Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY

Photo of Summyji Groom, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
(502) 673-1568 View (502) 673-1568
Photo of Patricia Estes, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Estes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
(502) 563-1286 View (502) 563-1286
Photo of Teresa Ament, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Ament
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
(502) 547-7877 View (502) 547-7877
Photo of Erica Cecil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Cecil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207  (Online Only)
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
(502) 409-6993 View (502) 409-6993
Photo of Autumn Shutt, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Autumn Shutt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
(502) 236-5432 View (502) 236-5432
Photo of Elizabeth Smoot, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Smoot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
(502) 706-3997 View (502) 706-3997
Photo of Elizabeth Crowe, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Crowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
I'm all about creating a space where you feel heard and supported, free from judgment. I've been in the healthcare field for over 17 years. My focus is on building a real connection with my patients – a therapeutic relationship that goes beyond just diagnoses and treatments. Compassionate care is at the core of what I do. So, if you're looking for someone who's been around, understands the challenges, and genuinely cares, I'm here for you. Let's work together! Schedule online at Inclusionmentalhealth.com.
I'm all about creating a space where you feel heard and supported, free from judgment. I've been in the healthcare field for over 17 years. My focus is on building a real connection with my patients – a therapeutic relationship that goes beyond just diagnoses and treatments. Compassionate care is at the core of what I do. So, if you're looking for someone who's been around, understands the challenges, and genuinely cares, I'm here for you. Let's work together! Schedule online at Inclusionmentalhealth.com.
(502) 673-1320 View (502) 673-1320
Photo of Markquetta Winston - CareAngel Mental Health and Wellness , DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CareAngel Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218  (Online Only)
I am a certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over twenty years experience in the nursing field. I hold a Doctorate degree in Nursing with a specialization in psychiatric-mental health and am licensed to provide mental health assessments, diagnoses, and treatment to individuals across the lifespan. I have a passion for helping individuals struggling with mental health disorders, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, incorporating medication management, therapy, and lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal outcomes for my patients.
I am a certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over twenty years experience in the nursing field. I hold a Doctorate degree in Nursing with a specialization in psychiatric-mental health and am licensed to provide mental health assessments, diagnoses, and treatment to individuals across the lifespan. I have a passion for helping individuals struggling with mental health disorders, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, incorporating medication management, therapy, and lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal outcomes for my patients.
(502) 461-1273 View (502) 461-1273
Photo of Chimdiya Osisioma - Now Taking New Patients, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chimdiya Osisioma - Now Taking New Patients
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40218
Hello, I'm Chimdiya, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a robust history of assisting adults in managing mood disorders and various mental health challenges. Are you feeling fatigued from pursuing numerous treatments that have failed to provide enduring relief? Do you find yourself grappling with a diminished sense of control over your mental well-being? I invite you to collaborate with me in breaking these recurrent patterns and seeking sustainable solutions. Together, we will delve into the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and formulate comprehensive treatments.
Hello, I'm Chimdiya, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a robust history of assisting adults in managing mood disorders and various mental health challenges. Are you feeling fatigued from pursuing numerous treatments that have failed to provide enduring relief? Do you find yourself grappling with a diminished sense of control over your mental well-being? I invite you to collaborate with me in breaking these recurrent patterns and seeking sustainable solutions. Together, we will delve into the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms, assess any co-occurring conditions, and formulate comprehensive treatments.
(502) 771-8831 View (502) 771-8831
Photo of Brian T Briscoe, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian T Briscoe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Are you a Christian looking for help? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Having mood swings or anxious thoughts? Unable to focus? In a 'dark place' and unable to pull yourself out? Been diagnosed with Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD, ... or just wondering if you might be struggling with a medical or psychological issue?
Are you a Christian looking for help? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Having mood swings or anxious thoughts? Unable to focus? In a 'dark place' and unable to pull yourself out? Been diagnosed with Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD, ... or just wondering if you might be struggling with a medical or psychological issue?
(502) 289-0649 View (502) 289-0649
