Psychiatrists in 29614

Photo of Porsha Kimbrough, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Porsha Kimbrough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Porsha Kimbrough, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, provides psychiatric medication management for adults and adolescents in South Carolina, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. She is dedicated to reducing mental health stigma and helping clients lead healthier lives through a compassionate, clientcentered approach. As a provider at LifeStance Health, Porsha serves diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and military veterans. Porsha specializes in PTSD and traumarelated care, supporting patients in managing symptoms and rebuilding their sense of control.
Porsha Kimbrough, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, provides psychiatric medication management for adults and adolescents in South Carolina, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. She is dedicated to reducing mental health stigma and helping clients lead healthier lives through a compassionate, clientcentered approach. As a provider at LifeStance Health, Porsha serves diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and military veterans. Porsha specializes in PTSD and traumarelated care, supporting patients in managing symptoms and rebuilding their sense of control.
(864) 668-2966 View (864) 668-2966
Photo of Dr. Consola Esambe - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
(864) 207-4632 View (864) 207-4632
Photo of Caitlin Jennings, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caitlin Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of South Carolina with 13 years of healthcare experience treating adult and senior-aged clients suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and personality disorders, including BPD or bipolar disorder.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of South Carolina with 13 years of healthcare experience treating adult and senior-aged clients suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and personality disorders, including BPD or bipolar disorder.
(864) 428-2519 View (864) 428-2519
Photo of Julia Rodriguez, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julia Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Julia Rodriguez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2012. She has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the College of Charleston and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the Medical University of SC. Julia works with clients who suffer from a broad range of mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and schizophrenia. She also works with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such the death of a loved one or the end of relationship.
Julia Rodriguez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2012. She has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the College of Charleston and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the Medical University of SC. Julia works with clients who suffer from a broad range of mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and schizophrenia. She also works with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such the death of a loved one or the end of relationship.
(864) 387-5721 View (864) 387-5721
Photo of Consola Esambe, MD, Psychiatrist
Consola Esambe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Consola Esambe is a Psychiatrist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the Brody School of Medicine. Dr. Esambe believes in forming a partnership with the patient so that they are an integral part of their health journey. This leads to buy in which fosters a better therapeutic alliance with the patient. Outside of work, Dr. Esambe enjoys watching TV, spending time with friends and family, reading and traveling.
Dr. Consola Esambe is a Psychiatrist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the Brody School of Medicine. Dr. Esambe believes in forming a partnership with the patient so that they are an integral part of their health journey. This leads to buy in which fosters a better therapeutic alliance with the patient. Outside of work, Dr. Esambe enjoys watching TV, spending time with friends and family, reading and traveling.
(864) 477-6397 View (864) 477-6397
Photo of Tiffany Stewart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina. I have worked in healthcare for the past 18 years, with the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider. I hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Clemson University, where I also have the privilege of teaching graduate nursing students in the area of mental health. My practice mission is to guide patients toward their best life by addressing the interconnected aspects of mental, spiritual, and physical health.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina. I have worked in healthcare for the past 18 years, with the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider. I hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Clemson University, where I also have the privilege of teaching graduate nursing students in the area of mental health. My practice mission is to guide patients toward their best life by addressing the interconnected aspects of mental, spiritual, and physical health.
(864) 383-8411 View (864) 383-8411

