Psychiatrists in Durham, NC

Photo of Jessica Curry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Jessica Curry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Durham, NC 27713
Jessica provides compassionate, collaborative care that empowers her patients to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. She uses an evidence-based and holistic approach to tailor mental health services to each individual’s unique experiences and needs.
Jessica provides compassionate, collaborative care that empowers her patients to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. She uses an evidence-based and holistic approach to tailor mental health services to each individual’s unique experiences and needs.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Corbin Burns, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Corbin Burns
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
(984) 733-1716 View (984) 733-1716
Photo of Ariel Lucci, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Ariel Lucci
Physician Assistant, PA-C
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with patients who are struggling with mental health issues. With the privilege of diverse experience, I've honed my skills in providing top-notch outpatient psychiatric care and medication management. My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions, and I'm well-equipped to diagnose and treat patients of all ages. Armed with a Master's in Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University and a background in Respiratory Therapy, I bring valuable insights to ensure effective mental health care.
I work with patients who are struggling with mental health issues. With the privilege of diverse experience, I've honed my skills in providing top-notch outpatient psychiatric care and medication management. My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions, and I'm well-equipped to diagnose and treat patients of all ages. Armed with a Master's in Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University and a background in Respiratory Therapy, I bring valuable insights to ensure effective mental health care.
(919) 276-8530 View (919) 276-8530
Photo of Akelah Woody - Akelah With Wellness In Motion 4 Life!, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Akelah With Wellness In Motion 4 Life!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Durham, NC 27703
You Are Purposed To Win! Serving ages 15 years old and up, I specialize in Medication Management along with Therapeutic Counseling meeting a wide array of mental health needs. I have diverse knowledge in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I Believe A Strong Mind Equals A Strong Body! Therefore, if one commits first to Growing Stronger Mentally, they cannot help but to Develop Greatness Physically. I know life presents many challenges (Motherhood, Fatherhood, Occupational, Academia, Financial, Kids, etc). Allow me the honor of partnering with you to successfully navigate through them!
You Are Purposed To Win! Serving ages 15 years old and up, I specialize in Medication Management along with Therapeutic Counseling meeting a wide array of mental health needs. I have diverse knowledge in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I Believe A Strong Mind Equals A Strong Body! Therefore, if one commits first to Growing Stronger Mentally, they cannot help but to Develop Greatness Physically. I know life presents many challenges (Motherhood, Fatherhood, Occupational, Academia, Financial, Kids, etc). Allow me the honor of partnering with you to successfully navigate through them!
(919) 980-9657 View (919) 980-9657
Photo of Hilary Boydston, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Hilary Boydston
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Durham, NC 27713
Hilary focuses on adults and completes bariatric surgery evaluations. She is passionate about patient education and provides care tailored to each patient. Hilary believes mind care is an underserved area of medicine with the most significant potential to improve general health and functionality.
Hilary focuses on adults and completes bariatric surgery evaluations. She is passionate about patient education and provides care tailored to each patient. Hilary believes mind care is an underserved area of medicine with the most significant potential to improve general health and functionality.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Vaishali Cooper, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Vaishali Cooper
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
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 Ajith Abraham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Ajith Abraham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
Welcome to Serene Minds Mental Health PLLC! Are you having a hard time controlling your emotions? Perhaps find yourself wondering why forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or distractability have become a part of your daily life. Maybe getting out of bed is a struggle, motivation is non-existent, and tearfulness strikes without any reason. Are nighttime sleep disturbances, frequent waking, and subsequent exhaustion affecting your well-being? Are you feeling anxious, panicky, past traumas left you feeling on edge? You don't have to navigate these these challenges alone. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Welcome to Serene Minds Mental Health PLLC! Are you having a hard time controlling your emotions? Perhaps find yourself wondering why forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or distractability have become a part of your daily life. Maybe getting out of bed is a struggle, motivation is non-existent, and tearfulness strikes without any reason. Are nighttime sleep disturbances, frequent waking, and subsequent exhaustion affecting your well-being? Are you feeling anxious, panicky, past traumas left you feeling on edge? You don't have to navigate these these challenges alone. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
(919) 646-5884 View (919) 646-5884
Photo of Vivian Henry-Ajudua - Vebron Health PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN, MBA
Vebron Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN, MBA
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
