Psychiatrists in 27577

Photo of Shameka Logan-Johnson - Heart & Mind Behavioral Services, RN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heart & Mind Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
Accepting New Patients! Embrace Mental Wellness with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook our mental health. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a balanced, fulfilling life. Shameka Johnson, PMHNP, brings years of experience and a compassionate approach to mental health, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and peace. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need support, she offers personalized care tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward first step toward a brighter tomorrow.
Accepting New Patients! Embrace Mental Wellness with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook our mental health. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a balanced, fulfilling life. Shameka Johnson, PMHNP, brings years of experience and a compassionate approach to mental health, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and peace. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need support, she offers personalized care tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward first step toward a brighter tomorrow.
(919) 800-0701 View (919) 800-0701

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Lastra - Eclipse Mental Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eclipse Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are accepting new patients! Our goal is to bring a warm and empathetic approach to mental health care. We provide quality service to our patients where they receive competent care that never feels rushed. At this time we see adult patients who are comfortable with virtual care, and we treat many conditions to include: ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Disorder, and more. We provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space for people of all walks of life, no matter their background, identity, or beliefs.
We are accepting new patients! Our goal is to bring a warm and empathetic approach to mental health care. We provide quality service to our patients where they receive competent care that never feels rushed. At this time we see adult patients who are comfortable with virtual care, and we treat many conditions to include: ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Disorder, and more. We provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space for people of all walks of life, no matter their background, identity, or beliefs.
(984) 369-9056 View (984) 369-9056
Photo of Lydia Johnson, NP, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lydia Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
I provide mental health medication management and specialize in substance / alcohol use disorders. I’m an LGBTQA+ friendly and gender affirming provider, and offer both telemed and in-office appointments. In addition to medication prescribing, I focus my practice on strong patient education, counseling, healthcare empowerment, and client-provider collaboration. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to live their best life, and who are looking for a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect. Conditions I treat include depression/anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and mood disorders. I also offer limited primary care.
I provide mental health medication management and specialize in substance / alcohol use disorders. I’m an LGBTQA+ friendly and gender affirming provider, and offer both telemed and in-office appointments. In addition to medication prescribing, I focus my practice on strong patient education, counseling, healthcare empowerment, and client-provider collaboration. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to live their best life, and who are looking for a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect. Conditions I treat include depression/anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and mood disorders. I also offer limited primary care.
(984) 315-7352 View (984) 315-7352
Photo of Chrishaunda Vick, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chrishaunda Vick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over five years of experience. I enjoy Empowering people to be the Best versions of themselves and I enjoy helping people set boundaries and limitations and promoting self-care. I also enjoy helping patients process their feelings and determining what is real and perceived. Enjoy learning new information. Spending time with my family and my friends. I am a native North Carolinian.
I am a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over five years of experience. I enjoy Empowering people to be the Best versions of themselves and I enjoy helping people set boundaries and limitations and promoting self-care. I also enjoy helping patients process their feelings and determining what is real and perceived. Enjoy learning new information. Spending time with my family and my friends. I am a native North Carolinian.
(984) 205-5224 View (984) 205-5224
Photo of Michele Schaefer, MD, Psychiatrist
Michele Schaefer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Schaefer is board certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 16 years. Dr. Schaefer's practice focuses on medication management, offered in conjunction with supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Most follow up visits are 30 minutes, and if additional therapy is needed, a therapist may be brought into the care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Schaefer is board certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 16 years. Dr. Schaefer's practice focuses on medication management, offered in conjunction with supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Most follow up visits are 30 minutes, and if additional therapy is needed, a therapist may be brought into the care team to provide the best outcome.
(919) 705-0016 View (919) 705-0016
Photo of Peter Buonaccorsi, MD, Psychiatrist
Peter Buonaccorsi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Not accepting new clients
