Psychiatrists in 28217

Photo of Renee Beauregard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
Renee Beauregard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I focus on individualizing mental health treatment through a holistic approach to achieve and maintain stability. I have experience in diagnosing and treating various mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
I focus on individualizing mental health treatment through a holistic approach to achieve and maintain stability. I have experience in diagnosing and treating various mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(980) 370-2840 View (980) 370-2840
Photo of Shawndele Danzy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Shawndele Danzy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28217
My ideal client is ready to take the next step toward emotional and physical well-being, even if they are unsure where to start. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood instability, or working to overcome the weight of trauma, addiction, or burnout. Some are managing chronic mental health conditions and need reliable, judgment-free support. Others come to me for help with weight management while being treated for their mental disorders, substance use recovery, or to meet important health standards such as DOT compliance.
My ideal client is ready to take the next step toward emotional and physical well-being, even if they are unsure where to start. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood instability, or working to overcome the weight of trauma, addiction, or burnout. Some are managing chronic mental health conditions and need reliable, judgment-free support. Others come to me for help with weight management while being treated for their mental disorders, substance use recovery, or to meet important health standards such as DOT compliance.
(803) 889-0726 View (803) 889-0726
Photo of Shelton Allison, Psychiatrist, MD
Shelton Allison
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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 Dr. Shelton Allison - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
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) 528-9360 View (980) 528-9360
Photo of Pratima Dahal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Pratima Dahal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
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 Claris Livingstone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Claris Livingstone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Serves Area
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 Ngozi Regina Eze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Ngozi Regina Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, bipolar disorder, and PTSD for individuals of all ages. I offer compassionate care and work closely with my clients to create personalized treatment plans. My approach is centered on collaboration, providing support and the tools needed to help individuals achieve mental wellness and improve their quality of life. I am passionate about utilizing the most current, evidence-based practices to support my clients on their mental health journeys.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, bipolar disorder, and PTSD for individuals of all ages. I offer compassionate care and work closely with my clients to create personalized treatment plans. My approach is centered on collaboration, providing support and the tools needed to help individuals achieve mental wellness and improve their quality of life. I am passionate about utilizing the most current, evidence-based practices to support my clients on their mental health journeys.
(984) 985-2423 View (984) 985-2423

