Psychiatrists in 28210

Photo of Felicia M Marshall-Pierrelus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Felicia M Marshall-Pierrelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
My clients have ranged from children/ adolescents to adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood dysregulation, sleep disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. I am passionate about helping my clients progress on their mental health journeys. My compassion focused and culturally sensitive approach helps me use interpersonal skills to listen and understand client's needs and concerns. I use motivational interviewing and various therapeutic interventions tailored to identify each client's strengths and weaknesses while helping them move closer to their personal goals.
My clients have ranged from children/ adolescents to adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood dysregulation, sleep disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders. I am passionate about helping my clients progress on their mental health journeys. My compassion focused and culturally sensitive approach helps me use interpersonal skills to listen and understand client's needs and concerns. I use motivational interviewing and various therapeutic interventions tailored to identify each client's strengths and weaknesses while helping them move closer to their personal goals.
(980) 366-4029 View (980) 366-4029
Photo of Laura Paschall, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura Paschall
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hello! I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages on their journey to mental wellness. My whole-person approach to mental health integrates therapeutic interventions and medication management to provide the highest quality of care. I seek to connect with each patient on a human level, taking time to honor your lived experiences and working together to build a tailored plan to recovery.
Hello! I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages on their journey to mental wellness. My whole-person approach to mental health integrates therapeutic interventions and medication management to provide the highest quality of care. I seek to connect with each patient on a human level, taking time to honor your lived experiences and working together to build a tailored plan to recovery.
(704) 461-0762 View (704) 461-0762
Photo of Chinyere Chima - Rejuve Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Rejuve Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 18 years of clinical experience. I started my healthcare career as a critical care nurse.
Hello! I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 18 years of clinical experience. I started my healthcare career as a critical care nurse.
(980) 456-8762 View (980) 456-8762
Photo of Valeea Sutton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Valeea Sutton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Charlotte, NC 28210
An ideal client would be someone who is motivated to explore the underlying causes of their mental health challenges. They want to be informed about various treatment options and committed to growth. They value you an integrative health approach that addresses their emotional, physical, and psychological wellbeing. Lastly, they are looking for lifelong strategies and copIng skills over quick fixes. They want long term healing and personal growth. Please feel free to visit my personal website for more information. www.ggcounseling.info
An ideal client would be someone who is motivated to explore the underlying causes of their mental health challenges. They want to be informed about various treatment options and committed to growth. They value you an integrative health approach that addresses their emotional, physical, and psychological wellbeing. Lastly, they are looking for lifelong strategies and copIng skills over quick fixes. They want long term healing and personal growth. Please feel free to visit my personal website for more information. www.ggcounseling.info
(704) 327-5682 View (704) 327-5682
Photo of David Balis Patton, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
David Balis Patton
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Charlotte, NC 28210
Please contact my office for appointments and prescription refills. I am co-founder of Pediatric & Family Behavioral Health, PLLC, (PFBH)- a psychiatry clinic in South Charlotte. PFBH specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. We are an evidence-based clinic that deals primarily in medication management & psychotherapy. We have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder & Psychosis.
Please contact my office for appointments and prescription refills. I am co-founder of Pediatric & Family Behavioral Health, PLLC, (PFBH)- a psychiatry clinic in South Charlotte. PFBH specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. We are an evidence-based clinic that deals primarily in medication management & psychotherapy. We have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder & Psychosis.
(704) 237-6843 View (704) 237-6843
Photo of Claris Livingstone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Claris Livingstone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Charlotte, NC 28210
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
(704) 850-5596 View (704) 850-5596
Photo of Aris Azar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Aris Azar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
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 Shanna Mago, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Shanna Mago
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Shanna Mago is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a total of ten years of experience including four years in an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she was the lead medical provider. This experience led her to pursue her post-master's psychiatric mental health education from Maryville University of St. Louis. She works with children and adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and various other mental health concerns. She is committed to providing compassionate care that focuses on therapeutic rapport while following evidence-base guidelines.
