Psychiatrists in Henderson, NC

Photo of Ndukwe Bassey Kalu, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ndukwe Bassey Kalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henderson, NC 27536
Welcome! I am your compassionate board-certified Practitioner specializing in the assessment, diagnoses, medication management, and therapeutic treatment for pediatric and adult populations. I have had 17 years of experience in healthcare including but not limited to inpatient psychiatry, community health, correctional mental health, and adolescent inpatient hospitalization.
Welcome! I am your compassionate board-certified Practitioner specializing in the assessment, diagnoses, medication management, and therapeutic treatment for pediatric and adult populations. I have had 17 years of experience in healthcare including but not limited to inpatient psychiatry, community health, correctional mental health, and adolescent inpatient hospitalization.
(984) 358-2610 View (984) 358-2610
Photo of Eric D Morse, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Eric D Morse
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Henderson, NC 27536
Dr. Eric Morse helps people recover from many substance use disorders and mental illnesses. He has a busy Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) maintenance program for opioid use disorder within his private practice in Carolina Performance (see www.CarolinaPerformance.net) at 8300 Health Park. He works for the SAMHSA Opioid Response Network and Physician Clinical Support System as a mentor to train physicians on the proper treatment of opioid use disorder and directs the opioid treatment programs known as the Morse Clinics, see www.MorseClinics.com
Dr. Eric Morse helps people recover from many substance use disorders and mental illnesses. He has a busy Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) maintenance program for opioid use disorder within his private practice in Carolina Performance (see www.CarolinaPerformance.net) at 8300 Health Park. He works for the SAMHSA Opioid Response Network and Physician Clinical Support System as a mentor to train physicians on the proper treatment of opioid use disorder and directs the opioid treatment programs known as the Morse Clinics, see www.MorseClinics.com
(252) 572-2625 View (252) 572-2625

