Psychiatrists in 28403

Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse 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.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse 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.
(910) 386-0162 View (910) 386-0162
Photo of Amanda Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Amanda Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Welcome! I'm Amanda Mitchell, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Nautilus Mental Health, located in Wilmington, NC. I have a passion for helping individuals who are struggling to cope with change and life transitions, supporting them in their recovery and growth through a combination of psychiatric medications and supportive psychotherapy. I treat a variety of problems including Depression, Anxiety, & OCD. I am a trauma-informed provider, and I also enjoy working with folks who are neurodivergent. I look forward to meeting & getting to know you!
Welcome! I'm Amanda Mitchell, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Nautilus Mental Health, located in Wilmington, NC. I have a passion for helping individuals who are struggling to cope with change and life transitions, supporting them in their recovery and growth through a combination of psychiatric medications and supportive psychotherapy. I treat a variety of problems including Depression, Anxiety, & OCD. I am a trauma-informed provider, and I also enjoy working with folks who are neurodivergent. I look forward to meeting & getting to know you!
(910) 631-6322 View (910) 631-6322
Photo of Danielle Kurtz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Danielle Kurtz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Wilmington, NC 28403
At Mindful Pathways Psychiatric Services, Danielle Kurtz's mission is to provide compassionate and personalized mental health care to those in need. I understand the complexities and challenges individuals face and am here to offer a supportive and empathetic environment where you can find guidance and resources to improve your overall well-being. I am dedicated to helping you achieve optimal mental and emotional health. I utilize evidence-based therapies and cutting-edge treatment approaches to address a wide range of mental health concerns, from depression and anxiety to trauma.
At Mindful Pathways Psychiatric Services, Danielle Kurtz's mission is to provide compassionate and personalized mental health care to those in need. I understand the complexities and challenges individuals face and am here to offer a supportive and empathetic environment where you can find guidance and resources to improve your overall well-being. I am dedicated to helping you achieve optimal mental and emotional health. I utilize evidence-based therapies and cutting-edge treatment approaches to address a wide range of mental health concerns, from depression and anxiety to trauma.
(910) 665-7923 x302 View (910) 665-7923 x302
Photo of Dr. Charlotte Fawcett, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Charlotte Fawcett
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Dr. Fawcett is a board-certified psychiatrist offering psychotherapy and medication management for children, teens, college students, and families in Wilmington, North Carolina. With advanced training in child and adolescent psychiatry, psychotherapy, and attachment-based parenting models, she provides a personalized approach combining therapy, behavioral strategies, and medication management to support emotional growth and mental well-being at every stage of development. She most enjoys working closely with both children and their parents to address emotional and behavioral challenges within the family system as a whole.
Dr. Fawcett is a board-certified psychiatrist offering psychotherapy and medication management for children, teens, college students, and families in Wilmington, North Carolina. With advanced training in child and adolescent psychiatry, psychotherapy, and attachment-based parenting models, she provides a personalized approach combining therapy, behavioral strategies, and medication management to support emotional growth and mental well-being at every stage of development. She most enjoys working closely with both children and their parents to address emotional and behavioral challenges within the family system as a whole.
(910) 208-0050 View (910) 208-0050
Photo of Patrick McConnell, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Patrick McConnell
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Wilmington, NC 28403
Patrick McConnell, PA-C relocated to Wilmington in 2004. Mr. McConnell trained in Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked at The Cleveland Clinic, hospitals and healthcare facilities. He has extensive training and experience in Psychiatry, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care and Family Practice Medicine. He is board certified by the NCCPA with over 35 years of experience.
Patrick McConnell, PA-C relocated to Wilmington in 2004. Mr. McConnell trained in Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked at The Cleveland Clinic, hospitals and healthcare facilities. He has extensive training and experience in Psychiatry, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care and Family Practice Medicine. He is board certified by the NCCPA with over 35 years of experience.
(910) 996-5652 View (910) 996-5652
Photo of Aiereal Lloyd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN
Aiereal Lloyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN
Wilmington, NC 28403
Not accepting new clients with ADHD or opioid addiction. My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high-quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. You need someone who is patient, willing to listen, and takes the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and learn about your goals related to relationships, family, support networks, work, personal interests, quality of life, physical health and wellness. Together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I do not prescribe weight loss medication.
Not accepting new clients with ADHD or opioid addiction. My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high-quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. You need someone who is patient, willing to listen, and takes the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and learn about your goals related to relationships, family, support networks, work, personal interests, quality of life, physical health and wellness. Together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I do not prescribe weight loss medication.
(910) 537-2165 View (910) 537-2165
Photo of Courtney Subudhi - Hive Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, FNP, PMHNP
