Psychiatrists in Cleveland, TN

Photo of Dr. Nicholas Hatcher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Dr. Nicholas Hatcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CIPP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311  (Online Only)
Improve trauma symptoms rapidly with Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). ART is an evidence-based therapy modality that involves reworking traumatic memories through the use of eye movements and visualization techniques. After ART, the memory remains in the factual side of memory, but the pain is released. Instead of several months of therapy, ART can help you resolve traumatic memories in 1-3 60-minute sessions, oftentimes with noticeable results after the first session.Visit www.acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com for more information about ART.
Improve trauma symptoms rapidly with Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). ART is an evidence-based therapy modality that involves reworking traumatic memories through the use of eye movements and visualization techniques. After ART, the memory remains in the factual side of memory, but the pain is released. Instead of several months of therapy, ART can help you resolve traumatic memories in 1-3 60-minute sessions, oftentimes with noticeable results after the first session.Visit www.acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com for more information about ART.
(423) 264-2268 View (423) 264-2268
Photo of Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist), Psychiatrist in Cleveland, TN
Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist)
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
(423) 818-9306 View (423) 818-9306
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Cleveland, TN
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
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 Bailey Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Bailey Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312  (Online Only)
I am a dual-board certified nurse practitioner with a passion for helping individuals live their most joyful life. I am currently accepting new patients and would to chat with you about how I can help you on your mental health journey. I see patients aged 12 and up with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, etc. I am accepting new patients via virtual/telehealth services through a HIPAA-compliant video conference.
I am a dual-board certified nurse practitioner with a passion for helping individuals live their most joyful life. I am currently accepting new patients and would to chat with you about how I can help you on your mental health journey. I see patients aged 12 and up with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, etc. I am accepting new patients via virtual/telehealth services through a HIPAA-compliant video conference.
(865) 674-4509 View (865) 674-4509

