Psychiatrists in 27511

Photo of Lawrence M. Raines III - Lawrence M. Raines, III, M.D., Psychiatrist
Lawrence M. Raines, III, M.D.
Psychiatrist
Cary, NC 27511
Sometimes, our best efforts leave us stalled. Personal initiative and the robust energy that we typically apply to serious challenges falls short of relieving true worry, anxiety, depressed mood, fatigue, insomnia, and other symptoms. At the root of our struggle, it may be that what previously had worked fails us now. The medical specialty of Psychiatry emerges as an essential ally when treatment options originate from a thorough clinical evaluation in concert with your primary care physician, psychologist, therapist or alternative medical practitioner for an integrated treatment plan. As a psychiatrist, my goal is your sustained, long-term health.
Sometimes, our best efforts leave us stalled. Personal initiative and the robust energy that we typically apply to serious challenges falls short of relieving true worry, anxiety, depressed mood, fatigue, insomnia, and other symptoms. At the root of our struggle, it may be that what previously had worked fails us now. The medical specialty of Psychiatry emerges as an essential ally when treatment options originate from a thorough clinical evaluation in concert with your primary care physician, psychologist, therapist or alternative medical practitioner for an integrated treatment plan. As a psychiatrist, my goal is your sustained, long-term health.
(919) 535-4794 View (919) 535-4794
Photo of Dana Keys, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Dana Keys
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Cary, NC 27511
Do you feel like you’re constantly running on empty, no matter how hard you try to manage everything? Life’s demands can leave you feeling overwhelmed and stuck. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or major life transitions. I’m here to listen closely and help you regain joy and purpose.
Do you feel like you’re constantly running on empty, no matter how hard you try to manage everything? Life’s demands can leave you feeling overwhelmed and stuck. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or major life transitions. I’m here to listen closely and help you regain joy and purpose.
(919) 230-2655 View (919) 230-2655
Photo of Regina Melendez Nagarajan, Psychiatrist, MD
Regina Melendez Nagarajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Cary, NC 27511
Waitlist for new clients
Despite your best efforts with various treatments and lifestyle changes, are you still held down by your mental health? I work with adult patients who are trying to balance the pressures of work, relationships, and personal fulfillment and want a holistic approach to their care. As a Yale-trained psychiatrist, I go beyond symptom management with medications and work to integrate therapy, mindfulness, culinary changes, and other evidence-based approaches into my care. I take time to get to know my patients and their stories to help them make treatment plans unique to their strengths and values.
Despite your best efforts with various treatments and lifestyle changes, are you still held down by your mental health? I work with adult patients who are trying to balance the pressures of work, relationships, and personal fulfillment and want a holistic approach to their care. As a Yale-trained psychiatrist, I go beyond symptom management with medications and work to integrate therapy, mindfulness, culinary changes, and other evidence-based approaches into my care. I take time to get to know my patients and their stories to help them make treatment plans unique to their strengths and values.
(984) 223-8877 View (984) 223-8877
Photo of Ria Battaglino, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Ria Battaglino
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Cary, NC 27511
I am a board certified psychiatrist that practices holistic psychiatry and integrative medicine. I help my patients to achieve optimal mental health via a holistic approach that addresses each individual's physical, mental and spiritual health. I am experienced in complex medication management and psychotherapy as well as incorporating natural, medication-free options that may be just as essential to your overall well being. My belief is that mental health and emotional perspective heavily influence physical health and vice-versa. I address the complex psychiatric issues that arise from this interaction to help you feel your best emotionally and physically.
I am a board certified psychiatrist that practices holistic psychiatry and integrative medicine. I help my patients to achieve optimal mental health via a holistic approach that addresses each individual's physical, mental and spiritual health. I am experienced in complex medication management and psychotherapy as well as incorporating natural, medication-free options that may be just as essential to your overall well being. My belief is that mental health and emotional perspective heavily influence physical health and vice-versa. I address the complex psychiatric issues that arise from this interaction to help you feel your best emotionally and physically.
(919) 728-5045 View (919) 728-5045
Photo of Mariam Ramzan - Mariam at Evergreen Psychiatry Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Mariam at Evergreen Psychiatry Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Mariam Ramzan is a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with several years of experience in both nursing and psychiatry. Over the past four years, she has primarily worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, delivering care to individuals across the lifespan. Her extensive clinical background includes providing mental health services in diverse settings such as inpatient units, outpatient clinic, urgent care center, and an emergency department. She has worked with individuals with different gender identities as well.
Mariam Ramzan is a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with several years of experience in both nursing and psychiatry. Over the past four years, she has primarily worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, delivering care to individuals across the lifespan. Her extensive clinical background includes providing mental health services in diverse settings such as inpatient units, outpatient clinic, urgent care center, and an emergency department. She has worked with individuals with different gender identities as well.
(336) 936-5118 View (336) 936-5118
