Psychiatrists in 28173

Photo of Dr. Denise Lynne Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Dr. Denise Lynne Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am Dr. Davis. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I have a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice and am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have served clients in the mental health field for over 11 years as a Registered Nurse in acute behavioral health facilities, in-patient psychiatric facilities, and also at a state mental health hospital.
Welcome! I am Dr. Davis. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I have a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice and am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have served clients in the mental health field for over 11 years as a Registered Nurse in acute behavioral health facilities, in-patient psychiatric facilities, and also at a state mental health hospital.
(980) 982-2238 View (980) 982-2238
Photo of Aris Azar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Aris Azar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Waxhaw, NC 28173
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 Ifeoma Ilodigwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Ifeoma Ilodigwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a holistic behavioral health approach. I provide outpatient behavioral health medical evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy for clients dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. I offer tailored treatment plans based on your needs and goals. My job is to help you recover and thrive. I use a gentle, supportive style, informed by the latest scientific evidence to guide you toward mental wellness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a holistic behavioral health approach. I provide outpatient behavioral health medical evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy for clients dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. I offer tailored treatment plans based on your needs and goals. My job is to help you recover and thrive. I use a gentle, supportive style, informed by the latest scientific evidence to guide you toward mental wellness.
(980) 350-2496 View (980) 350-2496
Photo of Lauren Smith, Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Lauren Smith
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Serves Area
My main goal as a physician assistant is to provide personable, patient-oriented care. I chose psychiatry in order to implement my passion for mental health awareness. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and ADHD. I work with both adolescents and adults. I am in person in Charlotte and virtual in Rocky Mount NC.
My main goal as a physician assistant is to provide personable, patient-oriented care. I chose psychiatry in order to implement my passion for mental health awareness. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and ADHD. I work with both adolescents and adults. I am in person in Charlotte and virtual in Rocky Mount NC.
(704) 859-2799 View (704) 859-2799
Photo of Morgan Durand, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Morgan Durand
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Serves Area
Morgan Durand is originally from Waxhaw, NC and now lives in Charlotte. She obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Gardner-Webb University. Morgan is dedicated to become an integral part of the health and wellness of the community she grew up in and is excited to provide mental health services to adults and pediatric patients. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness and is passionate about always showing respect and understanding to all her patients.
Morgan Durand is originally from Waxhaw, NC and now lives in Charlotte. She obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Gardner-Webb University. Morgan is dedicated to become an integral part of the health and wellness of the community she grew up in and is excited to provide mental health services to adults and pediatric patients. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness and is passionate about always showing respect and understanding to all her patients.
(704) 368-3662 View (704) 368-3662

