Psychiatrists in 37419

Photo of Charles Hiatt - River City Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
River City Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37419
We are here to help you with your mental health needs. Our Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistant are experienced working with a wide range of mental health conditions and we also have multiple therapists on-site for counseling services. Medication management services are provided at our Hixson and Chattanooga locations.
We are here to help you with your mental health needs. Our Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistant are experienced working with a wide range of mental health conditions and we also have multiple therapists on-site for counseling services. Medication management services are provided at our Hixson and Chattanooga locations.
(423) 401-9315 View (423) 401-9315

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, Psychiatrist
healthPiper
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunlap, TN 37327
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(865) 503-6314 View (865) 503-6314
Photo of Angela Janicek - Premier Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, APRN, DNP
Premier Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Premier Psychiatric Services, located in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, offers innovative and empathetic care for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges, such as addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more.
Premier Psychiatric Services, located in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, offers innovative and empathetic care for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges, such as addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more.
(615) 239-1404 View (615) 239-1404
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
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.
View
Photo of Chanel Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Chanel Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a provider who is Black, queer, and neurodivergent, I offer a unique perspective when it comes to mental health and well-being. I understand that your challenges don’t define you—they’re just part of your story, not the whole of who you are. I am open, ready to listen, and want to normalize and support your experiences and feelings. I mainly work with professionals with ADHD, autism, anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, autism, and burnout. You are in the driver seat of your care. We will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan to empower your journey to sustainable wellness!
As a provider who is Black, queer, and neurodivergent, I offer a unique perspective when it comes to mental health and well-being. I understand that your challenges don’t define you—they’re just part of your story, not the whole of who you are. I am open, ready to listen, and want to normalize and support your experiences and feelings. I mainly work with professionals with ADHD, autism, anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, autism, and burnout. You are in the driver seat of your care. We will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan to empower your journey to sustainable wellness!
(615) 437-8506 View (615) 437-8506
Photo of Shannon Leah Hutchison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Shannon Leah Hutchison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
(865) 290-7471 View (865) 290-7471
Photo of Julie Middleton - Dynamic Emotional Wellness with Telemedicine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Dynamic Emotional Wellness with Telemedicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405
We are accepting new patients for both in office visits and telehealth! Our goal is to provide QUALITY mental health care services to all of our patients in a TIMELY manner. Call or email now and be seen within 2 weeks!
We are accepting new patients for both in office visits and telehealth! Our goal is to provide QUALITY mental health care services to all of our patients in a TIMELY manner. Call or email now and be seen within 2 weeks!
(877) 339-2873 View (877) 339-2873
Photo of Laura Pohl - Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Life places immense demands on women - balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. Navigating these challenges shouldn’t be done alone. With a compassionate and holistic approach, support is here to help regain balance and clarity. Specialized care in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD ensures treatment is tailored to unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, experience in guiding women through pregnancy, early motherhood, and menopause brings deep understanding of life’s transitions. These changes can be difficult, but with the right support, confidence and well-being are within reach.
Life places immense demands on women - balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. Navigating these challenges shouldn’t be done alone. With a compassionate and holistic approach, support is here to help regain balance and clarity. Specialized care in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD ensures treatment is tailored to unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, experience in guiding women through pregnancy, early motherhood, and menopause brings deep understanding of life’s transitions. These changes can be difficult, but with the right support, confidence and well-being are within reach.
(865) 302-3722 View (865) 302-3722
