Psychiatrists in Frankfort, KY

Photo of Sooksai Kaewbua - New Horizons Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
New Horizons Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
New Horizons Psychiatry is a private, outpatient, mental-health practice that offers evidence-based and patient-centered mental-health care in a private, discrete, and convenient setting in downtown Frankfort. I will see psychiatric mental-health clients of all ages for evaluation and medication management. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages, including veterans and police officers. I have helped clients with depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, etc. My training has prepared me to understand the relationship between physical and mental health. Now accepting new clients!
New Horizons Psychiatry is a private, outpatient, mental-health practice that offers evidence-based and patient-centered mental-health care in a private, discrete, and convenient setting in downtown Frankfort. I will see psychiatric mental-health clients of all ages for evaluation and medication management. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages, including veterans and police officers. I have helped clients with depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, etc. My training has prepared me to understand the relationship between physical and mental health. Now accepting new clients!
(502) 289-5809 View (502) 289-5809
Photo of Christina Cotton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Christina Cotton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Frankfort, KY 40601
Christina specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma — conditions that often carry a heavy emotional and physical burden. She understands how these concerns can disrupt relationships, work, and personal well-being, and works alongside her patients to ease symptoms and promote emotional resilience. For those seeking a faith-based approach, Christina is pleased to incorporate Christian principles into care, offering a meaningful, integrated treatment experience when desired.
Christina specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma — conditions that often carry a heavy emotional and physical burden. She understands how these concerns can disrupt relationships, work, and personal well-being, and works alongside her patients to ease symptoms and promote emotional resilience. For those seeking a faith-based approach, Christina is pleased to incorporate Christian principles into care, offering a meaningful, integrated treatment experience when desired.
(502) 289-5675 View (502) 289-5675
Photo of Andrea L Semones - Compass Medical Group, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Compass Medical Group, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hello! I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters degree from the University of South Alabama and have over 14 years of experience in my field. I provide medication management in a peaceful, relaxing office space or via telehealth if the patient prefers. I also utilize several tools to help pinpoint your diagnosis to maximize treatment success! Private and secure Telehealth services are a special focus for me and Telehealth is currently the best option to observe health and safety guidelines and pairs perfectly with mental health treatment if preferred.
Hello! I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters degree from the University of South Alabama and have over 14 years of experience in my field. I provide medication management in a peaceful, relaxing office space or via telehealth if the patient prefers. I also utilize several tools to help pinpoint your diagnosis to maximize treatment success! Private and secure Telehealth services are a special focus for me and Telehealth is currently the best option to observe health and safety guidelines and pairs perfectly with mental health treatment if preferred.
(502) 237-4635 View (502) 237-4635
Photo of Shirley Beth Hicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shirley Beth Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Frankfort, KY 40601
Beth Hicks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Beth always shows clients empathy for what they've been through and shows personal interest in their care. She builds a good rapport that is healthy and caring. Outside of work, Beth loves yoga, cooking new recipes, traveling, and reading.
Beth Hicks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Beth always shows clients empathy for what they've been through and shows personal interest in their care. She builds a good rapport that is healthy and caring. Outside of work, Beth loves yoga, cooking new recipes, traveling, and reading.
(502) 317-0399 View (502) 317-0399
Photo of Ramesh Ghanta, Psychiatrist, MD
Ramesh Ghanta
Psychiatrist, MD
Frankfort, KY 40601
Dr. Ramesh Ghanta is a dedicated psychiatrist providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout Kentucky. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, he specializes in treating alcohol and drug use issues, bipolar disorder, and depression. His goal is to help individuals regain stability, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve long-term recovery through personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Dr. Ghanta has extensive experience supporting individuals who have recently been discharged from psychiatric hospitals.
Dr. Ramesh Ghanta is a dedicated psychiatrist providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout Kentucky. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, he specializes in treating alcohol and drug use issues, bipolar disorder, and depression. His goal is to help individuals regain stability, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve long-term recovery through personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Dr. Ghanta has extensive experience supporting individuals who have recently been discharged from psychiatric hospitals.
(502) 427-7778 View (502) 427-7778
Photo of Holly Gray, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Holly Gray
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
(502) 754-3938 View (502) 754-3938
Photo of Ashley Staten - Brightside Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(502) 401-1872 View (502) 401-1872
Photo of Dr. Cynthia Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Dr. Cynthia Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Cynthia is especially passionate about supporting individuals navigating ADHD, grief, and depression, with a particular emphasis on adolescent sexual health and behavior. She offers thoughtful, developmentally appropriate care to young people and families, helping them process emotions, improve communication, and build confidence in the face of life’s transitions. Her commitment to adolescent wellness is reflected in her advocacy and community education efforts, ensuring youth have access to both clinical support and trusted guidance.
