Psychiatrists in 27608

Photo of Peter Buonaccorsi, MD, Psychiatrist
Peter Buonaccorsi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Rachel VanBree, WHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel VanBree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, WHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I view my time with clients as a privilege and honor the role to form a partnership during this vulnerable time in your life. As an advocate both of therapy and medication management, I will provide a safe and supportive environment to work together with you. My role is to provide the guidance and clarity to help empower you and to support the best decision and tools for you and your family. Clients describe feeling heard and validated during their sessions with me. Using evidence-based treatment, I strive to help my clients feel their best no matter what challenges they face.
I view my time with clients as a privilege and honor the role to form a partnership during this vulnerable time in your life. As an advocate both of therapy and medication management, I will provide a safe and supportive environment to work together with you. My role is to provide the guidance and clarity to help empower you and to support the best decision and tools for you and your family. Clients describe feeling heard and validated during their sessions with me. Using evidence-based treatment, I strive to help my clients feel their best no matter what challenges they face.
(919) 249-6326 View (919) 249-6326
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 Kyra Kline Weber, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kyra Kline Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whatever has brought you here looking for help, please know you have found someone that thinks you are an irreplaceable human and capable of achieving improved mental health and wellness. I enjoy working with people that want to improve their circumstances using a holistic approach. Patients I work with each have unique obstacles they are facing, talents to employ and goals they want to achieve. I utilize an approach that is tailored to each person and situation; we will work together collaboratively and creatively to achieve your mental health and wellness goals.
Whatever has brought you here looking for help, please know you have found someone that thinks you are an irreplaceable human and capable of achieving improved mental health and wellness. I enjoy working with people that want to improve their circumstances using a holistic approach. Patients I work with each have unique obstacles they are facing, talents to employ and goals they want to achieve. I utilize an approach that is tailored to each person and situation; we will work together collaboratively and creatively to achieve your mental health and wellness goals.
(919) 694-6845 View (919) 694-6845
Photo of Mitushi Mishra, MD, Psychiatrist
Mitushi Mishra
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My intention is to help my clients lean in and experience life to the fullest; many times this can be difficult when we identify too strongly with our mind. Evidence has demonstrated that optimal treatment includes a combination of medication and therapy. I prefer to collaboratively work with clients to develop an individualized treatment plan.
My intention is to help my clients lean in and experience life to the fullest; many times this can be difficult when we identify too strongly with our mind. Evidence has demonstrated that optimal treatment includes a combination of medication and therapy. I prefer to collaboratively work with clients to develop an individualized treatment plan.
(984) 207-5400 View (984) 207-5400
Photo of Rachel Frische, MD, MPH, MBA, Psychiatrist
Rachel Frische
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBA
Verified Verified
Online Only
There is no "ideal client," just as there is no "ideal" human. We are all flawed, imperfect, multifaceted, and challenging in our own ways. I don't limit my practice to a certain type of person or diagnosis because I enjoy the challenge of meeting people where they are and discovering together what it is that brings them joy and fulfillment in life. I treat people 13 years and older and have extensive experience working with young adults transitioning to and from college, mid-career professionals struggling with work-life imbalance, women with reproductive mood disorders, as well as retirees who grapple with aging.
There is no "ideal client," just as there is no "ideal" human. We are all flawed, imperfect, multifaceted, and challenging in our own ways. I don't limit my practice to a certain type of person or diagnosis because I enjoy the challenge of meeting people where they are and discovering together what it is that brings them joy and fulfillment in life. I treat people 13 years and older and have extensive experience working with young adults transitioning to and from college, mid-career professionals struggling with work-life imbalance, women with reproductive mood disorders, as well as retirees who grapple with aging.
(984) 538-1133 View (984) 538-1133
Photo of Hussam Alsarraf - Triangle Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Triangle Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to Triangle Mental Health! We are dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care for a wide array of mental health concerns. Dr. Hussam Alsarraf completed his residency training at Duke University and specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and stress-related physical complaints. Along with offering conventional approaches to mental health maladies, Dr. Alsarraf provides insight-oriented therapy during every visit to foster understanding of yourself and give you the power to make positive changes in your life.
