Psychiatrists in 29616

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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Taral R Sharma - Taral Sharma, MD -Spartanburg, Greenville & Seneca, MD, MBA, FAPA, FABPM, Psychiatrist
Taral Sharma, MD -Spartanburg, Greenville & Seneca
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, FAPA, FABPM
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29605
Exceptional evidence based patient care
Exceptional evidence based patient care
(864) 844-9432 View (864) 844-9432
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 Sarah McNight, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah McNight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Ms. McNight began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Ms. McNight worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
Ms. McNight began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Ms. McNight worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
(864) 523-6776 View (864) 523-6776
Photo of Jessica Stoelting, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Stoelting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now accepting new patients! Are you stressed out? Tired? Depressed? Anxious? I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) and college students with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
Now accepting new patients! Are you stressed out? Tired? Depressed? Anxious? I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) and college students with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
(864) 475-9482 View (864) 475-9482
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 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 Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings - Welina Psychiatric Health Services, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Welina Psychiatric Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
You deserve to live a life of stability, peace, and joy that leaves you excited to wake up daily. Dr. Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings is a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 18 years of nursing experience in the Dept of Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. Dr. Buchanan-Cummings earned a Master of Science in Nursing and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Buchanan-Cummings is skilled at psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. She specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and other mental health disorders.
You deserve to live a life of stability, peace, and joy that leaves you excited to wake up daily. Dr. Ann Marie Buchanan-Cummings is a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 18 years of nursing experience in the Dept of Veterans Affairs Healthcare System. Dr. Buchanan-Cummings earned a Master of Science in Nursing and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Buchanan-Cummings is skilled at psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. She specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and other mental health disorders.
(678) 293-7821 View (678) 293-7821
Photo of Marina Osborn, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marina Osborn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Seneca, SC 29672
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
(864) 734-4736 View (864) 734-4736
Photo of Brandi Morgan, DNP, Psych, NP, Psychiatric Nurse
Brandi Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, Psych, NP
Verified Verified
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
Harold Bedu-Addo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am part of a group practice that works with adults of all ages. I am a licensed PMHNP, psychiatric mental health provider, in Kentucky with 2+ years of experience in public mental health.
I am part of a group practice that works with adults of all ages. I am a licensed PMHNP, psychiatric mental health provider, in Kentucky with 2+ years of experience in public mental health.
(803) 310-2470 View (803) 310-2470
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 Kiana Huston-McNair, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kiana Huston-McNair
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
My ideal client is anyone struggling with mood stability, anxiety, or depression, and who wants to be involved and collaborate in their medication treatment plan. A willingness to make lifestyle changes to improve their overall health is important, and I will be there to support them every step of the way.
My ideal client is anyone struggling with mood stability, anxiety, or depression, and who wants to be involved and collaborate in their medication treatment plan. A willingness to make lifestyle changes to improve their overall health is important, and I will be there to support them every step of the way.
(864) 713-9659 View (864) 713-9659
Photo of Porsha Kimbrough, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Porsha Kimbrough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
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 Celeste Mendez, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Celeste Mendez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Celeste Mendez, and I am a board-certified Mental Nurse Practitioner with a diverse skill set encompassing therapy, medication management, Christian counseling, marriage counseling, and expertise in treating a range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and various mood disorders. With a deep-rooted passion for helping individuals achieve mental and emotional well-being, I am dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses not only the physical aspects of health but also the spiritual and emotional dimensions.
Hello! My name is Celeste Mendez, and I am a board-certified Mental Nurse Practitioner with a diverse skill set encompassing therapy, medication management, Christian counseling, marriage counseling, and expertise in treating a range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and various mood disorders. With a deep-rooted passion for helping individuals achieve mental and emotional well-being, I am dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses not only the physical aspects of health but also the spiritual and emotional dimensions.
(864) 734-1330 View (864) 734-1330
Photo of Steven Krozer, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven Krozer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I received my education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN and am proficient in treating clients across the lifespan, starting at age 10. I have experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings and have managed both acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I am SAMSHA trained and certified to prescribe to and manage clients with suboxone / buprenorphine and substance abuse backgrounds. I look forward to working with you!
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I received my education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN and am proficient in treating clients across the lifespan, starting at age 10. I have experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings and have managed both acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I am SAMSHA trained and certified to prescribe to and manage clients with suboxone / buprenorphine and substance abuse backgrounds. I look forward to working with you!
(864) 372-6926 View (864) 372-6926
Photo of Sunil K Bhatia, MD, Psychiatrist
Sunil K Bhatia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
(864) 383-9766 View (864) 383-9766
Photo of Ashley Harrell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Harrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 13 years of experience in healthcare, including the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider (APP). I treat patients aged 18-65+ with a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger, insomnia, and trauma. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care to help you manage and overcome these challenges, supporting your journey toward better mental health and overall well-being.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 13 years of experience in healthcare, including the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider (APP). I treat patients aged 18-65+ with a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger, insomnia, and trauma. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care to help you manage and overcome these challenges, supporting your journey toward better mental health and overall well-being.
(864) 523-6137 View (864) 523-6137
Photo of Luron Fleming, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luron Fleming
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My medical career began when I joined the United States Army Reserve as a Medic. I then went on to finish my Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Wofford College. After leaving active duty in 2002, I did full-time ministry as a Church Administrator, Music Director, Youth Director, Outreach Director, and Director of Addictions Ministry. This has led to have a profound commitment to the mental health profession.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My medical career began when I joined the United States Army Reserve as a Medic. I then went on to finish my Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Wofford College. After leaving active duty in 2002, I did full-time ministry as a Church Administrator, Music Director, Youth Director, Outreach Director, and Director of Addictions Ministry. This has led to have a profound commitment to the mental health profession.
(864) 514-5662 View (864) 514-5662
Photo of Rielle Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rielle Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
My ideal client is one that is honest about where they are so that I can meet them there, open to the process of working as a team to explore their needs and goals, and motivated to do the work necessary for their self-improvement and healing.
My ideal client is one that is honest about where they are so that I can meet them there, open to the process of working as a team to explore their needs and goals, and motivated to do the work necessary for their self-improvement and healing.
(864) 319-0923 View (864) 319-0923

See more therapy options for 29616

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 29616

< 10

Psychiatrists in 29616 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% First Health

How Psychiatrists in 29616 see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 29616?

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.