Psychiatrists in Albemarle, NC

Photo of Arlette Owens-Mosley, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arlette Owens-Mosley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Albemarle, NC 28001
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience with psychiatric patients began with adults while working as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working with varied psychiatric disorders including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorders. In addition I am also experienced with Substance use and Alcohol use disorders. I also perform Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations and Substance Abuse Assessments.
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience with psychiatric patients began with adults while working as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working with varied psychiatric disorders including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorders. In addition I am also experienced with Substance use and Alcohol use disorders. I also perform Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations and Substance Abuse Assessments.
(704) 270-5182 View (704) 270-5182
Photo of Sarah Erickson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Erickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albemarle, NC 28001  (Online Only)
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief to process their traumas, find purpose and meaning in their lives, and reconnect to their loved ones. I also specialize in working with young couples and mothers who are struggling with their identities and roles in parenthood. By combining evidence-based therapies with the transformative power of integrative mental health care. I will help you reclaim your inner balance and rediscover a life filled with joy, purpose, and peace.
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief to process their traumas, find purpose and meaning in their lives, and reconnect to their loved ones. I also specialize in working with young couples and mothers who are struggling with their identities and roles in parenthood. By combining evidence-based therapies with the transformative power of integrative mental health care. I will help you reclaim your inner balance and rediscover a life filled with joy, purpose, and peace.
(980) 366-4275 View (980) 366-4275

