Psychiatrists in Indian Trail, NC

Photo of Aris Azar, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aris Azar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Indian Trail, NC 28079
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management to help you achieve your goals. My aim is to deliver expert care that aligns with your values and addresses your concerns by offering flexible scheduling, 7 days a week that includes weekends and evenings for your convenience. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, panic disorder and many others. I also provide a holistic approach that integrates therapy seamlessly into your sessions.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management to help you achieve your goals. My aim is to deliver expert care that aligns with your values and addresses your concerns by offering flexible scheduling, 7 days a week that includes weekends and evenings for your convenience. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, panic disorder and many others. I also provide a holistic approach that integrates therapy seamlessly into your sessions.
(704) 610-5876 View (704) 610-5876

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Hairston - 360 Degree Health, PLLC, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
360 Degree Health, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! Welcome! I am a child and adult psychiatrist who is here to help you figure out if medications would be beneficial for you at this time in your life. I see patients from all over NC via video appointments. I enjoy working with children and adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, trauma survivors and patients with anxiety and depression. I help people reclaim their personal power and sense of self by medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes for greater personal empathy and balance.
Now Accepting New Patients! Welcome! I am a child and adult psychiatrist who is here to help you figure out if medications would be beneficial for you at this time in your life. I see patients from all over NC via video appointments. I enjoy working with children and adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, trauma survivors and patients with anxiety and depression. I help people reclaim their personal power and sense of self by medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes for greater personal empathy and balance.
(919) 301-9570 View (919) 301-9570
Photo of Morgan Durand, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant
Morgan Durand
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Marvin, NC 28173
Morgan Durand is originally from Waxhaw, NC and now lives in Charlotte. She obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Gardner-Webb University. Morgan is dedicated to become an integral part of the health and wellness of the community she grew up in and is excited to provide mental health services to adults and pediatric patients. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness and is passionate about always showing respect and understanding to all her patients.
Morgan Durand is originally from Waxhaw, NC and now lives in Charlotte. She obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Gardner-Webb University. Morgan is dedicated to become an integral part of the health and wellness of the community she grew up in and is excited to provide mental health services to adults and pediatric patients. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness and is passionate about always showing respect and understanding to all her patients.
(704) 368-3662 View (704) 368-3662
Photo of Patricia Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a mastered prepared advanced nurse with ten plus years of nursing experience. Knowledgeable in caring and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a mastered prepared advanced nurse with ten plus years of nursing experience. Knowledgeable in caring and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
(704) 459-1057 View (704) 459-1057
Photo of Nicholas Cunningham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicholas Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
A Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nicholas has 10+ years of experience working in both the intensive care and the psychiatric emergency care settings. Shifting his career to focus more on medication management in the Matthews, NC area, Nicholas brings with him a vast understanding of what is needed to keep his patients active in their lives and helping ensure that the health of the patient matches their perspectives. Nicholas prides himself on the patient-provider connection and wants his patients to understand that he is a partner in their care and that the lines of communication are always open.
A Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nicholas has 10+ years of experience working in both the intensive care and the psychiatric emergency care settings. Shifting his career to focus more on medication management in the Matthews, NC area, Nicholas brings with him a vast understanding of what is needed to keep his patients active in their lives and helping ensure that the health of the patient matches their perspectives. Nicholas prides himself on the patient-provider connection and wants his patients to understand that he is a partner in their care and that the lines of communication are always open.
(704) 270-2236 View (704) 270-2236
Photo of Luis Emilio Betancourt, MD, Psychiatrist
Luis Emilio Betancourt
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
I specialize in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric and psychological diagnostic evaluations as well as evidenced and empirically-based psychotherapy & medication management treatment services for children, adolescents, adults and families. I have experience caring for Depressive, Bipolar, Autism spectrum, Anxiety, Substance abuse, Personality, Obsessive Compulsive, Tic, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress and psychotic disorders. I also have experience and interest in the interface between religion-spirituality and psychiatry.
I specialize in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric and psychological diagnostic evaluations as well as evidenced and empirically-based psychotherapy & medication management treatment services for children, adolescents, adults and families. I have experience caring for Depressive, Bipolar, Autism spectrum, Anxiety, Substance abuse, Personality, Obsessive Compulsive, Tic, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress and psychotic disorders. I also have experience and interest in the interface between religion-spirituality and psychiatry.
(980) 365-8429 View (980) 365-8429
Photo of Dr. Tamara A. Neely, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tamara A. Neely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227  (Online Only)
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
(980) 399-5417 View (980) 399-5417
Photo of Lucinda Agbewali - Gateway Charlotte Wellness, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gateway Charlotte Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to adults). Highly trained, empathetic, friendly and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancement in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental Health. Currently works at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospital. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime at their convenience. Why wait? call now for help.
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to adults). Highly trained, empathetic, friendly and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancement in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental Health. Currently works at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospital. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime at their convenience. Why wait? call now for help.
(980) 326-4916 View (980) 326-4916
Photo of David Balis Patton, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
David Balis Patton
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28104
Please contact my office for appointments and prescription refills. I am co-founder of Pediatric & Family Behavioral Health, PLLC, (PFBH)- a psychiatry clinic in South Charlotte. PFBH specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. We are an evidence-based clinic that deals primarily in medication management & psychotherapy. We have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder & Psychosis.
Please contact my office for appointments and prescription refills. I am co-founder of Pediatric & Family Behavioral Health, PLLC, (PFBH)- a psychiatry clinic in South Charlotte. PFBH specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. We are an evidence-based clinic that deals primarily in medication management & psychotherapy. We have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder & Psychosis.
(704) 237-6843 View (704) 237-6843
Photo of Byron Strother, MD, Psychiatrist
Byron Strother