Photo of Mariam Nantang - Evergreen Psychiatry Group , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Evergreen Psychiatry Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Accepting New patients. Welcome to Evergreen Psychiatry Group, We understand that seeking mental health care is a deeply personal and sometimes difficult decision. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, We want you to know that you are not alone. Our Team’s mission is to provide compassionate, judgment-free care that meets you where you are in your journey. We believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach, where your voice is heard, your concerns are validated, and your treatment is tailored to your unique needs.
Accepting New patients. Welcome to Evergreen Psychiatry Group, We understand that seeking mental health care is a deeply personal and sometimes difficult decision. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, We want you to know that you are not alone. Our Team’s mission is to provide compassionate, judgment-free care that meets you where you are in your journey. We believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach, where your voice is heard, your concerns are validated, and your treatment is tailored to your unique needs.
(336) 396-6341 View (336) 396-6341
Photo of Morgan Poston, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Morgan Poston
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Morgan Poston is a board-certified Physician Assistant. Morgan graduated from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Human Biology. She earned her Master of Physician Assistant Practice degree from Campbell University. The opportunity to develop trusting patient-provider relationships is one of the things Morgan values most about providing care in outpatient psychiatry. She enjoys the opportunity to educate her patients and work together to make informed decisions to optimize their daily functioning and improve their quality of life.
Morgan Poston is a board-certified Physician Assistant. Morgan graduated from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Human Biology. She earned her Master of Physician Assistant Practice degree from Campbell University. The opportunity to develop trusting patient-provider relationships is one of the things Morgan values most about providing care in outpatient psychiatry. She enjoys the opportunity to educate her patients and work together to make informed decisions to optimize their daily functioning and improve their quality of life.
(919) 301-9856 View (919) 301-9856
Photo of Neil Scheurich, Psychiatrist, MD
Neil Scheurich
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
NOTE that as of 6/23/24 my schedule is too full to permit new patient scheduling. I do not keep a waiting list, but typically I am able to reopen periodically. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer either video or in-person sessions.
NOTE that as of 6/23/24 my schedule is too full to permit new patient scheduling. I do not keep a waiting list, but typically I am able to reopen periodically. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer either video or in-person sessions.
(919) 283-4391 View (919) 283-4391
Photo of Samantha Dietter, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Samantha Dietter
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients - Ages 6+, teens and adults for medication management. Virtual and in-office appointments. I have a passion for providing patient-centered mental health care. I will work collaboratively with you to create a personalized care plan, through shared decision making and incorporation of your strengths. Using a holistic approach, we will combine lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and psychotropic treatments to assist you and your family.
Accepting new clients - Ages 6+, teens and adults for medication management. Virtual and in-office appointments. I have a passion for providing patient-centered mental health care. I will work collaboratively with you to create a personalized care plan, through shared decision making and incorporation of your strengths. Using a holistic approach, we will combine lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and psychotropic treatments to assist you and your family.
(984) 364-8172 View (984) 364-8172
Photo of Dr. Jun He - Carolina Performance, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Carolina Performance
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Jun He is a General Psychiatrist with thorough training in Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance dependence. In her private practice at Carolina Performance, Dr. Jun He’s practice offers a comprehensive approach for treating substance addiction. The treatment includes both medication and supportive psychotherapy. Dr. Jun He offers the Suboxone (Buprenorphine and Naloxone) maintenance program to support the recovery of opiate addiction. I am also taking patients at Headway for in person and telehealth.
Dr. Jun He is a General Psychiatrist with thorough training in Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance dependence. In her private practice at Carolina Performance, Dr. Jun He’s practice offers a comprehensive approach for treating substance addiction. The treatment includes both medication and supportive psychotherapy. Dr. Jun He offers the Suboxone (Buprenorphine and Naloxone) maintenance program to support the recovery of opiate addiction. I am also taking patients at Headway for in person and telehealth.
(984) 273-3407 View (984) 273-3407
Photo of Dr. Daniel Fish, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Daniel Fish
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Daniel L. Fish is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He earned degrees at North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School and completed his Psychiatry Residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Daniel considers himself a down-to-earth and personable Psychiatrist with a combination of life experience and excellent training. He specializes in discerning the impact of how life situations, medical conditions, and biochemical brain imbalances can commonly manifest psychiatrically in conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.
Daniel L. Fish is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He earned degrees at North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School and completed his Psychiatry Residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Daniel considers himself a down-to-earth and personable Psychiatrist with a combination of life experience and excellent training. He specializes in discerning the impact of how life situations, medical conditions, and biochemical brain imbalances can commonly manifest psychiatrically in conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.
