Psychiatrists in Concord, NC

Photo of Dionne Golson - Golson Family Services, LCAS, LCSW, PA-C, PSYCHMD, Physician Assistant
Golson Family Services
Physician Assistant, LCAS, LCSW, PA-C, PSYCHMD
Not Verified Not Verified
Concord, NC 28025
Golson Family Services is a motivated non-for-profit organization dedicated to providing a therapeutic milieu for mental health and substance abuse services to families and individuals within the community. Our Licensed Professional Counselors are available anytime, anywhere you need them. Because not all wounds are visible we are dedicated to healing the unseen. We do that by helping our patients overcome Mental Health and Substance Abuse challenges. We're committed to being Confidential, Sympathetic and approachable in our communications and treatment. Our goals are to improve your mental health. The time is now to put yourself first "You deserve to be happy again"
Golson Family Services is a motivated non-for-profit organization dedicated to providing a therapeutic milieu for mental health and substance abuse services to families and individuals within the community. Our Licensed Professional Counselors are available anytime, anywhere you need them. Because not all wounds are visible we are dedicated to healing the unseen. We do that by helping our patients overcome Mental Health and Substance Abuse challenges. We're committed to being Confidential, Sympathetic and approachable in our communications and treatment. Our goals are to improve your mental health. The time is now to put yourself first "You deserve to be happy again"
(704) 817-2484 View (704) 817-2484
Photo of Dr. Sabina Benel, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Sabina Benel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
(833) 906-0029 View (833) 906-0029
Photo of Tiffany Wilson, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
Tiffany Lindsay is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with six years of experience with mental illness and substance use. Having worked primarily as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse (PMHN-BC) in an inpatient crisis stabilization unit, Tiffany decided to pursue an advanced practice nursing degree to better bridge the gap in access to care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness in her community. Tiffany obtained a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University and a Master's degree in nursing from East Carolina University.
Tiffany Lindsay is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with six years of experience with mental illness and substance use. Having worked primarily as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse (PMHN-BC) in an inpatient crisis stabilization unit, Tiffany decided to pursue an advanced practice nursing degree to better bridge the gap in access to care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness in her community. Tiffany obtained a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University and a Master's degree in nursing from East Carolina University.
(704) 389-5038 View (704) 389-5038
Photo of Kristina Borus, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristina Borus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
Kristina provides medication management combined with a therapeutic approach that is practical, evidence based, and holistic. To maximize quality of life, Kristina works with each client to help achieve their wellness goals through education, lifestyle modification, supplementation, medication, and therapies that help integrate and heal the mind-body connection. With every client, Kristina builds a therapeutic partnership based on safety, empathy, non-judgement, and empowerment.
Kristina provides medication management combined with a therapeutic approach that is practical, evidence based, and holistic. To maximize quality of life, Kristina works with each client to help achieve their wellness goals through education, lifestyle modification, supplementation, medication, and therapies that help integrate and heal the mind-body connection. With every client, Kristina builds a therapeutic partnership based on safety, empathy, non-judgement, and empowerment.
(704) 703-9183 View (704) 703-9183
Deborah McMullan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
I am passionate about bringing healing, hope, and resilience to the lives of my clients. With extensive experience providing holistic, patient-centered mental health care to diverse populations across the lifespan, I specialize in conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, creating personalized treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based therapies, including psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, to address various mental health conditions. I look forward to helping you restore balance and gain a renewed sense of purpose in your life.
I am passionate about bringing healing, hope, and resilience to the lives of my clients. With extensive experience providing holistic, patient-centered mental health care to diverse populations across the lifespan, I specialize in conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, creating personalized treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based therapies, including psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, to address various mental health conditions. I look forward to helping you restore balance and gain a renewed sense of purpose in your life.
(980) 400-2185 View (980) 400-2185
Photo of Kristina Borus - LifeStance Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
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.
(980) 577-3597 View (980) 577-3597
Photo of Jonathan K Stoudmire - Center for Emotional Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Center for Emotional Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH is conveniently located throughout North Carolina including Asheville, Boone, Concord, Charlotte, Raleigh, Statesville, Winston, and Wilmington; we also have offices in Florida.
