Psychiatrists in Greensboro, NC

Photo of Tiara Shackleford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Tiara Shackleford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Friend! I see you—the one everyone leans on, the dependable friend, coworker, or family member who always seems to have it together. But behind the confident smile and calm exterior is someone carrying more than they let on. Behind the 'strong one' is a person longing to feel truly seen, heard, and understood—a person who wishes they could feel as whole as everyone assumes they are. Sound familiar? You don’t have to carry it all alone. Let’s work together to ease that weight & rediscover the real you. You’re closer to peace, balance, and joy than you might think or feel! Let me walk this journey with you & help you get back to YOU!
Friend! I see you—the one everyone leans on, the dependable friend, coworker, or family member who always seems to have it together. But behind the confident smile and calm exterior is someone carrying more than they let on. Behind the 'strong one' is a person longing to feel truly seen, heard, and understood—a person who wishes they could feel as whole as everyone assumes they are. Sound familiar? You don’t have to carry it all alone. Let’s work together to ease that weight & rediscover the real you. You’re closer to peace, balance, and joy than you might think or feel! Let me walk this journey with you & help you get back to YOU!
(984) 213-5289 x102 View (984) 213-5289 x102
Photo of Evanna Burkett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Evanna Burkett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
When providing care to the psychiatric population it is my duty and responsibility to practice with a non-judgmental approach and meet individuals where they are. The associated stigma, misconceptions, and need for mental health providers serves as a driving force to address the associated stigma, assumptions, and negative associations. I am hopeful that we can overcome this stigma by placing emphasis on your individual goals as it relates to your well-being through effective communication by providing a provider-client relationship where rapport is established and built upon.
When providing care to the psychiatric population it is my duty and responsibility to practice with a non-judgmental approach and meet individuals where they are. The associated stigma, misconceptions, and need for mental health providers serves as a driving force to address the associated stigma, assumptions, and negative associations. I am hopeful that we can overcome this stigma by placing emphasis on your individual goals as it relates to your well-being through effective communication by providing a provider-client relationship where rapport is established and built upon.
(336) 439-8408 View (336) 439-8408
Photo of Catherine Banci, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Catherine Banci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with nearly a decade of experience providing holistic, patient-centered care to children and adolescents facing mental health challenges. I use evidence-based practices to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, learning disorders, mood dysregulation, substance use, behavioral issues, self-harm, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with nearly a decade of experience providing holistic, patient-centered care to children and adolescents facing mental health challenges. I use evidence-based practices to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, learning disorders, mood dysregulation, substance use, behavioral issues, self-harm, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
(336) 814-9881 View (336) 814-9881
Photo of Taylor Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Taylor Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
Taylor Ellis, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated mental health professional based at the Apogee Behavioral Medicine office in Greensboro, NC. With a robust background in psychiatric care and an unwavering commitment to his patients, Taylor brings experience and compassion to his role. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing with honors from UNC Chapel Hill, where he was distinguished as a Behavioral Health Integration Scholar. Before pursuing advanced practice, Taylor gained extensive experience working in a variety of psychiatric and intensive care units, honing his skills in managing complex medical and mental health conditions.
Taylor Ellis, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated mental health professional based at the Apogee Behavioral Medicine office in Greensboro, NC. With a robust background in psychiatric care and an unwavering commitment to his patients, Taylor brings experience and compassion to his role. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing with honors from UNC Chapel Hill, where he was distinguished as a Behavioral Health Integration Scholar. Before pursuing advanced practice, Taylor gained extensive experience working in a variety of psychiatric and intensive care units, honing his skills in managing complex medical and mental health conditions.
(336) 502-8874 View (336) 502-8874
Photo of Mariah Echevarria, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Mariah Echevarria
Physician Assistant, PA-C
3 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.
Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.