Welcome to Triangle Mental Health! We are dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care for a wide array of mental health concerns. Dr. Hussam Alsarraf completed his residency training at Duke University and specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and stress-related physical complaints. Along with offering conventional approaches to mental health maladies, Dr. Alsarraf provides insight-oriented therapy during every visit to foster understanding of yourself and give you the power to make positive changes in your life.
(919) 372-3552 View (919) 372-3552
Photo of Alyssa Williams George, MD, Psychiatrist
Alyssa Williams George
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
(919) 289-1842 View (919) 289-1842
Photo of William Russell Cannon, MD, Psychiatrist
William Russell Cannon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
In my psychotherapy practice, my goal is to create a collaborative environment to understand the patterns in our behavior and relationships that hold us back from our potential towards meaning and fulfillment in our lives. There isn't always an answer to our problems/suffering but I do think we can examine our relationship to our struggles in order to make the choices that are most in accordance with our deepest values.
In my psychotherapy practice, my goal is to create a collaborative environment to understand the patterns in our behavior and relationships that hold us back from our potential towards meaning and fulfillment in our lives. There isn't always an answer to our problems/suffering but I do think we can examine our relationship to our struggles in order to make the choices that are most in accordance with our deepest values.
(919) 729-2214 View (919) 729-2214
Photo of Dr. Eliza (Leeza) Park, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Dr. Eliza (Leeza) Park
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
As a psychiatrist offering both therapy and medication treatment, my goal is to provide you with expert care to improve your mental health and overall well-being. Together, we will strengthen your resilience for navigating life's challenges, whether it's dealing with illness, the complexities of parenting, self-criticism, or the weight of grief. Life is too important to do this hard work alone. Drawing from years of experience working with healthcare providers, cancer survivors, and the bereaved, I will work collaboratively with you on your journey to a happier and healthier life.
As a psychiatrist offering both therapy and medication treatment, my goal is to provide you with expert care to improve your mental health and overall well-being. Together, we will strengthen your resilience for navigating life's challenges, whether it's dealing with illness, the complexities of parenting, self-criticism, or the weight of grief. Life is too important to do this hard work alone. Drawing from years of experience working with healthcare providers, cancer survivors, and the bereaved, I will work collaboratively with you on your journey to a happier and healthier life.
(919) 351-6138 View (919) 351-6138
Photo of Dr. Tian Duke-Sui, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tian Duke-Sui
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Family Psychiatry Practice & Associates has been serving the community in Cary, North Carolina for over 25 years. Our caring and professional board-certified psychiatrists see children, adolescents, and adults for both medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Duke-Sui and Dr. Boyer are board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. They offer both psychotherapy and medication management.
Family Psychiatry Practice & Associates has been serving the community in Cary, North Carolina for over 25 years. Our caring and professional board-certified psychiatrists see children, adolescents, and adults for both medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Duke-Sui and Dr. Boyer are board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. They offer both psychotherapy and medication management.
(919) 233-4131 View (919) 233-4131
Photo of Brian Sachs - Redeem Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Redeem Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression, insomnia or fatigue, perhaps divorce or toxic relationships? You're not alone. I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can be to seek mental health services in our healthcare system. But here's the good news: I am here to help you. As a family physician specializing in medical and integrative psychiatry, I offer the professional and personal experience you need to overcome these challenges. Together, we can navigate your journey towards healing and reclaiming your wellbeing.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression, insomnia or fatigue, perhaps divorce or toxic relationships? You're not alone. I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can be to seek mental health services in our healthcare system. But here's the good news: I am here to help you. As a family physician specializing in medical and integrative psychiatry, I offer the professional and personal experience you need to overcome these challenges. Together, we can navigate your journey towards healing and reclaiming your wellbeing.
(910) 900-6066 View (910) 900-6066

