Psychiatrists in Gulfport, MS

Photo of Mary Turner - Brightside Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(228) 222-8864 View (228) 222-8864
Photo of Dr. Chancey S Penn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHA, MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC
Dr. Chancey S Penn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHA, MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gulfport, MS 39501
As a nurse practitioner specialized in mental and family health care, I'm committed to understanding your unique health challenges and goals. My approach integrates mental and physical health care, allowing for comprehensive support. I distinguish myself by continuously advancing my expertise in these fields and creating a non-judgmental, safe space for all family members, ensuring everyone's concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
As a nurse practitioner specialized in mental and family health care, I'm committed to understanding your unique health challenges and goals. My approach integrates mental and physical health care, allowing for comprehensive support. I distinguish myself by continuously advancing my expertise in these fields and creating a non-judgmental, safe space for all family members, ensuring everyone's concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
(228) 460-0476 View (228) 460-0476
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Katie Ann G. Ray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Katie Ann G. Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
Hello, I'm Katie, a board-certified family nurse practitioner. My journey began in the hospital, where I cared for patients with traumatic brain injuries and various neurological events, including seizures and strokes. I also gained valuable experience in pediatrics through years of dedicated service at a children's hospital. My passion lies in assisting individuals through a blend of holistic practices and modern medicine. I thrive on crafting personalized treatment plans and collaborating as a cohesive team.
(228) 567-4459 View (228) 567-4459
Photo of Angelia Cleark McDowell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angelia Cleark McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2015 from the University of South Alabama, and I received national board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in 2016. Specializing in psych mental health and helping clients achieve mental health stability is not just a job for me. It is my purpose!
I earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2015 from the University of South Alabama, and I received national board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in 2016. Specializing in psych mental health and helping clients achieve mental health stability is not just a job for me. It is my purpose!
(662) 547-8244 View (662) 547-8244
Photo of Angela Corbin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angela Corbin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Angie! I am a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for mental health care. With a keen understanding of psychiatric disorders and a compassionate approach, I strive to empower my patients to achieve mental well-being. I have experience in a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, ADHD, and PTSD.
Hello, I'm Angie! I am a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for mental health care. With a keen understanding of psychiatric disorders and a compassionate approach, I strive to empower my patients to achieve mental well-being. I have experience in a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, ADHD, and PTSD.
(662) 747-4876 View (662) 747-4876
Photo of Rona Huey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rona Huey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am dually certified as a Family (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I live in Indianola, MS. I work with patients of all ages in the office and via telehealth. I mainly focus on medication management in the areas of mental health, treating all diagnoses, including ADHD, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, and eating disorders, and many others. My main focus is to help those whom God has placed in my care to feel better holistically.
I am dually certified as a Family (Primary Care) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I live in Indianola, MS. I work with patients of all ages in the office and via telehealth. I mainly focus on medication management in the areas of mental health, treating all diagnoses, including ADHD, bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, and eating disorders, and many others. My main focus is to help those whom God has placed in my care to feel better holistically.
(662) 358-2753 View (662) 358-2753
Photo of Quartivia Gibson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Quartivia Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Quartivia Gibson, NP, a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. My approach is rooted in a compassionate, patient-centered philosophy, where I prioritize building a strong therapeutic alliance with each individual. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic techniques with personalized medication management to address the unique needs of my patients. My focus areas include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and comprehensive mental health assessments, with a commitment to enhancing overall well-being, resilience, and quality of life.
I am Quartivia Gibson, NP, a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. My approach is rooted in a compassionate, patient-centered philosophy, where I prioritize building a strong therapeutic alliance with each individual. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic techniques with personalized medication management to address the unique needs of my patients. My focus areas include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and comprehensive mental health assessments, with a commitment to enhancing overall well-being, resilience, and quality of life.
(662) 689-2174 View (662) 689-2174
Photo of Collietta Bassett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Collietta Bassett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi. I am Callie Bassett, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I have over 13 years of mental health experience in a wide variety of areas to include nursing, recreational therapy and rehabilitative counseling. I am a Combat Veteran, experienced in working with diverse populations. My approach is client/person centered utilizing behavioral and psychodynamic modalities. I provide care with compassion and an open mind with a strong desire to achieve a therapeutic alliance with clients to promote being the best you! I strive to promote an environment of healthy, trusting and open communication.
Hi. I am Callie Bassett, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I have over 13 years of mental health experience in a wide variety of areas to include nursing, recreational therapy and rehabilitative counseling. I am a Combat Veteran, experienced in working with diverse populations. My approach is client/person centered utilizing behavioral and psychodynamic modalities. I provide care with compassion and an open mind with a strong desire to achieve a therapeutic alliance with clients to promote being the best you! I strive to promote an environment of healthy, trusting and open communication.
(662) 674-6970 View (662) 674-6970
Photo of G. F. Televet Arizona And Mississippi Locations - G.F. TeleVet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
G.F. TeleVet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gulfport, MS 39503
Hello, and welcome to G.F. TeleVet Healthcare! We provide in- person & online medication management & therapy appointments to children and adults in Mississippi and Arizona. We accept insured and uninsured patients with appointments starting at $35! We are not your typical mental health clinic. We treat our patients like family, not numbers. Please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our director, Ms. Lee, will be waiting to answer your questions!