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Suzanne Winzenburg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Suzanne Winzenburg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Dr. Suzanne Winzenburg is a dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has been in nursing since 1991 and has practiced as an advanced practice nurse since 2011. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Southern Indiana, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University, and a Post-Master Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from King University. Dr. Winzenburg is an Associate Professor of Nursing at King University in the graduate nursing program.
Dr. Suzanne Winzenburg is a dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has been in nursing since 1991 and has practiced as an advanced practice nurse since 2011. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Southern Indiana, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University, and a Post-Master Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from King University. Dr. Winzenburg is an Associate Professor of Nursing at King University in the graduate nursing program.
(865) 590-4948 View (865) 590-4948
Photo of Strong Foundation Behavorial Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Strong Foundation Behavorial Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
(615) 829-8811 View (615) 829-8811
Photo of Darrin Bartell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Darrin Bartell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.
My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.
(423) 529-5122 View (423) 529-5122
Photo of Sarah Koberlein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Sarah Koberlein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 12 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 12 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
(865) 234-9605 View (865) 234-9605
Photo of Maryville Psychiatry , Psychiatrist in Cleveland, TN
Maryville Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine Therapy. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine Therapy. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
(865) 269-7582 View (865) 269-7582
Photo of Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in Cleveland, TN
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37404  (Online Only)
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(423) 592-5752 View (423) 592-5752
Photo of Healthy Living Medical Services LLC, Psychiatrist in Cleveland, TN
Healthy Living Medical Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
(865) 276-7022 View (865) 276-7022
Photo of Denise Y O'Neil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Denise Y O'Neil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I am dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner here to help you make the best decision in regard to your mental health. I am a compassionate provider who encourages my clients to actively participate in the decision-making process, which results in autonomy, empowerment, and overall improvement in their wellbeing. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
I am dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner here to help you make the best decision in regard to your mental health. I am a compassionate provider who encourages my clients to actively participate in the decision-making process, which results in autonomy, empowerment, and overall improvement in their wellbeing. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
(423) 560-7180 View (423) 560-7180
Photo of Crystal Kirby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Crystal Kirby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Welcoming new patients in-person or thru telemedicine; commercial insurance accepted. Crystal offers medication management for mental health, with her aim to help you to thrive at your best! Are you in need of evaluation and medication management from someone who will listen carefully to your concerns? Crystal incorporates a holistic approach that encompasses your unique physical and mental health needs. You can conveniently book an appointment and typically be seen within two weeks. Telemedicine appointments are also offered for flexibility!
Welcoming new patients in-person or thru telemedicine; commercial insurance accepted. Crystal offers medication management for mental health, with her aim to help you to thrive at your best! Are you in need of evaluation and medication management from someone who will listen carefully to your concerns? Crystal incorporates a holistic approach that encompasses your unique physical and mental health needs. You can conveniently book an appointment and typically be seen within two weeks. Telemedicine appointments are also offered for flexibility!
(615) 789-1442 View (615) 789-1442
Photo of Cynthia J Easter, Psychiatrist in Cleveland, TN
Cynthia J Easter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I am a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing psychiatric care to children and adolescents. At Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, we offer statewide psychiatric assessments and treatment to children and teens in Tennessee. I am able to evaluate and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, disruptive mood dysregulation, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. I offer Autism Evaluations, too! Our commitment to the children of Tennessee is to help them be the brightest star they can be!
I am a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing psychiatric care to children and adolescents. At Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, we offer statewide psychiatric assessments and treatment to children and teens in Tennessee. I am able to evaluate and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, disruptive mood dysregulation, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. I offer Autism Evaluations, too! Our commitment to the children of Tennessee is to help them be the brightest star they can be!
(865) 724-1590 View (865) 724-1590
Photo of Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-CNL
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
(865) 213-7490 View (865) 213-7490
Photo of Jason C. Pooler, Psychiatrist in Cleveland, TN
Jason C. Pooler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37408
Integrative Psychiatry is intended to do more than help you manage your symptoms. It is designed to help you live a complete, healthy, fulfilling life. Dr. Pooler will collaborate with you to identify potential factors and contributors to your mental health. This collaboration may include blood work, genetic testing, assessment of gut function, and hormone panels, to name a few. The results of these tests and discussions will help to formulate your specific treatment plan. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, stress reduction techniques, exercise regimens, trauma therapy, diet changes, and more can all be part of your treatment plan.
Integrative Psychiatry is intended to do more than help you manage your symptoms. It is designed to help you live a complete, healthy, fulfilling life. Dr. Pooler will collaborate with you to identify potential factors and contributors to your mental health. This collaboration may include blood work, genetic testing, assessment of gut function, and hormone panels, to name a few. The results of these tests and discussions will help to formulate your specific treatment plan. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, stress reduction techniques, exercise regimens, trauma therapy, diet changes, and more can all be part of your treatment plan.
(423) 205-1039 View (423) 205-1039
Photo of Tonya McCarroll, Psychiatric Nurse in Cleveland, TN
Tonya McCarroll
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Tonya McCarroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2023. Tonya approaches each patient with empathy and active listening. She embraces patient-centered care by involving the patient in their care plan and respecting their autonomy. Tonya maintains clear communication and fosters a non-judgmental atmosphere. Outside of work, Tonya loves to watch movies and read mystery books. She also loves spending time with her family and her dogs!
Tonya McCarroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2023. Tonya approaches each patient with empathy and active listening. She embraces patient-centered care by involving the patient in their care plan and respecting their autonomy. Tonya maintains clear communication and fosters a non-judgmental atmosphere. Outside of work, Tonya loves to watch movies and read mystery books. She also loves spending time with her family and her dogs!
(865) 424-1283 View (865) 424-1283
Photo of Just Journey Wellness Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Just Journey Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Mental health stability can open the door for unlimited possibilities in our journey through life. My job as a mental health provider is to help clients open new doors by changing their perspectives with medication management and psychotherapy. I encourage clients to take the initiative and responsibility for their mental health wellness. As a mental health provider, it is important for me to stay abreast of effective mental health principles and treatment options to ensure that all clients reach their full potential during their lifelong journey to positive mental health outcomes.
Mental health stability can open the door for unlimited possibilities in our journey through life. My job as a mental health provider is to help clients open new doors by changing their perspectives with medication management and psychotherapy. I encourage clients to take the initiative and responsibility for their mental health wellness. As a mental health provider, it is important for me to stay abreast of effective mental health principles and treatment options to ensure that all clients reach their full potential during their lifelong journey to positive mental health outcomes.
(901) 445-9485 View (901) 445-9485
Photo of Erika Bales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(629) 276-5592 View (629) 276-5592
Photo of Ashley Lawhorn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, TN
Ashley Lawhorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Ashley Lawhorn is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2016 in a variety of settings, including community mental health, dual diagnosis centers for substance abuse/mental health and private practice. Ashley provides psychiatric evaluations, with diagnoses and medication management, for ages 5-99. She enjoys all ages and will continue to treat the lifespan. Ashley's clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. Ashley believes your input, as her client, is the most important part of your treatment journey together.
Ashley Lawhorn is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2016 in a variety of settings, including community mental health, dual diagnosis centers for substance abuse/mental health and private practice. Ashley provides psychiatric evaluations, with diagnoses and medication management, for ages 5-99. She enjoys all ages and will continue to treat the lifespan. Ashley's clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. Ashley believes your input, as her client, is the most important part of your treatment journey together.
(865) 412-8863 View (865) 412-8863

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cleveland, TN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cleveland, TN who prioritize treating:

100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
75% Depression
75% Anxiety
75% Sleep or Insomnia
75% Suicidal Ideation
75% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Cleveland, TN see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cleveland?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.