Psychiatrists in 29405

LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Charleston, SC 29405
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.
(854) 215-3777 View (854) 215-3777
Photo of Amy James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Amy James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
North Charleston, SC 29405
Amy James is a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse from Medical University of South Carolina. Amy provides complete evaluations, treatment, and medication management of various mental health disorders including PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, OCD, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, women s issues, sexuality issues, sexual orientation and gender identity conflicts.
Amy James is a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse from Medical University of South Carolina. Amy provides complete evaluations, treatment, and medication management of various mental health disorders including PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, OCD, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, women s issues, sexuality issues, sexual orientation and gender identity conflicts.
(843) 699-8248 View (843) 699-8248
Photo of Nicholas Germano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicholas Germano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Charleston, SC 29405
Nick Germano, MSN, PMHNP-BC Nick Germano is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Nick believes that the most essential component to medication management is collaboration.
Nick Germano, MSN, PMHNP-BC Nick Germano is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Nick believes that the most essential component to medication management is collaboration.
(843) 483-6455 View (843) 483-6455
Photo of Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29405
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
(843) 417-0261 View (843) 417-0261
Lauren Stephan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
North Charleston, SC 29405
Lauren Stephan, PMHNP, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care in South Carolina, specializing in medication management and mental health assessments. She supports individuals facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders, empowering them to manage symptoms and achieve lasting wellness. Lauren focuses on trauma, psychosis, and post-partum issues, offering tailored, empathetic care. She serves a diverse client base, including children, adolescents, and adults, addressing conditions like eating disorders, sleep disorders, and OCD through a holistic approach.
Lauren Stephan, PMHNP, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care in South Carolina, specializing in medication management and mental health assessments. She supports individuals facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders, empowering them to manage symptoms and achieve lasting wellness. Lauren focuses on trauma, psychosis, and post-partum issues, offering tailored, empathetic care. She serves a diverse client base, including children, adolescents, and adults, addressing conditions like eating disorders, sleep disorders, and OCD through a holistic approach.
(854) 842-3400 View (854) 842-3400
Photo of Chinenye Loveth Chukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Chinenye Loveth Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
10 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29405
Life can feel overwhelming, and finding the right support is essential. At Mind Haven Psychiatry, I provide a safe, compassionate space to help you process emotions, explore your thoughts, and create meaningful change. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, I use a personalized, evidence-based approach to meet your unique needs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer therapy and medication management to support your mental and emotional well-being. Together, we’ll develop a plan to help you build resilience and achieve clarity and balance.
Life can feel overwhelming, and finding the right support is essential. At Mind Haven Psychiatry, I provide a safe, compassionate space to help you process emotions, explore your thoughts, and create meaningful change. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, I use a personalized, evidence-based approach to meet your unique needs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer therapy and medication management to support your mental and emotional well-being. Together, we’ll develop a plan to help you build resilience and achieve clarity and balance.
(803) 658-1108 View (803) 658-1108
Photo of Gundu Reddy, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(803) 336-2001 View (803) 336-2001
Photo of Sarah Dalechek, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah Dalechek
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We offer collaborative and patient-centered care through the use of medication and therapy as forms of treatment for a wide array of mental health needs. Whether you have been experiencing mental health issues your whole life or have just recently developed disruptions in mood, anxiety, etc. we are here to assist you. Also, we help those who are stable on their current medication regimens with medication management appointments for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder just to name a few.
We offer collaborative and patient-centered care through the use of medication and therapy as forms of treatment for a wide array of mental health needs. Whether you have been experiencing mental health issues your whole life or have just recently developed disruptions in mood, anxiety, etc. we are here to assist you. Also, we help those who are stable on their current medication regimens with medication management appointments for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder just to name a few.
(843) 806-3401 View (843) 806-3401
Photo of Nicole Lucas - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
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.
(854) 215-3798 View (854) 215-3798
Photo of Michael B Mefford, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael B Mefford
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Providing Online Psychiatric Care for Adult ADHD, Anxiety anywhere in SC. I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
Now Providing Online Psychiatric Care for Adult ADHD, Anxiety anywhere in SC. I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
(843) 350-6393 View (843) 350-6393
Photo of Lucretia D Wilson - The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a doctoral prepared professional, I bring extensive experience, qualities, and credentials to meet your needs. With over 30 years of nursing experience, I am a passionate and dedicated individual. My career has encompassed high-profile roles in medicine, psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice, both in face-to-face and online settings. As a veteran spouse and mother of an active-duty military family, I possess a strong understanding of the needs of military-affiliated patients. My primary goal is to provide purpose-driven, customized care to all clients.
As a doctoral prepared professional, I bring extensive experience, qualities, and credentials to meet your needs. With over 30 years of nursing experience, I am a passionate and dedicated individual. My career has encompassed high-profile roles in medicine, psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice, both in face-to-face and online settings. As a veteran spouse and mother of an active-duty military family, I possess a strong understanding of the needs of military-affiliated patients. My primary goal is to provide purpose-driven, customized care to all clients.
(854) 212-7671 View (854) 212-7671
Photo of Brad Wuerfel - Mindpath Health Psychiatrists & Therapists, Psychiatrist
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy. Mindpath Health helps patients of all ages with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, life changes, OCD, postpartum depression, PTSD, and trauma.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy. Mindpath Health helps patients of all ages with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, life changes, OCD, postpartum depression, PTSD, and trauma.
(855) 724-1139 View (855) 724-1139
Photo of Dr. Holland Palmgren, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Dr. Holland Palmgren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a Charleston, SC Native with 10+ years of nursing and provider experience in numerous different career fields. I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family and Psychiatric Medicine. This experience allows me to provide a whole-patient perspective to your mental health needs.
I am a Charleston, SC Native with 10+ years of nursing and provider experience in numerous different career fields. I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family and Psychiatric Medicine. This experience allows me to provide a whole-patient perspective to your mental health needs.
(843) 968-1722 View (843) 968-1722
Photo of Nicole Lucas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Nicole Lucas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Serves Area
Nicole Lucas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Nicole's goal is to provide patient-centered holistic care to each and every patient. Every person is unique, and they deserve care that reflects their individual qualities. Nicole wants every patient to feel heard and to trust that they can, together, meet each individual goal. Nicole recognizes the many factors that come with medication management for treatment and takes the time to listen and educate so that they can come to a solution together.
Nicole Lucas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Nicole's goal is to provide patient-centered holistic care to each and every patient. Every person is unique, and they deserve care that reflects their individual qualities. Nicole wants every patient to feel heard and to trust that they can, together, meet each individual goal. Nicole recognizes the many factors that come with medication management for treatment and takes the time to listen and educate so that they can come to a solution together.
(854) 204-4490 View (854) 204-4490
Photo of Haylee Fiddie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Haylee Fiddie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In addition to medication management and therapy, I am committed to including holistic approaches and meaningful lifestyle changes in your treatment plan to promote lasting well-being.
In addition to medication management and therapy, I am committed to including holistic approaches and meaningful lifestyle changes in your treatment plan to promote lasting well-being.
(843) 430-6211 View (843) 430-6211

