Psychiatrists in High Point, NC

Photo of Larisa Rollins King, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Larisa Rollins King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in medication management that incorporates healthy lifestyle practices, natural treatments, and open communication.
I specialize in medication management that incorporates healthy lifestyle practices, natural treatments, and open communication.
(910) 941-8755 View (910) 941-8755
Photo of Dr. Crystal Montague, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Dr. Crystal Montague
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
High Point, NC 27265
Dr. Crystal Montague, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dually board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of training and expertise treating patients across the lifespan (child to elderly) in a variety of practice settings from hospitals to outpatient clinics. Dr. Montague provides compassionate, therapeutic care, utilizing an evidenced-based, collaborative approach with patients while formulating treatment plans. She strongly advocates for patients to receive appropriate community and school resources, and psychological testing. She is always happy to assist with bridging those connections.
Dr. Crystal Montague, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dually board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of training and expertise treating patients across the lifespan (child to elderly) in a variety of practice settings from hospitals to outpatient clinics. Dr. Montague provides compassionate, therapeutic care, utilizing an evidenced-based, collaborative approach with patients while formulating treatment plans. She strongly advocates for patients to receive appropriate community and school resources, and psychological testing. She is always happy to assist with bridging those connections.
(336) 849-5585 View (336) 849-5585
Photo of Dr. Tina A Okonkwo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Dr. Tina A Okonkwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
High Point, NC 27260
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
(336) 559-3594 View (336) 559-3594
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 Ken Dunham, Psychiatrist, MD, MAEd, FAPA
Ken Dunham
Psychiatrist, MD, MAEd, FAPA
Serves Area
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
(336) 481-7189 View (336) 481-7189
Photo of Monica Nicole Bartorelli - Carolina Restorative Health, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolina Restorative Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
At Carolina Restorative Health (CRH), we are committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that meets the diverse needs of our community. As a provider-led practice, we specialize in innovative treatment options—including Spravato therapy, and integrative psychiatric services—with a focus on outcomes, quality care, and long-term wellness. We offer virtual and in person care to meet your needs. We believe that care is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we combine medical expertise with a personalized, holistic approach to care, empowering each client to take an active role in their mental health journey.
At Carolina Restorative Health (CRH), we are committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that meets the diverse needs of our community. As a provider-led practice, we specialize in innovative treatment options—including Spravato therapy, and integrative psychiatric services—with a focus on outcomes, quality care, and long-term wellness. We offer virtual and in person care to meet your needs. We believe that care is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we combine medical expertise with a personalized, holistic approach to care, empowering each client to take an active role in their mental health journey.
(336) 891-3755 View (336) 891-3755
Photo of Mina Boazak - Animo Sano Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, LCSW, LCMHC
Animo Sano Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, LCSW, LCMHC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
(919) 648-1780 View (919) 648-1780
Photo of Gisela E Knebl Kohl - Certus Psychiatry and Integrated Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Certus Psychiatry and Integrated Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
(833) 701-3111 View (833) 701-3111
Photo of Bassey Kalu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Bassey Kalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi and welcome! I’m a compassionate, board-certified practitioner with 17 years of experience in healthcare. I work with kids, teens, adults, and older adults to provide thoughtful assessments, diagnoses, medication management, and supportive treatment. My experience spans a variety of settings—including inpatient psychiatry, community clinics, correctional mental health, and adolescent hospitals—so I meet people where they are and tailor care to fit their needs.
Hi and welcome! I’m a compassionate, board-certified practitioner with 17 years of experience in healthcare. I work with kids, teens, adults, and older adults to provide thoughtful assessments, diagnoses, medication management, and supportive treatment. My experience spans a variety of settings—including inpatient psychiatry, community clinics, correctional mental health, and adolescent hospitals—so I meet people where they are and tailor care to fit their needs.
(984) 358-2610 View (984) 358-2610
Photo of Onoriode Sylvester Edeh - Integrative Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Integrative Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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 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 Mariam Ramzan - Mariam at Evergreen Psychiatry Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Mariam at Evergreen Psychiatry Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mariam Ramzan is a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with several years of experience in both nursing and psychiatry. Over the past four years, she has primarily worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, delivering care to individuals across the lifespan. Her extensive clinical background includes providing mental health services in diverse settings such as inpatient units, outpatient clinic, urgent care center, and an emergency department. She has worked with individuals with different gender identities as well.
Mariam Ramzan is a compassionate and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with several years of experience in both nursing and psychiatry. Over the past four years, she has primarily worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, delivering care to individuals across the lifespan. Her extensive clinical background includes providing mental health services in diverse settings such as inpatient units, outpatient clinic, urgent care center, and an emergency department. She has worked with individuals with different gender identities as well.
(336) 936-5118 View (336) 936-5118
Photo of Erica Palmiero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Erica Palmiero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with ups and downs in your mood? Or feeling tense, anxious, or irritable for no apparent reason? I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have completed advanced perinatal mental health training through Postpartum Support International. I have worked in numerous inpatient settings including New York Presbyterian’s Division of Psychiatry and have over fifteen years of experience providing psychiatric care across the lifespan. Specializing in therapy and medication management, I use a holistic and integrative approach to diagnose and treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Are you struggling with ups and downs in your mood? Or feeling tense, anxious, or irritable for no apparent reason? I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have completed advanced perinatal mental health training through Postpartum Support International. I have worked in numerous inpatient settings including New York Presbyterian’s Division of Psychiatry and have over fifteen years of experience providing psychiatric care across the lifespan. Specializing in therapy and medication management, I use a holistic and integrative approach to diagnose and treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
(919) 275-1405 View (919) 275-1405
Photo of Laurie Arena, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSWA, RYT-200
Laurie Arena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSWA, RYT-200
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental, physical, and spiritual health are all intertwined. This is why a holistic approach to mental health care is so imperative. I prescribe psychiatric medications and can help you walk through the decision of whether or not medication might be helpful for you, how to optimize your current medication plan, or even the process of coming off of or taking less medication. I can make recommendations about lifestyle, nutrition, stress management, and behavior modification. I also offer individual therapy with or without medication management.
Mental, physical, and spiritual health are all intertwined. This is why a holistic approach to mental health care is so imperative. I prescribe psychiatric medications and can help you walk through the decision of whether or not medication might be helpful for you, how to optimize your current medication plan, or even the process of coming off of or taking less medication. I can make recommendations about lifestyle, nutrition, stress management, and behavior modification. I also offer individual therapy with or without medication management.
(336) 815-4270 View (336) 815-4270
Photo of Kashea Moser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, -BC
Kashea Moser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, -BC
Online Only
Hi, I’m Kashea Moser, PMHNP-BC; a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping people feel seen, heard, and supported in every step of their mental wellness journey. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University of St. Louis and my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Carolina A&T State University. With over 20 years of medical experience, including 8 years specifically in psychiatry, I work with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia.
Hi, I’m Kashea Moser, PMHNP-BC; a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping people feel seen, heard, and supported in every step of their mental wellness journey. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University of St. Louis and my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Carolina A&T State University. With over 20 years of medical experience, including 8 years specifically in psychiatry, I work with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia.
(336) 810-0326 View (336) 810-0326
Photo of Ruby Ramos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Ruby Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
My ideal client is ready to face challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, or trauma with guidance and support. They may feel stuck, struggle to maintain focus, manage emotions, or connect with others, yet they deeply long for clarity, balance, and a meaningful path forward. They appreciate a kind, attentive clinician who listens carefully, tailors care to their unique needs, and works collaboratively with their medical team. Together, we’ll create a safe, judgment-free space to explore strengths, build resilience, and achieve lasting progress toward a life filled with purpose, connection, and emotional well-being.
My ideal client is ready to face challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, or trauma with guidance and support. They may feel stuck, struggle to maintain focus, manage emotions, or connect with others, yet they deeply long for clarity, balance, and a meaningful path forward. They appreciate a kind, attentive clinician who listens carefully, tailors care to their unique needs, and works collaboratively with their medical team. Together, we’ll create a safe, judgment-free space to explore strengths, build resilience, and achieve lasting progress toward a life filled with purpose, connection, and emotional well-being.
(743) 222-4821 View (743) 222-4821

