Psychiatrists in New Hanover County, NC
Margaret Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I am one of the few integrative psychiatry providers in Wilmington. Specializing in medication management and collaborative treatment planning: Welcome to Stella Maris, which in Latin means star of the sea to encompass that we are on a journey together. Like the north star to a sailor or a lighthouse to a ship I wish to be a place of hope, safety, and guidance!
I am one of the few integrative psychiatry providers in Wilmington. Specializing in medication management and collaborative treatment planning: Welcome to Stella Maris, which in Latin means star of the sea to encompass that we are on a journey together. Like the north star to a sailor or a lighthouse to a ship I wish to be a place of hope, safety, and guidance!
Melissa M Krivanek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have learned how to care for those struggling with mental health conditions. I am passionate about helping others live their lives to the fullest and promote mental wellness across the lifespan.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have learned how to care for those struggling with mental health conditions. I am passionate about helping others live their lives to the fullest and promote mental wellness across the lifespan.
Angela Rasheed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403 (Online Only)
During medication management with me, our first visit will consist of me listening to your concerns while obtaining a thorough history from you & assessing your needs and situation. I will provide clinical advice based on my expertise based on evidence based clinical data and studies and allowing you to participate actively in your treatment.
During medication management with me, our first visit will consist of me listening to your concerns while obtaining a thorough history from you & assessing your needs and situation. I will provide clinical advice based on my expertise based on evidence based clinical data and studies and allowing you to participate actively in your treatment.
Henrick Ledain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
At BeachBrain PLLC, we understand that an individuals mental health can have ebbs and flows. Usually, there is a fine line between mental health and mental illness. At Beach Brain, we can help you steer the course back to the better person you deserve to be. With a patient-centered approach, straightforward, evidence-based medication treatment, and supportive therapy. You will feel confident navigating the currents of life.
At BeachBrain PLLC, we understand that an individuals mental health can have ebbs and flows. Usually, there is a fine line between mental health and mental illness. At Beach Brain, we can help you steer the course back to the better person you deserve to be. With a patient-centered approach, straightforward, evidence-based medication treatment, and supportive therapy. You will feel confident navigating the currents of life.
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse 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.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse 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.
Dr Borhan Darmal, MD is a psychiatrist who is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology a chapter of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr. Darmal was raised in Hawaii and received his undergraduate degree from San Diego state university. He earned his medical degree from St George’s university school of medicine. He completed his psychiatric residency at Lewisgale medical center in southwest Virginia, where he became interested in incorporating spirituality into the biopsychosocial model. Dr. Darmal aims to provide patients the highest level of care.
Dr Borhan Darmal, MD is a psychiatrist who is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology a chapter of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr. Darmal was raised in Hawaii and received his undergraduate degree from San Diego state university. He earned his medical degree from St George’s university school of medicine. He completed his psychiatric residency at Lewisgale medical center in southwest Virginia, where he became interested in incorporating spirituality into the biopsychosocial model. Dr. Darmal aims to provide patients the highest level of care.
Anka Roberto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28409
Waitlist for new clients
Are you riddled with negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself that get in the way of leading your best possible life? Has your body been affected by mental health symptoms that have interrupted your overall wellness and quality of life, overwhelming your mind, body, soul, and spirit? Sleeplessness, anxiety, depression, overthinking, and being hyper-alert are just some of the symptoms that may be impacting you as a result of traumatic/adverse life experiences. Achieving wellness and wholeness is possible for you through the use of EMDR, even if you’ve tried many other therapies.
Are you riddled with negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself that get in the way of leading your best possible life? Has your body been affected by mental health symptoms that have interrupted your overall wellness and quality of life, overwhelming your mind, body, soul, and spirit? Sleeplessness, anxiety, depression, overthinking, and being hyper-alert are just some of the symptoms that may be impacting you as a result of traumatic/adverse life experiences. Achieving wellness and wholeness is possible for you through the use of EMDR, even if you’ve tried many other therapies.
Accepting new clients, not accepting new ADHD clients. My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high-quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. You need someone who is patient, willing to listen, and takes the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and learn about your goals related to relationships, family, support networks, work, personal interests, quality of life, physical health and wellness. Together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I do not prescribe weight loss medication.