Hive Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, FNP, PMHNP
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hi! I'm Dr. Courtney Subudhi, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. My ideal clients are individuals aged 10-65 who are ready to prioritize their mental health journey. They may be teens struggling with anxiety and identity, parents facing perinatal challenges, professionals managing depression or ADHD, or adults navigating life transitions. They seek genuine understanding, practical solutions, and a compassionate provider who values their unique story. Whether you're dealing with PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, or women's health concerns, you deserve personalized care that honors your whole self and goals.
Hi! I'm Dr. Courtney Subudhi, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. My ideal clients are individuals aged 10-65 who are ready to prioritize their mental health journey. They may be teens struggling with anxiety and identity, parents facing perinatal challenges, professionals managing depression or ADHD, or adults navigating life transitions. They seek genuine understanding, practical solutions, and a compassionate provider who values their unique story. Whether you're dealing with PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, or women's health concerns, you deserve personalized care that honors your whole self and goals.
(910) 957-2079 View (910) 957-2079
Photo of Brianna Vanderpool, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brianna Vanderpool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my bachelor’s in nursing from Mansfield University in 2009 and a Master of Science in nursing from Walden University in August of 2023. I have had the honor of spending much of my nursing career aboard Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, serving the military community and their families.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my bachelor’s in nursing from Mansfield University in 2009 and a Master of Science in nursing from Walden University in August of 2023. I have had the honor of spending much of my nursing career aboard Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, serving the military community and their families.
(910) 613-9175 View (910) 613-9175
Photo of Sarah K Diaz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Sarah K Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Dr. Sarah Diaz, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with 8 years of nursing experiences, providing comprehensive functional and holistic psychiatric medication management combined with therapy to support whole-person healing. She is an LGBTQ+ and Gender Affirming provider. Sarah is passionate about the power of collaboration. She will work with you beyond medication management, exploring lifestyle, nutrition, spirituality, therapy and other integrative approaches to support long-term emotional and mental well-being.
Dr. Sarah Diaz, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with 8 years of nursing experiences, providing comprehensive functional and holistic psychiatric medication management combined with therapy to support whole-person healing. She is an LGBTQ+ and Gender Affirming provider. Sarah is passionate about the power of collaboration. She will work with you beyond medication management, exploring lifestyle, nutrition, spirituality, therapy and other integrative approaches to support long-term emotional and mental well-being.
(910) 858-8455 View (910) 858-8455
Photo of Ashli Gibson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, MSN
Ashli Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, MSN
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Ashli is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry. She has a background as a Certified Nurse-Midwife in which she developed expertise in prenatal care, birth, postpartum care, and gynecology over the span of six years. As a midwife, Ashli experienced firsthand how prevalent the adversities are that individuals face regarding reproductive challenges and transitions and how few mental health resources there are available to those who need them at such a vulnerable time. She offers medication management and support through a process that values empowerment and respect.
Ashli is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry. She has a background as a Certified Nurse-Midwife in which she developed expertise in prenatal care, birth, postpartum care, and gynecology over the span of six years. As a midwife, Ashli experienced firsthand how prevalent the adversities are that individuals face regarding reproductive challenges and transitions and how few mental health resources there are available to those who need them at such a vulnerable time. She offers medication management and support through a process that values empowerment and respect.
(910) 537-3500 View (910) 537-3500
Photo of Tameshia Wiggins - Evolve Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Evolve Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
(419) 938-4259 View (419) 938-4259
Photo of David Ahlberg - Affiliated Medical Group, Psychiatrist, MD
Affiliated Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
(910) 939-0724 View (910) 939-0724
Photo of Sandy Howard - Mountain Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Mountain Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Sandy Howard a Nurse Practitioner, and my psychiatry practice is different than most, but if you are comfortable with technology then say good-bye to feeling invisible because you can't get in touch with your mental health provider and hello to personalized care! I use an encrypted app which links us directly and allows for personal and secure communication between appointments. My 20+ years of experience has taught me that therapeutic continuity produces the best results, and my patients tell me over and over that this experience has been the best in their journey for successful treatment.
Hi, I'm Sandy Howard a Nurse Practitioner, and my psychiatry practice is different than most, but if you are comfortable with technology then say good-bye to feeling invisible because you can't get in touch with your mental health provider and hello to personalized care! I use an encrypted app which links us directly and allows for personal and secure communication between appointments. My 20+ years of experience has taught me that therapeutic continuity produces the best results, and my patients tell me over and over that this experience has been the best in their journey for successful treatment.
(828) 408-0432 View (828) 408-0432
Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Laurie Dunne, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Laurie Dunne
