Psychiatrists in Charlotte, NC

Dr. Bamidele A Ajayi
Psychiatrist, MB;BS, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders in children, adolescents and adults from age on 5 years up to age of 70 years old. We help to manage their emotional and behavioral difficulties so they can live happy and healthy lives. We work closely with other healthcare providers such as psychologists, social workers, pediatricians and internists to ensure that our clients receives the most comprehensive care possible.
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders in children, adolescents and adults from age on 5 years up to age of 70 years old. We help to manage their emotional and behavioral difficulties so they can live happy and healthy lives. We work closely with other healthcare providers such as psychologists, social workers, pediatricians and internists to ensure that our clients receives the most comprehensive care possible.
(980) 291-7667 View (980) 291-7667
Photo of Shanika Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shanika Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Shanika Smith and I have 8+ years of working experience as a mental health nurse practitioner. I understand the complexities of mental health and the impact that it can have on an individual's life and overall health. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment. I embrace a holistic approach which means I consider ALL aspects of well-being: mind, body, and soul! I am currently seeing patients ages 13 years and older. I provide individualized care for a variety of mental health disorders. I use my expertise in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology to help patients overcome psychological challenges.
Hi, I'm Shanika Smith and I have 8+ years of working experience as a mental health nurse practitioner. I understand the complexities of mental health and the impact that it can have on an individual's life and overall health. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment. I embrace a holistic approach which means I consider ALL aspects of well-being: mind, body, and soul! I am currently seeing patients ages 13 years and older. I provide individualized care for a variety of mental health disorders. I use my expertise in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology to help patients overcome psychological challenges.
(323) 508-2308 View (323) 508-2308
Photo of Raj Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Raj Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to work alongside my patients to improve their function and well-being - I take a collaborative, individualized approach to each patient and recognize that no two patients are alike. I believe that taking the time to listen and understand my patients is key to providing excellent care, whether that be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Your success is my success, and rather than focus on a single issue or symptom, I prefer to view my patients on a more holistic scale and believe that excellent treatment involves understanding the nuances of an individual's personal and professional life.
My goal is to work alongside my patients to improve their function and well-being - I take a collaborative, individualized approach to each patient and recognize that no two patients are alike. I believe that taking the time to listen and understand my patients is key to providing excellent care, whether that be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Your success is my success, and rather than focus on a single issue or symptom, I prefer to view my patients on a more holistic scale and believe that excellent treatment involves understanding the nuances of an individual's personal and professional life.
(704) 270-6977 View (704) 270-6977
Photo of Shelton Allison, MD, Psychiatrist
Shelton Allison
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Shelton Allison is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. He attended Jackson State University for his BS in Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine for his medical school, and Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine for his residency. Shelton develops an environment where people can feel supported and free to be their authentic selves. He uses his years of experience to come up with a treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Shelton enjoys sports, music, and outdoor activities.
Shelton Allison is a Psychiatrist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. He attended Jackson State University for his BS in Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine for his medical school, and Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine for his residency. Shelton develops an environment where people can feel supported and free to be their authentic selves. He uses his years of experience to come up with a treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Shelton enjoys sports, music, and outdoor activities.
(980) 252-8150 View (980) 252-8150
Photo of Pratima Dahal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pratima Dahal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Pratima is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She has been a registered nurse since 2005 with unique experiences in psychiatric nursing across different cultures. As a provider, Pratima focuses on individual plan of care emphasizing on uniqueness of each client and their life situations. She is an avid advocate of importance of mental health to achieve the overall health and well-being.
Pratima is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She has been a registered nurse since 2005 with unique experiences in psychiatric nursing across different cultures. As a provider, Pratima focuses on individual plan of care emphasizing on uniqueness of each client and their life situations. She is an avid advocate of importance of mental health to achieve the overall health and well-being.
(704) 327-6968 View (704) 327-6968
Photo of Cheryl Norris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cheryl Norris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Cheryl. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I know the importance of treating mental health with not only medications but also therapy. We all need tools in our toolbox to be the best version of ourselves. I am committed to helping each client in their personal journey. I do not believe in one size fits all solutions.
Hello! My name is Cheryl. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I know the importance of treating mental health with not only medications but also therapy. We all need tools in our toolbox to be the best version of ourselves. I am committed to helping each client in their personal journey. I do not believe in one size fits all solutions.
