Psychiatrists in 28106

Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(704) 350-2958 View (704) 350-2958

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nicole Thompson, PMHNP, LCSW, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Seeking mental health treatment is an important dimension to your overall health, and I'm honored that you've chosen me to accompany you on this journey towards a happier, healthier you. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I'm committed to understanding your unique challenges and working together to achieve your mental wellness goals. Whatever the struggle, I will meet you where you are and according to your timeline.
Seeking mental health treatment is an important dimension to your overall health, and I'm honored that you've chosen me to accompany you on this journey towards a happier, healthier you. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I'm committed to understanding your unique challenges and working together to achieve your mental wellness goals. Whatever the struggle, I will meet you where you are and according to your timeline.
(980) 372-6662 View (980) 372-6662
Photo of Makeba Matthews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Makeba Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate care, personalized treatment, and tools to manage their mental health. Their goal is to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling, balanced life through tailored support.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate care, personalized treatment, and tools to manage their mental health. Their goal is to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling, balanced life through tailored support.
(704) 626-7380 View (704) 626-7380
Photo of Sakina Alston, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sakina Alston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Sakina Alston, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have an RN license, a nurse practitioner license, and a DEA license. My approach to mental wellness is self-empowering and non-judgmental. Regardless of where you are starting, I am here to support you as you work on your mental health. My approach is integrative and holistic, I utilize therapy, supplements, recommend lifestyle changes and medication to optimize mental strengths and so patients can make progress in their lives.
Hi, my name is Sakina Alston, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have an RN license, a nurse practitioner license, and a DEA license. My approach to mental wellness is self-empowering and non-judgmental. Regardless of where you are starting, I am here to support you as you work on your mental health. My approach is integrative and holistic, I utilize therapy, supplements, recommend lifestyle changes and medication to optimize mental strengths and so patients can make progress in their lives.
(980) 860-9710 View (980) 860-9710
Photo of Cassie Levigne, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassie Levigne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Cassie provides compassionate care, as well as builds strong therapeutic relationships with her patients. With a deep commitment to active listening, Cassie offers a range of individualized care options, working collaboratively with each patient to design the best treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Serving both adolescents and adults, Cassie specializes in addressing complex mental health concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, depression and bipolar disorder. Utilizing a blend of medication management and brief supportive therapy, Cassie is able to support patients' journey toward improved mental health.
Cassie provides compassionate care, as well as builds strong therapeutic relationships with her patients. With a deep commitment to active listening, Cassie offers a range of individualized care options, working collaboratively with each patient to design the best treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Serving both adolescents and adults, Cassie specializes in addressing complex mental health concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, depression and bipolar disorder. Utilizing a blend of medication management and brief supportive therapy, Cassie is able to support patients' journey toward improved mental health.
(980) 842-6439 View (980) 842-6439
Photo of Tammy Arms, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tammy Arms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Dr. Tammy Arms, a board-certified Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 16 years of experience as a nurse practitioner and 26 years as a registered nurse. I am dedicated to treating clients across the lifespan, addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, gender identity concerns, sleep/insomnia issues, and trauma.
I'm Dr. Tammy Arms, a board-certified Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 16 years of experience as a nurse practitioner and 26 years as a registered nurse. I am dedicated to treating clients across the lifespan, addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, gender identity concerns, sleep/insomnia issues, and trauma.
(704) 769-2079 View (704) 769-2079
Photo of Aris Azar, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aris Azar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management to help you achieve your goals. My aim is to deliver expert care that aligns with your values and addresses your concerns by offering flexible scheduling, 7 days a week that includes weekends and evenings for your convenience. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, panic disorder and many others. I also provide a holistic approach that integrates therapy seamlessly into your sessions.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management to help you achieve your goals. My aim is to deliver expert care that aligns with your values and addresses your concerns by offering flexible scheduling, 7 days a week that includes weekends and evenings for your convenience. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, panic disorder and many others. I also provide a holistic approach that integrates therapy seamlessly into your sessions.