Photo of Mary Salerno, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mary Salerno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Telepsychiatry is proven to be a very effective means of treating mental health issues. All patients are treated with respect and dignity via of HIPAA-compliant televideo appointments. Most follow-up appointments last 20 to 30 minutes and offer you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your own home or wherever you have a WiFi or cellular connection. No waiting in crowded lobbies or driving to appointments. Medications are sent electronically to your pharmacy and are ready within a short period of time. I offer convenient appointment times. I do not provide therapy or counseling sessions; I do medication management only.
Telepsychiatry is proven to be a very effective means of treating mental health issues. All patients are treated with respect and dignity via of HIPAA-compliant televideo appointments. Most follow-up appointments last 20 to 30 minutes and offer you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your own home or wherever you have a WiFi or cellular connection. No waiting in crowded lobbies or driving to appointments. Medications are sent electronically to your pharmacy and are ready within a short period of time. I offer convenient appointment times. I do not provide therapy or counseling sessions; I do medication management only.
(509) 476-8245 View (509) 476-8245
Photo of Sirjana Neupane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sirjana Neupane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide compassionate, person-centered psychiatric care for individuals 12 and up, offering medication management with a holistic approach. Your goals guide our work together, and I prioritize finding treatments that fit your unique needs and lifestyle. If you’ve tried multiple medications or approaches without success, I’ll help you navigate the next steps with thoughtful, evidence-based care. My goal is to create a supportive space where you feel heard, empowered, and confident in your treatment plan.
I provide compassionate, person-centered psychiatric care for individuals 12 and up, offering medication management with a holistic approach. Your goals guide our work together, and I prioritize finding treatments that fit your unique needs and lifestyle. If you’ve tried multiple medications or approaches without success, I’ll help you navigate the next steps with thoughtful, evidence-based care. My goal is to create a supportive space where you feel heard, empowered, and confident in your treatment plan.
(629) 222-4947 View (629) 222-4947
Photo of Teresa Arnold - Mind Matters Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN`, APRN, PMHNPBC, CCATP
Mind Matters Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN`, APRN, PMHNPBC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of nursing experience and a certified clinical anxiety treatment professional (CCATP). My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I wanted to do more - to improve their quality of life. This calling led me to mental healthcare, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of nursing experience and a certified clinical anxiety treatment professional (CCATP). My journey began in the ICU, caring for society's most vulnerable as they fought for their lives. Though we saved many, I wanted to do more - to improve their quality of life. This calling led me to mental healthcare, where I now have the privilege of walking with people on their road to recovery. My goal is not just to prolong life, but to improve it.
(865) 290-7619 View (865) 290-7619
Photo of Karen Norrod, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Karen Norrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Do you have mood swings? Trouble sleeping? Have changes at work or home caused your anxiety to skyrocket? Are you struggling with schizoaffective or schizophrenia symptoms? As a PMHNP-BC, I use an evidence-based approach to assist clients just like you with their medication needs. We will discuss your specific situation and needs so I know how best to help you.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Do you have mood swings? Trouble sleeping? Have changes at work or home caused your anxiety to skyrocket? Are you struggling with schizoaffective or schizophrenia symptoms? As a PMHNP-BC, I use an evidence-based approach to assist clients just like you with their medication needs. We will discuss your specific situation and needs so I know how best to help you.
(931) 348-3889 View (931) 348-3889
Photo of Erica Winter - Uplift Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Uplift Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Uplift Psychiatry, PLLC! I’m Erica Winter, PMHNP and I’m here to support your mental health journey through a balanced, thoughtful approach. I provide medication management via telehealth, making care accessible, flexible, and tailored to you—wherever you are in Tennessee. Here’s what you can expect: A focus on finding the least amount of medication needed to help you feel your best. Discussions on holistic ways to improve your mental health—like mindfulness, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and movement.
Welcome to Uplift Psychiatry, PLLC! I’m Erica Winter, PMHNP and I’m here to support your mental health journey through a balanced, thoughtful approach. I provide medication management via telehealth, making care accessible, flexible, and tailored to you—wherever you are in Tennessee. Here’s what you can expect: A focus on finding the least amount of medication needed to help you feel your best. Discussions on holistic ways to improve your mental health—like mindfulness, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and movement.
(423) 564-2810 View (423) 564-2810
Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, Psychiatrist
healthPiper
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
East Ridge, TN 37412
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(901) 589-4958 View (901) 589-4958