I am a Board Certified PMHNP, with experience working with adults and adolescents with varied psychiatric disorders including, but not limited to ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Alcohol and Substance use disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders to name a few. I also enjoy working with the older adult/geriatric population with disorders that include, but are not limited to Major Neurocognitive disorders, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. I use a patient centered approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families.
I am a Board Certified PMHNP, with experience working with adults and adolescents with varied psychiatric disorders including, but not limited to ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Alcohol and Substance use disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders to name a few. I also enjoy working with the older adult/geriatric population with disorders that include, but are not limited to Major Neurocognitive disorders, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. I use a patient centered approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families.
(984) 230-4687 View (984) 230-4687
Photo of Levent Sipahi, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Levent Sipahi
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Durham, NC 27713
I am a psychiatrist whose practices utilizes psychodynamic psychotherapy and prudent medication management. My approach is relational and attachment-based. I work with clients to create a space to explore thoughts, feelings, desires, and motivations with dignity and curiosity. Taking time to explore ones inner world can be challenging, rewarding, surprising, and fun. This work can provide a path to a better understanding of one’s relationship to one’s self, to others, and to the world and can be helpful for anxiety, motivation, identity, self-esteem, life experiences, relationships, separation, attachment, and transitions.
I am a psychiatrist whose practices utilizes psychodynamic psychotherapy and prudent medication management. My approach is relational and attachment-based. I work with clients to create a space to explore thoughts, feelings, desires, and motivations with dignity and curiosity. Taking time to explore ones inner world can be challenging, rewarding, surprising, and fun. This work can provide a path to a better understanding of one’s relationship to one’s self, to others, and to the world and can be helpful for anxiety, motivation, identity, self-esteem, life experiences, relationships, separation, attachment, and transitions.
(919) 367-1725 View (919) 367-1725
Photo of Hannah Eason, Physician Assistant, PA
Hannah Eason
Physician Assistant, PA
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
My ideal client wants to work collaboratively to find mental health solutions that work for them. Taking care of our mental health is extremely important. Life can get overwhelming, and it's okay to ask for help. I work in psychiatry because I'm passionate about helping people live more fulfilling lives. We all face different challenges. Past experiences, family history, and everyday stressors affect our mental health. We'll talk about what's going on, your daily habits, and goals for treatment.
My ideal client wants to work collaboratively to find mental health solutions that work for them. Taking care of our mental health is extremely important. Life can get overwhelming, and it's okay to ask for help. I work in psychiatry because I'm passionate about helping people live more fulfilling lives. We all face different challenges. Past experiences, family history, and everyday stressors affect our mental health. We'll talk about what's going on, your daily habits, and goals for treatment.
(919) 887-7874 View (919) 887-7874
Photo of Kyra Kline Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNPBC
Kyra Kline Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whatever has brought you here looking for help, please know you have found someone that thinks you are an irreplaceable human and capable of achieving improved mental health and wellness. I enjoy working with people that want to improve their circumstances using a holistic approach. Patients I work with each have unique obstacles they are facing, talents to employ and goals they want to achieve. I utilize an approach that is tailored to each person and situation; we will work together collaboratively and creatively to achieve your mental health and wellness goals.
Whatever has brought you here looking for help, please know you have found someone that thinks you are an irreplaceable human and capable of achieving improved mental health and wellness. I enjoy working with people that want to improve their circumstances using a holistic approach. Patients I work with each have unique obstacles they are facing, talents to employ and goals they want to achieve. I utilize an approach that is tailored to each person and situation; we will work together collaboratively and creatively to achieve your mental health and wellness goals.
(919) 694-6845 View (919) 694-6845
Photo of Tamara Starr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Tamara Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello everyone. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and life-style enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan.
Hello everyone. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and life-style enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan.
(919) 891-1589 View (919) 891-1589
Photo of Cherry Nhor, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Cherry Nhor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Cherry understands how impactful mental health is on overall well-being. She's passionate about decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and increasing access to care. Cherry has an abundance of international travel, which helped develop a broad frame of reference that allows her to better understand people, their cultures, and their beliefs.
Cherry understands how impactful mental health is on overall well-being. She's passionate about decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and increasing access to care. Cherry has an abundance of international travel, which helped develop a broad frame of reference that allows her to better understand people, their cultures, and their beliefs.
(984) 468-9762 View (984) 468-9762
Photo of Daniel Pennington, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Daniel Pennington
