Psychiatrists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Sheela Bhattacharyya - Brightside Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Brightside Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(984) 985-2190 View (984) 985-2190
Photo of Abdul Shakoor Khalid, Psychiatrist, MD
Abdul Shakoor Khalid
Psychiatrist, MD
Raleigh, NC 27609
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or caught in a cycle of low mood? I believe healing begins when you feel heard and supported. I’m a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, stress-related concerns, and substance-use disorders including Suboxone maintenance/detox. I combine evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy to improve mood, sleep, and coping skills—offering in-person or secure telehealth visits with flexible scheduling. Together we can create a personalized plan that helps you regain balance and enjoy life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or caught in a cycle of low mood? I believe healing begins when you feel heard and supported. I’m a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, stress-related concerns, and substance-use disorders including Suboxone maintenance/detox. I combine evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy to improve mood, sleep, and coping skills—offering in-person or secure telehealth visits with flexible scheduling. Together we can create a personalized plan that helps you regain balance and enjoy life.
(919) 648-0281 View (919) 648-0281
Photo of Evelyn Majachani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Evelyn Majachani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Evelyn Majachani is dual-board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She received her Master of Science degree in Nursing and her post-graduate certification at Maryville University in St Louis, Missouri. Evelyn has worked as an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner providing outpatient, community psychiatry treatment to patients with severe mental illness, as well as with geriatric patients in nursing homes, assisted living, and independent living facilities in North Carolina.
Evelyn Majachani is dual-board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She received her Master of Science degree in Nursing and her post-graduate certification at Maryville University in St Louis, Missouri. Evelyn has worked as an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner providing outpatient, community psychiatry treatment to patients with severe mental illness, as well as with geriatric patients in nursing homes, assisted living, and independent living facilities in North Carolina.
(919) 568-5195 View (919) 568-5195
Photo of Neil Scheurich, Psychiatrist, MD
Neil Scheurich
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
As of 9/22/25, my schedule for now does not allow for new patient evaluations. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer both video and in-person sessions.
As of 9/22/25, my schedule for now does not allow for new patient evaluations. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer both video and in-person sessions.
(919) 283-4391 View (919) 283-4391
Photo of Grace Korir, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Korir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Grace Korir, license number: 5017643. My passion for mental health and addiction treatment stems from a deep commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. In my role, I conduct comprehensive assessments, diagnose mental health conditions, develop personalized treatment plans, and prescribe medications as needed. My approach to patient care is compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health and addiction recovery journey.
My name is Grace Korir, license number: 5017643. My passion for mental health and addiction treatment stems from a deep commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. In my role, I conduct comprehensive assessments, diagnose mental health conditions, develop personalized treatment plans, and prescribe medications as needed. My approach to patient care is compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take control of their mental health and addiction recovery journey.
(980) 981-6961 View (980) 981-6961
Photo of Monica Fuller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-BC
Monica Fuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently open for NEW patients in North Carolina via telehealth. New to NC or searching for a new provider? I will take the time to listen to your needs. I offer psychiatric evaluations and specialize in medication management treating adults with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder . Please call or send an email to show interest or leave a voicemail message or text. Insurances accepted are Aetna, Cigna, Optum, United Health Care, UMR, BCBS insurance, and cash . I am not accepting Medicare or Medicaid plans at this time.
Currently open for NEW patients in North Carolina via telehealth. New to NC or searching for a new provider? I will take the time to listen to your needs. I offer psychiatric evaluations and specialize in medication management treating adults with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder . Please call or send an email to show interest or leave a voicemail message or text. Insurances accepted are Aetna, Cigna, Optum, United Health Care, UMR, BCBS insurance, and cash . I am not accepting Medicare or Medicaid plans at this time.
(984) 538-9216 View (984) 538-9216
Photo of Michael Holsten, Physician Assistant, MSW, LCSW, PA-C
Michael Holsten
Physician Assistant, MSW, LCSW, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Michael Holsten, or “Mike”, MSW, LCSW, PA-C is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant at Advaita Integrative Medicine in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he specializes in managing medications and conducting psychiatric assessments. Additionally, he holds dual certifications as a Certified Physician Assistant and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Passionate about delivering person-centered care, Michael Holsten believes in treating every individual with dignity and respect. He emphasizes the importance of collaborative relationships and sees them as the foundation of successful outcomes.
Michael Holsten, or “Mike”, MSW, LCSW, PA-C is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant at Advaita Integrative Medicine in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he specializes in managing medications and conducting psychiatric assessments. Additionally, he holds dual certifications as a Certified Physician Assistant and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Passionate about delivering person-centered care, Michael Holsten believes in treating every individual with dignity and respect. He emphasizes the importance of collaborative relationships and sees them as the foundation of successful outcomes.
(919) 893-4465 View (919) 893-4465
Photo of Velgan Rodriguez Kata, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Velgan Rodriguez Kata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Raleigh, NC 27609
