Psychiatrists in 38642

Photo of Callie Bassett, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Callie Bassett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Lamar, MS 38642
Greetings! Are you looking to positively change or maintain your life by improving your mood, increasing your ability to focus and or becoming/remaining sober? If that question applies to you, welcome!
Greetings! Are you looking to positively change or maintain your life by improving your mood, increasing your ability to focus and or becoming/remaining sober? If that question applies to you, welcome!
(662) 493-4846 View (662) 493-4846

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Victoria L. Carroll, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria L. Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Outpatient services available include the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specialized treatment is provided through the continued evaluation and management of psychotropic medication.
Outpatient services available include the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specialized treatment is provided through the continued evaluation and management of psychotropic medication.
(901) 296-3000 View (901) 296-3000
Photo of Dr. Avanti Brown, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Avanti Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Olive Branch, MS 38654
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans, CareCredit, and ScratchPay. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans, CareCredit, and ScratchPay. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
(731) 202-9012 View (731) 202-9012
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Jessica Allen, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Olive Branch, MS 38654
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans and CareCredit. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an aim to provide client-centered, expert mental health services such as psychiatric evaluations and medication management to all communities with an intent to treat conditions in 5 year olds and up. I provide flexible & affordable telehealth, mobile, & in person appointments w/ some evenings & weekends. BBHS also offers primary care services, MS Medical Cannabis certification, weight loss, Suboxone clinic, & DUI School. We accept most insurance plans and CareCredit. We also provide personalized payment plans to meet your needs.
(731) 472-8325 View (731) 472-8325
Photo of Haley E. Vargo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Haley E. Vargo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Approximately one in five Americans struggle with depression and anxiety, etc. This can lead to difficulties in occupational performance, negative impacts on life experiences, and impediments in productivity. Depression and anxiety can be isolating and exhausting, preventing future goals and aspirations from being achieved. I strive to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through empathetic support. No one should suffer, as we all struggle with difficulties at some point in our lives. My mission is to help all attain a better life by providing personal care and medication management.
Approximately one in five Americans struggle with depression and anxiety, etc. This can lead to difficulties in occupational performance, negative impacts on life experiences, and impediments in productivity. Depression and anxiety can be isolating and exhausting, preventing future goals and aspirations from being achieved. I strive to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through empathetic support. No one should suffer, as we all struggle with difficulties at some point in our lives. My mission is to help all attain a better life by providing personal care and medication management.
(662) 505-4930 View (662) 505-4930
Photo of Dr. Kayla Williams, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kayla Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Olive Branch, MS 38654
As a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. I aim to bridge that gap by offering holistic, patient-centered care. My approach emphasizes understanding the unique needs of each individual, fostering a safe and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable sharing their stories.
As a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. I aim to bridge that gap by offering holistic, patient-centered care. My approach emphasizes understanding the unique needs of each individual, fostering a safe and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable sharing their stories.
(662) 793-1942 View (662) 793-1942
Photo of Melissa Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
(662) 302-2657 View (662) 302-2657
Photo of Erin Harrell, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Harrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We provide a welcoming environment to children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Our providers treat autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, dementia, attention-deficit disorders, impulse-control disorders, eating disorders, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, gender identity issues, and anxiety disorders.
We provide a welcoming environment to children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Our providers treat autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, dementia, attention-deficit disorders, impulse-control disorders, eating disorders, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, gender identity issues, and anxiety disorders.
(662) 510-8606 View (662) 510-8606
Photo of Summer Jennings, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Summer Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Summer is a master’s level and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults. Her specialties allow her to address an array of mental health issues across the life span. Her experience includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment.
Summer is a master’s level and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults. Her specialties allow her to address an array of mental health issues across the life span. Her experience includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment.
(662) 246-2544 View (662) 246-2544
Photo of Clifton (Cliff) Allred, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clifton (Cliff) Allred
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
(662) 509-4911 View (662) 509-4911
Photo of Stephen Pannel, DO, ABPN, ABAM, Psychiatrist
Stephen Pannel
Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN, ABAM
Verified Verified
Serves Area
When a child or teenager has mental-health needs, our first goal is getting to know this young person and understanding where he or she is coming from. Each individual brings a unique combination of biological, psychological and social factors. We explore those three dimensions as we learn about a young person’s mental-health needs and whether they will be best served by therapy, medication, or a combination of both. At Right Track Medical Group we understand the importance of privacy in mental healthcare, and design our clinics with our patients’ privacy in mind.
When a child or teenager has mental-health needs, our first goal is getting to know this young person and understanding where he or she is coming from. Each individual brings a unique combination of biological, psychological and social factors. We explore those three dimensions as we learn about a young person’s mental-health needs and whether they will be best served by therapy, medication, or a combination of both. At Right Track Medical Group we understand the importance of privacy in mental healthcare, and design our clinics with our patients’ privacy in mind.
(662) 262-6941 View (662) 262-6941

