Psychiatrists in Garner, NC

Olivia Faye Vogel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I provide medication management for a range of mental health issues, including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder to clients across the lifespan. I believe that the relationship between patient and provider should be a collaborative partnership founded on effective communication and problem solving. I integrate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to provide the safest and most effective patient outcomes. I demonstrate a strong passion for mental health and wellness, continuously seeking to enhance my understanding and expertise in the field.
I provide medication management for a range of mental health issues, including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder to clients across the lifespan. I believe that the relationship between patient and provider should be a collaborative partnership founded on effective communication and problem solving. I integrate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to provide the safest and most effective patient outcomes. I demonstrate a strong passion for mental health and wellness, continuously seeking to enhance my understanding and expertise in the field.

Cana Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Dr Lola is a Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner: Now Accepting New Patients! Are you suffering from Anxiety? Hopelessness, helplessness, lack of self-worth, Depression, bipolar, ptsd, anger, adhd,unsure of your diagnosis, or any other mental health disorders? Are you feeling a low mood? I am Board-Certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practioner (pmhnp-bc)offering telepsy services in RTP and the surrounding area in North Carolina.
Dr Lola is a Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner: Now Accepting New Patients! Are you suffering from Anxiety? Hopelessness, helplessness, lack of self-worth, Depression, bipolar, ptsd, anger, adhd,unsure of your diagnosis, or any other mental health disorders? Are you feeling a low mood? I am Board-Certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practioner (pmhnp-bc)offering telepsy services in RTP and the surrounding area in North Carolina.

Dr. Lindsey Renee Goldberg-Ziles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN-Ed, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I focus on mindfulness, lifestyle, nutrition, spiritual and natural methods, as well as medication management. The foundation matters I take my time, and with that, I get to know my clients and our safe space emerges. I have training in working with all ages, predominantly 14-95, any gender, sexuality, polyamorous or open relationships, sex work/er. pregnancy, birth, postpartum, abuse (sexual, physical, emotional), trauma, body image, PTSD, grief & loss, anxiety, depressive disorders, bipolarity/mood, neurodivergent disorders, personality, and anyone in recovery (or guests to listen).
I focus on mindfulness, lifestyle, nutrition, spiritual and natural methods, as well as medication management. The foundation matters I take my time, and with that, I get to know my clients and our safe space emerges. I have training in working with all ages, predominantly 14-95, any gender, sexuality, polyamorous or open relationships, sex work/er. pregnancy, birth, postpartum, abuse (sexual, physical, emotional), trauma, body image, PTSD, grief & loss, anxiety, depressive disorders, bipolarity/mood, neurodivergent disorders, personality, and anyone in recovery (or guests to listen).

New appointments can be booked online at www.swiftcreekmhs.com. I provide holistic and individual care to people with mental health concerns. My experience ranges from mild to severe mental illness in the areas of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and adjustment disorders. I see children and adults. I have worked in mental health since 2007, in all levels of care, residential, out patient, intensive outpatient and inpatient. I began treating patients as an APRN in 2015. Not In Network with Medicaid!
New appointments can be booked online at www.swiftcreekmhs.com. I provide holistic and individual care to people with mental health concerns. My experience ranges from mild to severe mental illness in the areas of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and adjustment disorders. I see children and adults. I have worked in mental health since 2007, in all levels of care, residential, out patient, intensive outpatient and inpatient. I began treating patients as an APRN in 2015. Not In Network with Medicaid!
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Debbie Granick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Please request appts at www.commongroundpsych.com. North Carolina only. I provide medication to help you reach your mental health goals. I'm informal, non-judgmental, have no issue with bad words or loud laughs and specialize in women's mental health. Navigating a tough transition? Feel you could be happier and more fulfilled? Not quite the person you want to be? Let's work together! I provide medication (with or without counseling thrown in). I also consult with/mentor mental health providers and speak on mental health for your workplace or interest group.
Please request appts at www.commongroundpsych.com. North Carolina only. I provide medication to help you reach your mental health goals. I'm informal, non-judgmental, have no issue with bad words or loud laughs and specialize in women's mental health. Navigating a tough transition? Feel you could be happier and more fulfilled? Not quite the person you want to be? Let's work together! I provide medication (with or without counseling thrown in). I also consult with/mentor mental health providers and speak on mental health for your workplace or interest group.

