Psychiatrists in 27106

Photo of Chris Bruns Aiken - Mood Treatment Center Winston-Salem, MD, Psychiatrist
Mood Treatment Center Winston-Salem
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Psychiatric center with offices in Winston-Salem, Clemmmons, Boone, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
Psychiatric center with offices in Winston-Salem, Clemmmons, Boone, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
(336) 863-9210 View (336) 863-9210
Photo of Dr. Justina Anulika Okonkwo - Advanced Psychiatric Associates, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Advanced Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
(336) 715-3561 View (336) 715-3561
Photo of Dr. Tina A Okonkwo, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tina A Okonkwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
(336) 559-3594 View (336) 559-3594
Photo of Todd Derreberry, MD, Psychiatrist
Todd Derreberry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
**I am now accepting medication management patients** I have had the privilege of working in outpatient mental healthcare since 2014. I left my employed position in 2019 with a vision to create a clinic that would offer a more individualized patient experience and allow me to provide the care that I know that my patients need and deserve. Our clinic offers a comforting, caring, and non-judgmental environment for our patients. To allow time to understand your needs our first appointment will be up to 90 minutes in length and we have flexible follow-up appointment lengths ranging from 25 minutes to 1 hour.
**I am now accepting medication management patients** I have had the privilege of working in outpatient mental healthcare since 2014. I left my employed position in 2019 with a vision to create a clinic that would offer a more individualized patient experience and allow me to provide the care that I know that my patients need and deserve. Our clinic offers a comforting, caring, and non-judgmental environment for our patients. To allow time to understand your needs our first appointment will be up to 90 minutes in length and we have flexible follow-up appointment lengths ranging from 25 minutes to 1 hour.
(336) 537-5902 View (336) 537-5902
Photo of Jessica Derreberry, MD, Psychiatrist
Jessica Derreberry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Please visit our website envisionbehavioralhealth.com and select "request a consultation" to request an appointment. Dr. Jessica Derreberry is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults age 18 and older. She completed her psychiatric residency at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem, NC. She obtained her medical degree from Marshall University in Huntington, WV and her Bachelor's of Science degree in Biochemistry from West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. In person or telehealth appointments available.
Please visit our website envisionbehavioralhealth.com and select "request a consultation" to request an appointment. Dr. Jessica Derreberry is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults age 18 and older. She completed her psychiatric residency at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem, NC. She obtained her medical degree from Marshall University in Huntington, WV and her Bachelor's of Science degree in Biochemistry from West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. In person or telehealth appointments available.
(336) 344-9110 View (336) 344-9110
Photo of Chris Aiken - Mood Treatment Center Clemmons & Boone, MD, Psychiatrist
Mood Treatment Center Clemmons & Boone
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Psychiatric center with offices in Boone, Clemmons, Winston-Salem, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
Psychiatric center with offices in Boone, Clemmons, Winston-Salem, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
(828) 949-1718 View (828) 949-1718