Velgan Rodriguez is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She received her bachelor's degree from The State University of New York at Purchase, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Hartwick College, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychiatric mental health at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Velgan has worked as a RN at Rikers Island correctional facility and the Durham County Detention Facility. She also worked as a critical care RN for The Durham VA Medical System, Duke University Hospital & UNC Medical Center Intensive Care Units
Velgan Rodriguez is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She received her bachelor's degree from The State University of New York at Purchase, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Hartwick College, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychiatric mental health at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Velgan has worked as a RN at Rikers Island correctional facility and the Durham County Detention Facility. She also worked as a critical care RN for The Durham VA Medical System, Duke University Hospital & UNC Medical Center Intensive Care Units
(984) 314-3552 View (984) 314-3552
Photo of Alyssa Williams George, Psychiatrist, MD
Alyssa Williams George
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
(919) 289-1842 View (919) 289-1842
Photo of Ijeoma Nwokoro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Ijeoma Nwokoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work best with adults who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, or stress from major life changes. Many of my clients are looking for ways to feel calmer, more focused, and more in control of their daily lives. If you’re struggling with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or just feeling “stuck,” my goal is to help you find relief and a clear path forward. Together, we’ll focus on understanding your symptoms, finding the right treatment options, and building practical tools that support your goals. Most importantly, you can expect a safe, judgment-free space where you feel heard and respected.
I work best with adults who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, or stress from major life changes. Many of my clients are looking for ways to feel calmer, more focused, and more in control of their daily lives. If you’re struggling with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or just feeling “stuck,” my goal is to help you find relief and a clear path forward. Together, we’ll focus on understanding your symptoms, finding the right treatment options, and building practical tools that support your goals. Most importantly, you can expect a safe, judgment-free space where you feel heard and respected.
(919) 769-6048 View (919) 769-6048
Photo of Mitushi Mishra, Psychiatrist, MD
Mitushi Mishra
Psychiatrist, MD
Raleigh, NC 27615
My intention is to help my clients lean in and experience life to the fullest; many times this can be difficult when we identify too strongly with our mind. Evidence has demonstrated that optimal treatment includes a combination of medication and therapy. I prefer to collaboratively work with clients to develop an individualized treatment plan.
My intention is to help my clients lean in and experience life to the fullest; many times this can be difficult when we identify too strongly with our mind. Evidence has demonstrated that optimal treatment includes a combination of medication and therapy. I prefer to collaboratively work with clients to develop an individualized treatment plan.
(984) 207-5400 View (984) 207-5400
Photo of Leke Atabong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leke Atabong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Leke Atabong, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, holistic mental health care for individuals aged 18 and older, focusing on conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and anger management. My approach emphasizes seeing each patient as a whole person, addressing the interconnected aspects of physical, emotional, and social well-being to develop personalized care plans that promote balance and healing.
Hello, my name is Leke Atabong, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, holistic mental health care for individuals aged 18 and older, focusing on conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and anger management. My approach emphasizes seeing each patient as a whole person, addressing the interconnected aspects of physical, emotional, and social well-being to develop personalized care plans that promote balance and healing.
(980) 294-3517 View (980) 294-3517
Photo of Lucy Magda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lucy Magda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Raleigh, NC 27607
Dr. Lucy Magda ("Dr. Lucy") is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, born and raised on the eastern shore of Maryland. She began her registered nursing career in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where she worked to stabilize the most critically ill patients. It is there that her interest in mental health flourished as she witnessed first-hand how essential mental health is for the overall wellbeing of her patients. She realized that there is no health without mental health.
Dr. Lucy Magda ("Dr. Lucy") is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, born and raised on the eastern shore of Maryland. She began her registered nursing career in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where she worked to stabilize the most critically ill patients. It is there that her interest in mental health flourished as she witnessed first-hand how essential mental health is for the overall wellbeing of her patients. She realized that there is no health without mental health.
(919) 887-7628 View (919) 887-7628
Photo of Ashley Cunningham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience providing comprehensive, person-centered care across the spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, and trauma-related conditions. I am licensed in multiple states and passionate about integrating evidence-based practice with compassion and collaboration. My clinical focus includes medication management, psychotherapy, and behavioral health education to support each patient’s journey toward emotional stability and improved quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience providing comprehensive, person-centered care across the spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, and trauma-related conditions. I am licensed in multiple states and passionate about integrating evidence-based practice with compassion and collaboration. My clinical focus includes medication management, psychotherapy, and behavioral health education to support each patient’s journey toward emotional stability and improved quality of life.
(984) 310-8912 View (984) 310-8912
Photo of Dr. Ayeh Darvishzadeh, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ayeh Darvishzadeh
