Psychiatrists in 29464

Photo of Dr. Jay Mirza, Psychiatrist, MPH, MD
Dr. Jay Mirza
Psychiatrist, MPH, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
We all understand that in order to maintain a good quality of life, our mental health is as important, if not more, as our physical health. When problems arise, you want to go see someone for help who not only is highly qualified with extensive experience, but also takes the time to get to know you, makes a thorough assessment , finds out what you struggle with on a day to day basis and designs a treatment plan which fits your unique needs, and this may include medication and/or therapy. That’s what is provided at Balanced Tides Psychiatry.
We all understand that in order to maintain a good quality of life, our mental health is as important, if not more, as our physical health. When problems arise, you want to go see someone for help who not only is highly qualified with extensive experience, but also takes the time to get to know you, makes a thorough assessment , finds out what you struggle with on a day to day basis and designs a treatment plan which fits your unique needs, and this may include medication and/or therapy. That’s what is provided at Balanced Tides Psychiatry.
(854) 238-7404 View (854) 238-7404
Photo of Brittany Albright - Sweetgrass Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Sweetgrass Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
(843) 279-5563 View (843) 279-5563
Photo of Elizabeth Thompson Ervin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Elizabeth Thompson Ervin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I'm Elizabeth Ervin, PMHNP-BC, dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health. I was a nurse for 13 years before becoming a psychiatric NP. I have years of experience working in a psychiatric mental health hospital. I have a passion for helping all mental health conditions from substance abuse to psychosis. As a PMHNP who's personally walked the path of recovery for 8 years, I understand the unique challenges you face. My own journey has equipped me with empathy and resilience. Let's work together to build a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to overcome your struggles & live a fulfilling life.
I'm Elizabeth Ervin, PMHNP-BC, dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health. I was a nurse for 13 years before becoming a psychiatric NP. I have years of experience working in a psychiatric mental health hospital. I have a passion for helping all mental health conditions from substance abuse to psychosis. As a PMHNP who's personally walked the path of recovery for 8 years, I understand the unique challenges you face. My own journey has equipped me with empathy and resilience. Let's work together to build a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to overcome your struggles & live a fulfilling life.
(843) 960-3105 View (843) 960-3105
Photo of Sarah Dalechek, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah Dalechek
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
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 Creinthea Chritz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Creinthea Chritz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Creinthea hold a Masters of Science from Frontier Nursing University, as well as a Masters in Education from Regis University. She holds a Bachelors in Education from University of Colorado, as well as a Bachelors from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical University.
Creinthea hold a Masters of Science from Frontier Nursing University, as well as a Masters in Education from Regis University. She holds a Bachelors in Education from University of Colorado, as well as a Bachelors from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical University.
(854) 300-6388 View (854) 300-6388
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 Victoria Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Victoria Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Healing and transformation are possible when individuals are willing to explore the root causes of their struggles. Are you an adult who is experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment wounding, or chronic fatigue and who has tried traditional methods of treatment, but still feels that intrusive thoughts control your life and limit your ability to live a joyful and fulfilled life? I aspire to guide my clients toward a brighter future, filled with renewed purpose and joy. I am confident that I can partner with you to develop a personalized plan that makes you feel heard, seen, and validated.
Healing and transformation are possible when individuals are willing to explore the root causes of their struggles. Are you an adult who is experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment wounding, or chronic fatigue and who has tried traditional methods of treatment, but still feels that intrusive thoughts control your life and limit your ability to live a joyful and fulfilled life? I aspire to guide my clients toward a brighter future, filled with renewed purpose and joy. I am confident that I can partner with you to develop a personalized plan that makes you feel heard, seen, and validated.
(843) 418-9596 View (843) 418-9596
Photo of Dr. Laura Burdette, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Laura Burdette
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
(843) 920-5636 View (843) 920-5636
Photo of Casey Kundert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Casey Kundert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
​ Casey Kundert is a boardCertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. Casey provides patientcentered holistic care with each patient and actively listens to each individual’s detailed concerns. Casey and clients work together to form a treatment plan that takes into account each person’s uniqueness while focusing on continued improvement. Casey is dedicated to helping you on your journey and you will always be treated with courtesy and respect along the way.