(980) 528-1690 View (980) 528-1690
Photo of Liz Burkholder, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liz Burkholder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
My passion is training other clinicians in mind-body medicine modalities including GoWithin Hypno-Breathwork, which is a comprehensive modality that merges hypnotherapy and breathwork to get into the deepest subconscious layers for inner child healing, emotional and somatic healing, and shock / trauma healing. Please visit www.gowithininstitute.com for more information.
My passion is training other clinicians in mind-body medicine modalities including GoWithin Hypno-Breathwork, which is a comprehensive modality that merges hypnotherapy and breathwork to get into the deepest subconscious layers for inner child healing, emotional and somatic healing, and shock / trauma healing. Please visit www.gowithininstitute.com for more information.
(704) 480-3432 View (704) 480-3432
Photo of Katherine Palmgren, PHMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Palmgren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMHP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
(704) 610-4757 View (704) 610-4757
Photo of William F Wright, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
William F Wright
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I am the founder and psychiatrist at EirPax Psychiatry. I offer exceptional full spectrum psychiatric care in the comfort of your own home with telehealth services to help your busy lifestyle. With a foundation of psychotherapy ("talk therapy") and the ability to utilize medications if needed, I offer active ways to find help. I offer patient-centered and evidence-based treatments to assist in a wide spectrum of mental health and relationship issues - whether these issues have just arisen or have been present lifelong. Medication management appointments are also available to those stable with their current medication regimen.
I am the founder and psychiatrist at EirPax Psychiatry. I offer exceptional full spectrum psychiatric care in the comfort of your own home with telehealth services to help your busy lifestyle. With a foundation of psychotherapy ("talk therapy") and the ability to utilize medications if needed, I offer active ways to find help. I offer patient-centered and evidence-based treatments to assist in a wide spectrum of mental health and relationship issues - whether these issues have just arisen or have been present lifelong. Medication management appointments are also available to those stable with their current medication regimen.
(704) 327-0871 View (704) 327-0871
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(704) 350-2958 View (704) 350-2958
Photo of Joanna Wiseman - Wise Mind and Body, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wise Mind and Body
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28297  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients from anywhere in North Carolina! Are you overwhelmed with life’s day to day responsibilities? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or trouble sleeping? Do you want more balance in your life? There is hope! Joanna Wiseman will guide you on your journey to personal growth and happiness through mental stability. Schedule your first appointment with Joanna today.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in North Carolina! Are you overwhelmed with life’s day to day responsibilities? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or trouble sleeping? Do you want more balance in your life? There is hope! Joanna Wiseman will guide you on your journey to personal growth and happiness through mental stability. Schedule your first appointment with Joanna today.
(704) 397-4744 View (704) 397-4744
Photo of Kim English, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kim English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
Kim English FNP, PMHNP-BC; as a Family and Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to render comprehensive and compassionate care. I focus on the following treatments but not limited to; ADHD, Bipolar type 1 & 2, anxiety disorders such as (panic disorders & social phobia), Eating Disorders, Mood Dysregulation, PTSD, Depression, OCD, and autism spectrum disorder. I strive to provide the highest quality of mental health care to all patients; while providing knowledge and resources, to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Kim English FNP, PMHNP-BC; as a Family and Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to render comprehensive and compassionate care. I focus on the following treatments but not limited to; ADHD, Bipolar type 1 & 2, anxiety disorders such as (panic disorders & social phobia), Eating Disorders, Mood Dysregulation, PTSD, Depression, OCD, and autism spectrum disorder. I strive to provide the highest quality of mental health care to all patients; while providing knowledge and resources, to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Eric Semeko, MD, Psychiatrist
Eric Semeko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Dr. Eric Semeko, MD is a Hospitalist in Psychiatry at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospitals. He is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Semeko grew up in Ghana, Africa earning his Medical Degree in Volgograd, Russia, completing his residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston Salem, NC. He was recently named one of America's Most Compassionate Doctors and has worked in a large metropolitan hospital clinic as lead physician. In addition to his hospital work Dr. Semeko owns a private practice on Park Road; Restoration Charlotte, PLLC.
Dr. Eric Semeko, MD is a Hospitalist in Psychiatry at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospitals. He is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Semeko grew up in Ghana, Africa earning his Medical Degree in Volgograd, Russia, completing his residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston Salem, NC. He was recently named one of America's Most Compassionate Doctors and has worked in a large metropolitan hospital clinic as lead physician. In addition to his hospital work Dr. Semeko owns a private practice on Park Road; Restoration Charlotte, PLLC.