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients! Is your current mental healthcare failing to meet your high standards? I am here to offer you an alternative! I understand how frustrating our current mental health system can be. It is hard to find excellent MDs with any close availability, let alone who are able to see you around your busy schedule. Long wait times, restricted schedule availability, delayed response times, and refill lapses all impact your quality of care. Are you ready to stop feeling helpless, frustrated, and demoralized about your mental healthcare? Treat yourself to the mental healthcare you deserve!
I am currently accepting new patients! Is your current mental healthcare failing to meet your high standards? I am here to offer you an alternative! I understand how frustrating our current mental health system can be. It is hard to find excellent MDs with any close availability, let alone who are able to see you around your busy schedule. Long wait times, restricted schedule availability, delayed response times, and refill lapses all impact your quality of care. Are you ready to stop feeling helpless, frustrated, and demoralized about your mental healthcare? Treat yourself to the mental healthcare you deserve!
(984) 374-1532 View (984) 374-1532
Photo of Cristian Skinner, Psychiatrist, DO, PhD
Cristian Skinner
Psychiatrist, DO, PhD
Raleigh, NC 27613
Dr. Cristian Skinner (he/him) is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He was born and raised in Eastern North Carolina, graduated from East Carolina University, and earned his PhD in Neurobiology and Anatomy from Wake Forest University. He obtained his medical degree from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at West Virginia University School of Medicine.
Dr. Cristian Skinner (he/him) is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He was born and raised in Eastern North Carolina, graduated from East Carolina University, and earned his PhD in Neurobiology and Anatomy from Wake Forest University. He obtained his medical degree from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at West Virginia University School of Medicine.
(984) 223-8159 View (984) 223-8159
Photo of Callie Barnes, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Callie Barnes
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Raleigh, NC 27607
Callie Barnes, PA-C, a North Carolina native, is an experienced Physician Assistant with a demonstrated history of patient-focused care working in the hospital and outpatient care settings. Her practice history includes Hospitalist Medicine, Medical Intensive Care, Neuroscience Critical Care, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care, and Psychiatry.
Callie Barnes, PA-C, a North Carolina native, is an experienced Physician Assistant with a demonstrated history of patient-focused care working in the hospital and outpatient care settings. Her practice history includes Hospitalist Medicine, Medical Intensive Care, Neuroscience Critical Care, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care, and Psychiatry.
(984) 369-8488 View (984) 369-8488
Photo of Tenishia Santiago - Holsan Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holsan Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting New Patients. Tenishia is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. She offers in person in Raleigh, NC, and telehealth services across the state of North Carolina, ensuring convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer in person services out of our Raleigh, NC office at this time. Other locations to be added soon. We also see BCBS of Massachusetts and Horizon New Jersey BCBS, Washington state, and Oregon for patients with Aetna and Cigna. Other insurances coming soon for WA and OR.
Accepting New Patients. Tenishia is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. She offers in person in Raleigh, NC, and telehealth services across the state of North Carolina, ensuring convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer in person services out of our Raleigh, NC office at this time. Other locations to be added soon. We also see BCBS of Massachusetts and Horizon New Jersey BCBS, Washington state, and Oregon for patients with Aetna and Cigna. Other insurances coming soon for WA and OR.
(984) 206-3956 View (984) 206-3956
Photo of Nkwachioma Ugwuezi Nwosu - Dynamic Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Dynamic Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27604
Seeking help for yourself or your loved one can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Dr. Nkwachioma Nwosu DNP, PMHNP-BC has over 18 years of experience working in different areas of healthcare, and I’m passionate about supporting clients ages 4 and older, offering both in-person and telehealth visits to make care accessible and comfortable. I offer a compassionate, culturally competent, and evidence-based approach to treatment. I take the time to understand your unique story and needs and collaborate with you on a care plan that may include psychiatric assessment, medication management, and therapy.
Seeking help for yourself or your loved one can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Dr. Nkwachioma Nwosu DNP, PMHNP-BC has over 18 years of experience working in different areas of healthcare, and I’m passionate about supporting clients ages 4 and older, offering both in-person and telehealth visits to make care accessible and comfortable. I offer a compassionate, culturally competent, and evidence-based approach to treatment. I take the time to understand your unique story and needs and collaborate with you on a care plan that may include psychiatric assessment, medication management, and therapy.
(919) 769-6025 View (919) 769-6025
Photo of Sarah Terrell, Physician Assistant, MMSc, PA-C
Sarah Terrell
Physician Assistant, MMSc, PA-C
Online Only
I believe good communication and a strong relationship with patients are my most important tools in providing good care. I have been providing care to patients for over 30 years. I originally earned my Bachelors of Science from Syracuse University in Family Studies and started my career as a social worker. My strong desire to help others led me to pursue a Masters Degree in Medical Science from Emory University. I provide medication management and supportive therapy for patients with anxiety, depression, panic disorder, post partum depression, binge eating disorder, ADHD and other diagnoses.
I believe good communication and a strong relationship with patients are my most important tools in providing good care. I have been providing care to patients for over 30 years. I originally earned my Bachelors of Science from Syracuse University in Family Studies and started my career as a social worker. My strong desire to help others led me to pursue a Masters Degree in Medical Science from Emory University. I provide medication management and supportive therapy for patients with anxiety, depression, panic disorder, post partum depression, binge eating disorder, ADHD and other diagnoses.
(984) 231-9437 View (984) 231-9437

See more therapy options for Raleigh

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Raleigh, NC

300+

Average cost per session

$152

Psychiatrists in Raleigh, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
83% ADHD
79% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
87% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Raleigh, NC see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Raleigh?

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.