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Denise Wilbanks, DNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise Wilbanks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
(828) 383-9402 View (828) 383-9402
Photo of Saman Hasan, MD, Psychiatrist
Saman Hasan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
(919) 842-3772 View (919) 842-3772
Photo of Samantha Dietter, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Samantha Dietter
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Accepting new clients - Ages 5+, teens and adults for medication management. Virtual and in-office appointments. I have a passion for providing patient-centered mental health care. I will work collaboratively with you to create a personalized care plan, through shared decision making and incorporation of your strengths. Using a holistic approach, we will combine lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and psychotropic treatments to assist you and your family.
Accepting new clients - Ages 5+, teens and adults for medication management. Virtual and in-office appointments. I have a passion for providing patient-centered mental health care. I will work collaboratively with you to create a personalized care plan, through shared decision making and incorporation of your strengths. Using a holistic approach, we will combine lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and psychotropic treatments to assist you and your family.
(984) 364-8172 View (984) 364-8172
Photo of Jason T. Witmer - Jason T. Witmer, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Jason T. Witmer, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I help people dealing with a range of questions, including deciding who and how to love, how to create family and community, finding meaning and success in work, how to cope with loss, issues related to gender, identity, and race, and how to overcome anxiety and depression.
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I help people dealing with a range of questions, including deciding who and how to love, how to create family and community, finding meaning and success in work, how to cope with loss, issues related to gender, identity, and race, and how to overcome anxiety and depression.
(919) 823-7068 View (919) 823-7068
Photo of Reshana Dupree, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reshana Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hello. My name is Reshana Dupree. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years. I am well versed in working with all types of clients with a variety of issues. I use a holistic, patient centered approach to ensure each individuals needs are met in the best way possible. I received my BSN from North Carolina Central University, and my post masters certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University.
Hello. My name is Reshana Dupree. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years. I am well versed in working with all types of clients with a variety of issues. I use a holistic, patient centered approach to ensure each individuals needs are met in the best way possible. I received my BSN from North Carolina Central University, and my post masters certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University.
(984) 214-4252 View (984) 214-4252
Photo of Natasha Cooper, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410  (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 William Russell Cannon, MD, Psychiatrist
William Russell Cannon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
In my psychotherapy practice, my goal is to create a collaborative environment to understand the patterns in our behavior and relationships that hold us back from our potential towards meaning and fulfillment in our lives. There isn't always an answer to our problems/suffering but I do think we can examine our relationship to our struggles in order to make the choices that are most in accordance with our deepest values.
In my psychotherapy practice, my goal is to create a collaborative environment to understand the patterns in our behavior and relationships that hold us back from our potential towards meaning and fulfillment in our lives. There isn't always an answer to our problems/suffering but I do think we can examine our relationship to our struggles in order to make the choices that are most in accordance with our deepest values.
(919) 729-2214 View (919) 729-2214
Photo of Dr. Caleb Whitenack, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Caleb Whitenack
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I treat patients who are facing mental health challenges, like ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder as well as mental health issues specific to women. Patients are usually looking for relief from overwhelming symptoms, a deeper understanding of their emotions, and a pathway to healing. Their ultimate goal is not just survival but to thrive—to rediscover stability, boost self-esteem, and reclaim a life filled with purpose and joy.
I treat patients who are facing mental health challenges, like ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder as well as mental health issues specific to women. Patients are usually looking for relief from overwhelming symptoms, a deeper understanding of their emotions, and a pathway to healing. Their ultimate goal is not just survival but to thrive—to rediscover stability, boost self-esteem, and reclaim a life filled with purpose and joy.
(919) 261-3543 View (919) 261-3543
Photo of Nkem 'nk' Nkwonta, MBBS, MS, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkem 'nk' Nkwonta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBBS, MS, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
The same day appointments available! Schedule an appointment today by clicking on the website link! Are you experiencing mental health challenges? Just know that you are not alone! This mental health professional utilizes holistic approach to mental health care. Nk is dedicated to helping clients find balance and well-being in their lives. Nk believes in a collaborative and integrative approach to treatment and focuses on the whole person, not just their symptoms. Her goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care and to help her clients reach their maximum potential in a safe and welcoming environment.
The same day appointments available! Schedule an appointment today by clicking on the website link! Are you experiencing mental health challenges? Just know that you are not alone! This mental health professional utilizes holistic approach to mental health care. Nk is dedicated to helping clients find balance and well-being in their lives. Nk believes in a collaborative and integrative approach to treatment and focuses on the whole person, not just their symptoms. Her goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care and to help her clients reach their maximum potential in a safe and welcoming environment.
(919) 343-0810 View (919) 343-0810
Photo of Adam J Lake, MD, Psychiatrist
Adam J Lake
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting New Patients (In-person & Virtual). Located in North Hills neighborhood of Raleigh. A Board Certified physician, Dr Lake offers the full spectrum of medications and psychotherapy. This includes specialties in adolescent & adult ADHD, treatment of older adults (65+), college/graduate students, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
Accepting New Patients (In-person & Virtual). Located in North Hills neighborhood of Raleigh. A Board Certified physician, Dr Lake offers the full spectrum of medications and psychotherapy. This includes specialties in adolescent & adult ADHD, treatment of older adults (65+), college/graduate students, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
(919) 289-1846 View (919) 289-1846
Photo of Joseph Jordan, MSPA, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Joseph Jordan
Physician Assistant, MSPA, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27604
I am a board-certified PA with a certificate of additional qualifications in psychiatry (CAQ-Psychiatry). I have experience working with adults with a myriad of psychiatric illnesses, but I have a vested interest in LGBTQ+ mental healthcare, treatment-resistant depression, personality disorders, and trauma-based disorders.
I am a board-certified PA with a certificate of additional qualifications in psychiatry (CAQ-Psychiatry). I have experience working with adults with a myriad of psychiatric illnesses, but I have a vested interest in LGBTQ+ mental healthcare, treatment-resistant depression, personality disorders, and trauma-based disorders.
(984) 305-2476 View (984) 305-2476
Photo of Jennifer Carner, PHHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Carner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHHNP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
(828) 888-0796 View (828) 888-0796
Photo of Brian Sachs - Redeem Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Redeem Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression, insomnia or fatigue, perhaps divorce or toxic relationships? You're not alone. I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can be to seek mental health services in our healthcare system. But here's the good news: I am here to help you. As a family physician specializing in medical and integrative psychiatry, I offer the professional and personal experience you need to overcome these challenges. Together, we can navigate your journey towards healing and reclaiming your wellbeing.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression, insomnia or fatigue, perhaps divorce or toxic relationships? You're not alone. I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can be to seek mental health services in our healthcare system. But here's the good news: I am here to help you. As a family physician specializing in medical and integrative psychiatry, I offer the professional and personal experience you need to overcome these challenges. Together, we can navigate your journey towards healing and reclaiming your wellbeing.
(910) 900-6066 View (910) 900-6066
Photo of Jacqueline Woodcock, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jacqueline Woodcock
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
I work with patients whose goal is to treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. My patients often come to me when they're looking to bring joy back into their lives, whether they're taking their first steps in addressing mental health issues or resuming their mental health care journey. I strive to meet my patients exactly where they need it, and I am dedicated to creating a welcoming and secure space for anyone grappling with their mental health. In my practice, I’m not just about prescriptions; I believe in forming meaningful connections with my patients and see myself as your advocate for positive change.
I work with patients whose goal is to treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. My patients often come to me when they're looking to bring joy back into their lives, whether they're taking their first steps in addressing mental health issues or resuming their mental health care journey. I strive to meet my patients exactly where they need it, and I am dedicated to creating a welcoming and secure space for anyone grappling with their mental health. In my practice, I’m not just about prescriptions; I believe in forming meaningful connections with my patients and see myself as your advocate for positive change.
(984) 230-4627 View (984) 230-4627
Photo of Dr. Gregory Helton, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Gregory Helton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Dr. Gergory Helton is fascinated by the mind. He wants his patients to understand themselves to help relieve their suffering. Dr. Helton helps patients suffering from psychosis with long-acting injectables.
Dr. Gergory Helton is fascinated by the mind. He wants his patients to understand themselves to help relieve their suffering. Dr. Helton helps patients suffering from psychosis with long-acting injectables.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Christine Wilzack, MS, PMH-CNS, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Wilzack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMH-CNS, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 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.
(919) 646-2951 View (919) 646-2951
Photo of Duncan McEwen, MD, Psychiatrist
Duncan McEwen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. I am dual board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction medicine. I have extensive experience in treating psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety and related mood disorders. I offer Ketamine treatment for patients experiencing treatment resistant depression. Patients integrate their experience with Ketamine with the psychological issues that are important to them thus enhancing their counseling experience. Treatment should lead patients towards growth, independence, and resilience. Learn more about my work at www.wfpanc.com and facebook.com/wellnessfirstpsychiatric.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. I am dual board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction medicine. I have extensive experience in treating psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety and related mood disorders. I offer Ketamine treatment for patients experiencing treatment resistant depression. Patients integrate their experience with Ketamine with the psychological issues that are important to them thus enhancing their counseling experience. Treatment should lead patients towards growth, independence, and resilience. Learn more about my work at www.wfpanc.com and facebook.com/wellnessfirstpsychiatric.
(919) 429-7458 x1 View (919) 429-7458 x1
Photo of LaChaya Radcliff, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LaChaya Radcliff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408  (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

See more therapy options for Henderson

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Henderson, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Henderson, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder

Gender breakdown

100% Male

How Psychiatrists in Henderson, NC see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Henderson?

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.