Psychiatrists in 35235

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 Mildred Blandamer - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(918) 719-2801 View (918) 719-2801

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 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 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
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 Billie Renee Russell Crnp - Reliance Associates LLC, MSN,  RN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reliance Associates LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Sumiton, AL 35148
Seeking care for mental health issues can be difficult. People often feel alone or misunderstood, and suffer in silence, but mental health issues affect more than just the person who is suffering. Mental health issues are more prevalent today than ever. Being able to talk with someone who understands can help relieve this burden.
Seeking care for mental health issues can be difficult. People often feel alone or misunderstood, and suffer in silence, but mental health issues affect more than just the person who is suffering. Mental health issues are more prevalent today than ever. Being able to talk with someone who understands can help relieve this burden.
(659) 200-4271 View (659) 200-4271
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 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 Stacey Whitaker, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Stacey Whitaker
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been considering medications for OCD, depression, or anxiety but not sure if this is the route for you? Do you have questions about what may be the best medication option for you? I understand, and I can help. Together, we can explore those questions and so much more. I focus on working with adults experiencing stressors, anxiety, depression, or life changes who want a collaborative approach to their mental healthcare. Together, we can create a welcoming and supportive relationship so that you can take an active role in your wellness.
Have you been considering medications for OCD, depression, or anxiety but not sure if this is the route for you? Do you have questions about what may be the best medication option for you? I understand, and I can help. Together, we can explore those questions and so much more. I focus on working with adults experiencing stressors, anxiety, depression, or life changes who want a collaborative approach to their mental healthcare. Together, we can create a welcoming and supportive relationship so that you can take an active role in your wellness.
(334) 594-4272 View (334) 594-4272
Photo of Kathryn Werner, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
OCD, anxiety or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
OCD, anxiety or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
(208) 565-2439 View (208) 565-2439
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 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 James Curtis Dilday - Premier Psychiatry, P.C., MD, Psychiatrist
Premier Psychiatry, P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Accepting new patients - but please read this entire statement, including paragraph 3 regarding fees. The focus of my clinical practice is Outpatient Psychiatry, with an emphasis on establishing an accurate, and specific psychiatric diagnosis, and then developing a treatment plan, which usually includes prescription psychiatric medications. In addition, I provide outpatient diagnosis and treatment for Treatment-Resistant (difficult-to-treat) Depression. As such, I prescribe medications, including Lithium Carbonate, TCAs, and MAOIs. I do not treat Alcohol-Use Disorder, or Opioid-Use Disorder.
Accepting new patients - but please read this entire statement, including paragraph 3 regarding fees. The focus of my clinical practice is Outpatient Psychiatry, with an emphasis on establishing an accurate, and specific psychiatric diagnosis, and then developing a treatment plan, which usually includes prescription psychiatric medications. In addition, I provide outpatient diagnosis and treatment for Treatment-Resistant (difficult-to-treat) Depression. As such, I prescribe medications, including Lithium Carbonate, TCAs, and MAOIs. I do not treat Alcohol-Use Disorder, or Opioid-Use Disorder.
(205) 686-4813 View (205) 686-4813
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 Miranda Hobbs - The Jackson Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The Jackson Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Miranda Hobbs is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham with her bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2018 and worked as an RN at UAB Hospital. She obtained her masters of nursing practice degree at UAB in 2020, going on to practice psychiatric medicine in the outpatient setting.
Miranda Hobbs is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham with her bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2018 and worked as an RN at UAB Hospital. She obtained her masters of nursing practice degree at UAB in 2020, going on to practice psychiatric medicine in the outpatient setting.
(205) 839-4944 View (205) 839-4944
Photo of Dr. Tyler Byrd, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tyler Byrd
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
(205) 964-8241 View (205) 964-8241
Photo of Judy N Clark, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judy N Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
(205) 850-1497 View (205) 850-1497
Photo of Krystal Patrick, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krystal Patrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
My name is Krystal Patrick & I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my MSN from The University of Alabama at Birmingham & I am board certified through ANCC. In 2011, I began working in the mental health field. Since then, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, and veterans. I have experience treating individuals with ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
My name is Krystal Patrick & I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my MSN from The University of Alabama at Birmingham & I am board certified through ANCC. In 2011, I began working in the mental health field. Since then, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, and veterans. I have experience treating individuals with ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
(205) 553-9171 View (205) 553-9171
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

See more therapy options for 35235

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 35235

< 10

Psychiatrists in 35235 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
50% Geriatric and Seniors
50% Grief
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 35235 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 35235?

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.