Psychiatrists in 28204

Photo of Dr. Marquis Peacock - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28204
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) 473-7140 View (980) 473-7140
Photo of Megan Comer, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Megan Comer
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Charlotte, NC 28204
Megan provides medication management and supportive therapy for clients dealing with generalized anxiety, depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, post-partum depression, ADHD, and other diagnoses. She earned her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical College of Georgia. She has also previously worked in Pain Management and Radiology. Prior to becoming a Physician Assistant she earned a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Georgia. Megan believes that having a strong relationship with her patients is the most important tool in providing care.
Megan provides medication management and supportive therapy for clients dealing with generalized anxiety, depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, post-partum depression, ADHD, and other diagnoses. She earned her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical College of Georgia. She has also previously worked in Pain Management and Radiology. Prior to becoming a Physician Assistant she earned a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Georgia. Megan believes that having a strong relationship with her patients is the most important tool in providing care.
(704) 270-2339 View (704) 270-2339
Photo of John Mcgraw, Psychiatrist, MD
John Mcgraw
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28204
Dr. John Mel McGraw received an A. B from Stanford University in Human Biology in 1979. He graduated from University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver in 1984 and completed his Psychiatric Residency there in 1988. Dr. McGraw has 38 years of diverse experience in the field of Psychiatry in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Among treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD and mood disorders his specialties also include treating eating disorder, sexual abuse and trauma. In addition, Dr. McGraw enjoys practicing sports psychiatry and had the privilege of serving as a psychiatric consultant in the 1990 Goodwill Games.
Dr. John Mel McGraw received an A. B from Stanford University in Human Biology in 1979. He graduated from University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver in 1984 and completed his Psychiatric Residency there in 1988. Dr. McGraw has 38 years of diverse experience in the field of Psychiatry in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Among treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD and mood disorders his specialties also include treating eating disorder, sexual abuse and trauma. In addition, Dr. McGraw enjoys practicing sports psychiatry and had the privilege of serving as a psychiatric consultant in the 1990 Goodwill Games.
(704) 810-1139 View (704) 810-1139
Photo of Jennifer Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Jennifer Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Charlotte, NC 28204
Jennifer Jackson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology, a Master of Science in Nursing Administration, and a Master of Science in Nursing. Jennifer takes a collaborative approach to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, taking her dog for long walks, travel, and exercise.
Jennifer Jackson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology, a Master of Science in Nursing Administration, and a Master of Science in Nursing. Jennifer takes a collaborative approach to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, taking her dog for long walks, travel, and exercise.
(980) 203-3800 View (980) 203-3800
Photo of Janelle Adoryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Janelle Adoryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
16 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
(704) 327-3191 View (704) 327-3191
Photo of Diana Muyonga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Diana Muyonga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
My name is Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
(704) 440-5721 View (704) 440-5721
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
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
Photo of Levent Sipahi, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Levent Sipahi
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am a psychiatrist whose practices utilizes psychodynamic psychotherapy and prudent medication management. My approach is relational and attachment-based. I work with clients to create a space to explore thoughts, feelings, desires, and motivations with dignity and curiosity. Taking time to explore ones inner world can be challenging, rewarding, surprising, and fun. This work can provide a path to a better understanding of one’s relationship to one’s self, to others, and to the world and can be helpful for anxiety, motivation, identity, self-esteem, life experiences, relationships, separation, attachment, and transitions.
I am a psychiatrist whose practices utilizes psychodynamic psychotherapy and prudent medication management. My approach is relational and attachment-based. I work with clients to create a space to explore thoughts, feelings, desires, and motivations with dignity and curiosity. Taking time to explore ones inner world can be challenging, rewarding, surprising, and fun. This work can provide a path to a better understanding of one’s relationship to one’s self, to others, and to the world and can be helpful for anxiety, motivation, identity, self-esteem, life experiences, relationships, separation, attachment, and transitions.
(919) 367-1725 View (919) 367-1725
Photo of Kalvin K Kapoor - Vital Psych MD, Psychiatrist, DO
Vital Psych MD