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH is conveniently located throughout North Carolina including Asheville, Boone, Concord, Charlotte, Raleigh, Statesville, Winston, and Wilmington; we also have offices in Florida.
(704) 237-4240 View (704) 237-4240
Photo of Nathan Carter, MD, Psychiatrist
Nathan Carter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
Dr. Nathan Carter is currently Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. In addition, he is currently Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Carter is well aware that substance abuse and dependence are among today's greatest public health problems. His certifications compliment his desire to be a conduit of recovery to his patients from their addictions and mental illnesses. Dr. Carter practices psychiatry both in the inpatient and outpatient settings and has a vast understanding of patient needs.
Dr. Nathan Carter is currently Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. In addition, he is currently Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Carter is well aware that substance abuse and dependence are among today's greatest public health problems. His certifications compliment his desire to be a conduit of recovery to his patients from their addictions and mental illnesses. Dr. Carter practices psychiatry both in the inpatient and outpatient settings and has a vast understanding of patient needs.
(980) 238-3988 View (980) 238-3988
Photo of Demetris Wright - A Practitioner's Touch, LLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Practitioner's Touch, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
(803) 962-7306 View (803) 962-7306
Photo of Janelle Stitt, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janelle Stitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Janelle and I am dual licensed FNP and PMHNP and I have a servants heart. I have been an RN for 19 years in acute care, pediatrics and women's health and a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Family medicine, Medical weight management and Psychiatry for 4 years. I am currently completing my Doctorate Studies. I see ages 5 and up. I manage all mood disorders from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance induced mood disorders. I also manage ADHD and Autism. I am Faith Based, Empathetic, Open-Minded, Warm, Direct, Affirming and Integrative. I believe in healing the whole person.
My name is Janelle and I am dual licensed FNP and PMHNP and I have a servants heart. I have been an RN for 19 years in acute care, pediatrics and women's health and a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Family medicine, Medical weight management and Psychiatry for 4 years. I am currently completing my Doctorate Studies. I see ages 5 and up. I manage all mood disorders from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance induced mood disorders. I also manage ADHD and Autism. I am Faith Based, Empathetic, Open-Minded, Warm, Direct, Affirming and Integrative. I believe in healing the whole person.
(980) 372-6752 View (980) 372-6752
Photo of Lucinda Agbewali - Gateway Charlotte Wellness, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gateway Charlotte Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to older adults). We are highly trained, empathetic, and friendly, and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancements in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental health and currently work at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospitals. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime, at their convenience. Why wait? Call now for help.
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to older adults). We are highly trained, empathetic, and friendly, and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancements in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental health and currently work at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospitals. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime, at their convenience. Why wait? Call now for help.
(980) 326-4916 View (980) 326-4916
Photo of John Charles Webb, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Charles Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
(828) 540-6015 View (828) 540-6015
Photo of Sarah Erickson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Erickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief to process their traumas, find purpose and meaning in their lives, and reconnect to their loved ones. I also specialize in working with young couples and mothers who are struggling with their identities and roles in parenthood. By combining evidence-based therapies with the transformative power of integrative mental health care. I will help you reclaim your inner balance and rediscover a life filled with joy, purpose, and peace.
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief to process their traumas, find purpose and meaning in their lives, and reconnect to their loved ones. I also specialize in working with young couples and mothers who are struggling with their identities and roles in parenthood. By combining evidence-based therapies with the transformative power of integrative mental health care. I will help you reclaim your inner balance and rediscover a life filled with joy, purpose, and peace.
(980) 366-4275 View (980) 366-4275
Photo of Christopher R Bradley, MPAS , DMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Christopher R Bradley
Physician Assistant, MPAS , DMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Best life brings the quality of care and patient's functional needs back to the forefront. Our mission is to care for our patients individually, to provide optimal treatment and proper management. The practice strives to provide not only hope for our patients, but a provider to listen to their needs. Best life works to improve patients mental health, while also focusing on their overall wellness.
