Psychiatrists in 27587

Photo of Adrienne Emery Ramirez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adrienne Emery Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Have you been neglecting your mental health needs? Do you feel that there is some aspect of your mental health and life goals that you could improve upon? You are not alone! I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan. I work with various diagnosis including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and adjustment disorders. Together we will tailor your care plan to address the areas of your life you consider to be most important. I find it best to use a combination of medication management, CBT, coaching, and mindfulness therapies to help you reach your goals.
Have you been neglecting your mental health needs? Do you feel that there is some aspect of your mental health and life goals that you could improve upon? You are not alone! I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan. I work with various diagnosis including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and adjustment disorders. Together we will tailor your care plan to address the areas of your life you consider to be most important. I find it best to use a combination of medication management, CBT, coaching, and mindfulness therapies to help you reach your goals.
(919) 533-2031 View (919) 533-2031
Photo of Natasha Donnelly Phd, PhD, PMHNP, MSC+MSN, BSc Hon, PG C Ed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Donnelly Phd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, MSC+MSN, BSc Hon, PG C Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
If you or a loved one are feeling lost, struggling to fit in, or dealing with isolating and overwhelming negative emotions I am here to help! I have dedicated my life to the field of mental health and promise there is a path for you to grow and heal. If you are looking for an individualized plan and holistic approach to mental wellness, let's collaborate on finding the tools that work best for you!
If you or a loved one are feeling lost, struggling to fit in, or dealing with isolating and overwhelming negative emotions I am here to help! I have dedicated my life to the field of mental health and promise there is a path for you to grow and heal. If you are looking for an individualized plan and holistic approach to mental wellness, let's collaborate on finding the tools that work best for you!
(919) 443-6087 View (919) 443-6087
Photo of Shelly Alasti, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shelly Alasti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
My clients often face complex mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, brain injury, sleep disorders, and ADHD. Many also struggle with weight management and the psychological factors associated with it, including emotional eating and stress. Their needs include effective medication management, therapeutic support, and strategies to improve daily functioning and overall well-being. My goals for them is to achieve better mental health, sustainable weight loss, and a balanced lifestyle. The outcome will improve their quality of life, enhance their self-esteem, and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
My clients often face complex mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, brain injury, sleep disorders, and ADHD. Many also struggle with weight management and the psychological factors associated with it, including emotional eating and stress. Their needs include effective medication management, therapeutic support, and strategies to improve daily functioning and overall well-being. My goals for them is to achieve better mental health, sustainable weight loss, and a balanced lifestyle. The outcome will improve their quality of life, enhance their self-esteem, and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
(984) 207-1546 View (984) 207-1546
Photo of Laurie Dunne, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Laurie Dunne
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Accepting New Clients! Are you searching for a psychiatric physician assistant who goes above and beyond to prioritize your well-being? I’d love to work with you! My name is Laurie and I am a dedicated professional committed to providing unparalleled support and guidance on your journey to mental health. With years of experience and a passion for fostering genuine connections, I value the power of collaboration with my patients. I believe that open communication and mutual understanding are essential foundations for successful treatment.
Accepting New Clients! Are you searching for a psychiatric physician assistant who goes above and beyond to prioritize your well-being? I’d love to work with you! My name is Laurie and I am a dedicated professional committed to providing unparalleled support and guidance on your journey to mental health. With years of experience and a passion for fostering genuine connections, I value the power of collaboration with my patients. I believe that open communication and mutual understanding are essential foundations for successful treatment.
(919) 726-0269 View (919) 726-0269
Photo of Kelly Cobb, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Cobb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
I service clients across diverse age groups, from children to seniors, who are facing mental health challenges and substance misuse issues. Their needs often include managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and etc. as well as achieving emotional balance and improving their overall quality of life. Their goals are to find effective coping strategies, enhance their mental health, and lead fulfilling lives. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique circumstances and helps them achieve lasting well-being.
I service clients across diverse age groups, from children to seniors, who are facing mental health challenges and substance misuse issues. Their needs often include managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and etc. as well as achieving emotional balance and improving their overall quality of life. Their goals are to find effective coping strategies, enhance their mental health, and lead fulfilling lives. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique circumstances and helps them achieve lasting well-being.
(984) 257-5200 View (984) 257-5200
Photo of Elizabeth Vaughan, MSN, APRN, CPNP-PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Vaughan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CPNP-PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Liz Vaughan is a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a specialty focus in Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Duke University in 2019. Liz received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing also from Duke University in 2014. Liz has 7 years of previous pediatric nursing experience, ranging from intensive care, to cardiac, to pediatric oncology/bone marrow transplant, to outpatient neurology and mental health. During her MSN coursework at Duke, Liz was one of the first students to take part in the Pediatric Mental Behavioral Health Specialty program.
Liz Vaughan is a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a specialty focus in Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Duke University in 2019. Liz received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing also from Duke University in 2014. Liz has 7 years of previous pediatric nursing experience, ranging from intensive care, to cardiac, to pediatric oncology/bone marrow transplant, to outpatient neurology and mental health. During her MSN coursework at Duke, Liz was one of the first students to take part in the Pediatric Mental Behavioral Health Specialty program.