Psychiatric assessment, diagnosis and care are best undertaken with humility and humor in all parties. Though the human condition often feels impossible and suffering unbearable, Psychiatry can offer help with these complex and vexing issues. I promise to do my best to communicate clearly and to listen diligently to your concerns and problems. Working with parents and their children is a special privilege for me. I enjoy helping people meet the tasks of becoming a parent and learning to parent their child. I have found that these challenges are among the most difficult that most people ever encounter.
Psychiatric assessment, diagnosis and care are best undertaken with humility and humor in all parties. Though the human condition often feels impossible and suffering unbearable, Psychiatry can offer help with these complex and vexing issues. I promise to do my best to communicate clearly and to listen diligently to your concerns and problems. Working with parents and their children is a special privilege for me. I enjoy helping people meet the tasks of becoming a parent and learning to parent their child. I have found that these challenges are among the most difficult that most people ever encounter.
(919) 551-3907 View (919) 551-3907
Photo of Adam Jenrola, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Jenrola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about helping clients improve their mental health. As a registered nurse and currently as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have about 14 years experience working with patients struggling with mental health issues. I earned my bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from Chamberlain University and my master of science in nursing (MSN) from Walden University.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about helping clients improve their mental health. As a registered nurse and currently as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have about 14 years experience working with patients struggling with mental health issues. I earned my bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from Chamberlain University and my master of science in nursing (MSN) from Walden University.
(919) 737-2760 View (919) 737-2760
Photo of Dr. Ami Pearse, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ami Pearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
(828) 977-6046 View (828) 977-6046
Photo of Camille Hudimac, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Camille Hudimac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults with mental health concerns and substance abuse.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults with mental health concerns and substance abuse.
(919) 822-5963 View (919) 822-5963
Photo of Peter Z. Perault, MD, Psychiatrist
Peter Z. Perault
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in Chapel Hill with 25 years experience helping people to heal and transform emotional distress by talking freely and deeply about their lives. As a physician, I understand when medications may be needed to heal physiologic emotional distress. But I also know that a person who is listened and responded to with deep understanding will become clearer, stronger and freer to grow -- within themselves, in their relationships and in their work. This unique, personal therapeutic experience often leads to the most complete and lasting cure, and success in life.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in Chapel Hill with 25 years experience helping people to heal and transform emotional distress by talking freely and deeply about their lives. As a physician, I understand when medications may be needed to heal physiologic emotional distress. But I also know that a person who is listened and responded to with deep understanding will become clearer, stronger and freer to grow -- within themselves, in their relationships and in their work. This unique, personal therapeutic experience often leads to the most complete and lasting cure, and success in life.
(919) 924-0977 View (919) 924-0977
Photo of Samantha Dietter, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Samantha Dietter
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Accepting new clients - Ages 5+, 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 5+, 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 Julie Ann Chilton - Dr Julie Chilton, MD, PLLC, MD, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist
Dr Julie Chilton, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist in private practice in Asheville, NC and on faculty at the Yale Child Study Center in New Haven, CT. I provide therapy as well as medication management, when necessary. The primary modalities I use with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. One of my biggest passions is providing excellent resources to supplement therapy, so clients feel well-versed in their treatment and realize they are not the only ones going through these struggles. Mental health issues are common and treatable and there should be no shame in getting help!
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist in private practice in Asheville, NC and on faculty at the Yale Child Study Center in New Haven, CT. I provide therapy as well as medication management, when necessary. The primary modalities I use with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. One of my biggest passions is providing excellent resources to supplement therapy, so clients feel well-versed in their treatment and realize they are not the only ones going through these struggles. Mental health issues are common and treatable and there should be no shame in getting help!
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Photo of Heather Strauss, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients throughout NC & FL! - - - As a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience, I am dedicated to shared decision-making when it comes to medication treatment, empowering you to take control of your mental health journey while I provide guidance based on years of expertise. I am a strong advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
Currently accepting new patients throughout NC & FL! - - - As a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience, I am dedicated to shared decision-making when it comes to medication treatment, empowering you to take control of your mental health journey while I provide guidance based on years of expertise. I am a strong advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