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
My goal is to offer compassionate, evidence-based care while building a trusting and supportive relationship that empowers my patients to reach their goals.
My goal is to offer compassionate, evidence-based care while building a trusting and supportive relationship that empowers my patients to reach their goals.
(984) 983-6353 View (984) 983-6353
Photo of Jennifer Susan Colvin, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Jennifer Susan Colvin
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Durham, NC 27705
I am a board certified psychiatrist and trained in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I also have a PhD in Neuroscience. l provide comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based medication treatment and psychotherapy for a wide variety of conditions.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and trained in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I also have a PhD in Neuroscience. l provide comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based medication treatment and psychotherapy for a wide variety of conditions.
(919) 289-8028 View (919) 289-8028
Photo of Sakina Alston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sakina Alston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have an RN license, a nurse practitioner license, and a DEA license. My approach to mental wellness is self-empowering and non-judgmental. Regardless of where you are starting, I am here to support you as you work on your mental health. My approach is integrative and holistic, I utilize therapy, supplements, recommend lifestyle changes and medication to optimize mental strengths and so patients can make progress in their lives.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have an RN license, a nurse practitioner license, and a DEA license. My approach to mental wellness is self-empowering and non-judgmental. Regardless of where you are starting, I am here to support you as you work on your mental health. My approach is integrative and holistic, I utilize therapy, supplements, recommend lifestyle changes and medication to optimize mental strengths and so patients can make progress in their lives.
(980) 860-9710 View (980) 860-9710
Photo of Jamie Walter, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jamie Walter
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Durham, NC 27707
Medication management should involve more than a monthly 5 minute check in. You’re more than a diagnosis, and your lived experience matters. My goal is to provide a safe, open, and nonjudgmental space where you can openly share your concerns and experiences. My approach involves comprehensive assessment to address underlying physical issues, exploring medication and non-medication based strategies for wellness, and always being open to feedback on your experience. Together we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes your comfort, preferences, and goals, empowering you to take charge of your mental health.
Medication management should involve more than a monthly 5 minute check in. You’re more than a diagnosis, and your lived experience matters. My goal is to provide a safe, open, and nonjudgmental space where you can openly share your concerns and experiences. My approach involves comprehensive assessment to address underlying physical issues, exploring medication and non-medication based strategies for wellness, and always being open to feedback on your experience. Together we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes your comfort, preferences, and goals, empowering you to take charge of your mental health.
(984) 283-5377 View (984) 283-5377
Photo of Valerie Benedicta Idada-Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCAS, FNP
Valerie Benedicta Idada-Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCAS, FNP
Durham, NC 27707
I provide service and care that is unique and tailored to each patient's specific need; created with a vision to provide care to the whole person and change lives for the better. I maintain an integrated service that effectively deals with prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases cutting across general medicine; psychiatry, addiction, weight management, DWI treatment, and many other services in a welcoming and confidential environment. I want all my clients to call Reliable Health Services Inc. their medical home.
I provide service and care that is unique and tailored to each patient's specific need; created with a vision to provide care to the whole person and change lives for the better. I maintain an integrated service that effectively deals with prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases cutting across general medicine; psychiatry, addiction, weight management, DWI treatment, and many other services in a welcoming and confidential environment. I want all my clients to call Reliable Health Services Inc. their medical home.
(919) 213-6398 View (919) 213-6398
Photo of Shanika Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shanika Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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.
(984) 360-6296 View (984) 360-6296
Photo of Jennifer Schmitt, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHS
Jennifer Schmitt
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHS
Durham, NC 27701
I attended the top-ranked Physician Assistant Program at Duke University and did my undergraduate studies at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I treat all areas of general adult Psychiatry, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD.
I attended the top-ranked Physician Assistant Program at Duke University and did my undergraduate studies at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I treat all areas of general adult Psychiatry, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD.
(984) 768-9655 View (984) 768-9655

See more therapy options for Durham

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Durham, NC

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Durham, NC who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
81% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
76% Trauma and PTSD
74% Medication Management
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Durham, NC see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Durham?

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.