Hello, and welcome to G.F. TeleVet Healthcare! We provide in- person & online medication management & therapy appointments to children and adults in Mississippi and Arizona. We accept insured and uninsured patients with appointments starting at $35! We are not your typical mental health clinic. We treat our patients like family, not numbers. Please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our director, Ms. Lee, will be waiting to answer your questions!
(601) 586-8800 View (601) 586-8800
Photo of Dionna Crespo - Clearview Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Clearview Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients. At Clearview Psychiatry, we help individuals feeling overwhelmed by mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or difficult life transitions. Our clients seek a provider who listens, understands them beyond a diagnosis, and offers personalized care. They want to regain control, find peace, and create strategies for long-term well-being. We provide compassionate, consistent care that addresses both symptoms and the root causes, helping clients achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.
Accepting New Patients. At Clearview Psychiatry, we help individuals feeling overwhelmed by mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or difficult life transitions. Our clients seek a provider who listens, understands them beyond a diagnosis, and offers personalized care. They want to regain control, find peace, and create strategies for long-term well-being. We provide compassionate, consistent care that addresses both symptoms and the root causes, helping clients achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.
(228) 432-4363 View (228) 432-4363
Photo of Kelli Elizabeth Pruitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelli Elizabeth Pruitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
(228) 295-0107 View (228) 295-0107
Photo of Rachael Stout, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachael Stout
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that overcoming mental health challenges is crucial to achieving overall well-being. I am committed to supporting you on this journey and am pleased to offer comprehensive treatment options for a wide range of mental health conditions.
As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that overcoming mental health challenges is crucial to achieving overall well-being. I am committed to supporting you on this journey and am pleased to offer comprehensive treatment options for a wide range of mental health conditions.
(601) 707-6942 View (601) 707-6942
Photo of Kelli Elizabeth Pruit, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelli Elizabeth Pruit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
(228) 900-0580 View (228) 900-0580
Photo of Katrina Landrum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Katrina Landrum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18+ years of progressive experience supporting the health outcomes of patients across the lifespan. I have specialized experience in behavioral health environments. My clinical expertise includes treating both children and adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, sleep behaviors and substance abuse. I am highly analytical with experience developing and implementing data-driven care plans aligned with patient needs to include education, referrals, screenings, assessments, and pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18+ years of progressive experience supporting the health outcomes of patients across the lifespan. I have specialized experience in behavioral health environments. My clinical expertise includes treating both children and adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, sleep behaviors and substance abuse. I am highly analytical with experience developing and implementing data-driven care plans aligned with patient needs to include education, referrals, screenings, assessments, and pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
(601) 265-7357 View (601) 265-7357
Photo of Brandy Rutland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Brandy Rutland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I enjoy helping people that genuinely want to be a better version of themselves. I like to be a part of making people feel happier and feel successful. I like to be a part of the journey with the client as we find the right medication regimen. It is good to be open to the fact that it can be a process finding the right medication regimen.
I enjoy helping people that genuinely want to be a better version of themselves. I like to be a part of making people feel happier and feel successful. I like to be a part of the journey with the client as we find the right medication regimen. It is good to be open to the fact that it can be a process finding the right medication regimen.
(601) 751-8323 View (601) 751-8323
Photo of Tangular Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tangular Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Tangular, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
I'm Tangular, a Dual Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I've spent many years working in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. I've developed a strong interest in mental health, and my goal is to offer high-quality, compassionate mental health and primary care services to people of all age groups.
(601) 844-7233 View (601) 844-7233
Photo of Adriane Harvey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Adriane Harvey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Adriane Harvey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and I am delighted to be your new healthcare collaborator. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, and managing medication therapies. I am driven by a strong passion for mental health and a deep commitment to providing patient-centered care.
I am Adriane Harvey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and I am delighted to be your new healthcare collaborator. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, and managing medication therapies. I am driven by a strong passion for mental health and a deep commitment to providing patient-centered care.
(601) 286-2569 View (601) 286-2569
Photo of Dorothy Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Dorothy Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. They want to feel understood, respected, and supported in their journey toward mental well-being. Their goals include finding effective strategies to cope with their challenges, gaining control over their emotions, and building resilience. They value accessible care and a collaborative approach to treatment that empowers them to achieve lasting mental health.
My ideal client struggles with issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. They want to feel understood, respected, and supported in their journey toward mental well-being. Their goals include finding effective strategies to cope with their challenges, gaining control over their emotions, and building resilience. They value accessible care and a collaborative approach to treatment that empowers them to achieve lasting mental health.
(601) 775-2253 View (601) 775-2253
Photo of Dustin Marmalich - Safe Harbor Clinic, Psychiatrist, MD
Safe Harbor Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We treat a variety of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults including but not limited to: ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Trouble, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD. We provide comprehensive care for those who suffer from addiction or dependence to pain pills, heroin, and other opioids/opiates, alcohol, stimulants.
We treat a variety of mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults including but not limited to: ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Trouble, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD. We provide comprehensive care for those who suffer from addiction or dependence to pain pills, heroin, and other opioids/opiates, alcohol, stimulants.
(228) 641-1561 View (228) 641-1561

See more therapy options for Gulfport

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Gulfport, MS

20+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Gulfport, MS who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Bipolar Disorder
85% Depression
80% ADHD
70% Sleep or Insomnia
65% Trauma and PTSD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Gulfport, MS see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Gulfport?

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.