(984) 237-3914 View (984) 237-3914
Photo of Matthew A Clemons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew A Clemons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Greetings, future client, My name is Matthew Clemons. I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who cares with compassion for individuals throughout their lifespan (children and adults). My goal is to provide holistic, collaborative, and client-centered care with the most up-to-date, evidence-based practice in behavioral healthcare. My treatment approaches include medication management, mental health education, solution-focused therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
Greetings, future client, My name is Matthew Clemons. I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who cares with compassion for individuals throughout their lifespan (children and adults). My goal is to provide holistic, collaborative, and client-centered care with the most up-to-date, evidence-based practice in behavioral healthcare. My treatment approaches include medication management, mental health education, solution-focused therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
(919) 289-8212 View (919) 289-8212
Photo of Christina Stevenson - Virtuous Total Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Virtuous Total Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results.
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results.
(919) 289-8422 View (919) 289-8422
Photo of Robin Peterson, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robin Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hello. My name is Robin. I have been a psychiatric Nurse for over 25 years. I have experience, knowledge and expertise working with a variety of clients. I use a person centered approach in order to meet the individualized needs of each client. I graduated from University of Texas in Austin with a Bachelor in Nursing and received a post masters certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Vanderbilt university. I retired from active duty 2016.
Hello. My name is Robin. I have been a psychiatric Nurse for over 25 years. I have experience, knowledge and expertise working with a variety of clients. I use a person centered approach in order to meet the individualized needs of each client. I graduated from University of Texas in Austin with a Bachelor in Nursing and received a post masters certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Vanderbilt university. I retired from active duty 2016.
(919) 371-2920 View (919) 371-2920
Photo of Tameka Davis, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tameka Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
Life comes with many challenges that are not meant to be faced alone. Inviting someone into your story, your journey, and your hardships is not easy, but it is the first step to your healing and wellness. If you are tired of doing life alone and want to experience fulfillment in your soul that will bring abundance to every part of your life, take that first step today and reach out for support. I am a compassionate and dedicated practitioner who believes each client is unique and worthy of the best care. My approach is wholistic and person centered with the understanding that there are many factors that impact your mental health.
Life comes with many challenges that are not meant to be faced alone. Inviting someone into your story, your journey, and your hardships is not easy, but it is the first step to your healing and wellness. If you are tired of doing life alone and want to experience fulfillment in your soul that will bring abundance to every part of your life, take that first step today and reach out for support. I am a compassionate and dedicated practitioner who believes each client is unique and worthy of the best care. My approach is wholistic and person centered with the understanding that there are many factors that impact your mental health.
(910) 597-3945 View (910) 597-3945
Photo of Shari Lynn Scott, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shari Lynn Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
It is my belief that everyone is the best expert on themself! With this in mind I am willing to meet a client where they are and allow them to direct the course of their own treatment. I am here to offer ideas, suggestions, and options but the decision is up to my client as they know what will and will not work in their life. I believe that we all should feel content in our own skin and even those with mental illness can and should feel better!
It is my belief that everyone is the best expert on themself! With this in mind I am willing to meet a client where they are and allow them to direct the course of their own treatment. I am here to offer ideas, suggestions, and options but the decision is up to my client as they know what will and will not work in their life. I believe that we all should feel content in our own skin and even those with mental illness can and should feel better!
(984) 230-4651 View (984) 230-4651
Photo of Reshana Dupree, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reshana Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hello. My name is Reshana Dupree. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years. I am well versed in working with all types of clients with a variety of issues. I use a holistic, patient centered approach to ensure each individuals needs are met in the best way possible. I received my BSN from North Carolina Central University, and my post masters certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University.
Hello. My name is Reshana Dupree. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years. I am well versed in working with all types of clients with a variety of issues. I use a holistic, patient centered approach to ensure each individuals needs are met in the best way possible. I received my BSN from North Carolina Central University, and my post masters certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University.
(984) 214-4252 View (984) 214-4252
Photo of Catina Greene, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catina Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. We are happy to explore substance use issues with up-to-date treatment options, as needed. Offering VA compensation assistance, ADHD testing and full psychiatric evaluations.
Struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. We are happy to explore substance use issues with up-to-date treatment options, as needed. Offering VA compensation assistance, ADHD testing and full psychiatric evaluations.
(984) 409-9027 View (984) 409-9027
Photo of Christina Stevenson - Virtuous Total Wellness, DNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Virtuous Total Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work. I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach!
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work. I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach!
(984) 789-3359 View (984) 789-3359
Photo of Lisa Fields, MSN, RN, PMHCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Lisa Fields
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, RN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to stay afloat with too much on your mind, on your schedule, in your day? Do you spend more time overwhelmed and catching up than at peace? If so, there are ways to feel better and live better whether you or someone you love are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADD, anger, frustration with relationships, or just frustration with the quality of your life. I am a therapist who can help you work through these issues. It is important to know that I AM NOT A PSYCHIATRIST and I DO NOT PRESCRIBE MEDS.
