry. We offer consultations and treatment planning, to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing; With medications prescribed and supplements recommended. Every part of us is intricately connected, both to the world within and outside us. True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes the whole human ecosystem into consideration. Our principle underlies a combination of evidence based and integrative medicine and is the foundation of the work we do in our clinic.
(520) 412-7420 View (520) 412-7420

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Mililani, HI

< 10

Psychiatrists in Mililani, HI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Mililani, HI see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Mililani?

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.