Psychiatrists in 35124

Photo of Amin Gilani - Alabama Psychiatry Pelham, MD, Psychiatrist
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pelham, AL 35124
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
(205) 255-3828 View (205) 255-3828

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Grant Bullock, Psychiatrist
Grant Bullock
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My passion is helping people be the best version of themselves. I want my patients to feel empowered to heal themselves over time. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Anxiety and depression is treatable, and with alternative therapies along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle. We've extended our services to all of Alabama via video visits from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
My passion is helping people be the best version of themselves. I want my patients to feel empowered to heal themselves over time. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Anxiety and depression is treatable, and with alternative therapies along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle. We've extended our services to all of Alabama via video visits from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
(659) 251-3238 View (659) 251-3238
Photo of Saydie Marshall, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Saydie Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35201
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
(334) 423-3240 View (334) 423-3240
Photo of Raven Hodges, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Raven Hodges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They need compassionate support and effective coping strategies to manage their emotions and regain control. They seek to understand their feelings better and desire personalized treatment options that resonate with their experiences. Their ultimate goal is to achieve emotional stability and improved mental well-being, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives and navigate their journeys with confidence.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They need compassionate support and effective coping strategies to manage their emotions and regain control. They seek to understand their feelings better and desire personalized treatment options that resonate with their experiences. Their ultimate goal is to achieve emotional stability and improved mental well-being, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives and navigate their journeys with confidence.
(602) 704-1157 View (602) 704-1157
Photo of Bridget Rudolph Roscoe - The Approach Forward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The Approach Forward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I'm Bridget, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication evaluations and follow-up/medication management assessments. My top priority is the well being of my patients and their families and I pride myself in providing the absolute highest quality of psychiatric care. After an initial session, where together we will discuss your history and concerns, we will formulate a plan for increased well-being, which may include the initiation of psychiatric medications, as well as a plan for other modalities, including diet, exercise and proper rest.
Hello, I'm Bridget, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication evaluations and follow-up/medication management assessments. My top priority is the well being of my patients and their families and I pride myself in providing the absolute highest quality of psychiatric care. After an initial session, where together we will discuss your history and concerns, we will formulate a plan for increased well-being, which may include the initiation of psychiatric medications, as well as a plan for other modalities, including diet, exercise and proper rest.
(205) 973-4880 View (205) 973-4880
Photo of Summyji Groom, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
(303) 479-3448 View (303) 479-3448
Photo of Meagan Carson - Nfinite Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nfinite Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
(323) 334-0599 View (323) 334-0599
Photo of Dr. Phillip Smith, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Phillip Smith
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
(205) 551-0367 View (205) 551-0367
Photo of Autumn Stanford, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Autumn Stanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I look at the whole-person, not just the symptoms. I specialize in women & adolescents (females, ages 14 and up). For ALL New Patient Appointment Inquiries - Please call my office at (205) 839-3942 and leave a message. I will return your call as soon as possible - within 48 hours. Thank you!
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I look at the whole-person, not just the symptoms. I specialize in women & adolescents (females, ages 14 and up). For ALL New Patient Appointment Inquiries - Please call my office at (205) 839-3942 and leave a message. I will return your call as soon as possible - within 48 hours. Thank you!
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Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Ioana N Shirley, MD, Psychiatrist
Ioana N Shirley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
(205) 624-0062 View (205) 624-0062
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Jarrett Mental Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
(205) 964-5778 View (205) 964-5778
Photo of Dr. Emily Kane, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Emily Kane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Kane is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in working with children, adolescents, college students, and young adults. She sees patients throughout the state of Alabama virtually and in person in Huntsville. Dr. Kane understands that each patient is unique and that mental health often requires a personalized approach. She works closely with patients to develop treatment plans that addresses their unique needs and is passionate about helping patients meet their mental health goals. Dr. Kane understands that quality psychiatric care takes time and she works diligently to provide patients with this time.
Dr. Kane is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in working with children, adolescents, college students, and young adults. She sees patients throughout the state of Alabama virtually and in person in Huntsville. Dr. Kane understands that each patient is unique and that mental health often requires a personalized approach. She works closely with patients to develop treatment plans that addresses their unique needs and is passionate about helping patients meet their mental health goals. Dr. Kane understands that quality psychiatric care takes time and she works diligently to provide patients with this time.
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Ault, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Elizabeth Ault
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35294
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
(865) 351-0119 View (865) 351-0119
Photo of Elizabeth D Shirk, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth D Shirk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
A compassionate PMHNP devoted to excellent patient care seeks patients that may be struggling to care for their mental health. Weather you are suffering from depression, mood swings, attention and focus, or other changes in your mental health we can take the time to find the right treatment options for you.
A compassionate PMHNP devoted to excellent patient care seeks patients that may be struggling to care for their mental health. Weather you are suffering from depression, mood swings, attention and focus, or other changes in your mental health we can take the time to find the right treatment options for you.
(659) 222-5788 View (659) 222-5788
Photo of Tiffany Dupree, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
At Wholeness Psychiatry, I provide innovative mental healthcare to individuals aged 13 and older. This telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and medication management from the comfort of your own home. Let me help you begin your journey to mental wellness.
At Wholeness Psychiatry, I provide innovative mental healthcare to individuals aged 13 and older. This telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and medication management from the comfort of your own home. Let me help you begin your journey to mental wellness.
(205) 846-5357 View (205) 846-5357
Photo of Dr. Laura Montgomery-Barefield - Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
(205) 797-2177 View (205) 797-2177
Photo of LaKisha Knight, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LaKisha Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am LaKisha Knight- a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a master's in nursing Practice. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
I am LaKisha Knight- a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a master's in nursing Practice. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of William Blake Tennant, MD, Psychiatrist
William Blake Tennant
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
My ideal client is committed to making meaningful changes, even if they’re unsure where to start. They may feel stuck due to stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, or have lost sight of their goals. Despite setbacks, they are ready to take action and regain control of their life. They seek not just relief, but deeper transformation—for themselves and their loved ones. This client wants to move from simply surviving to thriving, and is looking for guidance and support to help them reach their full potential.
My ideal client is committed to making meaningful changes, even if they’re unsure where to start. They may feel stuck due to stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, or have lost sight of their goals. Despite setbacks, they are ready to take action and regain control of their life. They seek not just relief, but deeper transformation—for themselves and their loved ones. This client wants to move from simply surviving to thriving, and is looking for guidance and support to help them reach their full potential.
(659) 333-9437 View (659) 333-9437

See more therapy options for 35124

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 35124

< 10

Psychiatrists in 35124 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Geriatric and Seniors

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Uprise Health
100% BHS | Behavioral Health Systems

How Psychiatrists in 35124 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 35124?

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.