Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY

Photo of Christy Joy Ray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Christy Joy Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Nicholasville, KY 40356
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because I believe in the power of hope and the possibility of change. I choose to stand with those who are struggling, to offer knowledge, compassion, and skill. My journey is marked by the stories of those who have trusted me with their pain and triumph, and by the conviction that every individual deserves respect, dignity, and the chance to heal. The decision to pursue this path was shaped by personal experience, academic exploration, and professional commitment (over 20 years of combined nursing)—but above all, by a God-given calling to serve.
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because I believe in the power of hope and the possibility of change. I choose to stand with those who are struggling, to offer knowledge, compassion, and skill. My journey is marked by the stories of those who have trusted me with their pain and triumph, and by the conviction that every individual deserves respect, dignity, and the chance to heal. The decision to pursue this path was shaped by personal experience, academic exploration, and professional commitment (over 20 years of combined nursing)—but above all, by a God-given calling to serve.
(859) 681-9675 View (859) 681-9675
Photo of Stefanie D Shepherd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Stefanie D Shepherd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Nicholasville, KY 40356
I care for all patients young and old that are dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood issues, Sleep issues, and any other Mental Health needs to help them live their happiest and productive lives.
I care for all patients young and old that are dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood issues, Sleep issues, and any other Mental Health needs to help them live their happiest and productive lives.
(859) 423-1348 View (859) 423-1348
Photo of Angel Opara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Angel Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Angel is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Nigeria but has called Lexington her home since 2016. Angel attended midway university for her undergraduate studies in nursing. While in nursing school, she worked at Baptist health as a patient care technician. She found psychiatry particularly interesting and decided to become a psychiatric nurse at eastern state hospital where she has worked as a registered nurse for about four years now. Angel went on to pursue her MSN at Herzing University. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she is committed to providing compassionate, holistic an
Angel is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Nigeria but has called Lexington her home since 2016. Angel attended midway university for her undergraduate studies in nursing. While in nursing school, she worked at Baptist health as a patient care technician. She found psychiatry particularly interesting and decided to become a psychiatric nurse at eastern state hospital where she has worked as a registered nurse for about four years now. Angel went on to pursue her MSN at Herzing University. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she is committed to providing compassionate, holistic an
(859) 765-7479 View (859) 765-7479
Photo of Jill Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jill Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 25 years. I have practiced inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I am excited to be offering medication management telehealth. Psychiatry is my passion and I pride myself on my diagnosis and treatment skills, but also the commitment I have to provide my clients with devoted attention to their own specific treatment plan.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 25 years. I have practiced inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I am excited to be offering medication management telehealth. Psychiatry is my passion and I pride myself on my diagnosis and treatment skills, but also the commitment I have to provide my clients with devoted attention to their own specific treatment plan.
(859) 765-7522 View (859) 765-7522
Photo of Dr. Angela Durham, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Angela Durham
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
My ideal client comes to me with a specific concern that we can work together one on one to find a solution. Whether it be anxiety, panic attacks, depression, ADHD etc, Dr. Durham wants to help you overcome whatever is standing in your way of living your best life.
My ideal client comes to me with a specific concern that we can work together one on one to find a solution. Whether it be anxiety, panic attacks, depression, ADHD etc, Dr. Durham wants to help you overcome whatever is standing in your way of living your best life.
(859) 249-9613 View (859) 249-9613
Photo of Michael Sarten, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Michael Sarten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Serves Area
I have been working in Mental Health since 2011, first as an inpatient psychiatric RN and now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner in VA hospitals as a psychiatric consultation liaison and at VA community-based outpatient clinics. That’s just a fancy way of saying I have experience working as an inpatient and outpatient clinician. In addition, I have experience working in community mental health, mostly working with clients on Medicaid, many with substance abuse issues. As my well-rounded experience suggests, I respect and enjoy working with clients from all walks of life.
I have been working in Mental Health since 2011, first as an inpatient psychiatric RN and now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner in VA hospitals as a psychiatric consultation liaison and at VA community-based outpatient clinics. That’s just a fancy way of saying I have experience working as an inpatient and outpatient clinician. In addition, I have experience working in community mental health, mostly working with clients on Medicaid, many with substance abuse issues. As my well-rounded experience suggests, I respect and enjoy working with clients from all walks of life.
(502) 680-8389 View (502) 680-8389
Photo of Rebecca Feck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Rebecca Feck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
(859) 724-6024 View (859) 724-6024