(336) 444-6428 View (336) 444-6428
Photo of Onoriode Sylvester Edeh - Integrative Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Integrative Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Greensboro, NC 27408
Hello and welcome to Integrative Psychological Medicine (IPM). Our practice will focus on helping patients and their families with current evidence-based treatment. We will provide behavioral health evaluation encompassing a broad spectrum of psychiatric diagnosis, medication management and providing psychotherapeutic resources. At IPM we consider the patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. We will examine the patient's mind, body and spirit to help enhance the patient's total well-being. We place the patient in an active role as a key partner of all aspects of his or her health and treatment plan. We will help the p
Hello and welcome to Integrative Psychological Medicine (IPM). Our practice will focus on helping patients and their families with current evidence-based treatment. We will provide behavioral health evaluation encompassing a broad spectrum of psychiatric diagnosis, medication management and providing psychotherapeutic resources. At IPM we consider the patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. We will examine the patient's mind, body and spirit to help enhance the patient's total well-being. We place the patient in an active role as a key partner of all aspects of his or her health and treatment plan. We will help the p
(336) 234-3634 View (336) 234-3634
Photo of Jessica Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Jessica Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Greensboro, NC 27401
Jessica has a collaborative approach to mental health care, working closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans using evidence-based interventions. She values taking the time to listen, understand her patients’ concerns, and identify their goals for treatment. Jessica presents treatment options and works with patients to determine the best approach for their needs.
Jessica has a collaborative approach to mental health care, working closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans using evidence-based interventions. She values taking the time to listen, understand her patients’ concerns, and identify their goals for treatment. Jessica presents treatment options and works with patients to determine the best approach for their needs.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Princewill Nwabeke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Princewill Nwabeke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Greensboro, NC 27405
I am Princewill Nwabeke, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a strong background in clinical and correctional mental health care. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing as well as a Master’s in Clinical Research Administration, both from Walden University. With over a decade of nursing experience spanning psychiatric, correctional, and acute care settings, my approach is deeply rooted in providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to everyone’s needs
I am Princewill Nwabeke, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a strong background in clinical and correctional mental health care. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing as well as a Master’s in Clinical Research Administration, both from Walden University. With over a decade of nursing experience spanning psychiatric, correctional, and acute care settings, my approach is deeply rooted in providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to everyone’s needs
(336) 828-2759 View (336) 828-2759
Photo of Kelli Lopez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Kelli Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Greensboro, NC 27401
Kelli firmly believes that someone can create a life worth living for themselves. She helps people through medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Kelli firmly believes that someone can create a life worth living for themselves. She helps people through medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of William Griffies - Mindpath Health Psychiatrists & Therapists, Psychiatrist
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Matthew Guanzon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Matthew Guanzon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Greensboro, NC 27401
Matthew Guanzon chose Psychiatry because it is the culture of his family which is to serve Humanity for giving us a life worth living. His family has ingrained in him that giving back to the community is extremely rewarding when one sees the fruits of his/her labor. Both of his parents are physicians. Psychiatry is Matthew’s passion. He enjoys meeting clients for the first time and understands that this field requires tenderness/sensitivity to begin to unmask the underlying conscious or subconscious psychiatric/psychological issue. Matthew is most passionate about meeting all of his clients’ needs and helping them help themselves.
Matthew Guanzon chose Psychiatry because it is the culture of his family which is to serve Humanity for giving us a life worth living. His family has ingrained in him that giving back to the community is extremely rewarding when one sees the fruits of his/her labor. Both of his parents are physicians. Psychiatry is Matthew’s passion. He enjoys meeting clients for the first time and understands that this field requires tenderness/sensitivity to begin to unmask the underlying conscious or subconscious psychiatric/psychological issue. Matthew is most passionate about meeting all of his clients’ needs and helping them help themselves.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Mariam Nantang - Evergreen Psychiatry Group , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Evergreen Psychiatry Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Accepting New patients. Welcome to Evergreen Psychiatry Group, We understand that seeking mental health care is a deeply personal and sometimes difficult decision. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, We want you to know that you are not alone. Our Team’s mission is to provide compassionate, judgment-free care that meets you where you are in your journey. We believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach, where your voice is heard, your concerns are validated, and your treatment is tailored to your unique needs.
Accepting New patients. Welcome to Evergreen Psychiatry Group, We understand that seeking mental health care is a deeply personal and sometimes difficult decision. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, We want you to know that you are not alone. Our Team’s mission is to provide compassionate, judgment-free care that meets you where you are in your journey. We believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach, where your voice is heard, your concerns are validated, and your treatment is tailored to your unique needs.
(336) 396-6341 View (336) 396-6341
Photo of Jacqueline Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacqueline Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Greensboro, NC 27407
If you’re reading this page, then you may very well be taking the first step toward receiving the care you need. I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Jacqueline Thompson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with nearly two decades of experience in psychiatric nursing. I have spent my entire career providing care for those who struggle with mental illness—helping them to make their mental illness more manageable, or to help them move past it. I would love to do the same for you. I became a PMHNP-BC a little over four years ago after spending 14 years as a nurse, and 13 of those years specializing in psychiatric care.