Accepting new clients, not accepting new ADHD clients. My goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, comprehensive, high-quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. You need someone who is patient, willing to listen, and takes the time to understand what you are going through. I will get to know you, answer your questions, and learn about your goals related to relationships, family, support networks, work, personal interests, quality of life, physical health and wellness. Together we can decide on a plan that works for you. I do not prescribe weight loss medication.
I am a board-certified PA who specializes in medication management for a wide array of psychiatric disorders. I graduated from Methodist University in 2020 with a Masters of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies.
I am a board-certified PA who specializes in medication management for a wide array of psychiatric disorders. I graduated from Methodist University in 2020 with a Masters of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies.
CapeSide Psychiatry & CapeSide Addiction Care
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Capeside Psychiatry is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide evaluations, psychological assessments, therapy, and medication management for a range of psychological and behavioral health disorders. Capeside Addiction Care is committed to reducing opioid dependence. Our telehealth services and customized treatment plans allow patients to go through recovery anonymously, keeping their everyday lives intact. Our patients hold the power of their recovery when given the opportunity to get the help they truly need.
Capeside Psychiatry is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide evaluations, psychological assessments, therapy, and medication management for a range of psychological and behavioral health disorders. Capeside Addiction Care is committed to reducing opioid dependence. Our telehealth services and customized treatment plans allow patients to go through recovery anonymously, keeping their everyday lives intact. Our patients hold the power of their recovery when given the opportunity to get the help they truly need.
Patrick McConnell, PA-C relocated to Wilmington in 2004. Mr. McConnell trained in Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked at The Cleveland Clinic, hospitals and healthcare facilities. He has extensive training and experience in Psychiatry, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care and Family Practice Medicine. He is board certified by the NCCPA with over 35 years of experience.
Patrick McConnell, PA-C relocated to Wilmington in 2004. Mr. McConnell trained in Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked at The Cleveland Clinic, hospitals and healthcare facilities. He has extensive training and experience in Psychiatry, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care and Family Practice Medicine. He is board certified by the NCCPA with over 35 years of experience.
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Ashli Gibson
Affiliated Medical Group
Shawn Faust
Mountain Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
David Ahlberg
Amanda Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Everyone goes through difficult times in their life. Sometimes we need a little more help than usual to pick up the pieces & keep moving forward. When you are struggling to cope with mental health symptoms, you need someone who will listen & who will provide a helping hand. That's what I try to do with all of my patients at Nautilus Mental Health. Medications may not "fix" everything, but they can be a very helpful tool to help you work toward optimal mental health, in combination with therapy & other important supports.
Everyone goes through difficult times in their life. Sometimes we need a little more help than usual to pick up the pieces & keep moving forward. When you are struggling to cope with mental health symptoms, you need someone who will listen & who will provide a helping hand. That's what I try to do with all of my patients at Nautilus Mental Health. Medications may not "fix" everything, but they can be a very helpful tool to help you work toward optimal mental health, in combination with therapy & other important supports.
Ashli Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Ashli is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry. She has a background as a Certified Nurse-Midwife in which she developed expertise in prenatal care, birth, postpartum care, and gynecology over the span of six years. As a midwife, Ashli experienced firsthand how prevalent the adversities are that individuals face regarding reproductive challenges and transitions and how few mental health resources there are available to those who need them at such a vulnerable time. She offers medication management and support through a process that values empowerment and respect.
Ashli is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry. She has a background as a Certified Nurse-Midwife in which she developed expertise in prenatal care, birth, postpartum care, and gynecology over the span of six years. As a midwife, Ashli experienced firsthand how prevalent the adversities are that individuals face regarding reproductive challenges and transitions and how few mental health resources there are available to those who need them at such a vulnerable time. She offers medication management and support through a process that values empowerment and respect.