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 Nicola Ann Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Nicola Ann Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 19 years of nursing experience in psychiatry. My training encompasses lifestyle modifications, mindfulness, and medication management, allowing me to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. I began my nursing journey by earning my Associate Degree in Nursing from Hazard Community and Technical College, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. I then completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Indiana Wesleyan University, further deepening my expertise in mental health care.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 19 years of nursing experience in psychiatry. My training encompasses lifestyle modifications, mindfulness, and medication management, allowing me to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. I began my nursing journey by earning my Associate Degree in Nursing from Hazard Community and Technical College, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. I then completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Indiana Wesleyan University, further deepening my expertise in mental health care.
(859) 927-6481 View (859) 927-6481
Photo of Jeffrey Tuttle, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey Tuttle
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, KY 40507
I am a licensed psychiatrist practicing psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I believe psychotherapy is an important but frequently overlooked treatment for many mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis help people address emotional problems and internal conflicts in order to increase self-understanding and freedom. Professional advice about personal issues or emotional concerns can be invaluable in confronting seeming roadblocks that prevent a person from experiencing a sense of emotional freedom. I treat older adolescents and adults.
I am a licensed psychiatrist practicing psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I believe psychotherapy is an important but frequently overlooked treatment for many mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis help people address emotional problems and internal conflicts in order to increase self-understanding and freedom. Professional advice about personal issues or emotional concerns can be invaluable in confronting seeming roadblocks that prevent a person from experiencing a sense of emotional freedom. I treat older adolescents and adults.
(859) 537-7332 View (859) 537-7332
Photo of Dr. Robert B Bentley III, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRNBC
Dr. Robert B Bentley III
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRNBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Affordable Kentucky Medicinal Cannabis Practitioner (Registered KY Provider PRAC000038) offering qualifying letters for patients diagnosed with PTSD. To maintain a Kentucky-required bona fide patient-provider relationship, monthly Brief Focused Therapy sessions and medication management visits are necessary. Initial Intake (required annually) – $215 Includes PTSD diagnosis confirmation by a mental health professional, baseline labs, consents, KASPER report, and treatment plan setup. Monthly Visit – $84.50 Includes a 15-minute Brief Focused Therapy session and a 10-15 minute Medicinal Cannabis Practitioner consultation.
Affordable Kentucky Medicinal Cannabis Practitioner (Registered KY Provider PRAC000038) offering qualifying letters for patients diagnosed with PTSD. To maintain a Kentucky-required bona fide patient-provider relationship, monthly Brief Focused Therapy sessions and medication management visits are necessary. Initial Intake (required annually) – $215 Includes PTSD diagnosis confirmation by a mental health professional, baseline labs, consents, KASPER report, and treatment plan setup. Monthly Visit – $84.50 Includes a 15-minute Brief Focused Therapy session and a 10-15 minute Medicinal Cannabis Practitioner consultation.
(606) 328-7612 View (606) 328-7612
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 Amy Snowden, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Amy Snowden
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Lexington, KY 40511
Amy Snowden is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master's of Science in Nursing with a focus in psychiatry. Amy's clinical career includes over 20 years of experience as a RN at inpatient hospitals, community mental health centers, and school-based settings. She enjoys working with children and adolescents and is certified to diagnose and treat all ages across the lifespan. Amy believes in providing compassionate, holistic and evidence-based care.
Amy Snowden is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master's of Science in Nursing with a focus in psychiatry. Amy's clinical career includes over 20 years of experience as a RN at inpatient hospitals, community mental health centers, and school-based settings. She enjoys working with children and adolescents and is certified to diagnose and treat all ages across the lifespan. Amy believes in providing compassionate, holistic and evidence-based care.
(502) 383-5167 View (502) 383-5167
Photo of Alicia Carlos, Psychiatrist, DO
Alicia Carlos
Psychiatrist, DO
Lexington, KY 40513
Understanding the unique challenges that children and adolescents face, Dr. Carlos utilizes evidencebased approaches to medication management tailored to each individual’s needs. Her goal is to empower her patients and their caregivers, fostering resilience and wellbeing. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Carlos is deeply passionate about working with populations such as those in adoption/foster care, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and those with developmental disabilities. She believes in providing inclusive and personalized care to each person she serves. Outside of her practice, Dr.
Understanding the unique challenges that children and adolescents face, Dr. Carlos utilizes evidencebased approaches to medication management tailored to each individual’s needs. Her goal is to empower her patients and their caregivers, fostering resilience and wellbeing. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Carlos is deeply passionate about working with populations such as those in adoption/foster care, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and those with developmental disabilities. She believes in providing inclusive and personalized care to each person she serves. Outside of her practice, Dr.
(859) 493-8993 View (859) 493-8993
Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Lexington, KY 40507
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a
(859) 217-4592 View (859) 217-4592
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 Nick Bischoff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Nick Bischoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I’m Nick. My approach with clients begins with the understanding that every individual is a unique expression of the divine. Using a blend of powerful therapeutic approaches and tools, I guide clients toward profound and meaningful transformation. Ketamine Assisted Therapy is one of these tools, offering a pathway to deep inner healing and rapid growth. This beautiful medicine can align you with your highest potential, fostering shifts that open doors to new possibilities. Together we will address the root cause of distress, reduce reliance on medications, and create space for deep healing and lasting growth.
I’m Nick. My approach with clients begins with the understanding that every individual is a unique expression of the divine. Using a blend of powerful therapeutic approaches and tools, I guide clients toward profound and meaningful transformation. Ketamine Assisted Therapy is one of these tools, offering a pathway to deep inner healing and rapid growth. This beautiful medicine can align you with your highest potential, fostering shifts that open doors to new possibilities. Together we will address the root cause of distress, reduce reliance on medications, and create space for deep healing and lasting growth.
(502) 373-6860 View (502) 373-6860
Photo of Stephanie Hubbell - Stephanie Hubbell @Womens Mental Health Specialist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Stephanie Hubbell @Womens Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
(606) 603-3642 View (606) 603-3642
Photo of Katie Berghausen - Awen Health Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Awen Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now Taking New Patients. Telehealth and Inpatient Appointments I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with training and experience assessing and treating adults and children focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD and addiction recovery. As part of a multidisciplinary team, I work in collaboration with other treatment providers to ensure proper medication management for all patients
Now Taking New Patients. Telehealth and Inpatient Appointments I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with training and experience assessing and treating adults and children focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD and addiction recovery. As part of a multidisciplinary team, I work in collaboration with other treatment providers to ensure proper medication management for all patients
(502) 286-1263 View (502) 286-1263
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 Nicholasville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Anger Management
86% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Medicaid
60% Aetna
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Nicholasville?

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.