Best life brings the quality of care and patient's functional needs back to the forefront. Our mission is to care for our patients individually, to provide optimal treatment and proper management. The practice strives to provide not only hope for our patients, but a provider to listen to their needs. Best life works to improve patients mental health, while also focusing on their overall wellness.
(980) 217-8729 View (980) 217-8729
Photo of Vaishali Cooper, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Vaishali Cooper
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with patients facing mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other behavioral issues. They seek support in finding balance, improving well-being, and reaching mental health goals. As a firm believer in the mind-body connection, I emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyle choices, strong social bonds, and spirituality in promoting mental well-being. My clients want to understand their emotions better, gain coping skills, and enhance their quality of life. Their goals include achieving greater self-awareness, increasing resilience, and finding sustainable mental wellness.
I work with patients facing mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other behavioral issues. They seek support in finding balance, improving well-being, and reaching mental health goals. As a firm believer in the mind-body connection, I emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyle choices, strong social bonds, and spirituality in promoting mental well-being. My clients want to understand their emotions better, gain coping skills, and enhance their quality of life. Their goals include achieving greater self-awareness, increasing resilience, and finding sustainable mental wellness.
(984) 985-2408 View (984) 985-2408
Photo of Dr. Urvashi Goswami, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Urvashi Goswami
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Urvashi Goswami chose psychiatry when she realized “whole of the body is in the mind, but the whole of the mind is not in the body.”
Dr. Urvashi Goswami chose psychiatry when she realized “whole of the body is in the mind, but the whole of the mind is not in the body.”
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Ashley Cunningham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Ashley. I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with Mindful Healing Group LLC. We are accepting new North Carolina, Texas, and New York patients for in-person or telehealth. We treat a wide range of mental health disorders. Our specialty includes Weight Loss treatments, ADHD screening, Gender Affirmation Treatments, and Medication management for a wide range of mental health disorders. We also aim to make health care more affordable by offering finance options so you can make monthly payment installments instead of one large payment. Initial visits are $150, and follow-up visits are $75.
My name is Ashley. I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with Mindful Healing Group LLC. We are accepting new North Carolina, Texas, and New York patients for in-person or telehealth. We treat a wide range of mental health disorders. Our specialty includes Weight Loss treatments, ADHD screening, Gender Affirmation Treatments, and Medication management for a wide range of mental health disorders. We also aim to make health care more affordable by offering finance options so you can make monthly payment installments instead of one large payment. Initial visits are $150, and follow-up visits are $75.
(984) 468-8798 View (984) 468-8798
Photo of Mattias Hartmann, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Mattias Hartmann
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, amongst other mental health conditions, using approaches such as solution-focused therapy, trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and medication management as needed. Sometimes my patients' needs include medication management or strategies for leading a healthier lifestyle. They may also seek guidance in developing coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and fostering positive relationships. Their ultimate goal is to improve their mental health.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, amongst other mental health conditions, using approaches such as solution-focused therapy, trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and medication management as needed. Sometimes my patients' needs include medication management or strategies for leading a healthier lifestyle. They may also seek guidance in developing coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and fostering positive relationships. Their ultimate goal is to improve their mental health.
(984) 355-8318 View (984) 355-8318
Photo of Craig Chepke, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Craig Chepke
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with adults and the aging population in all diagnostic categories, but have special interests in movement disorders (Tardive Dyskinesia, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, etc.), neuropsychiatric conditions, and treatment-resistant/severe-persistent mental illness.
I work with adults and the aging population in all diagnostic categories, but have special interests in movement disorders (Tardive Dyskinesia, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, etc.), neuropsychiatric conditions, and treatment-resistant/severe-persistent mental illness.
(704) 741-1452 View (704) 741-1452

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Concord, NC

20+

Average cost per session

$134

Psychiatrists in Concord, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
90% ADHD
90% Trauma and PTSD
85% Medication Management
80% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
73% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Concord, NC see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Concord?

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.