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Hi! Welcome to Dr. Kapoor's private practice. With over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health, our mission is to have a positive impact in your life by working on your present. Weather it is anxiety, depression, difficulty functioning at work or school, family conflicts, challenges in relationships, low self-esteem, or simply a desire to learn more about themselves; we can help. As a psychiatrist with deep expertise in the field, Dr. Kapoor creates a treatment plan that meets his client's needs. His style is guided by warmth and flexibility, with the goals of helping patients build insight and self esteem.
Hi! Welcome to Dr. Kapoor's private practice. With over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health, our mission is to have a positive impact in your life by working on your present. Weather it is anxiety, depression, difficulty functioning at work or school, family conflicts, challenges in relationships, low self-esteem, or simply a desire to learn more about themselves; we can help. As a psychiatrist with deep expertise in the field, Dr. Kapoor creates a treatment plan that meets his client's needs. His style is guided by warmth and flexibility, with the goals of helping patients build insight and self esteem.
(737) 510-2178 View (737) 510-2178
Photo of Shameka Logan-Johnson - Heart & Mind Behavioral Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Heart & Mind Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients! Embrace Mental Wellness with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook our mental health. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a balanced, fulfilling life. Shameka Johnson, PMHNP, brings years of experience and a compassionate approach to mental health, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and peace. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need support, she offers personalized care tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward first step toward a brighter tomorrow.
Accepting New Patients! Embrace Mental Wellness with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook our mental health. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a balanced, fulfilling life. Shameka Johnson, PMHNP, brings years of experience and a compassionate approach to mental health, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and peace. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need support, she offers personalized care tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward first step toward a brighter tomorrow.
(919) 800-0701 View (919) 800-0701
Photo of Marquita Harris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Marquita Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or just going through the motions? Feeling like you're just surviving and not thriving? Have you been trying to hold it all together while struggling in silence? You want to feel more balanced, more in control, and more like yourself again, but figuring out where to start feels exhausting. I understand how tough it can be, and I’m here to help. I specialize in medication management of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), and more—always with respect, clinical integrity, and your unique needs in mind.
Feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or just going through the motions? Feeling like you're just surviving and not thriving? Have you been trying to hold it all together while struggling in silence? You want to feel more balanced, more in control, and more like yourself again, but figuring out where to start feels exhausting. I understand how tough it can be, and I’m here to help. I specialize in medication management of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), and more—always with respect, clinical integrity, and your unique needs in mind.
(252) 582-7998 View (252) 582-7998
Photo of Nathan Carter, Psychiatrist, MD
Nathan Carter
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Nathan Carter is currently Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. In addition, he is currently Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Carter is well aware that substance abuse and dependence are among today's greatest public health problems. His certifications compliment his desire to be a conduit of recovery to his patients from their addictions and mental illnesses. Dr. Carter practices psychiatry both in the inpatient and outpatient settings and has a vast understanding of patient needs.
Dr. Nathan Carter is currently Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. In addition, he is currently Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Carter is well aware that substance abuse and dependence are among today's greatest public health problems. His certifications compliment his desire to be a conduit of recovery to his patients from their addictions and mental illnesses. Dr. Carter practices psychiatry both in the inpatient and outpatient settings and has a vast understanding of patient needs.
(980) 238-3988 View (980) 238-3988
Photo of Ronald Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Ronald Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of experience in healthcare, including 9 years in the US Navy and over 10 years as a civilian, I am deeply committed to the belief that prioritizing both mental and physical health is essential for achieving happiness and stability in life. Over the past five years, I have dedicated myself to working in an outpatient mental health setting, where I continue to support individuals on their journey toward improved well-being.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of experience in healthcare, including 9 years in the US Navy and over 10 years as a civilian, I am deeply committed to the belief that prioritizing both mental and physical health is essential for achieving happiness and stability in life. Over the past five years, I have dedicated myself to working in an outpatient mental health setting, where I continue to support individuals on their journey toward improved well-being.
(984) 600-7351 View (984) 600-7351
Photo of Noel Treglia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Noel Treglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello to you! My name is Noel Treglia and I am a family nurse practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry.
