Psychiatrists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Rohan Matthews - Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
(704) 936-0200 View (704) 936-0200
Photo of Levy Nathan Wiseman-Floyd, PA-C, MPH, Physician Assistant
Levy Nathan Wiseman-Floyd
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
My clients will include children and adults of all ages who are struggling with controlling their mental health. My main goal for each client is to optimize their overall health and wellbeing by identifying and treating any underlying psychiatric pathology. The only requirement that I have for my clients is that they care as much about their mental health as I do, without that any treatment will not succeed. I look forward to fostering authentic relationships with each of my clients to individualize their treatment and guide them through the often daunting world of psychiatry.
My clients will include children and adults of all ages who are struggling with controlling their mental health. My main goal for each client is to optimize their overall health and wellbeing by identifying and treating any underlying psychiatric pathology. The only requirement that I have for my clients is that they care as much about their mental health as I do, without that any treatment will not succeed. I look forward to fostering authentic relationships with each of my clients to individualize their treatment and guide them through the often daunting world of psychiatry.
(704) 459-4925 View (704) 459-4925
Photo of Tamara Starr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Tamara Starr. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and lifestyle enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for the mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan. Working together to create life-long strategies to help the Client be the best version of themselves. I use compassionate assertive communication, direct and straightforward without being condescending or domineering.
Hello. My name is Tamara Starr. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and lifestyle enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for the mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan. Working together to create life-long strategies to help the Client be the best version of themselves. I use compassionate assertive communication, direct and straightforward without being condescending or domineering.
(323) 508-2308 View (323) 508-2308
Photo of Laura Eidem, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Laura Eidem
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
Laura wants her patients to feel welcomed, heard, and valued. She hopes her patients experience growth and feel empowered.
Laura wants her patients to feel welcomed, heard, and valued. She hopes her patients experience growth and feel empowered.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Darlene Ifill-Taylor - Three Strand Wellness LLC, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Three Strand Wellness LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
If you are looking for a Mental Health care that focuses on all of you, using a wholistic approach- Three Strand Wellness is for you. Mind, Body and Spirit is our focus- providing therapy and medication management for Depression and Anxiety; Massage therapy; Yoga; Meditation training and Massage in a beautiful, private setting. Our practice offers TMS those who have not responded to antidepressants. TMS has an 83 percent response rate an is an holistic way to approach your depression treatment. Our Yoga and Meditation, specialists are the best- as is our massage, specialist. Referral for Nutrition and Physical fitness are offered.
If you are looking for a Mental Health care that focuses on all of you, using a wholistic approach- Three Strand Wellness is for you. Mind, Body and Spirit is our focus- providing therapy and medication management for Depression and Anxiety; Massage therapy; Yoga; Meditation training and Massage in a beautiful, private setting. Our practice offers TMS those who have not responded to antidepressants. TMS has an 83 percent response rate an is an holistic way to approach your depression treatment. Our Yoga and Meditation, specialists are the best- as is our massage, specialist. Referral for Nutrition and Physical fitness are offered.
(704) 327-2663 View (704) 327-2663
Photo of Casey Watson, FNP , PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Casey Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice located in Charlotte, NC that provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Online and in person appointments available for adults 18+. Casey is dual board certified as a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Casey has over 17 years in the medical field. Casey sees each patient as an individual and not your disorder. As a team, we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice located in Charlotte, NC that provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Online and in person appointments available for adults 18+. Casey is dual board certified as a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Casey has over 17 years in the medical field. Casey sees each patient as an individual and not your disorder. As a team, we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
(704) 666-4042 View (704) 666-4042
Photo of Laura Paschall, MD, Psychiatrist
Laura Paschall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hello! I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages on their journey to mental wellness. My whole-person approach to mental health integrates therapeutic interventions and medication management to provide the highest quality of care. I seek to connect with each patient on a human level, taking time to honor your lived experiences and working together to build a tailored plan to recovery.
Hello! I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages on their journey to mental wellness. My whole-person approach to mental health integrates therapeutic interventions and medication management to provide the highest quality of care. I seek to connect with each patient on a human level, taking time to honor your lived experiences and working together to build a tailored plan to recovery.
(704) 461-0762 View (704) 461-0762
Photo of Linda Marie Banks, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Marie Banks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
Linda is a board-certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatry and family medicine. She completed her training at Samford University and has undergraduate degrees in both Psychology and Nursing. She is trained to work with all ages, including children. Linda uses her education and experience to provide trauma-informed, inclusive, personalized care for every patient. She uses a holistic and integrative approach to take the whole patient into consideration. Her training helps her to understand both physical and mental health, and how to address the mind-body connection in her care.
Linda is a board-certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatry and family medicine. She completed her training at Samford University and has undergraduate degrees in both Psychology and Nursing. She is trained to work with all ages, including children. Linda uses her education and experience to provide trauma-informed, inclusive, personalized care for every patient. She uses a holistic and integrative approach to take the whole patient into consideration. Her training helps her to understand both physical and mental health, and how to address the mind-body connection in her care.