My name is Elizabeth Eaton and I am a board-certified mental health practitioner. I provide medication management with talk therapy. I do not believe medication is always the answer and I am here to help you determine if it can be the right choice for you. I believe focusing on you and your needs is what is important to help you restore your mental health. INTAKES- VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON
My name is Elizabeth Eaton and I am a board-certified mental health practitioner. I provide medication management with talk therapy. I do not believe medication is always the answer and I am here to help you determine if it can be the right choice for you. I believe focusing on you and your needs is what is important to help you restore your mental health. INTAKES- VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON
Accepting New Clients! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience across the lifespan. I started in a Surgical Trauma ICU helping patients and their families navigate through difficult traumatic experiences. I have always believed in the resiliency of the human spirit and have devoted my practice to providing care that is empathetic, evidenced-based, and unique to the individual. I try to provide a wholistic approach to treatment and advocate for optimizing brain health with medications, nutrition, exercise, supplements, and talk therapy.
Accepting New Clients! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience across the lifespan. I started in a Surgical Trauma ICU helping patients and their families navigate through difficult traumatic experiences. I have always believed in the resiliency of the human spirit and have devoted my practice to providing care that is empathetic, evidenced-based, and unique to the individual. I try to provide a wholistic approach to treatment and advocate for optimizing brain health with medications, nutrition, exercise, supplements, and talk therapy.
CapeSide Psychiatry & CapeSide Addiction Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Capeside Psychiatry is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide evaluations, psychological assessments, therapy, and medication management for a range of psychological and behavioral health disorders.
Capeside Psychiatry is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide evaluations, psychological assessments, therapy, and medication management for a range of psychological and behavioral health disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Physician Assistant with prescribing authority. I have over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I provide medication management using a holistic, evidence-based approach. I understand how there are often medical factors that can contribute to mood symptoms and, if indicated, recommend additional testing to ensure that there are no other underlying concerns that need to be addressed.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Physician Assistant with prescribing authority. I have over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I provide medication management using a holistic, evidence-based approach. I understand how there are often medical factors that can contribute to mood symptoms and, if indicated, recommend additional testing to ensure that there are no other underlying concerns that need to be addressed.
Hanover Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403 (Online Only)
Angela Williams is a highly skilled psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing and 2 years as an advanced practice registered nurse. She specializes in providing comprehensive psychiatric care to individuals aged 7 to 65 year old. She is committed to achieving the best outcomes for her clients by blending evidence-based practices with their personal preferences. Angela's client-centered approach emphasizes active listening and collaboration, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to meet each client's unique needs and goals.
Angela Williams is a highly skilled psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing and 2 years as an advanced practice registered nurse. She specializes in providing comprehensive psychiatric care to individuals aged 7 to 65 year old. She is committed to achieving the best outcomes for her clients by blending evidence-based practices with their personal preferences. Angela's client-centered approach emphasizes active listening and collaboration, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to meet each client's unique needs and goals.
Sarah is passionate about empowering others with the tools and resources needed to achieve a higher quality of life. She helps with anxiety, depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Sarah's holistic, evidence-based approach uses medication management, mindfulness, spirituality, sleep promotion, nutritional recommendations, exercise, and community involvement.
Sarah is passionate about empowering others with the tools and resources needed to achieve a higher quality of life. She helps with anxiety, depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Sarah's holistic, evidence-based approach uses medication management, mindfulness, spirituality, sleep promotion, nutritional recommendations, exercise, and community involvement.
Rokima Knox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden University. I have been in the field of nursing for over 17 years. I have experience working with people across the lifespan and currently specializing in treating adults with ADD/ ADHD. I offer ADHD evaluation for adults using an affirming, neurodivergent approach. Assessment areas include Executive Function, Anxiety & Mood, Trauma / Attachment, Sensory, and Language with the consideration of health, sleep, and environment.
Hi! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden University. I have been in the field of nursing for over 17 years. I have experience working with people across the lifespan and currently specializing in treating adults with ADD/ ADHD. I offer ADHD evaluation for adults using an affirming, neurodivergent approach. Assessment areas include Executive Function, Anxiety & Mood, Trauma / Attachment, Sensory, and Language with the consideration of health, sleep, and environment.
See more therapy options for New Hanover County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New Hanover County, NC
40+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in New Hanover County, NC who prioritize treating:
85% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
76% | ADHD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in New Hanover County, NC see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New Hanover County?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.