Photo of Maryl Smith, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryl Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
(502) 837-9016 View (502) 837-9016
Photo of Ora Frankel - The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care, MD, Psychiatrist
The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
(502) 514-0497 View (502) 514-0497
Photo of Jessica Eckhoff - Sage Mental Health , PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sage Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
Our goal at Sage is for you, the patient, to be well and healthy. We promote both an encouraging and healing environment where we will assist (and promote!) your goals and be here for you each step of the way.
Our goal at Sage is for you, the patient, to be well and healthy. We promote both an encouraging and healing environment where we will assist (and promote!) your goals and be here for you each step of the way.
(502) 273-0496 View (502) 273-0496
Photo of Morgan Smither, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morgan Smither
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
(502) 317-0567 View (502) 317-0567
Photo of Katie Norris - Full Circle Psychiatry    Katie Norris, APRN , RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40228
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 14 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical marijuana prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 14 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical marijuana prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
(502) 628-4079 View (502) 628-4079
Photo of Courtney Albers, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Courtney Albers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40291  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, or the lingering effects of past relationship trauma? Despite your ambition and achievements, the weight of anxiety, perfectionism, and self-doubt still hold you back. You may find yourself replaying painful past experiences, feeling as though you'll never be enough. I understand how frustrating and disheartening it can be when, despite all your efforts, you’re still not thriving the way you know you could.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, or the lingering effects of past relationship trauma? Despite your ambition and achievements, the weight of anxiety, perfectionism, and self-doubt still hold you back. You may find yourself replaying painful past experiences, feeling as though you'll never be enough. I understand how frustrating and disheartening it can be when, despite all your efforts, you’re still not thriving the way you know you could.
(502) 233-1237 View (502) 233-1237
Photo of Danielle Bass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40229  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
(502) 306-0293 View (502) 306-0293
Photo of Dr. Sarah Parsons, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sarah Parsons
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Hello - I am Sarah Parsons DO – a Kentucky based, Christian, triple boarded psychiatrist dedicated to helping others. I offer in-person and tele-psychiatry appointments for patients in KY, IN, and AL. I was born and raised in Lexington, Ky and attended Centre College and Pikeville University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed residency in Psychiatry & Neurology at ETSU, in Johnson City, TN. I then completed fellowship in Consult Liaison Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH, specializing in women’s mental health, transplant psychiatry, HIV psychiatry, psychodermatology, psychooncology, and ICU psychiatry.
Hello - I am Sarah Parsons DO – a Kentucky based, Christian, triple boarded psychiatrist dedicated to helping others. I offer in-person and tele-psychiatry appointments for patients in KY, IN, and AL. I was born and raised in Lexington, Ky and attended Centre College and Pikeville University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed residency in Psychiatry & Neurology at ETSU, in Johnson City, TN. I then completed fellowship in Consult Liaison Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH, specializing in women’s mental health, transplant psychiatry, HIV psychiatry, psychodermatology, psychooncology, and ICU psychiatry.
(502) 383-5942 View (502) 383-5942
Photo of Kurt Kristiansen, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
(502) 281-0323 View (502) 281-0323
Photo of Karen LaFlair, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen LaFlair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40299  (Online Only)
My job is to empower my patients through education, collaborative decision-making, and fostering a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and well being. Whether you're navigating mood disorders, anxiety or trauma, I offer more than just pills, but a partnership in your journey to optimize your mental health. Together, we can explore personalized strategies to enhance your resilience and quality of life. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate lasting mental wellness through comprehensive psychiatric care and the integration of your mind and body.
My job is to empower my patients through education, collaborative decision-making, and fostering a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and well being. Whether you're navigating mood disorders, anxiety or trauma, I offer more than just pills, but a partnership in your journey to optimize your mental health. Together, we can explore personalized strategies to enhance your resilience and quality of life. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate lasting mental wellness through comprehensive psychiatric care and the integration of your mind and body.
(859) 470-3708 View (859) 470-3708
1

See more therapy options for Louisville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
82% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% ADHD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Louisville?

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.