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Laura Eidem, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Laura Eidem
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Charlotte, NC 28287
Laura wants her patients to feel welcomed, heard, and valued. She hopes her patients experience growth and feel empowered.
Laura wants her patients to feel welcomed, heard, and valued. She hopes her patients experience growth and feel empowered.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Heather Strauss, Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Heather! I’m a psychiatric PA with over a decade of clinical experience, providing virtual psychiatry services and medication management with a collaborative, whole-person approach. I firmly believe mental and physical health are interconnected. While medications can be helpful, we often need more to truly thrive. That’s why I incorporate lifestyle interventions like nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management into treatment plans, while also encouraging therapy as part of comprehensive care.
Hi, I'm Heather! I’m a psychiatric PA with over a decade of clinical experience, providing virtual psychiatry services and medication management with a collaborative, whole-person approach. I firmly believe mental and physical health are interconnected. While medications can be helpful, we often need more to truly thrive. That’s why I incorporate lifestyle interventions like nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management into treatment plans, while also encouraging therapy as part of comprehensive care.
(828) 235-4000 View (828) 235-4000
Photo of LaChaya Radcliff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
LaChaya Radcliff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Your life is fairly “together” by outward appearances, but it's sometimes a struggle to pull everything together. Anxiety can get the best of you. Maybe your irritability is noticeable to those closest to you. Maybe you were raised to think accessing mental healthcare and taking medication is “weak” or incongruent to your culture or faith. Maybe you're hesitant to take prescription medication and are interested in natural ways of addressing your concerns first. Maybe you give so much to others that you barely have time to nurture yourself. You’d like to create balance and start prioritizing yourself but might not know how.
Your life is fairly “together” by outward appearances, but it's sometimes a struggle to pull everything together. Anxiety can get the best of you. Maybe your irritability is noticeable to those closest to you. Maybe you were raised to think accessing mental healthcare and taking medication is “weak” or incongruent to your culture or faith. Maybe you're hesitant to take prescription medication and are interested in natural ways of addressing your concerns first. Maybe you give so much to others that you barely have time to nurture yourself. You’d like to create balance and start prioritizing yourself but might not know how.
(336) 715-0137 View (336) 715-0137
Photo of Catelyn Inman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catelyn Inman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Charlotte, NC 28269
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
(704) 666-8585 View (704) 666-8585
Photo of Shelton Allison, Psychiatrist, MD
Shelton Allison
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28210
Shelton Allison is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. He attended Jackson State University for his BS in Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine for his medical school, and Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine for his residency. Shelton develops an environment where people can feel supported and free to be their authentic selves. He uses his years of experience to come up with a treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Shelton enjoys sports, music, and outdoor activities.
Shelton Allison is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. He attended Jackson State University for his BS in Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine for his medical school, and Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine for his residency. Shelton develops an environment where people can feel supported and free to be their authentic selves. He uses his years of experience to come up with a treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Shelton enjoys sports, music, and outdoor activities.
(980) 252-8150 View (980) 252-8150
Photo of Stephanie Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a PMHNP I have experience with a wide variety patients and diagnosis. I believe in helping patients with management of their mental health diagnosis with the help of medications as well as therapy. With the use of medications to treat the physical body and symptom management in addition to therapy to create long term positive changes in behaviors.
Hi, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a PMHNP I have experience with a wide variety patients and diagnosis. I believe in helping patients with management of their mental health diagnosis with the help of medications as well as therapy. With the use of medications to treat the physical body and symptom management in addition to therapy to create long term positive changes in behaviors.
(980) 983-5606 View (980) 983-5606
Photo of Kristina Borus - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
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) 577-3597 View (980) 577-3597
Photo of Mercedes Whitworth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mercedes Whitworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Monroe, NC 28112
Welcome—I'm glad you're here. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking greater clarity, I'm here to help you navigate life's challenges with warmth, understanding, and practical support. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can explore what’s weighing on you, build on your strengths, and work toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs-because your story and healing journey deserve personalized care.
Welcome—I'm glad you're here. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking greater clarity, I'm here to help you navigate life's challenges with warmth, understanding, and practical support. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can explore what’s weighing on you, build on your strengths, and work toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs-because your story and healing journey deserve personalized care.
(704) 327-3766 View (704) 327-3766
Photo of Dr. Siera Kirkland, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Siera Kirkland
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Siera Kirkland is an adult general psychiatrist. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kirkland focuses on collaborative and evidence-based care. She believes it is imperative to form a therapeutic relationship with each individual and work together as a team to formulate the best treatment plan. Her passion is to educate, empower and support. She specializes in medication management and brief psychotherapy.
Dr. Siera Kirkland is an adult general psychiatrist. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kirkland focuses on collaborative and evidence-based care. She believes it is imperative to form a therapeutic relationship with each individual and work together as a team to formulate the best treatment plan. Her passion is to educate, empower and support. She specializes in medication management and brief psychotherapy.
(919) 344-0934 View (919) 344-0934
Photo of Melanie Fossinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, NP
Melanie Fossinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate availability for medication management of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders for ages 13 and up. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in treating adolescents and adults. My practice is based in Charlotte, NC, and I am able to provide telehealth visits for people residing in North Carolina. I approach all of my patients with curiosity, openness, and understanding. Adolescence is a time of great transition and growth where deep relationships are crucial to building resilience and a fulfilled life. I’m looking forward to working with you during this formative stage in your life.
Immediate availability for medication management of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders for ages 13 and up. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in treating adolescents and adults. My practice is based in Charlotte, NC, and I am able to provide telehealth visits for people residing in North Carolina. I approach all of my patients with curiosity, openness, and understanding. Adolescence is a time of great transition and growth where deep relationships are crucial to building resilience and a fulfilled life. I’m looking forward to working with you during this formative stage in your life.
(980) 372-1618 View (980) 372-1618
Photo of Lucinda Agbewali - Gateway Charlotte Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Gateway Charlotte Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Monroe, NC 28112
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to older adults). We are highly trained, empathetic, and friendly, and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancements in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental health and currently work at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospitals. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime, at their convenience. Why wait? Call now for help.
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to older adults). We are highly trained, empathetic, and friendly, and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancements in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental health and currently work at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospitals. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime, at their convenience. Why wait? Call now for help.
(980) 326-4916 View (980) 326-4916
Photo of Dr. Anita Jothy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anita Jothy
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Chiyuan Chen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chiyuan Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone facing mood, anxiety, or behavioral challenges that impact their daily life and well-being. They seek guidance to cope with and effectively manage these difficulties, aiming to regain control and balance in their life. Their ultimate goal is to reach their full potential and live the life they truly want, becoming the best version of themselves in all aspects—whether at work, in relationships, or within their personal growth. They want a compassionate partner who understands their unique journey and is committed to supporting them every step of the way.
My ideal client is someone facing mood, anxiety, or behavioral challenges that impact their daily life and well-being. They seek guidance to cope with and effectively manage these difficulties, aiming to regain control and balance in their life. Their ultimate goal is to reach their full potential and live the life they truly want, becoming the best version of themselves in all aspects—whether at work, in relationships, or within their personal growth. They want a compassionate partner who understands their unique journey and is committed to supporting them every step of the way.
(704) 218-9914 View (704) 218-9914
Photo of Grace Korir, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Korir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Grace Korir, license number: 5017643. My passion for mental health and addiction treatment stems from a deep commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. In my role, I conduct comprehensive assessments, diagnose mental health conditions, develop personalized treatment plans, and prescribe medications as needed. My approach to patient care is compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health and addiction recovery journey.
My name is Grace Korir, license number: 5017643. My passion for mental health and addiction treatment stems from a deep commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. In my role, I conduct comprehensive assessments, diagnose mental health conditions, develop personalized treatment plans, and prescribe medications as needed. My approach to patient care is compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health and addiction recovery journey.
(984) 306-5271 View (984) 306-5271
Photo of Ellis Armond, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Ellis Armond
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Charlotte, NC 28210
My ideal client would be someone who is open to collaboration, willing to engage in the process, and is motivated to make meaningful changes in their health. My clinical interests include patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders and medication management.
My ideal client would be someone who is open to collaboration, willing to engage in the process, and is motivated to make meaningful changes in their health. My clinical interests include patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders and medication management.
(704) 850-6433 View (704) 850-6433

See more therapy options for 28173

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28173

< 10

Psychiatrists in 28173 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
80% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 28173 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28173?

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.