Psychiatrists in Matthews, NC

Photo of Dr. Byron Strother - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(980) 303-2987 View (980) 303-2987
Photo of Patricia Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Patricia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
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 Byron Strother, Psychiatrist, MD
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 Nicholas Cunningham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nicholas Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, 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 Glory Gilbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Glory Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello I'm Glory and I am here to assist you with any needs or concerns based on my expertise. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat each person in the way I would like to be treated. Each person and/or needs are different. Therefore, I treat each person with an individualized treatment plan that is person-centered. I look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals.
Hello I'm Glory and I am here to assist you with any needs or concerns based on my expertise. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat each person in the way I would like to be treated. Each person and/or needs are different. Therefore, I treat each person with an individualized treatment plan that is person-centered. I look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals.
(910) 679-9295 View (910) 679-9295
Photo of Kareem Boles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Kareem Boles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Kareem Boles, PMHNP-BC. I received my master’s degree in nursing at the University of South Alabama in 2021; and I became board certified as a licensed nurse practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2022. I have experience in a variety of settings since 2016 including intensive care, correctional facilities, long-term care, and outpatient services.
My name is Kareem Boles, PMHNP-BC. I received my master’s degree in nursing at the University of South Alabama in 2021; and I became board certified as a licensed nurse practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2022. I have experience in a variety of settings since 2016 including intensive care, correctional facilities, long-term care, and outpatient services.
(919) 635-4429 View (919) 635-4429
Photo of Dr. Amanda Culp-Roche, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Dr. Amanda Culp-Roche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life is hectic, and we often put off taking care of ourselves. Thank you for making your mental health a priority! Mental health is a deeply personal experience, and each person's path to wellness is different. Effective care is built on trust, respect, and communication; a provider who listens attentively and empathetically is key to understanding each individual's unique needs, goals, and perspectives. Empowering each person to take ownership of their mental health journey and working collaboratively with them to achieve meaningful progress can lead to hope, resilience, and a sense of achievement.
Life is hectic, and we often put off taking care of ourselves. Thank you for making your mental health a priority! Mental health is a deeply personal experience, and each person's path to wellness is different. Effective care is built on trust, respect, and communication; a provider who listens attentively and empathetically is key to understanding each individual's unique needs, goals, and perspectives. Empowering each person to take ownership of their mental health journey and working collaboratively with them to achieve meaningful progress can lead to hope, resilience, and a sense of achievement.
(910) 460-6558 View (910) 460-6558
Photo of Dr. Denise Lynne Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Dr. Denise Lynne Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(704) 350-2958 View (704) 350-2958
Photo of Laura Mary Foster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Laura Mary Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
The journey towards mental health and wellness is a marathon and not a race. I am a military veteran licensed in NC and VA . I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population as a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner in the military, community health, and private practice. For immediate service text or call 800-436-8510
The journey towards mental health and wellness is a marathon and not a race. I am a military veteran licensed in NC and VA . I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population as a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner in the military, community health, and private practice. For immediate service text or call 800-436-8510
(984) 217-8847 View (984) 217-8847
Photo of William Griffies - Mindpath Health Psychiatrists & Therapists, Psychiatrist
Mindpath Health Psychiatrists & Therapists
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 David Balis Patton, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
David Balis Patton
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Ronald Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Ronald Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of experience in healthcare, including 9 years in the US Navy and over 10 years as a civilian, I am deeply committed to the belief that prioritizing both mental and physical health is essential for achieving happiness and stability in life. Over the past five years, I have dedicated myself to working in an outpatient mental health setting, where I continue to support individuals on their journey toward improved well-being.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of experience in healthcare, including 9 years in the US Navy and over 10 years as a civilian, I am deeply committed to the belief that prioritizing both mental and physical health is essential for achieving happiness and stability in life. Over the past five years, I have dedicated myself to working in an outpatient mental health setting, where I continue to support individuals on their journey toward improved well-being.
(984) 600-7351 View (984) 600-7351