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Natasha Cooper, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Natasha Cooper, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience. My goal is to restore my patients to a place of health and healing through collaboration on individualized treatment plans.
I am Natasha Cooper, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience. My goal is to restore my patients to a place of health and healing through collaboration on individualized treatment plans.
(336) 999-6483 View (336) 999-6483
Photo of Tabitha Bowman, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tabitha Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Struggling with difficult relationships, pregnancy, or postpartum depression? Struggling with attention, focus, prioritizing overwhelming tasks, such as work, home, all while managing time for leisure? Wonder if life should feel different? Happier? Many people today feel anxious and overwhelmed, and they are unsure of how to balance relationships, work, and personal time. Neglecting your own needs can lead to long-term issues for your mental and physical health. It's crucial to take time for yourself and address these feelings to find a healthier, more fulfilling way of living.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Struggling with difficult relationships, pregnancy, or postpartum depression? Struggling with attention, focus, prioritizing overwhelming tasks, such as work, home, all while managing time for leisure? Wonder if life should feel different? Happier? Many people today feel anxious and overwhelmed, and they are unsure of how to balance relationships, work, and personal time. Neglecting your own needs can lead to long-term issues for your mental and physical health. It's crucial to take time for yourself and address these feelings to find a healthier, more fulfilling way of living.
(336) 459-3409 View (336) 459-3409
Photo of Derek Ayers - Apogee Behavioral Medicine, DO, Psychiatrist
Apogee Behavioral Medicine
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
(336) 489-4439 View (336) 489-4439
Photo of Gisela E Knebl Kohl - Certus Psychiatry and Integrated Care, MD, Psychiatrist
Certus Psychiatry and Integrated Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
(833) 701-3111 View (833) 701-3111
Photo of Amarachi Okafor, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amarachi Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455
Amarachi Okafor, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses the full spectrum of her clients' mental health. Serving patients across North Carolina, she recognizes that mental wellness is shaped by both genetic and lifestyle factors. Amarachi combines psychotropic medication management, therapeutic techniques, and lifestyle guidance to create personalized care plans that promote emotional and mental freedom for her clients and their families. Amarachi has hands-on experience in both outpatient and emergency psychiatry, working with both pediatric and adult populations.
Amarachi Okafor, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses the full spectrum of her clients' mental health. Serving patients across North Carolina, she recognizes that mental wellness is shaped by both genetic and lifestyle factors. Amarachi combines psychotropic medication management, therapeutic techniques, and lifestyle guidance to create personalized care plans that promote emotional and mental freedom for her clients and their families. Amarachi has hands-on experience in both outpatient and emergency psychiatry, working with both pediatric and adult populations.
(336) 930-9530 View (336) 930-9530
Photo of Barbara Goodman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
(336) 800-1704 View (336) 800-1704
Photo of Obi O Ikwechegh - Kairos Medical Consulting, MD, Psychiatrist
Kairos Medical Consulting
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
At Kairos Medical Consulting, we believe your voice is important and provide care that is driven by your own views as well as your needs. We recognize that you are more than your diagnosis and your care much more than a compilation of therapies and medications. That is why we offer an opportunity for collaboration at every step of your journey with Dr. Ikwechegh & Dr. Dunham (Board Certified Psychiatrists) who are dedicated to your success. With unique treatment plans tailored to fit your specific needs, we take into account your bio-psychosocial as well as spiritual constructs. We recognize the hidden strength of our patients.
At Kairos Medical Consulting, we believe your voice is important and provide care that is driven by your own views as well as your needs. We recognize that you are more than your diagnosis and your care much more than a compilation of therapies and medications. That is why we offer an opportunity for collaboration at every step of your journey with Dr. Ikwechegh & Dr. Dunham (Board Certified Psychiatrists) who are dedicated to your success. With unique treatment plans tailored to fit your specific needs, we take into account your bio-psychosocial as well as spiritual constructs. We recognize the hidden strength of our patients.
(336) 560-8836 View (336) 560-8836
Photo of Shuntrickia Taylor, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shuntrickia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Shuntrickia is committed to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a patient-centered approach, Shuntrickia emphasizes collaborative care, actively involving patients in treatment planning and decision-making processes. Through empathetic listening and effective communication, she establishes a therapeutic alliance built on trust and mutual respect, fostering a supportive environment.
Shuntrickia is committed to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a patient-centered approach, Shuntrickia emphasizes collaborative care, actively involving patients in treatment planning and decision-making processes. Through empathetic listening and effective communication, she establishes a therapeutic alliance built on trust and mutual respect, fostering a supportive environment.
(910) 901-8581 View (910) 901-8581
Photo of Stephen Narigon, DNP, MBA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen Narigon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psych-educational support. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psych-educational support. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
(984) 203-9158 View (984) 203-9158
Photo of Morgan Stenger, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Morgan Stenger
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
(336) 656-2326 View (336) 656-2326
Photo of Adrienne Holloway - Holsan Behavioral Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holsan Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients. Adrienne Holloway is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Holsan Behavioral Health who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. We offer in-person appointments in Raleigh, NC, and telehealth services across North Carolina and Oregon, ensuring convenient access to quality and compassionate mental health care. We are available after hours and on weekends to accommodate your busy schedule. We specialize in attention difficulties, behavioral challenges, mood challenges, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep, military issues and trauma.
Accepting New Patients. Adrienne Holloway is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Holsan Behavioral Health who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. We offer in-person appointments in Raleigh, NC, and telehealth services across North Carolina and Oregon, ensuring convenient access to quality and compassionate mental health care. We are available after hours and on weekends to accommodate your busy schedule. We specialize in attention difficulties, behavioral challenges, mood challenges, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep, military issues and trauma.
(984) 310-2187 View (984) 310-2187
Photo of Karen Shugart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Shugart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
With a focus primarily on medication evaluation and management, I offer a warm, open, and non-judgmental approach that empowers clients to share freely and fully participate as they move toward their goals. My goal is to offer evidence-based, inclusive treatment that helps clients function at their highest level.
With a focus primarily on medication evaluation and management, I offer a warm, open, and non-judgmental approach that empowers clients to share freely and fully participate as they move toward their goals. My goal is to offer evidence-based, inclusive treatment that helps clients function at their highest level.
(336) 360-5711 View (336) 360-5711
Photo of Ken Dunham, MD, MAEd, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Ken Dunham
Psychiatrist, MD, MAEd, FAPA
Verified Verified
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
(336) 481-7189 View (336) 481-7189
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(828) 575-0687 View (828) 575-0687

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 27106

< 10

Psychiatrists in 27106 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 27106 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 27106?

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.