Psychiatrists in De Soto County, MS

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Photo of Mitzie Jenkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mitzie Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
With more than 25 years of Mental Health experience, I am very knowledgeable in Diagnosing Mental Health Disorders, such as Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, and related diagnoses, PTSD, Conduct and Behavior Disorders, Anxiety and Sleep Disorders, as well as Dual Diagnosis and treatment. I have over 13 years of experience in prescribing and ongoing Management of all Psychotropic Medications. I have prescriptive authority and DEA License to prescribe controlled substances to qualifying clients. I also specialize in Individual and Family Psychotherapy.
With more than 25 years of Mental Health experience, I am very knowledgeable in Diagnosing Mental Health Disorders, such as Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, and related diagnoses, PTSD, Conduct and Behavior Disorders, Anxiety and Sleep Disorders, as well as Dual Diagnosis and treatment. I have over 13 years of experience in prescribing and ongoing Management of all Psychotropic Medications. I have prescriptive authority and DEA License to prescribe controlled substances to qualifying clients. I also specialize in Individual and Family Psychotherapy.
(662) 291-7421 View (662) 291-7421
Photo of Tiffany Monique Mattox-Rubin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Tiffany Monique Mattox-Rubin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Tiffany Rubin is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing. Tiffany has been in psychiatric care for over 10 years and has a passion for what she does. Tiffany has worked with children, adolescents, adults and geriatric patients in a number of settings, including psychiatric facilities. She has extensive experience in the intervention and management of mental health needs using both therapy and medicine.
Tiffany Rubin is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing. Tiffany has been in psychiatric care for over 10 years and has a passion for what she does. Tiffany has worked with children, adolescents, adults and geriatric patients in a number of settings, including psychiatric facilities. She has extensive experience in the intervention and management of mental health needs using both therapy and medicine.
(662) 498-5319 View (662) 498-5319
Photo of Ginnifer P Hutcheson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Ginnifer P Hutcheson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Hernando, MS 38632
I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My background is in both hospital and private practice settings. I strive to create meaningful connections with my patients. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood. We will work together as a team to come up with a great plan of action. I will ensure that you are provided thorough education about your diagnosis, medication, and treatment plan.
I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My background is in both hospital and private practice settings. I strive to create meaningful connections with my patients. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood. We will work together as a team to come up with a great plan of action. I will ensure that you are provided thorough education about your diagnosis, medication, and treatment plan.
(662) 912-9218 View (662) 912-9218
Photo of Haley E. Vargo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Haley E. Vargo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Approximately one in five Americans struggle with depression and anxiety, etc. This can lead to difficulties in occupational performance, negative impacts on life experiences, and impediments in productivity. Depression and anxiety can be isolating and exhausting, preventing future goals and aspirations from being achieved. I strive to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through empathetic support. No one should suffer, as we all struggle with difficulties at some point in our lives. My mission is to help all attain a better life by providing personal care and medication management.
Approximately one in five Americans struggle with depression and anxiety, etc. This can lead to difficulties in occupational performance, negative impacts on life experiences, and impediments in productivity. Depression and anxiety can be isolating and exhausting, preventing future goals and aspirations from being achieved. I strive to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through empathetic support. No one should suffer, as we all struggle with difficulties at some point in our lives. My mission is to help all attain a better life by providing personal care and medication management.
(662) 505-4930 View (662) 505-4930
Photo of Dr. Madison Gooch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Madison Gooch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Southaven, MS 38671
With treatment, I use an interdisciplinary approach with my patients. I encourage all patients to seek a therapist while taking medications to allow them to “peel back the layers” of their symptoms of anxiety, depression, etc to be worked on concurrently with med management.
With treatment, I use an interdisciplinary approach with my patients. I encourage all patients to seek a therapist while taking medications to allow them to “peel back the layers” of their symptoms of anxiety, depression, etc to be worked on concurrently with med management.
(833) 717-3105 View (833) 717-3105
Photo of Renee Elizabeth Reichert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, ADHD, CCSD
Renee Elizabeth Reichert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, ADHD, CCSD
1 Endorsed
Olive Branch, MS 38654
I strive to cultivate a safe, empathetic environment for all my clients. It is my personal goal to support patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. My hope is to assist all my clients in achieving their best quality of life by working together to build on their strengths and develop positive new practices in everyday living. "Nothing is more beautiful than a smile that has struggled through tears" unknown