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Katie Dowdy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katie Dowdy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Everyone deserves a meaningful life and I believe optimizing your mental health is key to becoming the person you’re truly meant to be. You deserve to live free from anxiety, depression, and fears that limit your growth and potential. I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where you feel safe to share your story. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals, and then determine the best approach to help you move toward the life you envision. My clinical focus is working with individuals who are seeking a holistic approach to achieving optimal mental health and wellbeing.
Everyone deserves a meaningful life and I believe optimizing your mental health is key to becoming the person you’re truly meant to be. You deserve to live free from anxiety, depression, and fears that limit your growth and potential. I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where you feel safe to share your story. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals, and then determine the best approach to help you move toward the life you envision. My clinical focus is working with individuals who are seeking a holistic approach to achieving optimal mental health and wellbeing.
(910) 541-9994 View (910) 541-9994
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 Shari Sengupta, Psychiatrist, MD
Shari Sengupta
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Shari Sengupta attended the University of OK as a National Merit Scholar and went on to graduate from from Eastern Virginia Medical School. She specialized in Adult Psychiatry at the University of NC Hospitals where she was a chief resident. She received psychotherapy training in insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral approaches and trained at the Psychoanalytic Institute of the Carolinas. She has 18 years of experience providing medication management and psychotherapy in both private practice and community mental health settings and over 10 years of experience in telepsychiatry providing care to underserved communities.
Dr. Shari Sengupta attended the University of OK as a National Merit Scholar and went on to graduate from from Eastern Virginia Medical School. She specialized in Adult Psychiatry at the University of NC Hospitals where she was a chief resident. She received psychotherapy training in insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral approaches and trained at the Psychoanalytic Institute of the Carolinas. She has 18 years of experience providing medication management and psychotherapy in both private practice and community mental health settings and over 10 years of experience in telepsychiatry providing care to underserved communities.
(919) 739-3253 View (919) 739-3253
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

See more therapy options for High Point

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in High Point, NC

10+

Average cost per session

$119

Psychiatrists in High Point, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
94% Medication Management
88% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Sleep or Insomnia
81% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in High Point, NC see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in High Point?

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.