Psychiatrists in Centre, AL

Photo of Nakeetsha Dryer - Vision Behavioral Health Services, MSN,  RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vision Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Centre, AL 35960
Are you exhausted, lack motivation, or can't seem to find joy in any of things that previously brought you hope and excitement? Does anxiety and worrying keep you up at night? Or maybe you've been secretly dealing with an addiction. There is hope! We have helped hundreds in your situation to find healing and enjoy the life that they desire!
Are you exhausted, lack motivation, or can't seem to find joy in any of things that previously brought you hope and excitement? Does anxiety and worrying keep you up at night? Or maybe you've been secretly dealing with an addiction. There is hope! We have helped hundreds in your situation to find healing and enjoy the life that they desire!
(256) 860-4580 View (256) 860-4580
Photo of Lori Leonard, MSN, APRN-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Leonard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Centre, AL 35960
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth analysis, I'll uncover the hidden reasons behind your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your steadfast ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
Feeling swamped by life's pressures? Unheard, misunderstood? There's often more beneath your mood swings. Through my in-depth analysis, I'll uncover the hidden reasons behind your symptoms. From anemia to vitamin deficits, I go beyond the surface. No rush for meds – we'll explore all avenues for your peace of mind. As your steadfast ally, I offer empathetic, patient-first care. Together, we'll tackle the physical and emotional strains holding you back, targeting the roots for lasting relief. Mental health shouldn't be sidelined. Elevate your well-being, function optimally, and defy mental health-induced weight challenge
(706) 406-5093 View (706) 406-5093

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Meagan Carson - Nfinite Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nfinite Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
(323) 334-0599 View (323) 334-0599
Photo of Tiffany Dupree, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
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 Stacy E Stuart, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy E Stuart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35613  (Online Only)
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
(256) 807-2728 View (256) 807-2728
Photo of Violet Gilbert, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Violet Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
My goal is to help restore mental balance through psychological therapy and medication management when needed. I believe in a holistic approach to meet the spiritual, physical and emotional need of every client and their family.
My goal is to help restore mental balance through psychological therapy and medication management when needed. I believe in a holistic approach to meet the spiritual, physical and emotional need of every client and their family.
(256) 252-3057 View (256) 252-3057
Photo of Judy N Clark, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judy N Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
(205) 850-1497 View (205) 850-1497
Photo of Jessica Davis - Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attalla, AL 35954
At Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, YOU are important! Our office of mental health professionals is ready and here to help you. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or Covid has you out of sorts, let the professionals at Alabama Psychiatry help you, because YOU ARE IMPORTANT!
At Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, YOU are important! Our office of mental health professionals is ready and here to help you. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or Covid has you out of sorts, let the professionals at Alabama Psychiatry help you, because YOU ARE IMPORTANT!
(256) 637-3968 View (256) 637-3968
Photo of Michelle Pratt, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Pratt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
My goal is to help you get back on an even playing field with the rest of the world through better mental health. I welcome diversity of cultures and lifestyles. My part of treatment can be considered treating the brain & symptoms, whereas the psychotherapist could be seen as tending more to the mind and coping strategies for situations. Ultimately, I believe you should have some sense of control in managing your treatment. I will work with you to find a balance in medication and your personal needs. Treatment shouldn't have to be unpleasant.
My goal is to help you get back on an even playing field with the rest of the world through better mental health. I welcome diversity of cultures and lifestyles. My part of treatment can be considered treating the brain & symptoms, whereas the psychotherapist could be seen as tending more to the mind and coping strategies for situations. Ultimately, I believe you should have some sense of control in managing your treatment. I will work with you to find a balance in medication and your personal needs. Treatment shouldn't have to be unpleasant.
(256) 782-9216 View (256) 782-9216
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
View
Photo of Amin Gilani - Alabama Psychiatry Pelham, MD, Psychiatrist
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pelham, AL 35124
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
(205) 255-3828 View (205) 255-3828
Photo of Ioana N Shirley, MD, Psychiatrist
Ioana N Shirley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
(205) 624-0062 View (205) 624-0062
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203  (Online Only)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
View
Photo of Mildred Blandamer - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35235  (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(918) 719-2801 View (918) 719-2801
Photo of Nakeetsha Dryer - Vision Behavioral Health Services, MSN,  RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vision Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Payne, AL 35967  (Online Only)
Maybe it started with an injury, back pain, or a car accident...now it's an addiction. You are tired of struggling with cravings and suffering with the shame of your addiction. You want your life back! You want to feel hopeful about your future again. You're also tired of hiding the physical and mental pain of your addiction. Alcohol and opioid addiction steals your future. It's time to take it back!
Maybe it started with an injury, back pain, or a car accident...now it's an addiction. You are tired of struggling with cravings and suffering with the shame of your addiction. You want your life back! You want to feel hopeful about your future again. You're also tired of hiding the physical and mental pain of your addiction. Alcohol and opioid addiction steals your future. It's time to take it back!
(602) 560-8768 View (602) 560-8768
Photo of Dr. Phillip Smith, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Phillip Smith
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242  (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. Emily Kane, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Emily Kane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
Dr. Kane is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in working with children, adolescents, college students, and young adults, ages 6-26. Dr. Kane understands that each family and patient are unique and that mental health care often requires a personalized approach. She works closely with patients and families to develop treatment plans that addresses their unique needs and is passionate about helping patients meet their mental health goals. Dr. Kane understands that quality psychiatric care takes time and she works diligently to provide patients with this time.
Dr. Kane is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in working with children, adolescents, college students, and young adults, ages 6-26. Dr. Kane understands that each family and patient are unique and that mental health care often requires a personalized approach. She works closely with patients and families to develop treatment plans that addresses their unique needs and is passionate about helping patients meet their mental health goals. Dr. Kane understands that quality psychiatric care takes time and she works diligently to provide patients with this time.
Jarrett Mental Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, AL 35043  (Online Only)
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
(205) 964-5778 View (205) 964-5778
Photo of Nakeetsha Dryer, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nakeetsha Dryer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
Do you find yourself struggling with the stronghold of addiction? Are you looking for a compassionate practitioner who will understand your situation, prioritize your concerns, and collaborate with you to achieve the mental well-being you've yearned for? If this is you, I encourage you to schedule an appointment. Addiction has cast a shadow over your life for too long—it's time to embark on a new journey.
Do you find yourself struggling with the stronghold of addiction? Are you looking for a compassionate practitioner who will understand your situation, prioritize your concerns, and collaborate with you to achieve the mental well-being you've yearned for? If this is you, I encourage you to schedule an appointment. Addiction has cast a shadow over your life for too long—it's time to embark on a new journey.
(256) 521-7272 View (256) 521-7272
Photo of Heidi Hollinger - Madison Psychiatry Services LLC, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madison Psychiatry Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
I believe that every patient is unique, and deserves individualized care. My number 1 priority is to do my best to find out what will work for each patient.
I believe that every patient is unique, and deserves individualized care. My number 1 priority is to do my best to find out what will work for each patient.
(256) 579-1208 View (256) 579-1208

See more therapy options for Centre

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Centre, AL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Centre, AL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
100% Dual Diagnosis
50% Anxiety
50% Addiction
50% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Centre, AL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Centre?

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.