Psychiatrists in Apex, NC

Photo of Benjamin Lee Ose - Holistic Mental Health, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Holistic Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Apex, NC 27502
Dr. Ose is an integrative psychiatrist whose treatment approach combines psychiatric, therapeutic, and alternative options to help individuals maximize mental wellness! Dr. Ose works with individuals age 17 years old and up, and he has extensive experience working with the military and college students.
Dr. Ose is an integrative psychiatrist whose treatment approach combines psychiatric, therapeutic, and alternative options to help individuals maximize mental wellness! Dr. Ose works with individuals age 17 years old and up, and he has extensive experience working with the military and college students.
(919) 948-1383 View (919) 948-1383
Photo of Kareem Boles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Kareem Boles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My name is Kareem Boles, PMHNP-BC. I received my master’s degree in nursing at the University of South Alabama in 2021; and I became board certified as a licensed nurse practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2022. I have experience in a variety of settings since 2016 including intensive care, correctional facilities, long-term care, and outpatient services.
My name is Kareem Boles, PMHNP-BC. I received my master’s degree in nursing at the University of South Alabama in 2021; and I became board certified as a licensed nurse practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2022. I have experience in a variety of settings since 2016 including intensive care, correctional facilities, long-term care, and outpatient services.
(919) 635-4429 View (919) 635-4429
Photo of Omobolanle Olagoke - Oasis Wellness & Behavioral Center , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Oasis Wellness & Behavioral Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Online Only
Taking care of your health shouldn't feel confusing, rushed or overwhelming. I work with patients who are tired and feel unsupported in their care. Whether you are managing a chronic condition, navigating a new diagnosis, or just trying to feel like yourself again. You deserve to feel heard, empowered and respected. That's what I offer; thoughtful, personalized care that puts you first.
Taking care of your health shouldn't feel confusing, rushed or overwhelming. I work with patients who are tired and feel unsupported in their care. Whether you are managing a chronic condition, navigating a new diagnosis, or just trying to feel like yourself again. You deserve to feel heard, empowered and respected. That's what I offer; thoughtful, personalized care that puts you first.
(984) 223-8822 View (984) 223-8822
Photo of Sahley Razai, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sahley Razai
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Sahley is now accepting new patients!  She a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from ECU. Despite initially working in family practice, she found her passion to be mental health. Sahley recognizes that mental health is deeply influenced by a range of factors beyond the brain alone. She takes a holistic approach by looking at not only mental and emotional health, but also physical health, lifestyle choices, stress levels, sleep patterns, social support, & environmental factors.
Sahley is now accepting new patients!  She a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from ECU. Despite initially working in family practice, she found her passion to be mental health. Sahley recognizes that mental health is deeply influenced by a range of factors beyond the brain alone. She takes a holistic approach by looking at not only mental and emotional health, but also physical health, lifestyle choices, stress levels, sleep patterns, social support, & environmental factors.
(919) 355-9792 View (919) 355-9792
Photo of Vinay Saranga, Psychiatrist, MD
Vinay Saranga
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Childhood is a time of innocence and wonder. A time of discovering the world, and learning about oneself. But what happens when that innocence is marred by mental illness or emotional disturbance? How can you tell if a child is needing treatment or just in a difficult phase? It's easy to miss the signs. As parents we tend to take things as they come, and we learn as we go. If you have a child who cries often and hard, it may be that this is his way of dealing with frustration or tension in his life.
Childhood is a time of innocence and wonder. A time of discovering the world, and learning about oneself. But what happens when that innocence is marred by mental illness or emotional disturbance? How can you tell if a child is needing treatment or just in a difficult phase? It's easy to miss the signs. As parents we tend to take things as they come, and we learn as we go. If you have a child who cries often and hard, it may be that this is his way of dealing with frustration or tension in his life.
(919) 729-5215 View (919) 729-5215
Photo of Dr. Ramuel Miro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Ramuel Miro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Apex, NC 27502
I work well with people who are motivated to improve their lives but appreciate a gentle approach. Clients wanting to be heard will find me to be a good listener who is comfortable with the full range of human experience. In our work together, I will use evidence-based treatments including therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications to assist you in reaching your goals.
I work well with people who are motivated to improve their lives but appreciate a gentle approach. Clients wanting to be heard will find me to be a good listener who is comfortable with the full range of human experience. In our work together, I will use evidence-based treatments including therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications to assist you in reaching your goals.
(984) 464-8685 View (984) 464-8685
Photo of Saman Hasan, Psychiatrist, MD
Saman Hasan
Psychiatrist, MD
Apex, NC 27502
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
(919) 842-3772 View (919) 842-3772
Photo of Dolapo F Opebiyi - Oasis Wellness and Behavioral Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Oasis Wellness and Behavioral Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27523