Photo of Carla Sinclair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carla Sinclair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Rashonda Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rashonda Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you tired of feeling down, and depressed with low to no motivation? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts and/or trouble sleeping? Are you or a loved one struggling with staying on task, focusing, or remembering things? What about experiencing some increased stress and needing help with coping skills? No worries! I am here to help! My name is Rashonda Wilson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed by the State of North Carolina and board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Are you tired of feeling down, and depressed with low to no motivation? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts and/or trouble sleeping? Are you or a loved one struggling with staying on task, focusing, or remembering things? What about experiencing some increased stress and needing help with coping skills? No worries! I am here to help! My name is Rashonda Wilson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed by the State of North Carolina and board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
(980) 983-5591 View (980) 983-5591
Photo of Dr. Sabina Benel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Dr. Sabina Benel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Melanie Fossinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, NP
Melanie Fossinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate availability for medication management of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders for ages 13 and up. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in treating adolescents and adults. My practice is based in Charlotte, NC, and I am able to provide telehealth visits for people residing in North Carolina. I approach all of my patients with curiosity, openness, and understanding. Adolescence is a time of great transition and growth where deep relationships are crucial to building resilience and a fulfilled life. I’m looking forward to working with you during this formative stage in your life.
Immediate availability for medication management of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders for ages 13 and up. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in treating adolescents and adults. My practice is based in Charlotte, NC, and I am able to provide telehealth visits for people residing in North Carolina. I approach all of my patients with curiosity, openness, and understanding. Adolescence is a time of great transition and growth where deep relationships are crucial to building resilience and a fulfilled life. I’m looking forward to working with you during this formative stage in your life.
(980) 372-1618 View (980) 372-1618
Photo of Tia Konzer, Psychiatrist, DO
Tia Konzer
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I practice a comprehensive approach to medicine and believe strongly in the importance of treating the mind, body, and spirit to achieve wellness. The sacred relationship between the physician and patient can be just as important as the medicine or therapy provided. Thus, I provide longer comprehensive appointments and am accessible to patients to ensure that their concerns are heard and they feel understood. Focusing on the whole person, I work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans to address various aspects of their lives including sleep, nutrition and exercise, relationship strategies, coping skills, etc.
I practice a comprehensive approach to medicine and believe strongly in the importance of treating the mind, body, and spirit to achieve wellness. The sacred relationship between the physician and patient can be just as important as the medicine or therapy provided. Thus, I provide longer comprehensive appointments and am accessible to patients to ensure that their concerns are heard and they feel understood. Focusing on the whole person, I work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans to address various aspects of their lives including sleep, nutrition and exercise, relationship strategies, coping skills, etc.
(704) 624-7258 View (704) 624-7258
Photo of Solange Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Solange Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas with over ten years of experience as a registered nurse. Throughout my career, I have worked in various clinical settings, including surgery and home health. I have served as a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in pain management for the past three years. During this time, I became aware of the interconnectedness of various comorbid conditions and mental health. This realization motivated me to pursue post-master’s training as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Texas with over ten years of experience as a registered nurse. Throughout my career, I have worked in various clinical settings, including surgery and home health. I have served as a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in pain management for the past three years. During this time, I became aware of the interconnectedness of various comorbid conditions and mental health. This realization motivated me to pursue post-master’s training as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
(281) 729-0116 View (281) 729-0116
Photo of Brandy Torrence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brandy Torrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am a psychiatric - mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina. I have over 16 years of health care experience and have functioned as a PMHNP for 1 year. I primarily offer medication management but also incorporate lifestyle recommendations and brief therapy. I enjoy partnering with adults to gain improved mental wellness and a greater sense of peace.
Hello! I am a psychiatric - mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina. I have over 16 years of health care experience and have functioned as a PMHNP for 1 year. I primarily offer medication management but also incorporate lifestyle recommendations and brief therapy. I enjoy partnering with adults to gain improved mental wellness and a greater sense of peace.
(980) 737-1290 View (980) 737-1290

See more therapy options for Matthews

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Matthews, NC

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Matthews, NC who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
94% Bipolar Disorder
88% ADHD
88% Trauma and PTSD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
56% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
93% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Matthews, NC see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Female
45% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Matthews?

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.