(704) 870-0281 View (704) 870-0281
Photo of April Schindler, MD, Psychiatrist
April Schindler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages. My job is to help you recover and thrive. I use a gentle, supportive style informed by the latest scientific evidence to guide you toward health. In my medical training, I was taught the art of whole person care. I learned that a patient's needs often go beyond the healing of the body. Being the whole person that you are, you come with psychological, emotional, intellectual, cultural, relational, and spiritual faculties that are equally affected by your illness. Together, we will integrate important aspects of who you are into the assessment and treatment of your concerns.
I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages. My job is to help you recover and thrive. I use a gentle, supportive style informed by the latest scientific evidence to guide you toward health. In my medical training, I was taught the art of whole person care. I learned that a patient's needs often go beyond the healing of the body. Being the whole person that you are, you come with psychological, emotional, intellectual, cultural, relational, and spiritual faculties that are equally affected by your illness. Together, we will integrate important aspects of who you are into the assessment and treatment of your concerns.
(704) 327-5561 View (704) 327-5561
Photo of Micah Bright, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Micah Bright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Micah Bright is an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her 10 years of nursing includes a range of experiences from stabilizing patients in the emergency department, to implementing long-term treatments and recovery plans for patients in the inpatient psychiatric hospital setting.
Micah Bright is an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her 10 years of nursing includes a range of experiences from stabilizing patients in the emergency department, to implementing long-term treatments and recovery plans for patients in the inpatient psychiatric hospital setting.
(704) 981-6717 View (704) 981-6717
Photo of Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
(704) 397-3399 View (704) 397-3399
Photo of Dr. Tamara A. Neely, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tamara A. Neely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227  (Online Only)
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
(980) 399-5417 View (980) 399-5417
Photo of Camellia Douglas - Mentable, PLLC- Camellia Douglas, PMHNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mentable, PLLC- Camellia Douglas, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Mentable, PLLC IS accepting NEW patients. Mentable, PLLC is an integrative and holistic mental wellness practice. Our mission is to offer a sanctuary for healing, growth, and discovery, where empathetic care meets clinical excellence. We strive to understand and illuminate the diverse spectrum of human emotions, advocating for mental wellness for every walk of life. During our first session, you can expect a warm, patient-centered approach by our provider Camellia Douglas, PMHNP-BC by listening first to collaborate for a better YOU, with an improved quality of life.
Mentable, PLLC IS accepting NEW patients. Mentable, PLLC is an integrative and holistic mental wellness practice. Our mission is to offer a sanctuary for healing, growth, and discovery, where empathetic care meets clinical excellence. We strive to understand and illuminate the diverse spectrum of human emotions, advocating for mental wellness for every walk of life. During our first session, you can expect a warm, patient-centered approach by our provider Camellia Douglas, PMHNP-BC by listening first to collaborate for a better YOU, with an improved quality of life.
(980) 223-4566 View (980) 223-4566
Photo of Tony McLaurin, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Tony McLaurin
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
Tony believes that working in behavioral medicine grants him access to the most vulnerable parts of patients and affords him the opportunity to create an atmosphere where patients feel seen and heard.
Tony believes that working in behavioral medicine grants him access to the most vulnerable parts of patients and affords him the opportunity to create an atmosphere where patients feel seen and heard.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Shanna Mago, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shanna Mago
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Shanna Mago is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a total of ten years of experience including four years in an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she was the lead medical provider. This experience led her to pursue her post-master's psychiatric mental health education from Maryville University of St. Louis. She works with children and adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and various other mental health concerns. She is committed to providing compassionate care that focuses on therapeutic rapport while following evidence-base guidelines.
Shanna Mago is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a total of ten years of experience including four years in an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she was the lead medical provider. This experience led her to pursue her post-master's psychiatric mental health education from Maryville University of St. Louis. She works with children and adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and various other mental health concerns. She is committed to providing compassionate care that focuses on therapeutic rapport while following evidence-base guidelines.
(704) 850-9319 View (704) 850-9319
1
...

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Charlotte, NC

200+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in Charlotte, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
79% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Charlotte, NC see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Charlotte?

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.