Psychiatrists in Lee County, AL

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Photo of Saydie Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Saydie Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Auburn, AL 36830
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
(334) 423-3240 View (334) 423-3240
Rivertown Psychiatry - Opelika
Psychiatrist, MD
Opelika, AL 36801
WALK IN CLINIC: One of our regions biggest issues with mental health is the absence of a psychiatrist when a patient decides to see one. No more 1-2 month waits for appointments. By having a walk-in clinic available, we are here when you most need us! MISSION STATEMENT : To provide professional and compassionate evaluation and continuing care to adults, children and families with psychiatric issues in a confidential and caring environment. To achieve this we incorporate both physician and nurse practitioners in our practice who are Board Certified Psychiatrically specialized providers who essentially can provide medications and psychotherapy.
WALK IN CLINIC: One of our regions biggest issues with mental health is the absence of a psychiatrist when a patient decides to see one. No more 1-2 month waits for appointments. By having a walk-in clinic available, we are here when you most need us! MISSION STATEMENT : To provide professional and compassionate evaluation and continuing care to adults, children and families with psychiatric issues in a confidential and caring environment. To achieve this we incorporate both physician and nurse practitioners in our practice who are Board Certified Psychiatrically specialized providers who essentially can provide medications and psychotherapy.
(334) 239-2558 View (334) 239-2558
Photo of Kaizad Shroff - Rivertown Psychiatry-Columbus, Psychiatrist, MD
Rivertown Psychiatry-Columbus
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
WALK IN CLINIC: One of our regions biggest issues with mental health is the absence of a psychiatrist when a patient decides to see one. No more 1-2 month waits for appointments. By having a walk-in clinic available, we are here when you most need us! MISSION STATEMENT : To provide professional and compassionate evaluation and continuing care to adults, children and families with psychiatric issues in a confidential and caring environment. To achieve this we incorporate both physician and nurse practitioners in our practice who are Board Certified Psychiatrically specialized providers who essentially can provide medications and psychotherapy.
WALK IN CLINIC: One of our regions biggest issues with mental health is the absence of a psychiatrist when a patient decides to see one. No more 1-2 month waits for appointments. By having a walk-in clinic available, we are here when you most need us! MISSION STATEMENT : To provide professional and compassionate evaluation and continuing care to adults, children and families with psychiatric issues in a confidential and caring environment. To achieve this we incorporate both physician and nurse practitioners in our practice who are Board Certified Psychiatrically specialized providers who essentially can provide medications and psychotherapy.
(334) 275-9595 View (334) 275-9595
Photo of Aaron Hawkins - The Hawkins Group, Psychiatrist, MD
The Hawkins Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Auburn, AL 36830
At The Hawkins Group, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care to our patients. Our practice specializes in medication management, therapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for the treatment of depression. We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where you can feel comfortable and understood. Our Approach: Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals. We prioritize staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in psychiatry through our multiple academic affiliations throughout Alabama and Tennessee.
At The Hawkins Group, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care to our patients. Our practice specializes in medication management, therapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for the treatment of depression. We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where you can feel comfortable and understood. Our Approach: Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals. We prioritize staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in psychiatry through our multiple academic affiliations throughout Alabama and Tennessee.
(629) 229-9703 View (629) 229-9703
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
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 Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
“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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Autumn Stanford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
Autumn Stanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
Please Note - For ALL New Patient Appointment Inquiries or questions - Please call my office at (205) 839-3942 and leave a message-this helps ensure I receive your inquiry directly and can respond as promptly as possible - within 72 hours. Thank you! Now to the good stuff - Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I look at the whole-person, not just symptoms. I specialize in women & adolescents (females, ages 14 and up).
Please Note - For ALL New Patient Appointment Inquiries or questions - Please call my office at (205) 839-3942 and leave a message-this helps ensure I receive your inquiry directly and can respond as promptly as possible - within 72 hours. Thank you! Now to the good stuff - Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I look at the whole-person, not just symptoms. I specialize in women & adolescents (females, ages 14 and up).
(659) 300-2338 View (659) 300-2338
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 Kathryn Werner, Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Depression, OCD or anxiety overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
Depression, OCD or anxiety overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
(208) 565-2439 View (208) 565-2439
Photo of Meagan Carson - Nfinite Healthcare Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Nfinite Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
(323) 334-0599 View (323) 334-0599