Hello to you! My name is Noel Treglia and I am a family nurse practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry.
(980) 372-3896 View (980) 372-3896
Photo of Rokima Knox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rokima Knox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden University. I have been in the field of nursing for over 17 years. I have experience working with people across the lifespan and currently specializing in treating adults with ADD/ ADHD. I offer ADHD evaluation for adults using an affirming, neurodivergent approach. Assessment areas include Executive Function, Anxiety & Mood, Trauma / Attachment, Sensory, and Language with the consideration of health, sleep, and environment.
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden University. I have been in the field of nursing for over 17 years. I have experience working with people across the lifespan and currently specializing in treating adults with ADD/ ADHD. I offer ADHD evaluation for adults using an affirming, neurodivergent approach. Assessment areas include Executive Function, Anxiety & Mood, Trauma / Attachment, Sensory, and Language with the consideration of health, sleep, and environment.
(910) 586-1663 View (910) 586-1663
Photo of Tesheika Boomer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tesheika Boomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Tesheika. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work and life that you have to juggle? Do you find it hard to maintain your health and relationships? Are you having a difficult time being yourself?
Hi, I'm Tesheika. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work and life that you have to juggle? Do you find it hard to maintain your health and relationships? Are you having a difficult time being yourself?
(704) 228-4451 View (704) 228-4451
Photo of Jeanmarie Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jeanmarie Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner and also a Doctor of Behavioral Health. I have been working in mental health since 2001 and in the addictions field since 2004. I combine medication management with psychotherapy in order to get the best possible outcomes for my patients. It is important to me for each of my patients become the best they can be.
Hello! I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner and also a Doctor of Behavioral Health. I have been working in mental health since 2001 and in the addictions field since 2004. I combine medication management with psychotherapy in order to get the best possible outcomes for my patients. It is important to me for each of my patients become the best they can be.
(980) 998-1303 View (980) 998-1303
Photo of Shanika Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shanika Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Did you know that mental health significantly influences how we think, feel, and act? It plays a crucial role in how we handle stress and connect with others. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or tired, you're not alone. I’m here to listen and provide the support you need. As a compassionate board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Recover All Behavioral Health, LLC, I have over a decade of experience helping individuals find clarity and peace of mind. Let’s work together to improve your mental well-being!
Did you know that mental health significantly influences how we think, feel, and act? It plays a crucial role in how we handle stress and connect with others. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or tired, you're not alone. I’m here to listen and provide the support you need. As a compassionate board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Recover All Behavioral Health, LLC, I have over a decade of experience helping individuals find clarity and peace of mind. Let’s work together to improve your mental well-being!
(704) 769-2981 View (704) 769-2981
Photo of Everlyne Chesaina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Everlyne Chesaina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, My name is Everlyne As a board-certified adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric medication management as well as supportive therapy.
Hello, My name is Everlyne As a board-certified adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric medication management as well as supportive therapy.
(704) 288-5910 View (704) 288-5910
Photo of Shela West, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shela West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Illusions Dissolved Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, where we believe that unraveling the illusions that cloud our minds is the key to unlocking genuine mental well-being. Changing one's perception and letting go of societal pressures, external expectations, and illusions that hinder self-expression can be an essential step towards healing. Shela A. West is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in addressing complex mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
Welcome to Illusions Dissolved Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, where we believe that unraveling the illusions that cloud our minds is the key to unlocking genuine mental well-being. Changing one's perception and letting go of societal pressures, external expectations, and illusions that hinder self-expression can be an essential step towards healing. Shela A. West is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in addressing complex mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
(919) 756-5415 View (919) 756-5415

See more therapy options for 28204

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28204

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 28204 who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
88% ADHD
88% Bipolar Disorder
75% Trauma and PTSD
63% Medication Management
58% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
82% Other

How Psychiatrists in 28204 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28204?

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.