I strive to cultivate a safe, empathetic environment for all my clients. It is my personal goal to support patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. My hope is to assist all my clients in achieving their best quality of life by working together to build on their strengths and develop positive new practices in everyday living. "Nothing is more beautiful than a smile that has struggled through tears" unknown
(662) 304-2122 View (662) 304-2122
Photo of Argaret Shonta Payne - Faith Of A Mustard Seed Psychiatric Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Faith Of A Mustard Seed Psychiatric Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Are you struggling with finding the right provider for medication? Well I am here to help. Come see me, so we can work together as a team to determine the best treatment for you. I will complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation, we will discuss your treatment goals and my recommendations and create an individualized treatment plan catered to your needs, along with highly skilled therapists that can provide high quality counseling if needed/suggested, so that you can see a difference and get those optimal results you desire. Here at Faith Of A Mustard Seed Psychiatric Wellness, I want to help you and I am so glad you trust me.
Are you struggling with finding the right provider for medication? Well I am here to help. Come see me, so we can work together as a team to determine the best treatment for you. I will complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation, we will discuss your treatment goals and my recommendations and create an individualized treatment plan catered to your needs, along with highly skilled therapists that can provide high quality counseling if needed/suggested, so that you can see a difference and get those optimal results you desire. Here at Faith Of A Mustard Seed Psychiatric Wellness, I want to help you and I am so glad you trust me.
(662) 506-4612 View (662) 506-4612
Photo of Melissa Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
(662) 302-2657 View (662) 302-2657
Photo of Tamieka Sholar-Conard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tamieka Sholar-Conard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Mississippi and Tennessee. I have over 15 years of psychiatry experience. My primary goal is to support others in achieving mental wellness. My primary focus includes patients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, autism, panic episodes, and trauma.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Mississippi and Tennessee. I have over 15 years of psychiatry experience. My primary goal is to support others in achieving mental wellness. My primary focus includes patients experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, autism, panic episodes, and trauma.
(662) 442-3779 View (662) 442-3779
Photo of Angelia Cleark McDowell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angelia Cleark McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2015 from the University of South Alabama, and I received national board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in 2016. Specializing in psych mental health and helping clients achieve mental health stability is not just a job for me. It is my purpose!
I earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2015 from the University of South Alabama, and I received national board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in 2016. Specializing in psych mental health and helping clients achieve mental health stability is not just a job for me. It is my purpose!
(662) 547-8244 View (662) 547-8244
Photo of Callie Bassett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Callie Bassett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Hernando, MS 38632
Greetings! Are you looking to positively change or maintain your life by improving your mood, increasing your ability to focus and or becoming/remaining sober? If that question applies to you, welcome!
Greetings! Are you looking to positively change or maintain your life by improving your mood, increasing your ability to focus and or becoming/remaining sober? If that question applies to you, welcome!
(662) 493-4846 View (662) 493-4846
Photo of Tomika Washington - Olive Branch Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olive Branch Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Looking to treat depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, etc., then you are choosing the right place. At Olive Branch Psychiatric Services (OBPS) the overall goal is to provide quality care that is patient centered, individualized. Our patients have a voice and we value their input to create a patient centered treatment plan that creates change. We are to help and provide life changing services.
Looking to treat depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, etc., then you are choosing the right place. At Olive Branch Psychiatric Services (OBPS) the overall goal is to provide quality care that is patient centered, individualized. Our patients have a voice and we value their input to create a patient centered treatment plan that creates change. We are to help and provide life changing services.
(662) 339-8029 View (662) 339-8029
Photo of Destinee Woods, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Destinee Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38672
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My journey in the mental health field began at the San Antonio State Hospital in San Antonio, TX. I have a passion for special needs children and their families. I am committed to helping individuals facing mental health challenges reach their full potential through psychiatric evaluation, proper diagnosing, education, and medication management.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My journey in the mental health field began at the San Antonio State Hospital in San Antonio, TX. I have a passion for special needs children and their families. I am committed to helping individuals facing mental health challenges reach their full potential through psychiatric evaluation, proper diagnosing, education, and medication management.
(662) 863-5106 View (662) 863-5106