My goal as a psychiatrist is to support young people in becoming their best selves and reaching their full potential in every aspect of life—whether personal, academic, or professional. In addition to the challenges posed by emerging psychiatric disorders, today’s youth face unprecedented levels of stress in both their personal and academic/work environments. I primarily work with individuals aged 13 to 30, along with their families, using evidence-based therapies to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, emotional regulation, and decision-making. These skills empower young people to thrive and live their best life.
My goal as a psychiatrist is to support young people in becoming their best selves and reaching their full potential in every aspect of life—whether personal, academic, or professional. In addition to the challenges posed by emerging psychiatric disorders, today’s youth face unprecedented levels of stress in both their personal and academic/work environments. I primarily work with individuals aged 13 to 30, along with their families, using evidence-based therapies to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, emotional regulation, and decision-making. These skills empower young people to thrive and live their best life.

Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.

Akelah With Wellness In Motion 4 Life!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
You Are Purposed To Win! Serving ages 15 years old and up, I specialize in Medication Management along with Brief 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 Brief 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!

Abundant Life Health Support
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Dr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rolesville, NC 27571
Mental health conditions are real. Their impacts on general health, occupation, relationships, or academics are real. I'm a board-certified PMHNP. My work entails assessing patients, diagnosing disorders, and prescribing the necessary treatments. I offer my services with empathic quality because I have experienced depression.
Mental health conditions are real. Their impacts on general health, occupation, relationships, or academics are real. I'm a board-certified PMHNP. My work entails assessing patients, diagnosing disorders, and prescribing the necessary treatments. I offer my services with empathic quality because I have experienced depression.

Camille Hudimac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults with mental health concerns and substance abuse.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults with mental health concerns and substance abuse.

Do you miss being happy? Are you overwhelmed with treatment options and do not know how to move forward to optimal mental health? I can help you navigate this confusing journey of mental health care.
Do you miss being happy? Are you overwhelmed with treatment options and do not know how to move forward to optimal mental health? I can help you navigate this confusing journey of mental health care.

Sara Hubbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
Struggling with past experiences preventing you from moving forward in life today? Overwhelmed with negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself? Feeling burned out from your work in a helping profession? Struggling with anxiety or depression? Paralyzed with fear because of a previous event? You are not alone, there is HOPE! I believe in your capacity to heal, no matter how insurmountable your experiences may seem today. Your healing journey may involve therapies like EMDR and/or medication. EMDR is a powerful therapeutic technique that alleviates distress linked to fears, trauma, negative beliefs, and past experiences.
Struggling with past experiences preventing you from moving forward in life today? Overwhelmed with negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself? Feeling burned out from your work in a helping profession? Struggling with anxiety or depression? Paralyzed with fear because of a previous event? You are not alone, there is HOPE! I believe in your capacity to heal, no matter how insurmountable your experiences may seem today. Your healing journey may involve therapies like EMDR and/or medication. EMDR is a powerful therapeutic technique that alleviates distress linked to fears, trauma, negative beliefs, and past experiences.

Dr. Pipalia is board-certified in both adult psychiatry and internal medicine. Since graduation from residency, he gained specialized experience in treating veterans with terminal illness, specifically Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (aka Lou Gehrig's Disease), at the VA Medical Center in Portland, OR. He combines both psychotherapy and medication treatment to provide holistic care that addresses not only your mental health but also that parts of your life that surround and are deeply intertwined with your mental health.
Dr. Pipalia is board-certified in both adult psychiatry and internal medicine. Since graduation from residency, he gained specialized experience in treating veterans with terminal illness, specifically Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (aka Lou Gehrig's Disease), at the VA Medical Center in Portland, OR. He combines both psychotherapy and medication treatment to provide holistic care that addresses not only your mental health but also that parts of your life that surround and are deeply intertwined with your mental health.