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Madison Gooch, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Madison Gooch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Southaven, MS 38671
With treatment, I use an interdisciplinary approach with my patients. I encourage all patients to seek a therapist while taking medications to allow them to “peel back the layers” of their symptoms of anxiety, depression, etc to be worked on concurrently with med management.
With treatment, I use an interdisciplinary approach with my patients. I encourage all patients to seek a therapist while taking medications to allow them to “peel back the layers” of their symptoms of anxiety, depression, etc to be worked on concurrently with med management.
(833) 717-3105 View (833) 717-3105
Photo of LaFadra Macklin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LaFadra Macklin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Anxiety, depression, grief, and stress management are my areas of focus. During each encounter I will actively listen to your concerns and together we will devise a plan to meet your specific goals. After each session clients should expect to leave with a sense of accomplishment and an idea on how to successfully move forward.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Anxiety, depression, grief, and stress management are my areas of focus. During each encounter I will actively listen to your concerns and together we will devise a plan to meet your specific goals. After each session clients should expect to leave with a sense of accomplishment and an idea on how to successfully move forward.
(662) 850-9100 View (662) 850-9100
Photo of Olamide Alabi - Transcultural Care, DNP, PMHNP, BSN, BA, MILD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Transcultural Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BSN, BA, MILD
Verified Verified
Oxford, MS 38655
I am a Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Mississippi & Tennessee. I see clients for psychotherapy, medication assessment and management. I take a sensitive approach, informed by an understanding that treatment is a partnership. My practice is open to clients with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns including ADHD, Alzheimer's, anxiety, bipolar, dementia, depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. I enjoy treating patients collaboratively and holistically with communication, a key component to my practice. I honor my patients' input in tailoring treatment to suit their needs and I am respectful of their work with other health professionals.
I am a Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Mississippi & Tennessee. I see clients for psychotherapy, medication assessment and management. I take a sensitive approach, informed by an understanding that treatment is a partnership. My practice is open to clients with a wide variety of psychiatric concerns including ADHD, Alzheimer's, anxiety, bipolar, dementia, depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. I enjoy treating patients collaboratively and holistically with communication, a key component to my practice. I honor my patients' input in tailoring treatment to suit their needs and I am respectful of their work with other health professionals.
(662) 733-4537 View (662) 733-4537
Photo of Quartivia Gibson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Quartivia Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Quartivia Gibson, NP, a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. My approach is rooted in a compassionate, patient-centered philosophy, where I prioritize building a strong therapeutic alliance with each individual. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic techniques with personalized medication management to address the unique needs of my patients. My focus areas include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and comprehensive mental health assessments, with a commitment to enhancing overall well-being, resilience, and quality of life.
I am Quartivia Gibson, NP, a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. My approach is rooted in a compassionate, patient-centered philosophy, where I prioritize building a strong therapeutic alliance with each individual. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic techniques with personalized medication management to address the unique needs of my patients. My focus areas include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and comprehensive mental health assessments, with a commitment to enhancing overall well-being, resilience, and quality of life.
(662) 689-2174 View (662) 689-2174
Photo of Ginnifer P Hutcheson, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ginnifer P Hutcheson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hernando, MS 38632
I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My background is in both hospital and private practice settings. I strive to create meaningful connections with my patients. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood. We will work together as a team to come up with a great plan of action. I will ensure that you are provided thorough education about your diagnosis, medication, and treatment plan.
I am a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My background is in both hospital and private practice settings. I strive to create meaningful connections with my patients. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood. We will work together as a team to come up with a great plan of action. I will ensure that you are provided thorough education about your diagnosis, medication, and treatment plan.
(662) 912-9218 View (662) 912-9218
Photo of Krisna Hervey, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krisna Hervey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oxford, MS 38655
Krisna Hervey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. She has over a decade of experience in the mental health and medical field. Krisna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi in 2011. She also received her Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2015. Krisna’s clinical expertise includes treating both children and adults that come to her with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, sleep behaviors, schizophrenia, and substance abuse.
Krisna Hervey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. She has over a decade of experience in the mental health and medical field. Krisna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi in 2011. She also received her Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2015. Krisna’s clinical expertise includes treating both children and adults that come to her with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, sleep behaviors, schizophrenia, and substance abuse.
(662) 767-6647 View (662) 767-6647
Photo of Colby Ponder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Colby Ponder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Albany, MS 38652
Welcome! My name is Colby Ponder and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management and brief talk therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults ages six and older in Mississippi. At Sound Mind Psychiatry, we offer in-person and telehealth services.
Welcome! My name is Colby Ponder and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management and brief talk therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults ages six and older in Mississippi. At Sound Mind Psychiatry, we offer in-person and telehealth services.
(662) 337-8194 View (662) 337-8194
Photo of Tangular Barnes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tangular Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Tangular, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Tangular, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
(601) 844-7233 View (601) 844-7233

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 38642

< 10

Psychiatrists in 38642 who prioritize treating:

100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Substance Use
100% Drug Abuse
100% Medication Management
100% Dual Diagnosis
100% Veterans

Average years in practice

6 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in 38642 see their clients

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 38642?

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.