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Reya Demirozu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Reya Demirozu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
North Charleston, SC 29406
Reya creates a safe and non-judgmental space where patients feel heard and empowered to take charge of their mental health journey. She is committed to helping individuals understand and manage their mental health in ways that promote fulfilling and balanced lives.
Reya creates a safe and non-judgmental space where patients feel heard and empowered to take charge of their mental health journey. She is committed to helping individuals understand and manage their mental health in ways that promote fulfilling and balanced lives.
(855) 724-1139 View (855) 724-1139
Photo of Michele Reina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, -BC
Michele Reina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, -BC
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 17 years of experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse. I am passionate, compassionate, and committed to providing the highest level of mental health care. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Daemen College and my Master's degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina. My goal is to work closely with each patient to develop individualized treatment plans that foster healing and promote overall mental well-being.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 17 years of experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse. I am passionate, compassionate, and committed to providing the highest level of mental health care. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Daemen College and my Master's degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina. My goal is to work closely with each patient to develop individualized treatment plans that foster healing and promote overall mental well-being.
(803) 882-3861 View (803) 882-3861
Photo of Robin Secrist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Robin Secrist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Charleston, SC 29403
I am pleased to be a part of Inner Healing Charleston where we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. At Inner Healing Charleston we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. As Charleston’s only locally owned, physician-led psychiatric clinic specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and integrative psychiatric services, we are redefining what it means to heal the mind.
I am pleased to be a part of Inner Healing Charleston where we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. At Inner Healing Charleston we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. As Charleston’s only locally owned, physician-led psychiatric clinic specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and integrative psychiatric services, we are redefining what it means to heal the mind.
(854) 209-5580 View (854) 209-5580
Photo of Brandi Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, Psych, NP
Brandi Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, Psych, NP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!***We are a private psychiatry practice servicing clients in the state of South Carolina. I am open to all clients in need of services from the most severe illnesses, to those in need of temporary healing. In my experience I have come to realize how important mental health is to one’s overall wellbeing. My approach for treatment can be summarized in a few words, "no judgement zone." To book services with us or for more information visit us at www.prismreflections.net.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!***We are a private psychiatry practice servicing clients in the state of South Carolina. I am open to all clients in need of services from the most severe illnesses, to those in need of temporary healing. In my experience I have come to realize how important mental health is to one’s overall wellbeing. My approach for treatment can be summarized in a few words, "no judgement zone." To book services with us or for more information visit us at www.prismreflections.net.
(803) 525-0675 View (803) 525-0675
Photo of Elizabeth Coakley Perkins, Psychiatrist, MD
Elizabeth Coakley Perkins
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Life is hard. We all have moments when we need to reach out for help. I truly enjoy the process of watching a patient go from floundering to thriving. I am here to not only help you with things that are wrong, but to set you up for a future of health, longevity and happiness. I am board certified in psychiatry and board eligible in addiction medicine.
Life is hard. We all have moments when we need to reach out for help. I truly enjoy the process of watching a patient go from floundering to thriving. I am here to not only help you with things that are wrong, but to set you up for a future of health, longevity and happiness. I am board certified in psychiatry and board eligible in addiction medicine.
(843) 484-4157 View (843) 484-4157

See more therapy options for 29405

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 29405

10+

Average cost per session

$237

Psychiatrists in 29405 who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
93% ADHD
93% Medication Management
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum
91% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 29405 see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 29405?

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.