Are you struggling to stay afloat with too much on your mind, on your schedule, in your day? Do you spend more time overwhelmed and catching up than at peace? If so, there are ways to feel better and live better whether you or someone you love are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADD, anger, frustration with relationships, or just frustration with the quality of your life. I am a therapist who can help you work through these issues. It is important to know that I AM NOT A PSYCHIATRIST and I DO NOT PRESCRIBE MEDS.
(919) 504-5623 View (919) 504-5623
Photo of Jessica Mohr, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Mohr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Now Accepting New Clients! I want to help you get to a better place mentally, physically, and spiritually. You deserve to feel happy when you wake up and peaceful when you go to bed at night. I promise that I am here to support and listen to your needs and whatever you are going through right now. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I integrate holistic approaches in addition to medication in my treatment approach. Every person that comes into my office is very different and deserves to be seen for who they are and not only their symptoms. Together we will create a plan that works for you whether with medication, therapy, or both.
Now Accepting New Clients! I want to help you get to a better place mentally, physically, and spiritually. You deserve to feel happy when you wake up and peaceful when you go to bed at night. I promise that I am here to support and listen to your needs and whatever you are going through right now. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I integrate holistic approaches in addition to medication in my treatment approach. Every person that comes into my office is very different and deserves to be seen for who they are and not only their symptoms. Together we will create a plan that works for you whether with medication, therapy, or both.
(919) 736-6589 View (919) 736-6589
Photo of Shelly Alasti, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shelly Alasti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I am a dual-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in adult and geriatric psychiatry. Utilizing my background in social work, I deliver comprehensive and empathetic mental health care, taking into consideration the interconnected physical and emotional well-being of my patients. This approach allows me to provide personalized and attentive support to people seeking mental health care services.
I am a dual-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in adult and geriatric psychiatry. Utilizing my background in social work, I deliver comprehensive and empathetic mental health care, taking into consideration the interconnected physical and emotional well-being of my patients. This approach allows me to provide personalized and attentive support to people seeking mental health care services.
(984) 334-2310 View (984) 334-2310
Photo of Dan Meyring, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Dan Meyring
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
In the practice of Psychiatry, Dan combines an integrative approach with conventional medicine.  He incorporates an understanding of the neuropsychology, physical health, lifestyle, spiritual and sociologic dynamics into the care of his patients. Something unique about Dan is that rather than treating symptoms, he focuses on discovering the underlying issues a person has which ultimately brings healing.   His objective for patients is to avoid negative influences and encourage healthy lifestyles. Dan uses medicine judiciously depending on each individuals need, so that they can become the best version of themselves.
In the practice of Psychiatry, Dan combines an integrative approach with conventional medicine.  He incorporates an understanding of the neuropsychology, physical health, lifestyle, spiritual and sociologic dynamics into the care of his patients. Something unique about Dan is that rather than treating symptoms, he focuses on discovering the underlying issues a person has which ultimately brings healing.   His objective for patients is to avoid negative influences and encourage healthy lifestyles. Dan uses medicine judiciously depending on each individuals need, so that they can become the best version of themselves.
(919) 769-6688 View (919) 769-6688
Photo of Christopher N Riggan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher N Riggan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
My passion for entering the mental health profession originated from the idea of breaking down the negative stigma historically placed upon individuals who struggle with mental health related issues. I want to use the skills and education that I have gained as a resource to those in need of assistance. I want each person that seeks mental health related care from me to feel comforted that we together are a team with a common goal of assisting you to become the most effective version of yourself.
My passion for entering the mental health profession originated from the idea of breaking down the negative stigma historically placed upon individuals who struggle with mental health related issues. I want to use the skills and education that I have gained as a resource to those in need of assistance. I want each person that seeks mental health related care from me to feel comforted that we together are a team with a common goal of assisting you to become the most effective version of yourself.
(919) 944-9946 View (919) 944-9946
Photo of Amanda McGill, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda McGill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
I have enjoyed 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience, providing compassionate care to individuals in North Carolina with mood and anxiety disorders, to name a few. Reaching out for help should be easy. That is why I offer virtual visits. Let's meet where you are most comfortable. I focus on your unique circumstance and address and tailor solutions specific to you. Solutions may include genetic testing, psychiatric medications, evidence-based natural supplements, weight loss, and other interventions depending on your needs.
I have enjoyed 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience, providing compassionate care to individuals in North Carolina with mood and anxiety disorders, to name a few. Reaching out for help should be easy. That is why I offer virtual visits. Let's meet where you are most comfortable. I focus on your unique circumstance and address and tailor solutions specific to you. Solutions may include genetic testing, psychiatric medications, evidence-based natural supplements, weight loss, and other interventions depending on your needs.
(919) 948-7193 View (919) 948-7193
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 27587

30+

Average cost per session

$205

Psychiatrists in 27587 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
88% ADHD
84% Medication Management
78% Sleep or Insomnia
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
87% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 27587 see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 27587?

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.