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Pamela Campbell, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Pamela Campbell
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and sleep disorders. Whether you're managing a long-standing condition, newly seeking help, or trying to better understand your emotions, I am here to support you. My goal is to create a compassionate and welcoming environment where each patient feels heard and understood.
I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and sleep disorders. Whether you're managing a long-standing condition, newly seeking help, or trying to better understand your emotions, I am here to support you. My goal is to create a compassionate and welcoming environment where each patient feels heard and understood.
(336) 860-7795 View (336) 860-7795
Photo of Danielle Lungelow, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Lungelow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Danielle Lungelow, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at AIM: Advaita Integrated Medicine - Chapel Hill, bringing a comprehensive, holistic approach to mental health care. Danielle integrates conventional psychiatric treatments with evidence-based holistic practices, including medication management, physical activity, nutritional counseling, and mindfulness techniques. At Advaita Integrated Medicine, Danielle offers psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
Danielle Lungelow, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at AIM: Advaita Integrated Medicine - Chapel Hill, bringing a comprehensive, holistic approach to mental health care. Danielle integrates conventional psychiatric treatments with evidence-based holistic practices, including medication management, physical activity, nutritional counseling, and mindfulness techniques. At Advaita Integrated Medicine, Danielle offers psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
(919) 372-3834 View (919) 372-3834
Photo of Jamie Walter, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jamie Walter
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
My goal is to provide a safe, open, and welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely and receive the support you need. My expertise primarily lies in working with individuals aged 18+, and I'm particularly passionate about embracing and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. With a deep understanding and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, I'm here to help guide you through your unique mental health journey.
My goal is to provide a safe, open, and welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely and receive the support you need. My expertise primarily lies in working with individuals aged 18+, and I'm particularly passionate about embracing and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. With a deep understanding and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, I'm here to help guide you through your unique mental health journey.
(984) 283-5377 View (984) 283-5377
Photo of Ijeoma Nwokoro, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Nwokoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
I am all about making patient centered goals that are realistic and meet the needs of the patient. I believe in collaborating with the patient while explaining the risks and benefits of the treatment plan we agreed on.
I am all about making patient centered goals that are realistic and meet the needs of the patient. I believe in collaborating with the patient while explaining the risks and benefits of the treatment plan we agreed on.
(919) 769-6048 View (919) 769-6048
Photo of Jonathan K Stoudmire - Center for Emotional Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Center for Emotional Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH is conveniently located throughout North Carolina including Asheville, Boone, Concord, Charlotte, Raleigh, Statesville, Winston, and Wilmington; we also have offices in Florida.
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH is conveniently located throughout North Carolina including Asheville, Boone, Concord, Charlotte, Raleigh, Statesville, Winston, and Wilmington; we also have offices in Florida.
(704) 237-4240 View (704) 237-4240
Photo of Alexandra Donatelli, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Alexandra Donatelli
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Alexandra offers her patients a caring, non-judgmental atmosphere where they can share their experiences safely. She works with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals suffering from depression with suicidality, treatment-resistant depression, and women’s health issues and hormonal imbalances.
Alexandra offers her patients a caring, non-judgmental atmosphere where they can share their experiences safely. She works with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals suffering from depression with suicidality, treatment-resistant depression, and women’s health issues and hormonal imbalances.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Alison Lovkay, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Alison Lovkay
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
Alison helps adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and substance use. She also assists with depression with psychosis, depression with suicidality, psychosis with a long-acting injectable, treatment-resistant depression, and women’s health and hormonal imbalances.
Alison helps adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and substance use. She also assists with depression with psychosis, depression with suicidality, psychosis with a long-acting injectable, treatment-resistant depression, and women’s health and hormonal imbalances.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Robin Lee Casey, MD, Psychiatrist
Robin Lee Casey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I use a complete approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families on the mind-body connection. I encourage my patients to be active advocates and participants in their treatment planning and care, including the use of complementary and natural therapies. I am also a strong proponent of optimizing outcomes through the concurrent use of therapy and mindfulness training in addition to pharmacological and other treatments. I appreciate working with all types of individuals and their unique concerns.
I use a complete approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families on the mind-body connection. I encourage my patients to be active advocates and participants in their treatment planning and care, including the use of complementary and natural therapies. I am also a strong proponent of optimizing outcomes through the concurrent use of therapy and mindfulness training in addition to pharmacological and other treatments. I appreciate working with all types of individuals and their unique concerns.
(919) 584-8687 View (919) 584-8687
Photo of Jennifer Carner, PHHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Carner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
(828) 888-0796 View (828) 888-0796
Photo of Lied Metcalf, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lied Metcalf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269
Hi. I 've been a nurse for 20 years and over that time I've developed a passion for working for people with psychiatric conditions. I feel comfortable with all psychiatric diagnoses but am most passionate about ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression. Therapy is an important part of my practice and I ensure patients are educated on choices and medication. I have worked with all ages but particularly like working with kids, teenagers and older adults. Se habla español.
Hi. I 've been a nurse for 20 years and over that time I've developed a passion for working for people with psychiatric conditions. I feel comfortable with all psychiatric diagnoses but am most passionate about ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression. Therapy is an important part of my practice and I ensure patients are educated on choices and medication. I have worked with all ages but particularly like working with kids, teenagers and older adults. Se habla español.
(980) 364-8935 View (980) 364-8935
Photo of Jane Sanders - Lake City Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Lake City Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Dr. Jane Sanders specializes in educating patients about differential diagnoses, how different medications work, and realistic results to expect with pharmacologic treatment. She approaches each case with equal parts knowledge, open mind, and common sense. Her patients include those who have been through the ringer with multiple failed treatments, as well as patients who are wary of starting medications. At this time, she only sees adult patients, 18yo and up.