Our ideal clients are individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents navigating developmental challenges to adults and seniors managing complex mental health needs. They may face issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Their needs include effective symptom management, personalized care, and tools to thrive in their daily lives. They seek a path to stability and fulfillment, motivated by the desire to improve their mental health and live their lives to the fullest potential.
Our ideal clients are individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents navigating developmental challenges to adults and seniors managing complex mental health needs. They may face issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Their needs include effective symptom management, personalized care, and tools to thrive in their daily lives. They seek a path to stability and fulfillment, motivated by the desire to improve their mental health and live their lives to the fullest potential.

Accepting New Patients for October! Dr. Tim O’Connor is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. O’Connor completed his medical education & psychiatric residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In addition to his particular clinical interest in mental health issues impacting university students, he has experience working with patients with a wide variety of mental health concerns. His background in education instilled an appreciation of the tremendous capacity for growth inherent in every person. He was drawn to the practice of psychiatry as a way of helping individuals recognize & actualize this potential.
Accepting New Patients for October! Dr. Tim O’Connor is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. O’Connor completed his medical education & psychiatric residency at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In addition to his particular clinical interest in mental health issues impacting university students, he has experience working with patients with a wide variety of mental health concerns. His background in education instilled an appreciation of the tremendous capacity for growth inherent in every person. He was drawn to the practice of psychiatry as a way of helping individuals recognize & actualize this potential.

Christine Wilzack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMH-CNS, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Sometimes medication therapy is warranted for symptoms related to depressive, anxiety, OCD and PTSD disorders. Medication therapy can be effective to treat imbalances in the brain's circuitry and provide relief of physical symptoms that can occur with psychiatric conditions. It is my goal to to have full understanding of your symptoms so treatment goals and treatment options can be discussed and implemented.
Sometimes medication therapy is warranted for symptoms related to depressive, anxiety, OCD and PTSD disorders. Medication therapy can be effective to treat imbalances in the brain's circuitry and provide relief of physical symptoms that can occur with psychiatric conditions. It is my goal to to have full understanding of your symptoms so treatment goals and treatment options can be discussed and implemented.

Dr. Justin Uzl is double board-certified in adult and consultation liaison psychiatry. His fellowship training helped him gain greater insight in the interface between medicine and mental healthcare. He has been practicing for seven years and has worked closely with individuals with co-occurring chronic medical issues, specifically organ transplantation. Dr. Uzl takes a holistic approach to mental healthcare combining medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to help his patients achieve a quality of life that allows them to pursue their goals.
Dr. Justin Uzl is double board-certified in adult and consultation liaison psychiatry. His fellowship training helped him gain greater insight in the interface between medicine and mental healthcare. He has been practicing for seven years and has worked closely with individuals with co-occurring chronic medical issues, specifically organ transplantation. Dr. Uzl takes a holistic approach to mental healthcare combining medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to help his patients achieve a quality of life that allows them to pursue their goals.

Christopher N Riggan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
My passion for entering the mental health profession originated from the idea of breaking down the negative stigma historically placed upon individuals who struggle with mental health related issues. I want to use the skills and education that I have gained as a resource to those in need of assistance. I want each person that seeks mental health related care from me to feel comforted that we together are a team with a common goal of assisting you to become the most effective version of yourself.
My passion for entering the mental health profession originated from the idea of breaking down the negative stigma historically placed upon individuals who struggle with mental health related issues. I want to use the skills and education that I have gained as a resource to those in need of assistance. I want each person that seeks mental health related care from me to feel comforted that we together are a team with a common goal of assisting you to become the most effective version of yourself.

My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate care, personalized treatment, and tools to manage their mental health. Their goal is to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling, balanced life through tailored support.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate care, personalized treatment, and tools to manage their mental health. Their goal is to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling, balanced life through tailored support.

Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
See more therapy options for Garner
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Garner, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Garner, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
75% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Garner, NC see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Garner?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.