​ Casey Kundert is a boardCertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. Casey provides patientcentered holistic care with each patient and actively listens to each individual’s detailed concerns. Casey and clients work together to form a treatment plan that takes into account each person’s uniqueness while focusing on continued improvement. Casey is dedicated to helping you on your journey and you will always be treated with courtesy and respect along the way.
(843) 905-2988 View (843) 905-2988
Photo of John Ganz, Psychiatrist, MD
John Ganz
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I recognize the importance of a client-centered medical experience, which inspires me to create strong and long-lasting bonds with each of my patients. It's a privilege to serve the community of Charleston by providing quality medical attention through sound therapeutic advice and evidence-based treatment. For years, patients have depended on me to provide therapy in combination with medication management to best treat a multitude of conditions. I offer this and other individualized options to clients in need of a Psychiatrist they can trust. I'm dedicated to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity.
I recognize the importance of a client-centered medical experience, which inspires me to create strong and long-lasting bonds with each of my patients. It's a privilege to serve the community of Charleston by providing quality medical attention through sound therapeutic advice and evidence-based treatment. For years, patients have depended on me to provide therapy in combination with medication management to best treat a multitude of conditions. I offer this and other individualized options to clients in need of a Psychiatrist they can trust. I'm dedicated to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity.
(843) 284-6165 View (843) 284-6165
Photo of Ricardo (Ric) Jose Fermo - Fermo Psychiatric Solutions, INC., Psychiatrist, MD
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Adult / Child and Adolescent who has been practicing for over 25 years. I practice on the principle of "Biopsychosocial Model", providing a psychiatric evaluation, building a strong therapeutic alliance, being patient oriented, providing psychoeducation on diagnosis(s), treatment options and interventions. I practice evidence based medicine, standard of care, and cutting edge psychotropic interventions when necessary. I provide psycho-educational support to my patients and their families.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Adult / Child and Adolescent who has been practicing for over 25 years. I practice on the principle of "Biopsychosocial Model", providing a psychiatric evaluation, building a strong therapeutic alliance, being patient oriented, providing psychoeducation on diagnosis(s), treatment options and interventions. I practice evidence based medicine, standard of care, and cutting edge psychotropic interventions when necessary. I provide psycho-educational support to my patients and their families.
(843) 593-9626 View (843) 593-9626
Photo of Dr. Amanda Allen-Sands, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Amanda Allen-Sands
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Being alive in today's world can often mean feeling overworked, under-supported, and filled with insecurities and instability. Navigating this on our best day can be challenging, and if you find yourself dealing with sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, rage, it starts to feel nearly impossible to put one foot in front of the other day by day. Because so much of today's world is out of our control, it is important to grasp onto the things we do have control of, namely our mental health. If you, your job, your relationships, your world are struggling because of your mental health, I am here to help.
Being alive in today's world can often mean feeling overworked, under-supported, and filled with insecurities and instability. Navigating this on our best day can be challenging, and if you find yourself dealing with sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, rage, it starts to feel nearly impossible to put one foot in front of the other day by day. Because so much of today's world is out of our control, it is important to grasp onto the things we do have control of, namely our mental health. If you, your job, your relationships, your world are struggling because of your mental health, I am here to help.
(843) 612-6836 View (843) 612-6836
Photo of Michael Casey Kundert - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
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) 204-5551 View (854) 204-5551
Photo of Alexis Guevara, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexis Guevara
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
As a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I pride myself in approaching each person with compassion and understanding to provide comprehensive, detailed, and individualized mental health treatment. To me, patients are not just clients, but are people with unique needs and goals who are shaped by their environments and experiences. Having worked in many clinical settings and with extensive ecperience, I strive to maintain the utmost professionalism, compassion, and confidentiality with each person I serve. I am excited to work with you on taking the next steps towards a happier, healthier life.
As a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I pride myself in approaching each person with compassion and understanding to provide comprehensive, detailed, and individualized mental health treatment. To me, patients are not just clients, but are people with unique needs and goals who are shaped by their environments and experiences. Having worked in many clinical settings and with extensive ecperience, I strive to maintain the utmost professionalism, compassion, and confidentiality with each person I serve. I am excited to work with you on taking the next steps towards a happier, healthier life.
