Psychiatrists in Kenner, LA
Pathways Behavioral Center is an out-patient opioid and recovery clinic. Our clinical model used to treat patients with a substance abuse issue is individual therapy and medication management. We also specialize in chronic depression and cognitive/behavioral disorders. We have two psychiatrists on staff to give professional and individualized services to treat your needs.
Pathways Behavioral Center is an out-patient opioid and recovery clinic. Our clinical model used to treat patients with a substance abuse issue is individual therapy and medication management. We also specialize in chronic depression and cognitive/behavioral disorders. We have two psychiatrists on staff to give professional and individualized services to treat your needs.
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenner, LA 70065 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
Celeste Gunning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenner, LA 70065 (Online Only)
My name is Celeste Gunning. I received my Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of South Alabama in Mobile. I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I have practiced since 2019 in inpatient adult psychiatric facilities in Louisiana and outpatient family psychiatric practices. I am a member of multiple professional nursing, psychologic, and psychiatric organizations. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, considering all aspects, encompassing, and surrounding an individual since; these, all affect their mental health.
My name is Celeste Gunning. I received my Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of South Alabama in Mobile. I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I have practiced since 2019 in inpatient adult psychiatric facilities in Louisiana and outpatient family psychiatric practices. I am a member of multiple professional nursing, psychologic, and psychiatric organizations. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, considering all aspects, encompassing, and surrounding an individual since; these, all affect their mental health.
Hello! My name is Carol Darr. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and medication management. I treat patients with many types of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care using a biopsychosocial model which considers biological, social and psychological factors and their complex interactions in order to understand health, illness and the best way to deliver mental healthcare.
Hello! My name is Carol Darr. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and medication management. I treat patients with many types of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care using a biopsychosocial model which considers biological, social and psychological factors and their complex interactions in order to understand health, illness and the best way to deliver mental healthcare.
My name is Eurica Gaston. I have practiced as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 6 years. My mental healthcare focus ranges from acute onset of illness to chronic mental illness. My approach to mental healthcare is a partnership between the individual, their families, outside resources, and myself. Each client is encouraged and expected to participate in all healthcare decisions. I provide and promote an environment which is open, honest, and free of judgement.
My name is Eurica Gaston. I have practiced as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 6 years. My mental healthcare focus ranges from acute onset of illness to chronic mental illness. My approach to mental healthcare is a partnership between the individual, their families, outside resources, and myself. Each client is encouraged and expected to participate in all healthcare decisions. I provide and promote an environment which is open, honest, and free of judgement.
Kawana Lockwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenner, LA 70065 (Online Only)
Kawana Lockwood, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am drawn to psychiatry because of my genuine desire to help people overcome mental health challenges and improve their well-being. I advocate for mental health awareness to reduce the stigma and promote policies that support mental health services. I am motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact on people lives and contribute to their overall mental health. I work at the patient's pace.
Kawana Lockwood, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am drawn to psychiatry because of my genuine desire to help people overcome mental health challenges and improve their well-being. I advocate for mental health awareness to reduce the stigma and promote policies that support mental health services. I am motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact on people lives and contribute to their overall mental health. I work at the patient's pace.
Jerica Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenner, LA 70065 (Online Only)
My name is Jerica Mitchell. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health. I use a holistic and integrative approach to treatment, which may include: medication, supplements, therapy, and life style changes. I typically work with adults ages 18 to 55 who may deal with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, and/or mood disorders. Patients can expect a direct non-judgmental space. I also like patient involvement in their treatment. My patients will never be forced into a treatment plan that they are not comfortable with.
My name is Jerica Mitchell. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health. I use a holistic and integrative approach to treatment, which may include: medication, supplements, therapy, and life style changes. I typically work with adults ages 18 to 55 who may deal with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, and/or mood disorders. Patients can expect a direct non-judgmental space. I also like patient involvement in their treatment. My patients will never be forced into a treatment plan that they are not comfortable with.