Shanna Mago is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a total of ten years of experience including four years in an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she was the lead medical provider. This experience led her to pursue her post-master's psychiatric mental health education from Maryville University of St. Louis. She works with children and adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and various other mental health concerns. She is committed to providing compassionate care that focuses on therapeutic rapport while following evidence-base guidelines.
(704) 850-9319 View (704) 850-9319
Photo of Bret Guidry, Psychiatrist, MD
Bret Guidry
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28210
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
(980) 372-8112 View (980) 372-8112
Photo of April Schindler, Psychiatrist, MD
April Schindler
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages. 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 health. In my medical training, I was taught the art of whole person care. I learned that a patient's needs often go beyond the healing of the body. Being the whole person that you are, you come with psychological, emotional, intellectual, cultural, relational, and spiritual faculties that are equally affected by your illness. Together, we will integrate important aspects of who you are into the assessment and treatment of your concerns.
I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages. 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 health. In my medical training, I was taught the art of whole person care. I learned that a patient's needs often go beyond the healing of the body. Being the whole person that you are, you come with psychological, emotional, intellectual, cultural, relational, and spiritual faculties that are equally affected by your illness. Together, we will integrate important aspects of who you are into the assessment and treatment of your concerns.
(704) 327-5561 View (704) 327-5561
Photo of Brittany Richards, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Brittany Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Charlotte, NC 28210
Finding balance in your mental health can feel overwhelming — but you don't have to face it alone. My approach is personalized and I am committed to helping you regain stability, focus, and peace through thoughtful, evidence-based care. Whether you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, or the emotional challenges that often arise during major life transitions, I am here to help.
Finding balance in your mental health can feel overwhelming — but you don't have to face it alone. My approach is personalized and I am committed to helping you regain stability, focus, and peace through thoughtful, evidence-based care. Whether you're navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, or the emotional challenges that often arise during major life transitions, I am here to help.
(980) 577-4535 View (980) 577-4535
Photo of Katherine A. Zbodula, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Katherine A. Zbodula
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Charlotte, NC 28210
Comprehensive, Confidential, Compassionate individualized mental health care. I am adult nurse practitioner at The Blanchard Institute. With 28 years in the behavioral health field, I understand that every client's struggles are unique. My goal is to tailor treatment to empower my patients to achieve the highest possible quality of life. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations using a patient-focused approach to allow for the highest level of care. My specialties include Substance Abuse and Detox treatment, Trauma, ADHD, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar.
Comprehensive, Confidential, Compassionate individualized mental health care. I am adult nurse practitioner at The Blanchard Institute. With 28 years in the behavioral health field, I understand that every client's struggles are unique. My goal is to tailor treatment to empower my patients to achieve the highest possible quality of life. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations using a patient-focused approach to allow for the highest level of care. My specialties include Substance Abuse and Detox treatment, Trauma, ADHD, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar.
(980) 499-7180 View (980) 499-7180
Photo of Pratima Dahal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Pratima Dahal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Charlotte, NC 28210
Pratima is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She has been a registered nurse since 2005 with unique experiences in psychiatric nursing across different cultures. As a provider, Pratima focuses on individual plan of care emphasizing on uniqueness of each client and their life situations. She is an avid advocate of importance of mental health to achieve the overall health and well-being.
Pratima is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She has been a registered nurse since 2005 with unique experiences in psychiatric nursing across different cultures. As a provider, Pratima focuses on individual plan of care emphasizing on uniqueness of each client and their life situations. She is an avid advocate of importance of mental health to achieve the overall health and well-being.
(704) 327-6968 View (704) 327-6968
Photo of Levy Nathan Wiseman-Floyd, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Levy Nathan Wiseman-Floyd
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Charlotte, NC 28210