Photo of Comanechi Clayton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Comanechi Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. My goal is to provide quality mental health services implemented through an integrative and holistic approach.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. My goal is to provide quality mental health services implemented through an integrative and holistic approach.
(662) 442-9090 View (662) 442-9090
Photo of Clifton (Cliff) Allred, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Clifton (Cliff) Allred
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
(662) 509-4911 View (662) 509-4911
Photo of Angela Corbin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angela Corbin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Angie! I am a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for mental health care. With a keen understanding of psychiatric disorders and a compassionate approach, I strive to empower my patients to achieve mental well-being. I have experience in a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, ADHD, and PTSD.
Hello, I'm Angie! I am a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for mental health care. With a keen understanding of psychiatric disorders and a compassionate approach, I strive to empower my patients to achieve mental well-being. I have experience in a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, ADHD, and PTSD.
(662) 747-4876 View (662) 747-4876
Photo of Alison Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Alison Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38671
I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking to improve their quality of life by addressing their mental health needs. I care for patients dealing with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. I believe in a shared decision-making approach and seek to empower my patients through education. My treatment approach is holistic, utilizing evidence based-practices including medication, alternative-treatments, and talk therapy. Throughout my career as a nurse, I have seen firsthand the how mental health (or illness) permeates all life's twists and turns.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking to improve their quality of life by addressing their mental health needs. I care for patients dealing with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. I believe in a shared decision-making approach and seek to empower my patients through education. My treatment approach is holistic, utilizing evidence based-practices including medication, alternative-treatments, and talk therapy. Throughout my career as a nurse, I have seen firsthand the how mental health (or illness) permeates all life's twists and turns.
(662) 883-5535 View (662) 883-5535
Photo of Dionna Crespo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dionna Crespo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric NP with over 10 years of experience in psychiatry. I graduated from the University of South Alabama, and my passion is supporting individuals through life’s challenges. I provide care for a diverse population, from children to older adults, and address a wide variety of mental health concerns. Whether you’re facing a specific issue or seeking ongoing mental health support, I’m here to offer compassionate, non-judgmental care tailored to your needs.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric NP with over 10 years of experience in psychiatry. I graduated from the University of South Alabama, and my passion is supporting individuals through life’s challenges. I provide care for a diverse population, from children to older adults, and address a wide variety of mental health concerns. Whether you’re facing a specific issue or seeking ongoing mental health support, I’m here to offer compassionate, non-judgmental care tailored to your needs.
(662) 428-2760 View (662) 428-2760
Photo of Rona Huey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rona Huey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am dually certified as a Family (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I live in Indianola, MS. I work with patients of all ages in the office and via telehealth. I mainly focus on medication management in the areas of mental health, treating all diagnoses, including ADHD, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, and eating disorders, and many others. My main focus is to help those whom God has placed in my care to feel better holistically.
I am dually certified as a Family (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I live in Indianola, MS. I work with patients of all ages in the office and via telehealth. I mainly focus on medication management in the areas of mental health, treating all diagnoses, including ADHD, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, and eating disorders, and many others. My main focus is to help those whom God has placed in my care to feel better holistically.
(662) 358-2753 View (662) 358-2753
Photo of Erin Harrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Erin Harrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Hernando, MS 38632
We provide a welcoming environment to children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Our providers treat autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, dementia, attention-deficit disorders, impulse-control disorders, eating disorders, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, gender identity issues, and anxiety disorders.
We provide a welcoming environment to children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Our providers treat autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, dementia, attention-deficit disorders, impulse-control disorders, eating disorders, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, gender identity issues, and anxiety disorders.
(662) 510-8606 View (662) 510-8606

See more therapy options for De Soto County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in De Soto County, MS

40+

Average cost per session

$212

Psychiatrists in De Soto County, MS who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
89% Depression
89% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Sleep or Insomnia
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
92% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in De Soto County, MS see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in De Soto County?

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.