(408) 478-4142 View (408) 478-4142
Photo of Emily Terry, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Emily Terry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Emily Terry, PA-C Emily Terry is passionate about treating psychiatric illness across the lifespan. She is originally from Lexington, Kentucky. During her time in Kentucky, she obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant studies from Sullivan University. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings, and is committed to providing quality care to each patient.
Emily Terry, PA-C Emily Terry is passionate about treating psychiatric illness across the lifespan. She is originally from Lexington, Kentucky. During her time in Kentucky, she obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant studies from Sullivan University. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings, and is committed to providing quality care to each patient.
(704) 286-8479 View (704) 286-8479
Photo of Kim English, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kim English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
At Safe Haven Psychiatrics, we provide quality psychiatric services while taking a holistic approach to each patients mental health. Our goal is to focus not only on the diagnoses but also on the over-all well being of the individual, while empowering them to take control of their mental health.
At Safe Haven Psychiatrics, we provide quality psychiatric services while taking a holistic approach to each patients mental health. Our goal is to focus not only on the diagnoses but also on the over-all well being of the individual, while empowering them to take control of their mental health.
(704) 459-5920 View (704) 459-5920
Photo of Melanie Fossinger, MSN, RN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melanie Fossinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Immediate availability for medication management of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders for ages 13 and up. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in treating adolescents and adults. My practice is based in Charlotte, NC, and I am able to provide telehealth visits for people residing in North Carolina. I approach all of my patients with curiosity, openness, and understanding. Adolescence is a time of great transition and growth where deep relationships are crucial to building resilience and a fulfilled life. I’m looking forward to working with you during this formative stage in your life.
Immediate availability for medication management of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders for ages 13 and up. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in treating adolescents and adults. My practice is based in Charlotte, NC, and I am able to provide telehealth visits for people residing in North Carolina. I approach all of my patients with curiosity, openness, and understanding. Adolescence is a time of great transition and growth where deep relationships are crucial to building resilience and a fulfilled life. I’m looking forward to working with you during this formative stage in your life.
(980) 372-1618 View (980) 372-1618
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 Chinyere Chima - Rejuve Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rejuve Mind & Body Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 18 years of clinical experience. I started my healthcare career as a critical care nurse.
Hello! I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 18 years of clinical experience. I started my healthcare career as a critical care nurse.
(980) 456-8762 View (980) 456-8762
Photo of Brea Washington, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brea Washington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing holistic telepsychiatry care to improve the management of symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and daily life stressors. I offer psychotherapy, remote ADHD testing, medication management, as well as guidance with self-care practices, healthy nutrition, and staying physically active for overall wellness.
I specialize in providing holistic telepsychiatry care to improve the management of symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and daily life stressors. I offer psychotherapy, remote ADHD testing, medication management, as well as guidance with self-care practices, healthy nutrition, and staying physically active for overall wellness.
(704) 459-3930 View (704) 459-3930
Photo of Janelle Mahoney, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janelle Mahoney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
(704) 327-3191 View (704) 327-3191
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
Charlotte, NC 28205
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 Laura Mary Foster, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Mary Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
The journey towards mental health and wellness is a marathon and not a race. I am a military veteran licensed in NC and VA . I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population as a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner in the military, community health, and private practice. For immediate service text or call 800-436-8510
The journey towards mental health and wellness is a marathon and not a race. I am a military veteran licensed in NC and VA . I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population as a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner in the military, community health, and private practice. For immediate service text or call 800-436-8510
(984) 217-8847 View (984) 217-8847
Photo of Novlett Campbell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Novlett Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
(980) 484-8596 View (980) 484-8596
Photo of Rasheed A. Onafuye - Broadview Health, Sleep and Behavioral Center, MD, MPH, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Broadview Health, Sleep and Behavioral Center
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Doctor Rasheed Onafuye holds dual Board certification in Sleep Medicine and Psychiatry. Helps patients with ADHD, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, PTSD, Sleep Apnea, Excessive snoring, Chronic fatigue, Daytime sleepiness, Narcolepsy, Restless legs syndrome, among others.
Doctor Rasheed Onafuye holds dual Board certification in Sleep Medicine and Psychiatry. Helps patients with ADHD, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, PTSD, Sleep Apnea, Excessive snoring, Chronic fatigue, Daytime sleepiness, Narcolepsy, Restless legs syndrome, among others.
(704) 585-1239 View (704) 585-1239
Photo of Hopeway Psychiatry And Associates - HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates, Psychiatrist
HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates offers personalized psychiatric and clinical care because we know that each client’s journey is unique, but recovery is possible for everyone. The team of well-respected, highly-qualified professionals works with every client to identify the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.
HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates offers personalized psychiatric and clinical care because we know that each client’s journey is unique, but recovery is possible for everyone. The team of well-respected, highly-qualified professionals works with every client to identify the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.
(704) 610-4911 View (704) 610-4911
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
88% 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.