My clients will include children and adults of all ages who are struggling with controlling their mental health. My main goal for each client is to optimize their overall health and wellbeing by identifying and treating any underlying psychiatric pathology. The only requirement that I have for my clients is that they care as much about their mental health as I do, without that any treatment will not succeed. I look forward to fostering authentic relationships with each of my clients to individualize their treatment and guide them through the often daunting world of psychiatry.
My clients will include children and adults of all ages who are struggling with controlling their mental health. My main goal for each client is to optimize their overall health and wellbeing by identifying and treating any underlying psychiatric pathology. The only requirement that I have for my clients is that they care as much about their mental health as I do, without that any treatment will not succeed. I look forward to fostering authentic relationships with each of my clients to individualize their treatment and guide them through the often daunting world of psychiatry.
(704) 459-4925 View (704) 459-4925
Michelle McBride
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Michelle is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. Her primary goal is to offer compassionate, individualized care that empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges and achieve a sense of balance. She believes in developing personalized treatment plans that cater to each person’s unique needs, helping them take control of their mental health and feel supported throughout their journey.
Michelle is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. Her primary goal is to offer compassionate, individualized care that empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges and achieve a sense of balance. She believes in developing personalized treatment plans that cater to each person’s unique needs, helping them take control of their mental health and feel supported throughout their journey.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Madhav Muppa, Psychiatrist, MD
Madhav Muppa
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28210
I moved to Charlotte after working for 4 years in PA in a inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient clinic. My outpatient experience was taking care of children, adolescents and adult patients with Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder and mood disorders. My particular interests are Mood disorders, ADHD and Autism Spectrum disorder.
I moved to Charlotte after working for 4 years in PA in a inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient clinic. My outpatient experience was taking care of children, adolescents and adult patients with Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder and mood disorders. My particular interests are Mood disorders, ADHD and Autism Spectrum disorder.
(704) 610-1192 View (704) 610-1192
Photo of Dr. Shelton Allison - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28210
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) 528-9360 View (980) 528-9360
Photo of Jill Karelitz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jill Karelitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Welcome! To fit your busy schedule, I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments for your convenience. I understand the challenges of balancing work, life, and self-care, so I strive to make mental health support accessible and stress-free. With a personalized approach, I create tailored treatment plans that address your unique needs. I truly believe you have the strength to grow and heal, and my goal is to empower you on your journey. Take control of your well-being, strengthen your relationships, and optimize your life—I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome! To fit your busy schedule, I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments for your convenience. I understand the challenges of balancing work, life, and self-care, so I strive to make mental health support accessible and stress-free. With a personalized approach, I create tailored treatment plans that address your unique needs. I truly believe you have the strength to grow and heal, and my goal is to empower you on your journey. Take control of your well-being, strengthen your relationships, and optimize your life—I’m here to support you every step of the way.
(980) 300-6853 View (980) 300-6853
Photo of Javier Santos-Cubiñá, Psychiatrist, MD
Javier Santos-Cubiñá
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Desiree Matthews - Different MHP, PC - Desiree Matthews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Different MHP, PC - Desiree Matthews, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Desiree is accepting adult clients in North Carolina for telepsychiatry! Same-day & next-day appointments available. Struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or heavy reliance on alcohol? Feeling stuck in therapy and medication cycles? You’re not alone. We provide the most beneficial, least disruptive treatments—because you are worth it! Take back control of your life. Text us at 704-709-8977 to book your first appointment today!
Desiree is accepting adult clients in North Carolina for telepsychiatry! Same-day & next-day appointments available. Struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or heavy reliance on alcohol? Feeling stuck in therapy and medication cycles? You’re not alone. We provide the most beneficial, least disruptive treatments—because you are worth it! Take back control of your life. Text us at 704-709-8977 to book your first appointment today!
(844) 325-4647 View (844) 325-4647
1

See more therapy options for 28210

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28210

40+

Average cost per session

$152

Psychiatrists in 28210 who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
87% Depression
78% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 28210 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28210?

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.