Psychiatry from the comfort of your own Device

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed four years of medical school and an additional four years of residency in psychiatry. Psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat all medical conditions but specialize in treating mental (psychiatric) disorders. They are able to order and interpret medical tests and prescribe medications. In addition, they are trained to provide all types of psychotherapy. There are several different types of professional therapists who can also provide psychotherapy services. Psychiatrists are different from psychologists, who have either a PhD or PsyD, and counselors and social workers who typically have a masters. Psychologists and masters level therapists are not medical doctors, do not complete medical school, and usually cannot prescribe medications.

Psychiatric nurse practitioners (PNPs), also known as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) also receive clinical training. They can frequently prescribe medications and order some medical tests. Nurse Practitioners can be very competent clinicians however, their training is significantly shorter and less in depth. Psychiatrists are considered to possess a higher level of expertise and are able to manage more complex cases.