Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL

Photo of Bridget Rudolph Roscoe - The Approach Forward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
The Approach Forward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I'm Bridget, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication evaluations and follow-up/medication management assessments. My top priority is the well being of my patients and their families and I pride myself in providing the absolute highest quality of psychiatric care. After an initial session, where together we will discuss your history and concerns, we will formulate a plan for increased well-being, which may include the initiation of psychiatric medications, as well as a plan for other modalities, including diet, exercise and proper rest.
Hello, I'm Bridget, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication evaluations and follow-up/medication management assessments. My top priority is the well being of my patients and their families and I pride myself in providing the absolute highest quality of psychiatric care. After an initial session, where together we will discuss your history and concerns, we will formulate a plan for increased well-being, which may include the initiation of psychiatric medications, as well as a plan for other modalities, including diet, exercise and proper rest.
(205) 973-4880 View (205) 973-4880
Photo of 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 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 Tiffany Dupree, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Tiffany Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Birmingham, AL 35223
At Wholeness Psychiatry, I provide innovative mental healthcare to individuals aged 13 and older. This telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and medication management from the comfort of your own home. Let me help you begin your journey to mental wellness.
At Wholeness Psychiatry, I provide innovative mental healthcare to individuals aged 13 and older. This telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and medication management from the comfort of your own home. Let me help you begin your journey to mental wellness.
(205) 846-5357 View (205) 846-5357
Photo of Dr. Laura Montgomery-Barefield - Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
(205) 797-2177 View (205) 797-2177
Photo of Grant Bullock, Psychiatrist
Grant Bullock
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My passion is helping people be the best version of themselves. I want my patients to feel empowered to heal themselves over time. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Anxiety and depression is treatable, and with alternative therapies along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle. We've extended our services to all of Alabama via video visits from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
My passion is helping people be the best version of themselves. I want my patients to feel empowered to heal themselves over time. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Anxiety and depression is treatable, and with alternative therapies along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle. We've extended our services to all of Alabama via video visits from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
(659) 251-3238 View (659) 251-3238
Photo of Dr. Tyler Byrd, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tyler Byrd
Psychiatrist, MD
Birmingham, AL 35209
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
(205) 964-8241 View (205) 964-8241
Photo of 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 Jimel Gibbs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Jimel Gibbs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
As CEO and owner of Renewed Focus Health & Wellness Consulting, I am a DNP-prepared nurse practitioner with dual certifications (psychiatric-mental health and family practitioner). I am a faith-based mental health provider privileged to serve a diverse population with kindness, virtue, and respect. Licensed in AL and WA, I specialize in infertility-related anxiety/depression. My practice takes a holistic approach to health & wellness. Not only am I extremely passionate about my practice, but I also provide clinical-based expertise and community-based education during conference presentations, workshops, health fairs, and podcasts.
As CEO and owner of Renewed Focus Health & Wellness Consulting, I am a DNP-prepared nurse practitioner with dual certifications (psychiatric-mental health and family practitioner). I am a faith-based mental health provider privileged to serve a diverse population with kindness, virtue, and respect. Licensed in AL and WA, I specialize in infertility-related anxiety/depression. My practice takes a holistic approach to health & wellness. Not only am I extremely passionate about my practice, but I also provide clinical-based expertise and community-based education during conference presentations, workshops, health fairs, and podcasts.
(659) 212-8310 View (659) 212-8310
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.
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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.
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Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Birmingham, AL 35203
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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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 Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Birmingham, AL 35203
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
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 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 Summyji Groom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
(303) 479-3448 View (303) 479-3448
Photo of 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 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 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

See more therapy options for Birmingham

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL

30+

Average cost per session

$182

Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
94% Depression
90% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Medication Management
71% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
79% Aetna
79% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Birmingham?

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.