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Manceor, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Stephanie Manceor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
I'm here to help clients struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, or severe mental illness. They may feel unsure about seeking help and need a provider who listens, educates, and empowers them. My ideal client's goals include achieving symptom relief, stability, and improved mental well-being, and they are seeking a trusted partner to guide them through their treatment. Above all, my clients want to feel heard, respected, and supported in their journey toward better mental health.
I'm here to help clients struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, or severe mental illness. They may feel unsure about seeking help and need a provider who listens, educates, and empowers them. My ideal client's goals include achieving symptom relief, stability, and improved mental well-being, and they are seeking a trusted partner to guide them through their treatment. Above all, my clients want to feel heard, respected, and supported in their journey toward better mental health.
(864) 479-4207 View (864) 479-4207
Photo of Svetlana Robinson, FNP-C, MS, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Svetlana Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, MS, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I look look forward to working with patients of all ages over 18 years old. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, insomnia, grief, separation disorders, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
I look look forward to working with patients of all ages over 18 years old. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, insomnia, grief, separation disorders, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
(864) 860-2931 View (864) 860-2931
Photo of Gregory Smith - Inner Self Care, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inner Self Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and our mental health services are dedicated to providing compassionate care, support, and evidence-based treatments for individuals facing various emotional and psychological challenges.
Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and our mental health services are dedicated to providing compassionate care, support, and evidence-based treatments for individuals facing various emotional and psychological challenges.
(864) 661-6209 View (864) 661-6209
Photo of Danielle Berry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, SANE-A, CEN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, SANE-A, CEN
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29306
Danielle graduated from USC-Upstate with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 2010; a proud alumna of Gardner Webb University, she earned her Doctorate in Nursing with a specialization in Mental Health as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Most recently she served as a forensic nurse and sexual assault nurse examiner in both a clinician and an educator role. In this role she provided expert care to patients experiencing sexual assault, intimate partner violence, child abuse/neglect, and vulnerable adult abuse/neglect.
Danielle graduated from USC-Upstate with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 2010; a proud alumna of Gardner Webb University, she earned her Doctorate in Nursing with a specialization in Mental Health as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Most recently she served as a forensic nurse and sexual assault nurse examiner in both a clinician and an educator role. In this role she provided expert care to patients experiencing sexual assault, intimate partner violence, child abuse/neglect, and vulnerable adult abuse/neglect.
(864) 661-6926 View (864) 661-6926
Photo of Denis Ingle, MSN, NP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denis Ingle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I am passionate about mental health and count it a blessing to help others in their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is patient-centered, compassionate, and conscientious. I greatly value the sacred relationship in partnering with my patients for the betterment of their mental health, and to help in achieving their wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority, I am well versed and actively experienced in prescribing medications which would greatly aid towards your treatment goals.
I am passionate about mental health and count it a blessing to help others in their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is patient-centered, compassionate, and conscientious. I greatly value the sacred relationship in partnering with my patients for the betterment of their mental health, and to help in achieving their wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority, I am well versed and actively experienced in prescribing medications which would greatly aid towards your treatment goals.
(864) 428-7195 View (864) 428-7195
Photo of Peter Longstreet, MD, Psychiatrist
Peter Longstreet
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601
Not accepting new clients
Something brought you here today.  Something you’re seeking.  Some solution, some perspective to some predicament or other.  You’re here in hopes of finding a safe place to tell your story, to be heard, to be seen as the person you are.  This you know. Just as you know, you don't want to be yet another patient midst a legion of others to be sized up within the first fifteen minutes made complete with a diagnosis and a pocket full of medications.    You’re seeking to be understood and what your suffering has been like for you.    ​
Something brought you here today.  Something you’re seeking.  Some solution, some perspective to some predicament or other.  You’re here in hopes of finding a safe place to tell your story, to be heard, to be seen as the person you are.  This you know. Just as you know, you don't want to be yet another patient midst a legion of others to be sized up within the first fifteen minutes made complete with a diagnosis and a pocket full of medications.    You’re seeking to be understood and what your suffering has been like for you.    ​
(864) 523-7790 x1 View (864) 523-7790 x1
Photo of Amanda Groome, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Groome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I am a certified AGNP and PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I am honored to have now been in the nursing field for over fifteen years. I have always held an interest in the mind and human behavior. Working in the adult outpatient program (PHP) program taught me a lot about the intertwined roles of nursing and social work, as well as allowed me the opportunity to teach coping skill classes (e.g., guided imagery, self-esteem, sleep hygiene, and medication adherence). Serving both private practice and elderly care clients, I specialize in treating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and dementia.
Hello, I am a certified AGNP and PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I am honored to have now been in the nursing field for over fifteen years. I have always held an interest in the mind and human behavior. Working in the adult outpatient program (PHP) program taught me a lot about the intertwined roles of nursing and social work, as well as allowed me the opportunity to teach coping skill classes (e.g., guided imagery, self-esteem, sleep hygiene, and medication adherence). Serving both private practice and elderly care clients, I specialize in treating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and dementia.
(864) 668-6311 View (864) 668-6311
Photo of Catherine Aho, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Aho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Life is constantly full of challenges; sometimes, facing them alone becomes too much, and you need a helping hand. I'm here to help! I specialize in medical treatment of bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, depression, PTSD, adult ADHD, grief, substance abuse disorders, supporting perinatal mental health, and more.
Life is constantly full of challenges; sometimes, facing them alone becomes too much, and you need a helping hand. I'm here to help! I specialize in medical treatment of bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, depression, PTSD, adult ADHD, grief, substance abuse disorders, supporting perinatal mental health, and more.
(864) 756-3228 View (864) 756-3228
Photo of Anglique Rich, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anglique Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
(864) 531-8377 View (864) 531-8377
Photo of Sejal Bhula, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Sejal Bhula
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. Areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorders. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. Areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorders. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.
(864) 581-2759 View (864) 581-2759
Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Keeley Psychiatry is currently accepting new patients in the Greenville area. Timely, convenient and affordable appointments by video for medication management and psychiatric services. It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office. We offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments. Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. Call or email our office to schedule your initial appointment.
Keeley Psychiatry is currently accepting new patients in the Greenville area. Timely, convenient and affordable appointments by video for medication management and psychiatric services. It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office. We offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments. Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. Call or email our office to schedule your initial appointment.
(864) 202-4797 View (864) 202-4797
Photo of Leilani Lee - Total Care Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Total Care Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
(864) 572-7687 View (864) 572-7687
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
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.
(843) 920-4592 View (843) 920-4592
Photo of Michael B Mefford, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael B Mefford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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

See more therapy options for 29614

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 29614

< 10

Psychiatrists in 29614 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
83% ADHD
83% Grief
83% Psychosis
83% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 29614 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 29614?

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.