(704) 610-5876 View (704) 610-5876
Photo of Nkwachioma Nwosu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkwachioma Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Hello, My name is Nkwachioma Nwosu, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to fostering mental health and well-being. My clinical interest is in managing and treating patients with a wide range of mental health concerns, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Anxiety disorders, PTSD, Dementia, Addiction, mood disorders, personality disorders, and Anger management. My mission is to positively impact the lives of those I serve.
Hello, My name is Nkwachioma Nwosu, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to fostering mental health and well-being. My clinical interest is in managing and treating patients with a wide range of mental health concerns, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Anxiety disorders, PTSD, Dementia, Addiction, mood disorders, personality disorders, and Anger management. My mission is to positively impact the lives of those I serve.
(919) 629-9931 View (919) 629-9931
Photo of Camellia Douglas - Mentable, PLLC- Camellia Douglas, PMHNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mentable, PLLC- Camellia Douglas, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mentable, PLLC IS accepting NEW patients. Mentable, PLLC is an integrative and holistic mental wellness practice. Our mission is to offer a sanctuary for healing, growth, and discovery, where empathetic care meets clinical excellence. We strive to understand and illuminate the diverse spectrum of human emotions, advocating for mental wellness for every walk of life. During our first session, you can expect a warm, patient-centered approach by our provider Camellia Douglas, PMHNP-BC by listening first to collaborate for a better YOU, with an improved quality of life.
Mentable, PLLC IS accepting NEW patients. Mentable, PLLC is an integrative and holistic mental wellness practice. Our mission is to offer a sanctuary for healing, growth, and discovery, where empathetic care meets clinical excellence. We strive to understand and illuminate the diverse spectrum of human emotions, advocating for mental wellness for every walk of life. During our first session, you can expect a warm, patient-centered approach by our provider Camellia Douglas, PMHNP-BC by listening first to collaborate for a better YOU, with an improved quality of life.
(980) 223-4566 View (980) 223-4566
Photo of Solange Adams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solange Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas with over ten years of experience as a registered nurse. Throughout my career, I have worked in various clinical settings, including surgery and home health. I have served as a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in pain management for the past three years. During this time, I became aware of the interconnectedness of various comorbid conditions and mental health. This realization motivated me to pursue post-master’s training as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas with over ten years of experience as a registered nurse. Throughout my career, I have worked in various clinical settings, including surgery and home health. I have served as a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in pain management for the past three years. During this time, I became aware of the interconnectedness of various comorbid conditions and mental health. This realization motivated me to pursue post-master’s training as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
(281) 729-0116 View (281) 729-0116
Photo of Megan Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Megan Jones, MSN, PMHNP-BC earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Working as a registered nurse in the emergency department, she developed a strong interest in mental health, leading her to pursue advanced practice training in psychiatry. She received her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care through a holistic and patient-centered approach.
Megan Jones, MSN, PMHNP-BC earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Working as a registered nurse in the emergency department, she developed a strong interest in mental health, leading her to pursue advanced practice training in psychiatry. She received her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care through a holistic and patient-centered approach.
(828) 860-2523 View (828) 860-2523
Photo of Jessica Stoelting, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Stoelting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
(331) 267-4780 View (331) 267-4780
Photo of Timothy Alan Balisky - Excel Psychiatric Associates, PA, MSN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Excel Psychiatric Associates, PA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Hello and welcome. My name is Timothy Balisky and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner. This means that I am a nurse practitioner with specialty training and board certification focused on psychiatric mental healthcare. Three particular areas that I focus on within this specialty of mental health are treatment resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I have a real passion for understanding the details that make up every person’s history, particularly as it relates to their struggle with mental illness.
Hello and welcome. My name is Timothy Balisky and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner. This means that I am a nurse practitioner with specialty training and board certification focused on psychiatric mental healthcare. Three particular areas that I focus on within this specialty of mental health are treatment resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I have a real passion for understanding the details that make up every person’s history, particularly as it relates to their struggle with mental illness.
(704) 457-9292 View (704) 457-9292
Photo of Javier Santos-Cubiñá, MD, Psychiatrist
Javier Santos-Cubiñá