Cynthia is especially passionate about supporting individuals navigating ADHD, grief, and depression, with a particular emphasis on adolescent sexual health and behavior. She offers thoughtful, developmentally appropriate care to young people and families, helping them process emotions, improve communication, and build confidence in the face of life’s transitions. Her commitment to adolescent wellness is reflected in her advocacy and community education efforts, ensuring youth have access to both clinical support and trusted guidance.
(502) 427-1482 View (502) 427-1482
Photo of Kristen Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristen Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Frankfort, KY 40601
Kristen Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Kristen implements caring and compassion to her patients. She listens to their needs and uses clinical judgement to best help them. Kristen truly loves what she does, and helping people is a passion of hers. Outside of work, Kristen like to run; she has completed a few half marathons before. She loves spending time with her family and husband and their 12yearold pitbull.
Kristen Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Kristen implements caring and compassion to her patients. She listens to their needs and uses clinical judgement to best help them. Kristen truly loves what she does, and helping people is a passion of hers. Outside of work, Kristen like to run; she has completed a few half marathons before. She loves spending time with her family and husband and their 12yearold pitbull.
(502) 427-1544 View (502) 427-1544
Photo of Rebecca O'Hair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Rebecca O'Hair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Frankfort, KY 40601
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
(502) 369-0510 View (502) 369-0510
Photo of Dr. Ramesh Ghanta - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Frankfort, KY 40601
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(502) 385-3757 View (502) 385-3757
Photo of Lauren M Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP
Lauren M Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP
Frankfort, KY 40601
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
(502) 352-2208 View (502) 352-2208
Photo of Tiffiney Burchett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffiney Burchett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
(859) 328-6931 View (859) 328-6931
Photo of Dr. Sukh Dev Singh Khalsa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Dr. Sukh Dev Singh Khalsa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Khalsa Psychiatric Services: A Nursing Corporation I am are honored to support Kentuckians with compassionate, personalized mental health care. I know seeking help can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone. Our goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where you feel supported and heard. With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and tailored treatment plans for issues like anxiety, depression, and more. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I combine evidence-based care with genuine compassion.
At Khalsa Psychiatric Services: A Nursing Corporation I am are honored to support Kentuckians with compassionate, personalized mental health care. I know seeking help can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone. Our goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where you feel supported and heard. With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and tailored treatment plans for issues like anxiety, depression, and more. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I combine evidence-based care with genuine compassion.
(502) 306-3849 View (502) 306-3849
Photo of Tina Shelton-Coomer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina Shelton-Coomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
(859) 648-3035 View (859) 648-3035
Photo of Angel Opara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angel Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
(859) 712-1041 View (859) 712-1041
Photo of Magdalen Mekoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Magdalen Mekoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
(859) 459-0798 View (859) 459-0798
Photo of Lori Henson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lori Henson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Lori Henson, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been a psych. nurse practitioner for over 10 yrs. and have worked for many different patient populations. I have worked with children's thru adults with all types of mental health disorders. I have also worked in addiction medicine. I have a passion for treating chronic mental illness, mood disorders, and PTSD. I have a patient centered approach to care. I am an active listener and get to know psychosocial situations for each patient that effect each patient to improve outcomes.
My name is Lori Henson, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been a psych. nurse practitioner for over 10 yrs. and have worked for many different patient populations. I have worked with children's thru adults with all types of mental health disorders. I have also worked in addiction medicine. I have a passion for treating chronic mental illness, mood disorders, and PTSD. I have a patient centered approach to care. I am an active listener and get to know psychosocial situations for each patient that effect each patient to improve outcomes.
(859) 295-6862 View (859) 295-6862
Photo of Elizabeth Templeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Elizabeth Templeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
(859) 340-8958 View (859) 340-8958
Photo of Sarah Thomas - Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
(502) 791-9800 View (502) 791-9800

See more therapy options for Frankfort

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Frankfort, KY

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Frankfort, KY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
96% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
82% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
54% Psychosis

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
92% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Frankfort, KY see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Frankfort?

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.