Photo of Brittany Huffman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittany Huffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Congratulations on taking the first steps toward your health and mental well-being! Reaching out for help can be a daunting task and takes an incredible amount of courage. My goal as your practitioner is to offer a safe space, in which we can work together in creating a plan that fits your needs and personal goals. I provide medication management for individuals struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, OCD, and psychotic disorders. I believe an individual is more than a diagnosis, which is why taking a holistic approach to mental health, through med management and therapy is something I am passionate about.
Congratulations on taking the first steps toward your health and mental well-being! Reaching out for help can be a daunting task and takes an incredible amount of courage. My goal as your practitioner is to offer a safe space, in which we can work together in creating a plan that fits your needs and personal goals. I provide medication management for individuals struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, OCD, and psychotic disorders. I believe an individual is more than a diagnosis, which is why taking a holistic approach to mental health, through med management and therapy is something I am passionate about.
(423) 602-9797 x3 View (423) 602-9797 x3
Photo of Darrin Bartell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Darrin Bartell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.
My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.
(423) 529-5122 View (423) 529-5122
Photo of Leellon Martin, Psychiatric Nurse, AGPCNP
Leellon Martin
Psychiatric Nurse, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult or older adult managing chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, or pain. They seek compassionate, patient-centered care to improve their well-being, prevent disease, and regain control over their health. They value education, holistic wellness, and practical strategies to enhance their quality of life.
My ideal client is an adult or older adult managing chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, or pain. They seek compassionate, patient-centered care to improve their well-being, prevent disease, and regain control over their health. They value education, holistic wellness, and practical strategies to enhance their quality of life.
(901) 641-0969 View (901) 641-0969
Photo of Denise Y O'Neil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Denise Y O'Neil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I am dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner here to help you make the best decision in regard to your mental health. I am a compassionate provider who encourages my clients to actively participate in the decision-making process, which results in autonomy, empowerment, and overall improvement in their wellbeing. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
I am dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner here to help you make the best decision in regard to your mental health. I am a compassionate provider who encourages my clients to actively participate in the decision-making process, which results in autonomy, empowerment, and overall improvement in their wellbeing. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
(423) 560-7180 View (423) 560-7180
Photo of Sara Bienstock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sara Bienstock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
When you’re struggling with low motivation, self-doubt, hopelessness, or executive dysfunction, finding the right mental health care can feel overwhelming. Barriers like long waitlists, inconvenient clinic hours, confusing bills, or not feeling heard can make you question whether seeking treatment is even worth the frustration.
When you’re struggling with low motivation, self-doubt, hopelessness, or executive dysfunction, finding the right mental health care can feel overwhelming. Barriers like long waitlists, inconvenient clinic hours, confusing bills, or not feeling heard can make you question whether seeking treatment is even worth the frustration.
(423) 540-4043 View (423) 540-4043
Photo of Tami Sholar- Conard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Tami Sholar- Conard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello I'm Tami, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a medical professional since 2010 in a variety of fields including mental health, Med-Surg, Nephrology among others. My experience in the various medical fields as a nurse led me to my passion, which is mental health. I treat each individual with empathy and absolute positive regard. Depending on your needs, I customize your treatment plan to achieve your goals and overall well being. This may include therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I use evidence based practice to ensure you are receiving the care needed to obtain optimal wellness.
Hello I'm Tami, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a medical professional since 2010 in a variety of fields including mental health, Med-Surg, Nephrology among others. My experience in the various medical fields as a nurse led me to my passion, which is mental health. I treat each individual with empathy and absolute positive regard. Depending on your needs, I customize your treatment plan to achieve your goals and overall well being. This may include therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I use evidence based practice to ensure you are receiving the care needed to obtain optimal wellness.
(629) 201-7648 View (629) 201-7648

See more therapy options for 37419

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 37419

< 10

Psychiatrists in 37419 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BHS | Behavioral Health Systems
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 37419 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 37419?

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.