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Dr. Strother graduated from Case Western Reserve medical school in Cleveland Ohio, and completed his psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He is a board-certified psychiatrist, and has been proud to practice his specialty in the US Army as an active duty physician. Dr. Strother is also an attorney who previously specialized in corporate tax law. Doc B as he is frequently called by many of his patients, enjoys both outpatient psychiatry and inpatient acute care.
Dr. Strother graduated from Case Western Reserve medical school in Cleveland Ohio, and completed his psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He is a board-certified psychiatrist, and has been proud to practice his specialty in the US Army as an active duty physician. Dr. Strother is also an attorney who previously specialized in corporate tax law. Doc B as he is frequently called by many of his patients, enjoys both outpatient psychiatry and inpatient acute care.
(980) 393-6609 View (980) 393-6609
Photo of Dr. Sabina Benel, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Sabina Benel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28104
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
(833) 906-0029 View (833) 906-0029
Photo of Dr. Denise Davis, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Denise Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Dr. Davis. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I have a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice and am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have served clients in the mental health field for over 11 years as a Registered Nurse in acute behavioral health facilities, in-patient psychiatric facilities, and also at a state mental health hospital.
Welcome! I am Dr. Davis. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I have a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice and am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have served clients in the mental health field for over 11 years as a Registered Nurse in acute behavioral health facilities, in-patient psychiatric facilities, and also at a state mental health hospital.
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Photo of Lauren Smith, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Lauren Smith
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
My main goal as a physician assistant is to provide personable, patient-oriented care. I chose psychiatry in order to implement my passion for mental health awareness. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and ADHD. I work with both adolescents and adults. I am in person in Charlotte and virtual in Rocky Mount NC.
My main goal as a physician assistant is to provide personable, patient-oriented care. I chose psychiatry in order to implement my passion for mental health awareness. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and ADHD. I work with both adolescents and adults. I am in person in Charlotte and virtual in Rocky Mount NC.
(704) 859-2799 View (704) 859-2799
Photo of Hopeway Psychiatry And Associates - HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates, Psychiatrist
HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates offers personalized psychiatric and clinical care because we know that each client’s journey is unique, but recovery is possible for everyone. The team of well-respected, highly-qualified professionals works with every client to identify the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.
HopeWay Psychiatry & Associates offers personalized psychiatric and clinical care because we know that each client’s journey is unique, but recovery is possible for everyone. The team of well-respected, highly-qualified professionals works with every client to identify the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.
(704) 610-4911 View (704) 610-4911
Photo of Carla Sinclair, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carla Sinclair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
My name is Carla Sinclair and I am the founder of Braintree Psychiatry. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of nursing experience.
My name is Carla Sinclair and I am the founder of Braintree Psychiatry. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of nursing experience.
(704) 666-9479 View (704) 666-9479
Photo of Camellia Douglas, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Camellia Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
I'm Camellia Douglas, a dedicated and compassionate provider committed to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empathy, understanding, and evidence-based interventions. My mission is to support individuals in their journey toward mental well-being, recognizing the unique challenges each person faces. I earned my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. With years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide range of mental health conditions.
I'm Camellia Douglas, a dedicated and compassionate provider committed to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empathy, understanding, and evidence-based interventions. My mission is to support individuals in their journey toward mental well-being, recognizing the unique challenges each person faces. I earned my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. With years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide range of mental health conditions.
(980) 449-2590 View (980) 449-2590
Photo of Rohan Matthews - Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
(704) 936-0200 View (704) 936-0200
Photo of April Schindler, MD, Psychiatrist
April Schindler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages. My job is to help you recover and thrive. I use a gentle, supportive style informed by the latest scientific evidence to guide you toward health. In my medical training, I was taught the art of whole person care. I learned that a patient's needs often go beyond the healing of the body. Being the whole person that you are, you come with psychological, emotional, intellectual, cultural, relational, and spiritual faculties that are equally affected by your illness. Together, we will integrate important aspects of who you are into the assessment and treatment of your concerns.
I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages. My job is to help you recover and thrive. I use a gentle, supportive style informed by the latest scientific evidence to guide you toward health. In my medical training, I was taught the art of whole person care. I learned that a patient's needs often go beyond the healing of the body. Being the whole person that you are, you come with psychological, emotional, intellectual, cultural, relational, and spiritual faculties that are equally affected by your illness. Together, we will integrate important aspects of who you are into the assessment and treatment of your concerns.
(704) 327-5561 View (704) 327-5561
Photo of Arlette Owens-Mosley, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arlette Owens-Mosley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience with psychiatric patients began with adults while working as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working with varied psychiatric disorders including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorders. In addition I am also experienced with Substance use and Alcohol use disorders. I also perform Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations and Substance Abuse Assessments.
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience with psychiatric patients began with adults while working as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working with varied psychiatric disorders including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorders. In addition I am also experienced with Substance use and Alcohol use disorders. I also perform Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations and Substance Abuse Assessments.
(704) 270-5182 View (704) 270-5182
Photo of Claris Livingstone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Claris Livingstone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
Originally from the Caribbean, Claris started her nursing career over 30 years ago and is currently a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Claris graduated from Walden University with her family medicine studies and then from Liberty University with her psychiatric studies. Claris has a combined nursing experiencing spanning from neonatal to geriatric nursing responding to various levels of urgent and severe medical conditions and stabilization of such conditions. Claris' current focus is family psychiatry. She is of the firm belief that mental health is vital in every stage of life.
(704) 850-5596 View (704) 850-5596

See more therapy options for Indian Trail

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Indian Trail, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Indian Trail, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Indian Trail, NC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Indian Trail?

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.