Psychiatrist vs. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has earned an MD (Doctor of Medicine) or a DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree and completed a psychiatric residency, while a psychiatric nurse practitioner is an advanced practice RN who has completed a graduate program such as a Master's or Doctorate and worked as a licensed nurse.

A psychiatrist assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health conditions. They may also provide psychoanalysis, counseling, and therapy services. They have the ability to prescribe medications as appropriate. They must have a board certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology as well as a state license.

A psychiatric nurse practitioner can do the same functions as a psychiatrist and can also develop mental health education and resources for patients and families. Psychiatric nurse practitioners can practice autonomously only in 22 states and the District of Columbia. In some states, they will need a psychiatrist to sign off on a diagnosis and treatment plan.

There are many differences between a psychiatrist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner in terms of education and licensing requirements and how they are allowed to practice.

Here are the key differences between a psychiatrist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner:

• A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with an MD or DO

• A psychiatric nurse practitioner is a nurse with an advanced practice nursing degree

• A psychiatrist must be certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

• A psychiatric nurse practitioner must be certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

• A psychiatrist may practice without restrictions in the state they are licensed for

• A psychiatric nurse practitioner may require sign off from a psychiatrist in some states