When it comes to mental health care, finding the right provider can feel overwhelming. There are so many options out there—therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners (psych NPs), and more—and it’s not always clear what each one does or who might be the best fit. If you’re looking for support with your mental health, a psychiatric nurse practitioner might be just what you need. Let’s talk about why.
What Does a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Do?
A psych NP isn’t just there to ask about your symptoms—they’re genuinely interested in your story. They want to understand your stress, your triggers, your struggles, and your past. They’re board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) who specialize in mental health. Psych NPs are trained in both talk therapy and medication management, all while looking at the bigger picture of your emotional and physical well-being. They’re nurses first—compassionate, kind, and dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based mental health care.
With their ability to prescribe medication and guide therapy sessions, psych NPs ensure that each part of your care works together to help you feel better. Whether you’re struggling with one challenge or many, they have the expertise to create a tailored plan that truly fits your needs. They’re trained to connect the dots between your symptoms and the deeper reasons behind them.
Differences Between Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Therapists, and Psych NPs
Psych NPs Can Prescribe Medication
One of the biggest differences between psych NPs and therapists or psychologists is that psych NPs can prescribe medications when needed. If medication is part of your treatment plan, you won’t have to find a separate provider just to get a prescription. Instead, your psych NP can help you understand your options, talk through possible side effects, and make adjustments along the way if something doesn’t feel right.
This is where psych NPs really shine: they combine medical knowledge with empathy to explain things in a way that feels clear and approachable. They’ll check in with you regularly and make sure everything is working well—not just on paper, but in your day-to-day life.
Psych NPs Can Provide Therapy
Psychiatrists usually focus mostly on medication and not the therapy aspect, but psych NPs can do both: prescribe medication and offer talk therapy. So if you’re looking for someone who can support you emotionally while also helping to manage medications for anxiety, depression, or something else, a psych NP can be a great fit.
Nursing: One of the Most Trusted Professions in America
It’s no coincidence that year after year, nurses are rated as one of the most trusted professions in American healthcare. People trust nurses because they listen, care, and are kind, even during difficult times.
Psych NPs carry this trust with them into every session. They’re known for building strong, supportive relationships with their clients—ones that are rooted in safety, connection, and mutual respect. You’ll feel seen and heard without judgment.
Nurses: Trusted and Respected in American Healthcare
A recent poll found that 78% of Americans view nurses as having high/very high levels of honesty and ethics. It’s clear that people truly value not just their knowledge, but the care and support they receive. That kind of compassion makes a real difference in people’s lives every day. At Lavender, we’re proudly nurse-founded and led—and that’s the kind of care we strive to offer.
Personalized Mental Health Care
Psych NPs understand that no two people are exactly alike. Your experiences, background, lifestyle, and values all play a role in your mental health, and your care should reflect that. Whether you’re looking to get a better understanding of a specific diagnosis or just want someone to talk to, a psych NP will work with you to build a plan that fits into your life. And when something isn’t working, they’re open to feedback and adjusting. That’s part of the beauty of working with someone who’s collaborative. You don’t have to figure things out on your own—they’ll help you every step of the way.
Choosing a Psych NP for Yourself
Finding the right psych NP is a personal process. Maybe you’re looking for someone who understands your cultural background, your gender identity, or your unique life experiences. Many psych NPs are intentional about creating affirming spaces where you feel fully seen and supported.
Once you meet with a psych NP, pay attention to how you feel in their presence. Do they listen with care? Do you feel safe opening up? A good psych NP won’t just treat symptoms. They’ll guide you through the ups and downs of mental health with empathy and expertise.
Psych NPs bring together the best of both worlds: medical knowledge and genuine care. They can help you understand your mental health, explore treatment options, and walk alongside you in your healing journey—all while making sure you feel supported and respected.
If you’re looking for therapy and psychiatry that truly feels supportive, a psych NP might be the right choice for you. Learn more about Lavender psych NPs in your area and book an appointment with a provider who understands your needs.
