While both PMHNPs and psychiatrists specialize in mental health care, there are notable differences in their training and scope of practice. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed medical school and a residency in psychiatry. They can prescribe medications and provide psychotherapy. PMHNPs, on the other hand, have a nursing background and focus more on a holistic, patient-centered approach. While they can also prescribe medications and provide therapy, their practice is often guided by nursing principles.