Kayla N. Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenner, LA 70063
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and it is often neglected. My goal is to help you get back to your level of normal, bringing out the best version of you.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and it is often neglected. My goal is to help you get back to your level of normal, bringing out the best version of you.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Brittany Mire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001
Are you tired of feeling like your mental health is a never-ending battle? Do you want to address the root cause of your struggles and become the best version of yourself? Look no further than Bayou Healthcare Services, where we prioritize your overall well-being. Our integrative psychiatry practice goes beyond just prescribing medication. We take a holistic approach to mental health, considering factors such as sleep, diet, nutrition, and lifestyle habits. We believe that by optimizing these areas, we can help you achieve long-lasting mental wellness.
Are you tired of feeling like your mental health is a never-ending battle? Do you want to address the root cause of your struggles and become the best version of yourself? Look no further than Bayou Healthcare Services, where we prioritize your overall well-being. Our integrative psychiatry practice goes beyond just prescribing medication. We take a holistic approach to mental health, considering factors such as sleep, diet, nutrition, and lifestyle habits. We believe that by optimizing these areas, we can help you achieve long-lasting mental wellness.
Kay Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001 (Online Only)
Are you trying to find solace in your life? Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Are you having issues with day-to-day functioning? As your Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I work with you collaboratively assisting with managing and improving your daily functioning and quality of life. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. My services include evaluating, diagnosing, and treating tailored to the individual wholely, including medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide individualized, high-quality care tailored to you, driven with care and compassion. Appointments available now.
Are you trying to find solace in your life? Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Are you having issues with day-to-day functioning? As your Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I work with you collaboratively assisting with managing and improving your daily functioning and quality of life. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. My services include evaluating, diagnosing, and treating tailored to the individual wholely, including medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide individualized, high-quality care tailored to you, driven with care and compassion. Appointments available now.
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
My name is LaToya Mason, a passionate healthcare professional. Originating from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, my academic journey led me to Dillard University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Over the span of a decade, the fast-paced world of the emergency room became my professional home.Here, amidst the chaos, I honed my skills and embraced the challenges that came with providing crucial healthcare services. The experiences in the emergency room not only sharpened my clinical expertise but also fueled my desire to delve deeper into mental health care.
My name is LaToya Mason, a passionate healthcare professional. Originating from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, my academic journey led me to Dillard University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Over the span of a decade, the fast-paced world of the emergency room became my professional home.Here, amidst the chaos, I honed my skills and embraced the challenges that came with providing crucial healthcare services. The experiences in the emergency room not only sharpened my clinical expertise but also fueled my desire to delve deeper into mental health care.
Arwen Podesta
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, FASAM, ABIHM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
Kayla Seals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
I am excited to create a clinical office offering a unique experience for each client. I want to create a partnership with each client were we make solid plans to help each individual meet their goals and improve their lives. Many clients today are looking for a psychiatrist who will listen to them and pay close attention to their issues with care and compassion. The office will use technology to help remove some of the burden off a traditional office but yet have balance of personal touch and care.
I am excited to create a clinical office offering a unique experience for each client. I want to create a partnership with each client were we make solid plans to help each individual meet their goals and improve their lives. Many clients today are looking for a psychiatrist who will listen to them and pay close attention to their issues with care and compassion. The office will use technology to help remove some of the burden off a traditional office but yet have balance of personal touch and care.
Timothy Gioe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001 (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.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an interest in reproductive psychiatry. I have completed additional training in women's mental health through a fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and I have spent several years treating women with a variety of concerns in different clinical settings. While I am able to treat people across the adult lifespan, I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are trying to conceive, pregnant or postpartum. This can be in the form of a one-time consult to provide expert recommendations to be carried out by another treatment team or in the form of ongoing treatment with me.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an interest in reproductive psychiatry. I have completed additional training in women's mental health through a fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and I have spent several years treating women with a variety of concerns in different clinical settings. While I am able to treat people across the adult lifespan, I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are trying to conceive, pregnant or postpartum. This can be in the form of a one-time consult to provide expert recommendations to be carried out by another treatment team or in the form of ongoing treatment with me.
Mary Braud Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
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 to learn more about my 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 to learn more about my services.
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002 (Online Only)
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
Kellie Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
I treat patients of all ages and with all mental health issues, but I focus on ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders. I am double boarded in Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
I treat patients of all ages and with all mental health issues, but I focus on ADHD, mood, and anxiety disorders. I am double boarded in Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kenner, LA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kenner, LA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Kenner, LA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kenner?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.