If you’re reading this page, then you may very well be taking the first step toward receiving the care you need. I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Jacqueline Thompson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with nearly two decades of experience in psychiatric nursing. I have spent my entire career providing care for those who struggle with mental illness—helping them to make their mental illness more manageable, or to help them move past it. I would love to do the same for you. I became a PMHNP-BC a little over four years ago after spending 14 years as a nurse, and 13 of those years specializing in psychiatric care.
(980) 414-3628 View (980) 414-3628
Photo of Dr. Derek C Ayers, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Derek C Ayers
Psychiatrist, DO
Greensboro, NC 27410
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
(336) 948-9249 View (336) 948-9249
Photo of Chris Bruns Aiken - Mood Treatment Center Winston-Salem & Greensboro, Psychiatrist, MD
Psychiatric center with offices in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Clemmons, and Boone NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
Psychiatric center with offices in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Clemmons, and Boone NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
(336) 439-3504 View (336) 439-3504
Photo of Lauren Blankenship, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Lauren Blankenship
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
Lauren is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps the underserved feel cared for, understood, and encouraged to reach their full potential. She works with adults using medication management, dialectical behavioral therapy, diet, exercise, and mindfulness. Lauren has a holistic approach to care and believes a suitable treatment plan is one the patient can agree to and follow.
Lauren is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps the underserved feel cared for, understood, and encouraged to reach their full potential. She works with adults using medication management, dialectical behavioral therapy, diet, exercise, and mindfulness. Lauren has a holistic approach to care and believes a suitable treatment plan is one the patient can agree to and follow.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Barbara Goodman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Barbara Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
(336) 800-1704 View (336) 800-1704
Photo of LaChaya Radcliff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
LaChaya Radcliff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Your life is fairly “together” by outward appearances, but it's sometimes a struggle to pull everything together. Anxiety can get the best of you. Maybe your irritability is noticeable to those closest to you. Maybe you were raised to think accessing mental healthcare and taking medication is “weak” or incongruent to your culture or faith. Maybe you're hesitant to take prescription medication and are interested in natural ways of addressing your concerns first. Maybe you give so much to others that you barely have time to nurture yourself. You’d like to create balance and start prioritizing yourself but might not know how.
Your life is fairly “together” by outward appearances, but it's sometimes a struggle to pull everything together. Anxiety can get the best of you. Maybe your irritability is noticeable to those closest to you. Maybe you were raised to think accessing mental healthcare and taking medication is “weak” or incongruent to your culture or faith. Maybe you're hesitant to take prescription medication and are interested in natural ways of addressing your concerns first. Maybe you give so much to others that you barely have time to nurture yourself. You’d like to create balance and start prioritizing yourself but might not know how.
(336) 715-0137 View (336) 715-0137
Photo of Natasha Cooper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natasha Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Natasha Cooper, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience. My goal is to restore my patients to a place of health and healing through collaboration on individualized treatment plans.
I am Natasha Cooper, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience. My goal is to restore my patients to a place of health and healing through collaboration on individualized treatment plans.
(336) 999-6483 View (336) 999-6483
Photo of Monica Bartorelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Monica Bartorelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27409
As a health care provider with over 10 years of nurse practitioner experience, I would love to learn more about you and how we can work together to improve your mental health. I believe in providing quality care that is client focused and education driven while using the most current treatment guidelines. I provide care that focuses on the whole person, and I seek to provide mental health services to anyone in NC in a virtual setting to those ages 16 and up. Part of my treatment model will evaluate your social determinants of health to ensure there are no barriers to your overall goals that directly impacts your mental health.
As a health care provider with over 10 years of nurse practitioner experience, I would love to learn more about you and how we can work together to improve your mental health. I believe in providing quality care that is client focused and education driven while using the most current treatment guidelines. I provide care that focuses on the whole person, and I seek to provide mental health services to anyone in NC in a virtual setting to those ages 16 and up. Part of my treatment model will evaluate your social determinants of health to ensure there are no barriers to your overall goals that directly impacts your mental health.
(336) 891-9391 View (336) 891-9391
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See more therapy options for Greensboro

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Greensboro, NC

80+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Greensboro, NC who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
81% ADHD
81% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
76% Trauma and PTSD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% BlueCross and BlueShield
91% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Greensboro, NC see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Greensboro?

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.