Joy has worked for 12 years as Psychiatric Nurse with all ages and in different settings. These include inpatient, community, nursing home and group home settings. Joy also worked outpatient providing psychotherapy for patients with drug use and addiction. Joy is a culturally sensitive provider, a good listener, empathetic and always ready to help.
Joy has worked for 12 years as Psychiatric Nurse with all ages and in different settings. These include inpatient, community, nursing home and group home settings. Joy also worked outpatient providing psychotherapy for patients with drug use and addiction. Joy is a culturally sensitive provider, a good listener, empathetic and always ready to help.
(984) 229-8285 View (984) 229-8285
Photo of Reshmi Saranga, Psychiatrist, MD
Reshmi Saranga
Psychiatrist, MD
Apex, NC 27502
If you feel confused at times, distracted, have trouble focusing, overwhelmed, sad, difficulty coping with life changes... you may need to see a psychiatrist for evaluation. I'm a board certified- adult and geriatric trained psychiatrist that can help you experience freedom from overwhelming emotions that make your life difficult to enjoy. My passion has always been for helping the elderly, because I enjoy learning about their life experiences hence trained in geriatric psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center.
If you feel confused at times, distracted, have trouble focusing, overwhelmed, sad, difficulty coping with life changes... you may need to see a psychiatrist for evaluation. I'm a board certified- adult and geriatric trained psychiatrist that can help you experience freedom from overwhelming emotions that make your life difficult to enjoy. My passion has always been for helping the elderly, because I enjoy learning about their life experiences hence trained in geriatric psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center.
(919) 842-5840 View (919) 842-5840
Photo of Sugaree Ganzman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sugaree Ganzman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Apex, NC 27539
Sugaree Ganzman, PMHNP, helps individuals across North Carolina navigate life’s mental health challenges with compassion and clinical insight. As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she partners with patients of all ages—from young children to older adults—to address conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Whether supporting a teen facing emotional overwhelm or guiding an adult through a significant life transition, Sugaree meets each person with a thoughtful and personalized approach to care.
Sugaree Ganzman, PMHNP, helps individuals across North Carolina navigate life’s mental health challenges with compassion and clinical insight. As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she partners with patients of all ages—from young children to older adults—to address conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Whether supporting a teen facing emotional overwhelm or guiding an adult through a significant life transition, Sugaree meets each person with a thoughtful and personalized approach to care.
(984) 336-2817 View (984) 336-2817
Photo of Dr. Daniel L. Fish - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Apex, NC 27539
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(984) 983-6091 View (984) 983-6091
Photo of Lori Sloan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lori Sloan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Apex, NC 27539
Lori Sloan, PMHNP-BC Lori Sloan is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1995. She is Board certified by the ANCC in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing as a registered nurse prior to becoming an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Mount Olive and a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University. Lori has an ability to cultivate therapeutic relationships with patients with empathy and respect by allowing them to express concerns and worries without fear of judgment.
Lori Sloan, PMHNP-BC Lori Sloan is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1995. She is Board certified by the ANCC in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing as a registered nurse prior to becoming an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Mount Olive and a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University. Lori has an ability to cultivate therapeutic relationships with patients with empathy and respect by allowing them to express concerns and worries without fear of judgment.
(919) 804-0171 View (919) 804-0171
Photo of Dr. Daniel Fish, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Daniel Fish
Psychiatrist, MD
Apex, NC 27539
Daniel L. Fish is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He earned degrees at North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School and completed his Psychiatry Residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Daniel considers himself a down-to-earth and personable Psychiatrist with a combination of life experience and excellent training. He specializes in discerning the impact of how life situations, medical conditions, and biochemical brain imbalances can commonly manifest psychiatrically in conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.
Daniel L. Fish is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He earned degrees at North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School and completed his Psychiatry Residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Daniel considers himself a down-to-earth and personable Psychiatrist with a combination of life experience and excellent training. He specializes in discerning the impact of how life situations, medical conditions, and biochemical brain imbalances can commonly manifest psychiatrically in conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.
(984) 201-7676 View (984) 201-7676
Photo of Jennifer Mclean Russ - Brinkley Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Jennifer Mclean Russ - Brinkley Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Apex, NC 27502
Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness : Please call our office at 919-355-9792 to inquire about services. Thank you! Happy to be accepting new patients for both in office and telehealth visits. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am happy to work with patients ages 14 and older. Medications in conjunction with therapy may help you recover from mental health problems like depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness : Please call our office at 919-355-9792 to inquire about services. Thank you! Happy to be accepting new patients for both in office and telehealth visits. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am happy to work with patients ages 14 and older. Medications in conjunction with therapy may help you recover from mental health problems like depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
(919) 364-6330 View (919) 364-6330
Photo of Dr. Lorna Samwed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Lorna Samwed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to provide you with the highest quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. I am here to listen to your concerns, provide personalized treatment plans, and empower you on your journey to mental wellness. Your well-being is our shared goal, and I am committed to working with you to achieve the best possible outcomes. Together, we can navigate challenges and work towards a brighter, healthier future.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to provide you with the highest quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. I am here to listen to your concerns, provide personalized treatment plans, and empower you on your journey to mental wellness. Your well-being is our shared goal, and I am committed to working with you to achieve the best possible outcomes. Together, we can navigate challenges and work towards a brighter, healthier future.
(984) 334-1528 View (984) 334-1528
Photo of Neil Scheurich, Psychiatrist, MD
Neil Scheurich
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
NOTE that as of 6/23/24 my schedule is too full to permit new patient scheduling. I do not keep a waiting list, but typically I am able to reopen periodically. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer either video or in-person sessions.
NOTE that as of 6/23/24 my schedule is too full to permit new patient scheduling. I do not keep a waiting list, but typically I am able to reopen periodically. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer either video or in-person sessions.
(919) 283-4391 View (919) 283-4391
Photo of Hira A. Silat, Psychiatrist, MD
Hira A. Silat
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space for my patients. I provide both short term and long term psychotherapy and medication management, if needed. In my work, I aim to delve beyond diagnostic labels to uncover the core issues underlying clinical symptoms. This process acknowledges each individual’s unique experience and helps minimize reliance on medications. My clinical expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, life transitions, chronic physical illnesses, workplace burnout, academic stress and immigrant, expat and minority stress.
My goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space for my patients. I provide both short term and long term psychotherapy and medication management, if needed. In my work, I aim to delve beyond diagnostic labels to uncover the core issues underlying clinical symptoms. This process acknowledges each individual’s unique experience and helps minimize reliance on medications. My clinical expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, life transitions, chronic physical illnesses, workplace burnout, academic stress and immigrant, expat and minority stress.
(919) 328-3961 View (919) 328-3961
Photo of Jamal Daher - Cana Psychiatric Health, Physician Assistant, PA-BC
Cana Psychiatric Health
Physician Assistant, PA-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now Accepting New Patient-Are you overwhelmed in these troubled times? Is your anxiety or depression uncontrollable? I believe that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Are you living with bipolar, PTSD and ADHD? Let us end the shame, guilt, doubt, hopelessness, helplessness, and lack of self-worth which often come with this. I am a physician assistant and board certified .
Now Accepting New Patient-Are you overwhelmed in these troubled times? Is your anxiety or depression uncontrollable? I believe that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Are you living with bipolar, PTSD and ADHD? Let us end the shame, guilt, doubt, hopelessness, helplessness, and lack of self-worth which often come with this. I am a physician assistant and board certified .
(984) 265-2584 View (984) 265-2584
Photo of William Griffies - Mindpath Health Psychiatrists & Therapists, Psychiatrist
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Sara Hubbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNPC
Sara Hubbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Struggling with past experiences preventing you from moving forward in life today? Overwhelmed with negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself? Feeling burned out from your work in a helping profession? Struggling with anxiety or depression? Paralyzed with fear because of a previous event? You are not alone, there is HOPE! I believe in your capacity to heal, no matter how insurmountable your experiences may seem today. Your healing journey may involve therapies like EMDR and/or medication. EMDR is a powerful therapeutic technique that alleviates distress linked to fears, trauma, negative beliefs, and past experiences.
Struggling with past experiences preventing you from moving forward in life today? Overwhelmed with negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself? Feeling burned out from your work in a helping profession? Struggling with anxiety or depression? Paralyzed with fear because of a previous event? You are not alone, there is HOPE! I believe in your capacity to heal, no matter how insurmountable your experiences may seem today. Your healing journey may involve therapies like EMDR and/or medication. EMDR is a powerful therapeutic technique that alleviates distress linked to fears, trauma, negative beliefs, and past experiences.
(919) 533-9987 View (919) 533-9987

See more therapy options for Apex

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Apex, NC

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Apex, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
90% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
87% Medication Management
80% Trauma and PTSD
77% ADHD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Apex, NC see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Apex?

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.