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
Accepting New Clients! Are you searching for a psychiatric physician assistant who goes above and beyond to prioritize your well-being? I’d love to work with you! My name is Laurie and I am a dedicated professional committed to providing unparalleled support and guidance on your journey to mental health. With years of experience and a passion for fostering genuine connections, I value the power of collaboration with my patients. I believe that open communication and mutual understanding are essential foundations for successful treatment.
Accepting New Clients! Are you searching for a psychiatric physician assistant who goes above and beyond to prioritize your well-being? I’d love to work with you! My name is Laurie and I am a dedicated professional committed to providing unparalleled support and guidance on your journey to mental health. With years of experience and a passion for fostering genuine connections, I value the power of collaboration with my patients. I believe that open communication and mutual understanding are essential foundations for successful treatment.
(919) 726-0269 View (919) 726-0269
Photo of Dr. John M. Brion, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-C
Dr. John M. Brion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Collaborative Mental Health. I'm John Brion, PhD, PMHNP, and I’m currently accepting new patients. I work with individuals 12 and up, offering assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for ADHD, mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), and addictions (substance and behavioral). I provide brief, solution-focused therapy and medication management.
Welcome to Collaborative Mental Health. I'm John Brion, PhD, PMHNP, and I’m currently accepting new patients. I work with individuals 12 and up, offering assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for ADHD, mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), and addictions (substance and behavioral). I provide brief, solution-focused therapy and medication management.
(984) 204-7212 View (984) 204-7212
Photo of Lindsey Lawrence, Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Lindsey Lawrence
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Serves Area
At Making Waves Mental Health, our approach will be to personalize each medication treatment plan for the individual needs of each patient.
At Making Waves Mental Health, our approach will be to personalize each medication treatment plan for the individual needs of each patient.
(910) 569-8565 View (910) 569-8565
Photo of Sheila Marano - Safe Landing Wellness Center: In-office or virtual, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Safe Landing Wellness Center: In-office or virtual
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Serves Area
Looking outside of the typical mental health diagnosis box, that's what I do best. I customize treatment plans by considering all medical possibilities for your target symptoms that are causing you distress, along with your mental health history. Together we come up with a medication plan. Utilizing evidence-based practice to positively impact the neuroplasticity of your brain's neural pathways is key. The goal is to decrease the pain around the main target symptom and beyond. Each session, I assess for symptoms of what could be impairing your higher functioning in life. We build from the foundation up, a healthier, brighter you.
Looking outside of the typical mental health diagnosis box, that's what I do best. I customize treatment plans by considering all medical possibilities for your target symptoms that are causing you distress, along with your mental health history. Together we come up with a medication plan. Utilizing evidence-based practice to positively impact the neuroplasticity of your brain's neural pathways is key. The goal is to decrease the pain around the main target symptom and beyond. Each session, I assess for symptoms of what could be impairing your higher functioning in life. We build from the foundation up, a healthier, brighter you.
(910) 601-2466 View (910) 601-2466
Photo of Jason Darden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jason Darden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Working with patients in their own home relieves immediate stress and is a positive environment to establish immediate rapport. Telepsychiatry reduces delays in care, potential transportation barriers, such as lack of transportation or the need for long drives, and improves access to mental health specialty care that might not otherwise be available (e.g., in rural areas). Research also suggests telepsychiatry helps patients avoid the stigmas surrounding getting treatment and immediately increases comfort levels. At this time we are NOT accepting patients with Bipolar Disorder.
Working with patients in their own home relieves immediate stress and is a positive environment to establish immediate rapport. Telepsychiatry reduces delays in care, potential transportation barriers, such as lack of transportation or the need for long drives, and improves access to mental health specialty care that might not otherwise be available (e.g., in rural areas). Research also suggests telepsychiatry helps patients avoid the stigmas surrounding getting treatment and immediately increases comfort levels. At this time we are NOT accepting patients with Bipolar Disorder.
(980) 737-7656 View (980) 737-7656
Photo of Dr. Amanda Culp-Roche, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Dr. Amanda Culp-Roche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
Life is busy, and we often put off taking care of ourselves. Thank you for making your mental health a priority! I am Amanda Culp-Roche, a dual-board certified nurse practitioner (family practice and psychiatric mental health), licensed in North Carolina and Kentucky. I received my Master's and PhD degrees from the University of Kentucky.
Life is busy, and we often put off taking care of ourselves. Thank you for making your mental health a priority! I am Amanda Culp-Roche, a dual-board certified nurse practitioner (family practice and psychiatric mental health), licensed in North Carolina and Kentucky. I received my Master's and PhD degrees from the University of Kentucky.
(910) 460-6558 View (910) 460-6558

See more therapy options for 28403

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28403

20+

Average cost per session

$155

Psychiatrists in 28403 who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
75% Medication Management
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 28403 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28403?

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.