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Brian Sachs - Redeem Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Redeem Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression, insomnia or fatigue, perhaps divorce or toxic relationships? You're not alone. I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can be to seek mental health services in our healthcare system. But here's the good news: I am here to help you. As a family physician specializing in medical and integrative psychiatry, I offer the professional and personal experience you need to overcome these challenges. Together, we can navigate your journey towards healing and reclaiming your wellbeing.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression, insomnia or fatigue, perhaps divorce or toxic relationships? You're not alone. I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can be to seek mental health services in our healthcare system. But here's the good news: I am here to help you. As a family physician specializing in medical and integrative psychiatry, I offer the professional and personal experience you need to overcome these challenges. Together, we can navigate your journey towards healing and reclaiming your wellbeing.
(910) 900-6066 View (910) 900-6066
Photo of Dr. Robert Bauer - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Denver, NC 28037
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(980) 407-7551 View (980) 407-7551
Photo of Casey Watson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP , PMHNP
Casey Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP , PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice in Charlotte, NC, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals 12 and older. Casey, the owner, exclusively sees adults 21 and older. Online and in-person appointments are available for adults 21+. Casey is dual board-certified in psychiatric mental health and family medicine, with 17+ years of experience. She sees each patient as more than a diagnosis, working collaboratively to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to individual needs. Seeking help is a big step, and Revitalize Psychiatry is here to support you. Our goal is to help you heal.
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice in Charlotte, NC, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals 12 and older. Casey, the owner, exclusively sees adults 21 and older. Online and in-person appointments are available for adults 21+. Casey is dual board-certified in psychiatric mental health and family medicine, with 17+ years of experience. She sees each patient as more than a diagnosis, working collaboratively to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to individual needs. Seeking help is a big step, and Revitalize Psychiatry is here to support you. Our goal is to help you heal.
(704) 666-4042 View (704) 666-4042
Photo of Carmen Chatten, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Carmen Chatten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Charlotte, NC 28202
I am a board certified nurse practitioner who has been in practice for 12 years. I provide mental health care as a first line approach to health care and then branch patients, who desire, into primary care services as a secondary service. I use genetic testing and advanced lab work to assess general health and utilize behavioral approaches to chronic disease management. Of note - Please navigate to the website to request an appointment, there seems to be a malfunction in regards to emails.
I am a board certified nurse practitioner who has been in practice for 12 years. I provide mental health care as a first line approach to health care and then branch patients, who desire, into primary care services as a secondary service. I use genetic testing and advanced lab work to assess general health and utilize behavioral approaches to chronic disease management. Of note - Please navigate to the website to request an appointment, there seems to be a malfunction in regards to emails.
(919) 343-9899 View (919) 343-9899
Photo of Jill Karelitz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jill Karelitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I have Immediate Availability for new patients and both in-person and telehealth appointments to fit conveniently into your busy life. Your time is valuable, and I strive to make mental health care as accessible and stress-free as possible. I am immediately available for new patients, offering b 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.
I have Immediate Availability for new patients and both in-person and telehealth appointments to fit conveniently into your busy life. Your time is valuable, and I strive to make mental health care as accessible and stress-free as possible. I am immediately available for new patients, offering b 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 Kiana Gizzi, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Kiana Gizzi
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant and Psychiatric provider dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biobehavioral Health from Pennsylvania State University and my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Thomas Jefferson University. During my clinical training across various specialties, I discovered my passion for mental health while completing my psychiatry rotation in North Carolina. I want to contribute to breaking the stigma, providing compassionate care, and making a positive impact on people's lives during difficult times.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant and Psychiatric provider dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biobehavioral Health from Pennsylvania State University and my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Thomas Jefferson University. During my clinical training across various specialties, I discovered my passion for mental health while completing my psychiatry rotation in North Carolina. I want to contribute to breaking the stigma, providing compassionate care, and making a positive impact on people's lives during difficult times.
(984) 313-9953 View (984) 313-9953
Photo of Brandy Torrence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brandy Torrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I am a psychiatric - mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina. I have over 16 years of health care experience and have functioned as a PMHNP for 1 year. I primarily offer medication management but also incorporate lifestyle recommendations and brief therapy. I enjoy partnering with adults to gain improved mental wellness and a greater sense of peace.
Hello! I am a psychiatric - mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina. I have over 16 years of health care experience and have functioned as a PMHNP for 1 year. I primarily offer medication management but also incorporate lifestyle recommendations and brief therapy. I enjoy partnering with adults to gain improved mental wellness and a greater sense of peace.
(980) 737-1290 View (980) 737-1290
Photo of Susan Caceres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Susan Caceres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
We all face roadblocks in life, and sometimes we can't find a way around them. Demands are high and stressors can be debilitating. Worry can prevent us from living in the moment, generate self-doubt, and cause us to avoid situations. I am bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I work with adults facing such challenges. I listen to your goals, and I help you find the most appropriate interventions to meet those goals. I offer emotional support and medication management. If you are interested in learning more, you can self-schedule a free phone consultation on my website.
We all face roadblocks in life, and sometimes we can't find a way around them. Demands are high and stressors can be debilitating. Worry can prevent us from living in the moment, generate self-doubt, and cause us to avoid situations. I am bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I work with adults facing such challenges. I listen to your goals, and I help you find the most appropriate interventions to meet those goals. I offer emotional support and medication management. If you are interested in learning more, you can self-schedule a free phone consultation on my website.
View
Photo of Carla Sinclair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carla Sinclair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Carla Sinclair and I am the founder of Braintree Psychiatry. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of nursing experience.
My name is Carla Sinclair and I am the founder of Braintree Psychiatry. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of nursing experience.
(704) 666-9479 View (704) 666-9479
Photo of Susan Edwards Curtis, Psychiatrist, MD
Susan Edwards Curtis
Psychiatrist, MD
Charlotte, NC 28216
The path to wellness is a journey in which we all have to nurture ourselves in order to not just survive but thrive. My goal is to help you in both accepting yourself where you are on your journey, while learning to have compassion for yourself so you can continue on your path to be your best self. I will work with you on identifying your treatment goals, taking into account the biological, psychological, and social aspects of your situation.
The path to wellness is a journey in which we all have to nurture ourselves in order to not just survive but thrive. My goal is to help you in both accepting yourself where you are on your journey, while learning to have compassion for yourself so you can continue on your path to be your best self. I will work with you on identifying your treatment goals, taking into account the biological, psychological, and social aspects of your situation.
(980) 745-6225 View (980) 745-6225
Photo of Glory Gilbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Glory Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Hello I'm Glory and I am here to assist you with any needs or concerns based on my expertise. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat each person in the way I would like to be treated. Each person and/or needs are different. Therefore, I treat each person with an individualized treatment plan that is person-centered. I look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals.
Hello I'm Glory and I am here to assist you with any needs or concerns based on my expertise. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat each person in the way I would like to be treated. Each person and/or needs are different. Therefore, I treat each person with an individualized treatment plan that is person-centered. I look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals.
(910) 679-9295 View (910) 679-9295
Photo of Shannon Blankenbeckler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Blankenbeckler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about helping individuals reclaim balance, clarity and connection in their lives. I work with adults who are struggling with a range of mental health concerns -including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and mood disorders - who are ready to take the first step toward healing, personal growth and improved functioning.
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about helping individuals reclaim balance, clarity and connection in their lives. I work with adults who are struggling with a range of mental health concerns -including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and mood disorders - who are ready to take the first step toward healing, personal growth and improved functioning.
(910) 390-8140 View (910) 390-8140
Photo of Jacey Jurgensmeier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacey Jurgensmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or emotionally stuck? You may be carrying more than others realize and it’s taking a toll. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s weighing you down, understand your struggles, and create a personalized path toward healing, clarity, and lasting change. You don’t have to face this alone help and hope are here.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or emotionally stuck? You may be carrying more than others realize and it’s taking a toll. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s weighing you down, understand your struggles, and create a personalized path toward healing, clarity, and lasting change. You don’t have to face this alone help and hope are here.
(331) 216-1640 View (331) 216-1640

See more therapy options for 28217

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28217

< 10

Psychiatrists in 28217 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Sleep or Insomnia
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 28217 see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28217?

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.