(984) 201-7676 View (984) 201-7676
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
(984) 369-8548 View (984) 369-8548
Photo of Maddison Olinger Henley, Physician Assistant, MMSc, PA-C
Maddison Olinger Henley
Physician Assistant, MMSc, PA-C
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I remain committed to promoting mental health awareness and combating the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. Through community outreach and education, I aspire to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of mental health. With a blend of compassion and expertise, I am eager to facilitate meaningful improvements in the lives of my patients, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.
I remain committed to promoting mental health awareness and combating the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. Through community outreach and education, I aspire to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of mental health. With a blend of compassion and expertise, I am eager to facilitate meaningful improvements in the lives of my patients, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.
(336) 360-5296 View (336) 360-5296
Photo of Saman Hasan, Psychiatrist, MD
Saman Hasan
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
(919) 842-3772 View (919) 842-3772
Photo of William Griffies - Mindpath Health Psychiatrists & Therapists, Psychiatrist
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Lori Sloan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lori Sloan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Lori Sloan, PMHNP-BC Lori Sloan is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1995. She is Board certified by the ANCC in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing as a registered nurse prior to becoming an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Mount Olive and a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University. Lori has an ability to cultivate therapeutic relationships with patients with empathy and respect by allowing them to express concerns and worries without fear of judgment.
Lori Sloan, PMHNP-BC Lori Sloan is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1995. She is Board certified by the ANCC in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing as a registered nurse prior to becoming an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Mount Olive and a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University. Lori has an ability to cultivate therapeutic relationships with patients with empathy and respect by allowing them to express concerns and worries without fear of judgment.
(919) 804-0171 View (919) 804-0171
Photo of Chinyere Chima - Rejuve Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Rejuve Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hello! I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 18 years of clinical experience. I started my healthcare career as a critical care nurse.
Hello! I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 18 years of clinical experience. I started my healthcare career as a critical care nurse.
(980) 456-8762 View (980) 456-8762
Photo of Sugaree Ganzman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sugaree Ganzman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Sugaree Ganzman, PMHNP, helps individuals across North Carolina navigate life’s mental health challenges with compassion and clinical insight. As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she partners with patients of all ages—from young children to older adults—to address conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Whether supporting a teen facing emotional overwhelm or guiding an adult through a significant life transition, Sugaree meets each person with a thoughtful and personalized approach to care.
Sugaree Ganzman, PMHNP, helps individuals across North Carolina navigate life’s mental health challenges with compassion and clinical insight. As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she partners with patients of all ages—from young children to older adults—to address conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Whether supporting a teen facing emotional overwhelm or guiding an adult through a significant life transition, Sugaree meets each person with a thoughtful and personalized approach to care.
(984) 336-2817 View (984) 336-2817
Photo of Hewan Mezgebu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hewan Mezgebu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is seeking clarity, support, and a collaborative approach to managing their mental health. They may be dealing with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, struggling with the lasting effects of trauma, or facing challenges related to attention, substance use, or significant life transitions. What they need most is a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can be heard and understood, along with accurate diagnosis, thoughtful medication management, and education to help them better understand and navigate their experiences.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking clarity, support, and a collaborative approach to managing their mental health. They may be dealing with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, struggling with the lasting effects of trauma, or facing challenges related to attention, substance use, or significant life transitions. What they need most is a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can be heard and understood, along with accurate diagnosis, thoughtful medication management, and education to help them better understand and navigate their experiences.
(984) 265-8071 View (984) 265-8071
Photo of William Griffies - Mindpath Health Psychiatrists & Therapists, Psychiatrist
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551

See more therapy options for 27511

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 27511

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 27511 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
81% ADHD
81% Trauma and PTSD
81% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 27511 see their clients

95% In Person and Online
5% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 27511?

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.