(843) 896-6459 View (843) 896-6459
Photo of Casey Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Casey Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
(843) 894-3096 View (843) 894-3096
Photo of Treasure Vaughn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Treasure Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Treasure Vaughn is a Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated with her Master s of Science from Ohio University with a focus in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Treasure has more than 15 years of experience in mental health. She is enthusiastic about her career and helping others. She has a lot of passion for mental health and human behaviors and enjoy helping patients to understand their mental health diagnosis and offering treatments to help reduce symptoms to live a happy and fulfilled life, in a way that patients identify that to look like.
Treasure Vaughn is a Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated with her Master s of Science from Ohio University with a focus in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Treasure has more than 15 years of experience in mental health. She is enthusiastic about her career and helping others. She has a lot of passion for mental health and human behaviors and enjoy helping patients to understand their mental health diagnosis and offering treatments to help reduce symptoms to live a happy and fulfilled life, in a way that patients identify that to look like.
(803) 770-5102 View (803) 770-5102
Photo of Neal Saini, Psychiatrist, MD
Neal Saini
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I specialize in treating adults with a broad range of issues. Are you at a low point and not sure what to do next? Wondering if you need to settle or if you can get more out of life? It can be daunting to find a new provider and decide you’re ready make a change. My hope is to help you with this next step by spending time to thoroughly listen to your story. From there, we can decide what treatment plan, involving therapy or medication, best fits you.
I specialize in treating adults with a broad range of issues. Are you at a low point and not sure what to do next? Wondering if you need to settle or if you can get more out of life? It can be daunting to find a new provider and decide you’re ready make a change. My hope is to help you with this next step by spending time to thoroughly listen to your story. From there, we can decide what treatment plan, involving therapy or medication, best fits you.
(843) 919-4824 View (843) 919-4824
Photo of Debbie White, Psychiatrist, MD
Debbie White
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I have about 35 years experience in psychiatry, including residency, and only do outpatient psychiatry in recent years. I provide both medicine management and individual therapy. My approach is as a partnership- input from from a patient is valued and not ignored. What works for one person often does not work for another. My strengths include spending time with people (sometimes at the expense of punctuality). There is always an emergency system in place - I handle my own after hour calls. My areas of expertise include mood and anxiety disorders, women's issues, addictions, relationship issues, pharmacology, among others.
I have about 35 years experience in psychiatry, including residency, and only do outpatient psychiatry in recent years. I provide both medicine management and individual therapy. My approach is as a partnership- input from from a patient is valued and not ignored. What works for one person often does not work for another. My strengths include spending time with people (sometimes at the expense of punctuality). There is always an emergency system in place - I handle my own after hour calls. My areas of expertise include mood and anxiety disorders, women's issues, addictions, relationship issues, pharmacology, among others.
(843) 800-2303 View (843) 800-2303
Photo of Lauren McElveen, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Lauren McElveen
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I am here to help perfect and manage medication regimens in order to optimize your mental health and wellbeing!
I am here to help perfect and manage medication regimens in order to optimize your mental health and wellbeing!
(843) 703-1745 View (843) 703-1745
Photo of Rebecca Lawrence, Psychiatrist, MD
Rebecca Lawrence
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Dr. Rebecca Lawrence is a board certified adult psychiatrist trained at Yale University School of Medicine. She has extensive outpatient psychiatry experience and is committed to offering the latest, most effective treatments to all her patients. Dr. Lawrence offers personalized care in a serene and accessible location on the Charleston Harbor.
Dr. Rebecca Lawrence is a board certified adult psychiatrist trained at Yale University School of Medicine. She has extensive outpatient psychiatry experience and is committed to offering the latest, most effective treatments to all her patients. Dr. Lawrence offers personalized care in a serene and accessible location on the Charleston Harbor.
(843) 917-5216 View (843) 917-5216

See more therapy options for 29464

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 29464

30+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 29464 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
79% Medication Management
77% Trauma and PTSD
69% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 29464 see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 29464?

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.