Psychiatrists in Jefferson Parish, LA

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Photo of Keith Robin Jr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Keith Robin Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Metairie, LA 70001
I'm passionate about helping individuals facing ADHD, depression, and anxiety gain clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to thrive by providing compassionate, personalized mental health care. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs. My nursing background includes extensive experience in critical care units, as well as inpatient psychiatric care for both adult and geriatric populations. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, detail-oriented mental health care.
I'm passionate about helping individuals facing ADHD, depression, and anxiety gain clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to thrive by providing compassionate, personalized mental health care. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs. My nursing background includes extensive experience in critical care units, as well as inpatient psychiatric care for both adult and geriatric populations. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, detail-oriented mental health care.
(504) 946-1242 View (504) 946-1242
Photo of Ashley Navarre - Empowered Mind Solutions LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ashley, Navarre, PMHNP, BC
Empowered Mind Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ashley, Navarre, PMHNP, BC
25 Endorsed
Kenner, LA 70062
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span inpatient and outpatient. I offer an integrative mind-body approach for comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care. My goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. Providing thorough and thoughtful assessments are paramount in order to achieve effective, successful treatment and coordination of care. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span inpatient and outpatient. I offer an integrative mind-body approach for comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care. My goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. Providing thorough and thoughtful assessments are paramount in order to achieve effective, successful treatment and coordination of care. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
(985) 336-2440 View (985) 336-2440
Photo of Erin Blaise Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Erin Blaise Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Metairie, LA 70001
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, and ADD/ADHD. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications, and I am very passionate about nutrition, exercise, and sleepy hygiene. My main goal is to support patients in becoming the best versions of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career.
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, and ADD/ADHD. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications, and I am very passionate about nutrition, exercise, and sleepy hygiene. My main goal is to support patients in becoming the best versions of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career.
(504) 474-5777 View (504) 474-5777
Photo of Paula Bland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Paula Bland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Metairie, LA 70005
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
(985) 616-5435 View (985) 616-5435
Photo of Kimberlin Pittman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kimberlin Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Harvey, LA 70058
My ideal client is one that has no idea where to start but knows that they want to improve their life and have a dedicated practitioner that is professional, compassionate, and will offer ongoing support and guidance to get them through their worst days, knowing that brighter days are ahead.
My ideal client is one that has no idea where to start but knows that they want to improve their life and have a dedicated practitioner that is professional, compassionate, and will offer ongoing support and guidance to get them through their worst days, knowing that brighter days are ahead.
(504) 414-8661 View (504) 414-8661
Photo of Dr. Breaunnah Jackson, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Breaunnah Jackson
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Breaunnah Bloomer Jackson is a board-certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist who earned her undergraduate degree from Howard University and a master’s in biological sciences from Mississippi College. She completed medical school at LSU Health Sciences Center – Shreveport, followed by a general psychiatry residency and child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at LSU Health Sciences Center – New Orleans, where she served as Chief Fellow. Dr. Breaunnah Bloomer Jackson creates a welcoming, supportive space for children, adolescents, and their families.
Dr. Breaunnah Bloomer Jackson is a board-certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist who earned her undergraduate degree from Howard University and a master’s in biological sciences from Mississippi College. She completed medical school at LSU Health Sciences Center – Shreveport, followed by a general psychiatry residency and child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at LSU Health Sciences Center – New Orleans, where she served as Chief Fellow. Dr. Breaunnah Bloomer Jackson creates a welcoming, supportive space for children, adolescents, and their families.
(504) 267-8102 View (504) 267-8102
Photo of Dr. Karina Fatova, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Karina Fatova
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Karina Fatova is a board certified psychiatrist who hails from New York City but has made New Orleans her home for the past ten years. She is a graduate of Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, NY and she did her adult psychiatry residency at Tulane University in New Orleans, LA. She was proud to have her first position post-residency at the River Oaks Hospital Trauma Unit in New Orleans, LA where she treated patients with Complex PTSD and eating disorders. The Trauma Unit was one of a few of its kind nationally because it provided very specialized treatment that was affordable to many.
