Psychiatrists in Union County, MS
Whitney Tate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Albany, MS 38652
Hello and welcome! I'm Whitney Tate, a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering medication management and brief talk therapy to children, adolescents, and adults aged six and above in Mississippi. Our services through Sound Mind Psychiatry are available both in-person and through telehealth.
Hello and welcome! I'm Whitney Tate, a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner offering medication management and brief talk therapy to children, adolescents, and adults aged six and above in Mississippi. Our services through Sound Mind Psychiatry are available both in-person and through telehealth.
Colby Ponder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Albany, MS 38652
Welcome! My name is Colby Ponder and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management and brief talk therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults ages six and older in Mississippi. At Sound Mind Psychiatry, we offer in-person and telehealth services.
Welcome! My name is Colby Ponder and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management and brief talk therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults ages six and older in Mississippi. At Sound Mind Psychiatry, we offer in-person and telehealth services.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in North Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Online Psychiatrists
Krisna Hervey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. She has over a decade of experience in the mental health and medical field. Krisna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi in 2011. She also received her Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2015. Krisna’s clinical expertise includes treating both children and adults that come to her with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, sleep behaviors, schizophrenia, and substance abuse.
Krisna Hervey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. She has over a decade of experience in the mental health and medical field. Krisna graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi in 2011. She also received her Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2015. Krisna’s clinical expertise includes treating both children and adults that come to her with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, sleep behaviors, schizophrenia, and substance abuse.
Hernando Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hernando, MS 38632
ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Depression, Eating Disorders, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Sleeping Disorders,
ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Depression, Eating Disorders, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Sleeping Disorders,
Katie Ann G. Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Starkville, MS 39759 (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.
Betty A Dobbs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ackerman, MS 39735
My name is Betty Dobbs and I have been in the Nursing field for more than 20 years. It has always been my desire to help others. Since becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, I have assisted numerous clients in achieving a better quality of life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. As a Provider, my goal is to always apply a Caring Approach to every aspect of my profession.
My name is Betty Dobbs and I have been in the Nursing field for more than 20 years. It has always been my desire to help others. Since becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, I have assisted numerous clients in achieving a better quality of life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. As a Provider, my goal is to always apply a Caring Approach to every aspect of my profession.
Destinee Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38672
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My journey in the mental health field began at the San Antonio State Hospital in San Antonio, TX. I have a passion for special needs children and their families.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My journey in the mental health field began at the San Antonio State Hospital in San Antonio, TX. I have a passion for special needs children and their families.
Lisa Lippincott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tupelo, MS 38801
Focus is on building a therapeutic relationship with patients through open and direct communication, conceptualizing the patient as a whole and taking physical, social, and emotional well-being into account. When creating a treatment plan, encourages patients to be an active participant and takes time to make sure her patients know their treatment options.
Focus is on building a therapeutic relationship with patients through open and direct communication, conceptualizing the patient as a whole and taking physical, social, and emotional well-being into account. When creating a treatment plan, encourages patients to be an active participant and takes time to make sure her patients know their treatment options.
Jakeisha T Goston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38671
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
Felicia Gathings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, MS 39701
Are you feeling stressed? Are you isolating from friends and family? Sadness, anxiousness and feelings of just wanting to give up seem to not go away? Are you finding it difficult to get going in the morning, to get through the day, or even sleep through the night? Never dealt with trauma or past experiences? Are these things affecting your family, friends, work, school or interest? Are you wondering if medication could help? I’m here to help you along this journey because things can get better.
Are you feeling stressed? Are you isolating from friends and family? Sadness, anxiousness and feelings of just wanting to give up seem to not go away? Are you finding it difficult to get going in the morning, to get through the day, or even sleep through the night? Never dealt with trauma or past experiences? Are these things affecting your family, friends, work, school or interest? Are you wondering if medication could help? I’m here to help you along this journey because things can get better.
Summer is a master’s level and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults. Her specialties allow her to address an array of mental health issues across the life span. Her experience includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment.
Summer is a master’s level and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults. Her specialties allow her to address an array of mental health issues across the life span. Her experience includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Accepting New Patients. Have you found it difficult to get the help you need quickly and easily? Have you ever struggled to find the best mental-health treatment for you or someone you love? We understand that it’s difficult to get the help you need quickly in Mississippi, and that’s why here at Right Track Medical Group, we strive to be there for you when you or a loved one needs help. We aim to give you the best personalized care plan as swiftly as possible without sacrificing quality care.
Toni Angela Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Corinth, MS 38834 (Online Only)
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
Embrace Renewed Balance with Precision Medication Management As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals find relief from mental health challenges through personalized medication management. I believe that medication, when used judiciously, can be a powerful tool for restoring balance and enhancing emotional well-being.
Embrace Renewed Balance with Precision Medication Management As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals find relief from mental health challenges through personalized medication management. I believe that medication, when used judiciously, can be a powerful tool for restoring balance and enhancing emotional well-being.
We strive to offer holistic integrative care to individuals dealing with acute and chronic mental health issues. I have over 10 years of experience treating individuals 12 years old and up for a variety of mental health issues. In addition, I offer treatment for individuals with alcohol/substance abuse issues. We offer counseling services within our clinic and also offer medical services for those in need of primary health care. I accept most insurances and those without insurance on a sliding fee payment schedule. Our organization is also equipped with a pharmacy that provides discounted drug pricing for those without insurance.
We strive to offer holistic integrative care to individuals dealing with acute and chronic mental health issues. I have over 10 years of experience treating individuals 12 years old and up for a variety of mental health issues. In addition, I offer treatment for individuals with alcohol/substance abuse issues. We offer counseling services within our clinic and also offer medical services for those in need of primary health care. I accept most insurances and those without insurance on a sliding fee payment schedule. Our organization is also equipped with a pharmacy that provides discounted drug pricing for those without insurance.
Rona Huey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olive Branch, MS 38654 (Online Only)
My name is Rona Huey, and 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 that God has placed in my care to feel better holistically.
My name is Rona Huey, and 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 that God has placed in my care to feel better holistically.
Dominique Coley (Transparent Mental Health)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Horn Lake, MS 38637 (Online Only)
I am a doctorate prepared, board certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Washington, Colorado and Arizona children, adolescent, and adult residents. I’ve been working in mental health for over a decade. Over 10 years as a nurse and the last 5 years as a Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations with or without medication management. "You can book with me by clicking on my website". You can also email or call.
I am a doctorate prepared, board certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Washington, Colorado and Arizona children, adolescent, and adult residents. I’ve been working in mental health for over a decade. Over 10 years as a nurse and the last 5 years as a Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations with or without medication management. "You can book with me by clicking on my website". You can also email or call.
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.
Ashley Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southaven, MS 38672
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with greater than 6 years of outpatient experience. I see patients in Southaven, MS at Bobby Scott & Associates Professional Counseling. I offer medication management as treatment for many psychiatric illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorder. In addition to medication management services, my office has multiple extensively trained therapists that can also assist with these issues if therapy is needed.
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with greater than 6 years of outpatient experience. I see patients in Southaven, MS at Bobby Scott & Associates Professional Counseling. I offer medication management as treatment for many psychiatric illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorder. In addition to medication management services, my office has multiple extensively trained therapists that can also assist with these issues if therapy is needed.
See more therapy options for Union County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Union County, MS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Union County, MS who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Humana |
How Psychiatrists in Union County, MS see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Union 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.