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Fatmata Koroma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fatmata Koroma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
My ideal client is someone dealing with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or schizophrenia. They seek a provider who listens, understands, and supports them with a holistic, culturally sensitive approach. Their goal is to regain balance in their life, reduce symptoms, and develop healthy coping skills. They want clear communication about their treatment options and to feel empowered in making decisions about their care. Ultimately, they seek compassionate, personalized support on their path to wellness.
My ideal client is someone dealing with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or schizophrenia. They seek a provider who listens, understands, and supports them with a holistic, culturally sensitive approach. Their goal is to regain balance in their life, reduce symptoms, and develop healthy coping skills. They want clear communication about their treatment options and to feel empowered in making decisions about their care. Ultimately, they seek compassionate, personalized support on their path to wellness.
(984) 360-8138 View (984) 360-8138
Photo of Dr. Kenya Windley - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(984) 217-5260 View (984) 217-5260
Photo of Morgan Stenger, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Morgan Stenger
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
(336) 656-2326 View (336) 656-2326
Photo of Asa Cordle, MD, Psychiatrist
Asa Cordle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
In my practice, I often work with individuals who have sought relief from depression and anxiety through various means, including medication, lifestyle adjustments, and therapy. However, some may find their progress limited by ongoing symptoms or chronic pain. For non-medication approaches to treating depression or chronic pain, I offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This non-invasive, outpatient treatment utilizes magnetic pulses to activate and strengthen areas of the nervous system involved with mood regulation and sensory processing.
In my practice, I often work with individuals who have sought relief from depression and anxiety through various means, including medication, lifestyle adjustments, and therapy. However, some may find their progress limited by ongoing symptoms or chronic pain. For non-medication approaches to treating depression or chronic pain, I offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This non-invasive, outpatient treatment utilizes magnetic pulses to activate and strengthen areas of the nervous system involved with mood regulation and sensory processing.
(984) 217-4811 View (984) 217-4811
Photo of Amy Indence Steward, MSN, PMHNP, GERO-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Indence Steward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, GERO-BC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background in neuroscience and a passion for patient-centered care, I am dedicated to delivering compassionate and effective mental health services. My academic journey began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, followed by advanced studies at Duke University.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a background in neuroscience and a passion for patient-centered care, I am dedicated to delivering compassionate and effective mental health services. My academic journey began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, followed by advanced studies at Duke University.
(984) 314-3745 View (984) 314-3745
Photo of Barbara Goodman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
(336) 800-1704 View (336) 800-1704
Photo of Danielle Sudler, DNP, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Sudler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a life transition can impact every moment of every day. As a board-certified PMHNP, further certified in perinatal mental health, I am dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare that validates and enhances quality of life. Lived experience and professional training guide my practice of providing affirming care, especially pertaining to those who identify as gender and/or sexual minorities. I respect that intersectionality offers important and necessary nuances to mental health. Your story is unique and your path to healing is valued.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a life transition can impact every moment of every day. As a board-certified PMHNP, further certified in perinatal mental health, I am dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare that validates and enhances quality of life. Lived experience and professional training guide my practice of providing affirming care, especially pertaining to those who identify as gender and/or sexual minorities. I respect that intersectionality offers important and necessary nuances to mental health. Your story is unique and your path to healing is valued.
(984) 249-2390 View (984) 249-2390
Photo of Roy Dewayne Book, MD, Psychiatrist
Roy Dewayne Book
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Dr. R. Dewayne Book is a Psychiatrist who specializes in addictive disorders, having studied neurobiology and biochemistry to understand chemical brain functions. This knowledge informs his well-rounded, individualized approach to treating patients struggling with addiction, an approach that also includes medication management, medication assisted treatment / medication assisted therapy (MAT), psychotherapy, patient education, and social network development. Dr. Book also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) at Advaita Integrated Medicine.
Dr. R. Dewayne Book is a Psychiatrist who specializes in addictive disorders, having studied neurobiology and biochemistry to understand chemical brain functions. This knowledge informs his well-rounded, individualized approach to treating patients struggling with addiction, an approach that also includes medication management, medication assisted treatment / medication assisted therapy (MAT), psychotherapy, patient education, and social network development. Dr. Book also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) at Advaita Integrated Medicine.
(919) 679-9843 View (919) 679-9843

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 27608

10+

Average cost per session

$292

Psychiatrists in 27608 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% Grief
75% Relationship Issues
75% Medication Management
75% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

57% Aetna
57% BlueCross and BlueShield
43% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 27608 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 27608?

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.