Photo of Rachael Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Rachael Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Online Only
I am a private practice Nurse Practitioner who works with Dr Clemmie Palmer, psychiatrist. We treat patients in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, California, and New York. This practice treats Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Opiate addiction with Suboxone, and Psychosis. We specialize in General Psychiatry. Please email the office to complete an Intake form to be considered for an appointment.
I am a private practice Nurse Practitioner who works with Dr Clemmie Palmer, psychiatrist. We treat patients in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, California, and New York. This practice treats Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Opiate addiction with Suboxone, and Psychosis. We specialize in General Psychiatry. Please email the office to complete an Intake form to be considered for an appointment.
(334) 402-3734 View (334) 402-3734
Photo of Mark Merritt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNP
Mark Merritt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNP
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Whether you're stepping into a new chapter, facing uncertainty, or just feeling off balance, it's okay to not have it all figured out. You don’t need all the answers to take the next step. You might be struggling with motivation or simply feeling worn down. You're not alone in that. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to move forward in a way that feels more aligned with who you are. Whether we meet in person or via telehealth, we take our time. Working at your pace, with care and intention, to make each visit meaningful.
Whether you're stepping into a new chapter, facing uncertainty, or just feeling off balance, it's okay to not have it all figured out. You don’t need all the answers to take the next step. You might be struggling with motivation or simply feeling worn down. You're not alone in that. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to move forward in a way that feels more aligned with who you are. Whether we meet in person or via telehealth, we take our time. Working at your pace, with care and intention, to make each visit meaningful.
(984) 333-5165 View (984) 333-5165
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 Ashley Dumas - Alabama Psychiatry Montgomery, Psychiatrist, MD
Alabama Psychiatry Montgomery
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36117
We hear at Alabama Psychiatry welcome patients of all ages and treat most all mental health issues. We have a dynamic team of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers to help you find the best you. We believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT and we can help.
We hear at Alabama Psychiatry welcome patients of all ages and treat most all mental health issues. We have a dynamic team of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers to help you find the best you. We believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT and we can help.
(334) 239-2622 View (334) 239-2622
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 owner of Renewed Focus Health & Wellness Consulting, I am a DNP-prepared nurse practitioner with dual certifications in psychiatric-mental health and family practice. Faith-Based Believer and 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 owner of Renewed Focus Health & Wellness Consulting, I am a DNP-prepared nurse practitioner with dual certifications in psychiatric-mental health and family practice. Faith-Based Believer and 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 Shawn Howard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Shawn Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am currently an ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD and more. My philosophy is focused on caring for patients in a holistic approach, which ensures their mental health needs are met. This helps patients and their families reach optimal mental health outcomes. I am licensed and currently accepting patients in Oregon , Colorado and Alabama.
I am currently an ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD and more. My philosophy is focused on caring for patients in a holistic approach, which ensures their mental health needs are met. This helps patients and their families reach optimal mental health outcomes. I am licensed and currently accepting patients in Oregon , Colorado and Alabama.
(720) 737-4154 View (720) 737-4154
Photo of Tiffany Dupree, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Tiffany Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Birmingham, AL 35242
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 Julia Cheryl Tritch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julia Cheryl Tritch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Birmingham, AL 35242
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with emotional, behavioral, or cognitive challenges and is seeking a path toward greater stability and well-being. Whether they are a child facing anxiety or ADHD, a teenager navigating depression or trauma, an adult managing mood or thought disorders, or an older adult coping with life transitions or memory concerns, they share a common goal: to feel better, think more clearly, and function more fully in their daily lives.
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with emotional, behavioral, or cognitive challenges and is seeking a path toward greater stability and well-being. Whether they are a child facing anxiety or ADHD, a teenager navigating depression or trauma, an adult managing mood or thought disorders, or an older adult coping with life transitions or memory concerns, they share a common goal: to feel better, think more clearly, and function more fully in their daily lives.
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See more therapy options for Lee County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lee County, AL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lee County, AL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
88% Grief

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medicare
100% TRICARE

How Psychiatrists in Lee County, AL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lee County?

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.