Dr. Jane Sanders specializes in educating patients about differential diagnoses, how different medications work, and realistic results to expect with pharmacologic treatment. She approaches each case with equal parts knowledge, open mind, and common sense. Her patients include those who have been through the ringer with multiple failed treatments, as well as patients who are wary of starting medications. At this time, she only sees adult patients, 18yo and up.
(704) 285-0252 View (704) 285-0252
Photo of Samantha Suffren - Women's Transitional Healthcare, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Women's Transitional Healthcare
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
We are a Women's Mental Health clinic that focuses on helping women through their hormonal life transitions. We work closely with your OB/GYN and provide you with other resource options to help you reach your goals.
We are a Women's Mental Health clinic that focuses on helping women through their hormonal life transitions. We work closely with your OB/GYN and provide you with other resource options to help you reach your goals.
(704) 675-7013 View (704) 675-7013
Photo of Velgan Rodriguez Kata, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Velgan Rodriguez Kata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Velgan Rodriguez is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She received her bachelor's degree from The State University of New York at Purchase, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Hartwick College, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychiatric mental health at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Velgan has worked as a RN at Rikers Island correctional facility and the Durham County Detention Facility. She also worked as a critical care RN for The Durham VA Medical System, Duke University Hospital & UNC Medical Center Intensive Care Units
Velgan Rodriguez is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She received her bachelor's degree from The State University of New York at Purchase, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Hartwick College, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychiatric mental health at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Velgan has worked as a RN at Rikers Island correctional facility and the Durham County Detention Facility. She also worked as a critical care RN for The Durham VA Medical System, Duke University Hospital & UNC Medical Center Intensive Care Units
(919) 289-1178 View (919) 289-1178
Photo of Lolade Ogunleye - Cana Psychiatric Health, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cana Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT! The brain is an organ where specialized treatment and medications may be needed to help restore physiological balance and correct functioning. Keeping all aspects of each individual in mind, I prescribe medications and supportive therapy when needed so together, we can address the whole person. Therapy can be an effective tool in restoring the soul, which has a direct impact on the well-being of our mind, will, and emotional state.
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT! The brain is an organ where specialized treatment and medications may be needed to help restore physiological balance and correct functioning. Keeping all aspects of each individual in mind, I prescribe medications and supportive therapy when needed so together, we can address the whole person. Therapy can be an effective tool in restoring the soul, which has a direct impact on the well-being of our mind, will, and emotional state.
(919) 301-9112 View (919) 301-9112
Photo of Susan Caceres, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Caceres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, NC 27215
We all face roadblocks in life, and sometimes we can't find a way around them. Demands are high and stressors can be debilitating. Worry can prevent us from living in the moment, generate self-doubt, and cause us to avoid situations. I am bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I work with adults facing such challenges. I listen to your goals, and I help you find the most appropriate interventions to meet those goals. I offer emotional support and medication management. If you are interested in learning more, you can self-schedule a free phone consultation on my website laurelmindcare.com
We all face roadblocks in life, and sometimes we can't find a way around them. Demands are high and stressors can be debilitating. Worry can prevent us from living in the moment, generate self-doubt, and cause us to avoid situations. I am bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I work with adults facing such challenges. I listen to your goals, and I help you find the most appropriate interventions to meet those goals. I offer emotional support and medication management. If you are interested in learning more, you can self-schedule a free phone consultation on my website laurelmindcare.com
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Photo of Charlene Staff, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Charlene Staff
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
We provide outpatient behavioral health medical evaluations. Every patient is treated with respect and heard. We want to assist you in improving your quality of life. We offer a holistic approach to behavioral health. A tailored treatment plan will be made based upon your needs and goals. Your mental health matters. You matter!
We provide outpatient behavioral health medical evaluations. Every patient is treated with respect and heard. We want to assist you in improving your quality of life. We offer a holistic approach to behavioral health. A tailored treatment plan will be made based upon your needs and goals. Your mental health matters. You matter!
(984) 538-4312 View (984) 538-4312
Photo of Rashonda Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rashonda Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling down, and depressed with low to no motivation? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts and/or trouble sleeping? Are you or a loved one struggling with staying on task, focusing, or remembering things? What about experiencing some increased stress and needing help with coping skills? No worries! I am here to help! My name is Rashonda Wilson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed by the State of North Carolina and board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Are you tired of feeling down, and depressed with low to no motivation? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts and/or trouble sleeping? Are you or a loved one struggling with staying on task, focusing, or remembering things? What about experiencing some increased stress and needing help with coping skills? No worries! I am here to help! My name is Rashonda Wilson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed by the State of North Carolina and board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
(980) 983-5591 View (980) 983-5591
Photo of Alvaro A Giraldo - Jungian Analytic Practice, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Jungian Analytic Practice
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
An ideal client is an insightful adult that wants to explore the depth of his/her psyche. Treatment services include depression, anxiety, adjustment situations, changing paths, transitions of life, relationships, engagement issues, divorce and marital disputes, grief and loss, spiritual and religious issues and personal development issues.
An ideal client is an insightful adult that wants to explore the depth of his/her psyche. Treatment services include depression, anxiety, adjustment situations, changing paths, transitions of life, relationships, engagement issues, divorce and marital disputes, grief and loss, spiritual and religious issues and personal development issues.
(843) 536-0114 View (843) 536-0114

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Albemarle, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Albemarle, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
50% Addiction
50% ADHD
50% Bipolar Disorder
50% Substance Use

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Albemarle, NC see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Albemarle?

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.