(828) 235-4000 View (828) 235-4000
Photo of Dr. Lorna Samwed, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lorna Samwed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to provide you with the highest quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. I am here to listen to your concerns, provide personalized treatment plans, and empower you on your journey to mental wellness. Your well-being is our shared goal, and I am committed to working with you to achieve the best possible outcomes. Together, we can navigate challenges and work towards a brighter, healthier future.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to provide you with the highest quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. I am here to listen to your concerns, provide personalized treatment plans, and empower you on your journey to mental wellness. Your well-being is our shared goal, and I am committed to working with you to achieve the best possible outcomes. Together, we can navigate challenges and work towards a brighter, healthier future.
(984) 334-1528 View (984) 334-1528
Photo of Kesha Spaulding, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kesha Spaulding
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Kesha, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar disorder, and trauma. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
I am Kesha, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar disorder, and trauma. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
(919) 205-9087 View (919) 205-9087
Photo of Charlene Staff, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Charlene Staff
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Certified Physician Assistant with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health. I’ve had the privilege of working in both private practice and community mental health settings, and I’m deeply committed to educating and treating my patients to enhance their mental well-being and improve their overall quality of life.
I am a Certified Physician Assistant with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health. I’ve had the privilege of working in both private practice and community mental health settings, and I’m deeply committed to educating and treating my patients to enhance their mental well-being and improve their overall quality of life.
(910) 485-6336 View (910) 485-6336
West Cary Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The mental health providers, Claudia D. Nunez, MD; Susan Dumire, PMHNP; Susan Schleith, PMHNP, and Nancy Vue, PMHNP, at West Cary Psychiatry take pride in treating every person as an individual. No rushed 10 or 15 minute appointments. No large facility to navigate, and no confusing health system to figure out. Just you and your provider in a comfortable office setting. Our purpose is to help you find your path to wellness and wellbeing.
The mental health providers, Claudia D. Nunez, MD; Susan Dumire, PMHNP; Susan Schleith, PMHNP, and Nancy Vue, PMHNP, at West Cary Psychiatry take pride in treating every person as an individual. No rushed 10 or 15 minute appointments. No large facility to navigate, and no confusing health system to figure out. Just you and your provider in a comfortable office setting. Our purpose is to help you find your path to wellness and wellbeing.
(919) 377-1042 View (919) 377-1042
Photo of Dorine Henrietta Martin - Mindology, MSN, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Mindology
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
(919) 823-2847 View (919) 823-2847
Photo of William F Wright, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
William F Wright
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am the founder and psychiatrist at EirPax Psychiatry. I offer exceptional full spectrum psychiatric care in the comfort of your own home with telehealth services to help your busy lifestyle. With a foundation of psychotherapy ("talk therapy") and the ability to utilize medications if needed, I offer active ways to find help. I offer patient-centered and evidence-based treatments to assist in a wide spectrum of mental health and relationship issues - whether these issues have just arisen or have been present lifelong. Medication management appointments are also available to those stable with their current medication regimen.
I am the founder and psychiatrist at EirPax Psychiatry. I offer exceptional full spectrum psychiatric care in the comfort of your own home with telehealth services to help your busy lifestyle. With a foundation of psychotherapy ("talk therapy") and the ability to utilize medications if needed, I offer active ways to find help. I offer patient-centered and evidence-based treatments to assist in a wide spectrum of mental health and relationship issues - whether these issues have just arisen or have been present lifelong. Medication management appointments are also available to those stable with their current medication regimen.
(704) 327-0871 View (704) 327-0871
Photo of James P Lefler, MD, Psychiatrist
James P Lefler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Given training in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, I have expertise in the intimate links between the mind and the body. My medical training and experience are enhanced by post-graduate study of modern psychoanalytic technique. This unique combination of skills allows me to treat patients with mood (Depression and Bipolar), trauma, and psychotic disorders. I am well suited to offer both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Given training in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, I have expertise in the intimate links between the mind and the body. My medical training and experience are enhanced by post-graduate study of modern psychoanalytic technique. This unique combination of skills allows me to treat patients with mood (Depression and Bipolar), trauma, and psychotic disorders. I am well suited to offer both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
(919) 737-7753 View (919) 737-7753

See more therapy options for 27577

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 27577

< 10

Psychiatrists in 27577 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 27577 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 27577?

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.