Dr. Karina Fatova is a board certified psychiatrist who hails from New York City but has made New Orleans her home for the past ten years. She is a graduate of Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, NY and she did her adult psychiatry residency at Tulane University in New Orleans, LA. She was proud to have her first position post-residency at the River Oaks Hospital Trauma Unit in New Orleans, LA where she treated patients with Complex PTSD and eating disorders. The Trauma Unit was one of a few of its kind nationally because it provided very specialized treatment that was affordable to many.
(504) 395-8975 View (504) 395-8975
Photo of Michael Santone - Always Hope LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
(504) 513-5713 View (504) 513-5713
Photo of Dr. Shilpa Amara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shilpa Amara
Psychiatrist, MD
Metairie, LA 70002
Dr. Amara (She/Her) is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist. She earned her Bachelor's degree from University of Albany in Psychology and Arts. She then graduated from St. Matthews University school of medicine in Grand Cayman Islands. After completing her residency at LSUHSC- Ochsner program in 2016 she worked at Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans for 7 years. Her roles there included working with patients in the field of Consultation Liaison psychiatry. In addition, she was the Medical Director of the Behavioral Medical Unit IOP and lead in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation clinic.
Dr. Amara (She/Her) is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist. She earned her Bachelor's degree from University of Albany in Psychology and Arts. She then graduated from St. Matthews University school of medicine in Grand Cayman Islands. After completing her residency at LSUHSC- Ochsner program in 2016 she worked at Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans for 7 years. Her roles there included working with patients in the field of Consultation Liaison psychiatry. In addition, she was the Medical Director of the Behavioral Medical Unit IOP and lead in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation clinic.
(504) 290-0468 View (504) 290-0468
Photo of Eric S Kramer, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Eric S Kramer
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
4 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
I was raised in the Greater New Orleans area. I attended Florida State University, majoring in Psychology. I was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with Honors. I attended LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and graduated with a Doctor of Medicine degree. I completed a Psychiatry Residency in the LSU/Ochsner Psychiatry Residency Program. I have practiced in various inpatient, outpatient, community, and private settings throughout my career. I am Board Certified. I am accepting new self-pay and BCBS PPO patients. No other private insurance is accepted at this time. Medicaid/Medicare is not accepted.
I was raised in the Greater New Orleans area. I attended Florida State University, majoring in Psychology. I was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with Honors. I attended LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and graduated with a Doctor of Medicine degree. I completed a Psychiatry Residency in the LSU/Ochsner Psychiatry Residency Program. I have practiced in various inpatient, outpatient, community, and private settings throughout my career. I am Board Certified. I am accepting new self-pay and BCBS PPO patients. No other private insurance is accepted at this time. Medicaid/Medicare is not accepted.
(504) 800-6750 View (504) 800-6750
Photo of Dr. Aisha Phillipson - MPC, Manchester Psychiatric Consulting, Psychiatrist, MD
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience working with children and adults in a variety of settings including community mental health clinics, inpatient units, emergency departments, and other specialized settings. I am firmly rooted in Louisiana and have served the Louisiana community for over ten years. My approach uses evidence informed medicine- creating an individual treatment plan based on current medical research as well as using an approach that incorporates a biological, psychological and social model of care.
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience working with children and adults in a variety of settings including community mental health clinics, inpatient units, emergency departments, and other specialized settings. I am firmly rooted in Louisiana and have served the Louisiana community for over ten years. My approach uses evidence informed medicine- creating an individual treatment plan based on current medical research as well as using an approach that incorporates a biological, psychological and social model of care.
(504) 285-5604 View (504) 285-5604
Photo of Dr. Darius Robinson, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Darius Robinson
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Darius Robinson is a board-certified psychiatrist who is passionate about providing patient-centered, evidence-based mental health care. He specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Robinson combines evidence-based medication management with supportive psychotherapy to help his patients thrive. Dr. Robinson earned his undergraduate degree from Southern University at New Orleans. He later completed a Masters of Medical Science degree at Mississippi college in Clinton, MS.
Dr. Darius Robinson is a board-certified psychiatrist who is passionate about providing patient-centered, evidence-based mental health care. He specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Robinson combines evidence-based medication management with supportive psychotherapy to help his patients thrive. Dr. Robinson earned his undergraduate degree from Southern University at New Orleans. He later completed a Masters of Medical Science degree at Mississippi college in Clinton, MS.
(504) 370-2107 View (504) 370-2107