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am committed to caring for children, adults and families with mental health issues. Areas of expertise include the care of mental health in children and adults with complex medical and neurological problems, women during pregnancy and postpartum, psycho-dynamic oriented psychotherapy and attachment oriented psychotherapy. Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Psychosomatic Medicine.
I am committed to caring for children, adults and families with mental health issues. Areas of expertise include the care of mental health in children and adults with complex medical and neurological problems, women during pregnancy and postpartum, psycho-dynamic oriented psychotherapy and attachment oriented psychotherapy. Board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Psychosomatic Medicine.
(704) 486-8080 View (704) 486-8080
Photo of Catherine Banci, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Banci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with nearly a decade of experience providing holistic, patient-centered care to children and adolescents facing mental health challenges. I use evidence-based practices to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, learning disorders, mood dysregulation, substance use, behavioral issues, self-harm, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with nearly a decade of experience providing holistic, patient-centered care to children and adolescents facing mental health challenges. I use evidence-based practices to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, learning disorders, mood dysregulation, substance use, behavioral issues, self-harm, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
(336) 814-9881 View (336) 814-9881
Photo of Rondeshya Keyonna Cosby, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rondeshya Keyonna Cosby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8+ years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field ranging from child and adult inpatient care to community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina and Master's Degree at Walden University. My focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse through assessments and medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8+ years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field ranging from child and adult inpatient care to community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina and Master's Degree at Walden University. My focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse through assessments and medication management.
(336) 872-0744 View (336) 872-0744
Photo of Alvaro A Giraldo - Jungian Analytic Practice, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Jungian Analytic Practice
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
An ideal client is an insightful adult that wants to explore the depth of his/her psyche. Treatment services include depression, anxiety, adjustment situations, changing paths, transitions of life, relationships, engagement issues, divorce and marital disputes, grief and loss, spiritual and religious issues and personal development issues.
An ideal client is an insightful adult that wants to explore the depth of his/her psyche. Treatment services include depression, anxiety, adjustment situations, changing paths, transitions of life, relationships, engagement issues, divorce and marital disputes, grief and loss, spiritual and religious issues and personal development issues.
(843) 536-0114 View (843) 536-0114
Photo of Ajith Abraham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ajith Abraham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi! This is Ajith Abraham. Are you struggling with mental health issues, feeling stressed, overwhelmed with emotions? Taking the first step can be the hardest and most challenging. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression or any of the other mental health diagnoses, there is hope. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Hi! This is Ajith Abraham. Are you struggling with mental health issues, feeling stressed, overwhelmed with emotions? Taking the first step can be the hardest and most challenging. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression or any of the other mental health diagnoses, there is hope. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
(919) 769-3945 View (919) 769-3945
Photo of Dr. Robert Bauer - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Denver, NC 28037
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.
(980) 407-7551 View (980) 407-7551
Photo of Raj Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Raj Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to work alongside my patients to improve their function and well-being - I take a collaborative, individualized approach to each patient and recognize that no two patients are alike. I believe that taking the time to listen and understand my patients is key to providing excellent care, whether that be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Your success is my success, and rather than focus on a single issue or symptom, I prefer to view my patients on a more holistic scale and believe that excellent treatment involves understanding the nuances of an individual's personal and professional life.
My goal is to work alongside my patients to improve their function and well-being - I take a collaborative, individualized approach to each patient and recognize that no two patients are alike. I believe that taking the time to listen and understand my patients is key to providing excellent care, whether that be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Your success is my success, and rather than focus on a single issue or symptom, I prefer to view my patients on a more holistic scale and believe that excellent treatment involves understanding the nuances of an individual's personal and professional life.
(704) 270-6977 View (704) 270-6977

See more therapy options for 28106

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28106

< 10

Psychiatrists in 28106 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% The Alliance
100% AmeriHealth

How Psychiatrists in 28106 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28106?

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.