Psychiatrists in 35242

Photo of Ioana N Shirley, Psychiatrist, MD
Ioana N Shirley
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Phillip Smith - Kibun Health® - Dr. Phillip Smith, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Kibun Health® - Dr. Phillip Smith, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
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, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
Autumn Stanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
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!
View
Photo of Roselyne Machen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Roselyne Machen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am based in Huntsville, AL. I am working with patients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults from age 12 and up, and I am specialized in managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, and more. My approach to mental healthcare is a holistic one. In addition, I also have a patient-centered approach to treatment that engages the patient in the decision-making process of treatment. My strong clinical skills are enhanced by my natural ability to build a rapport with patients.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am based in Huntsville, AL. I am working with patients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults from age 12 and up, and I am specialized in managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, and more. My approach to mental healthcare is a holistic one. In addition, I also have a patient-centered approach to treatment that engages the patient in the decision-making process of treatment. My strong clinical skills are enhanced by my natural ability to build a rapport with patients.
(334) 403-6726 View (334) 403-6726
Photo of Krystal Patrick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Krystal Patrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
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 Stacy E Stuart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Stacy E Stuart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
(256) 807-2728 View (256) 807-2728
Photo of David Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
David Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner specializing in medication management and supportive therapy for teens and adults navigating the challenges of depression, stress, and anxiety. With a passion for holistic care, I believe in treating the whole person–mind, body, and spirit–rather than just the symptom. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I provide evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual's unique needs.
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner specializing in medication management and supportive therapy for teens and adults navigating the challenges of depression, stress, and anxiety. With a passion for holistic care, I believe in treating the whole person–mind, body, and spirit–rather than just the symptom. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I provide evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual's unique needs.
(334) 666-6739 View (334) 666-6739
Photo of LaKisha Knight, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
LaKisha Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Holli Burden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Holli Burden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 17 years. My focus areas include Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I believe in a holistic approach to patient care by identifying and connecting both physical and mental health needs. I believe that the patient must be included in every plan of care, and I believe in using evidence-based approaches to help each patient accomplish individualized goals.
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 17 years. My focus areas include Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I believe in a holistic approach to patient care by identifying and connecting both physical and mental health needs. I believe that the patient must be included in every plan of care, and I believe in using evidence-based approaches to help each patient accomplish individualized goals.
(334) 326-0357 View (334) 326-0357
Photo of Stacey Whitaker, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Stacey Whitaker
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been considering medications for depression, OCD 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 depression, OCD 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 Tiffany Dupree, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Tiffany Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Birmingham, AL 35203
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.
View
Photo of Lacey Renae Pody, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Lacey Renae Pody
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Birmingham, AL 35209
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been in practice for over 7 years . I specialize in adults and geriatrics with ADHD , Depression , Anxiety,PTSD, Bipolar Disorder , Schizophrenia, Mood disorders and Psychosis. I believe in using therapy , lifestyle modification and medication management to treat illness .
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been in practice for over 7 years . I specialize in adults and geriatrics with ADHD , Depression , Anxiety,PTSD, Bipolar Disorder , Schizophrenia, Mood disorders and Psychosis. I believe in using therapy , lifestyle modification and medication management to treat illness .
(659) 264-6450 View (659) 264-6450
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Birmingham, AL 35203
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.
View
Photo of James Curtis Dilday - Premier Psychiatry, P.C., Psychiatrist, MD
Premier Psychiatry, P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Mountain Brook, AL 35223
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 SSRIs (i.e., Prozac, et al.), 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 SSRIs (i.e., Prozac, et al.), 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 Brianna Johnson - Brightside Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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.
(659) 212-4829 View (659) 212-4829
Photo of Meagan Carson - Nfinite Healthcare Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Nfinite Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
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 Valisia Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS
Valisia Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS
Birmingham, AL 35209
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
(205) 882-3011 View (205) 882-3011
Photo of Jennifer Crook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, CRNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Crook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, CRNP, PMHNP
Homewood, AL 35209
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to delivering compassionate, person-centered care across the lifespan. My focus is on supporting individuals through their mental health journeys with respect, empathy, and collaboration.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to delivering compassionate, person-centered care across the lifespan. My focus is on supporting individuals through their mental health journeys with respect, empathy, and collaboration.
(205) 846-4552 View (205) 846-4552
Photo of Dr. Emily Kane, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Emily Kane
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.

See more therapy options for 35242

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 35242

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 35242 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
82% Sleep or Insomnia
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Trauma and PTSD
55% ADHD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
88% Aetna
88% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 35242 see their clients

63% Online Only
37% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 35242?

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.