Photo of Dr. Lauryn Richard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Dr. Lauryn Richard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Are you looking for a provider who truly understands the highs, lows, and in-betweens of life? Then look no further! Hey there, I'm Lauryn. I offer support grounded in compassion and cultural awareness. I will walk with you through both celebration and grief. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life changes, I'm here to help you move forward.
Are you looking for a provider who truly understands the highs, lows, and in-betweens of life? Then look no further! Hey there, I'm Lauryn. I offer support grounded in compassion and cultural awareness. I will walk with you through both celebration and grief. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life changes, I'm here to help you move forward.
(504) 949-0264 View (504) 949-0264
Photo of Kimberlin Pittman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kimberlin Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Harvey, LA 70058
My name is Kimberlin D. Pittman. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping people reclaim their mental health. My journey has taken me through diverse healthcare settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs, Beacon Behavioral Hospital, and Odyssey House of Louisiana. At the Department of Veteran Affairs, I ensure top-quality care in skilled, hospice, acute care, and rehab units. At Beacon Behavioral Hospital, I manage shift operations, delivering safe and effective treatment for patients in mental health crises.
My name is Kimberlin D. Pittman. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping people reclaim their mental health. My journey has taken me through diverse healthcare settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs, Beacon Behavioral Hospital, and Odyssey House of Louisiana. At the Department of Veteran Affairs, I ensure top-quality care in skilled, hospice, acute care, and rehab units. At Beacon Behavioral Hospital, I manage shift operations, delivering safe and effective treatment for patients in mental health crises.
(504) 315-1764 View (504) 315-1764
Photo of De'Lise M McKay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
De'Lise M McKay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
6 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
Dr. De'Lise McKay, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated and experienced board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience treating mental health disorders of children and adults as well as substance abuse disorders. Dr. McKay has practiced in both inpatient, outpatient and telehealth settings She provides individualized treatment consisting of comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management.
Dr. De'Lise McKay, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a dedicated and experienced board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience treating mental health disorders of children and adults as well as substance abuse disorders. Dr. McKay has practiced in both inpatient, outpatient and telehealth settings She provides individualized treatment consisting of comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management.
(504) 732-0206 View (504) 732-0206
Photo of Timothy Gioe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Timothy Gioe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com/blog to learn more about our services.
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com/blog to learn more about our services.
(985) 202-9436 View (985) 202-9436
Photo of Ellie Parrish - Always Hope LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
(225) 434-3788 View (225) 434-3788
Photo of Dr. Blanca Osorio Candelaria, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Blanca Osorio Candelaria
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
(904) 682-9195 View (904) 682-9195
Photo of Chandra Walker-Target, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Chandra Walker-Target
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hi! My name Chandra Walker-Target and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health is an holistic one. I incorporate all factors in patients lives to come up with the best approach to their treatment plan. My approach is simple. I plan to approach every encounter with the patient as the leader in their care. My approach to maximize your care with holistic approach with the body, mind, and spirit being connected and balanced.
Hi! My name Chandra Walker-Target and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health is an holistic one. I incorporate all factors in patients lives to come up with the best approach to their treatment plan. My approach is simple. I plan to approach every encounter with the patient as the leader in their care. My approach to maximize your care with holistic approach with the body, mind, and spirit being connected and balanced.
(225) 351-5779 View (225) 351-5779
Photo of Alyssa Czudek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Alyssa Czudek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
My name is Alyssa Czudek and I am a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I have been seeing patients at my own practice in person for over 5 years. My focus is on helping people become their best self, often this is getting back to the "old you." I treat most mental health conditions such as depression and other mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders across the lifespan.
My name is Alyssa Czudek and I am a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I have been seeing patients at my own practice in person for over 5 years. My focus is on helping people become their best self, often this is getting back to the "old you." I treat most mental health conditions such as depression and other mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders across the lifespan.
(225) 370-1240 View (225) 370-1240

See more therapy options for Jefferson Parish

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Jefferson Parish, LA

60+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Jefferson Parish, LA who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
76% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Trauma and PTSD
59% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Jefferson Parish, LA see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Jefferson Parish?

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.