Psychiatrists in Sherrills Ford, NC

Photo of Jennifer Hu, MD, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Hu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now accepting new patients! I am a double board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Hickory, North Carolina. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School and child/adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Duke University. I typically see ages 5-35 years (I will sometimes make exceptions to this, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions). Call our office and leave a message - our staff will return your call ASAP. You are also welcome to email me. Please see my website for additional details.
Now accepting new patients! I am a double board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Hickory, North Carolina. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School and child/adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Duke University. I typically see ages 5-35 years (I will sometimes make exceptions to this, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions). Call our office and leave a message - our staff will return your call ASAP. You are also welcome to email me. Please see my website for additional details.
(828) 392-9893 View (828) 392-9893

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of June Smith-Hartness, PA-C, Physician Assistant
June Smith-Hartness
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
I have been practicing as a physician assistant in mental health for nearly 10 years. I treat all ages. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other disorders. We have a great therapy staff here at CTS and I collaborate with the therapists often to see that all patients' mental health issues can be addressed.
I have been practicing as a physician assistant in mental health for nearly 10 years. I treat all ages. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other disorders. We have a great therapy staff here at CTS and I collaborate with the therapists often to see that all patients' mental health issues can be addressed.
(828) 373-3273 View (828) 373-3273
Photo of Amanda Ward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
(828) 544-5101 View (828) 544-5101
Photo of Morgan Stenger, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Morgan Stenger
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
(336) 656-2326 View (336) 656-2326
Photo of Casey Watson, FNP , PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Casey Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice located in Charlotte, NC that provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Online and in person appointments available for adults 21+. Casey is dual board certified as a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Casey has over 17 years in the medical field. Casey sees each patient as an individual and not your disorder. As a team, we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice located in Charlotte, NC that provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Online and in person appointments available for adults 21+. Casey is dual board certified as a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Casey has over 17 years in the medical field. Casey sees each patient as an individual and not your disorder. As a team, we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
(704) 666-4042 View (704) 666-4042
Photo of Tonya Farmer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tonya Farmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Tonya is a dually Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience providing care to individuals from ages 10 and above. She has always been passionate about helping others achieve optimal levels of functioning; both physically and mentally despite health or sociological barriers. She believes in person-centered and holistic healthcare.
Tonya is a dually Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience providing care to individuals from ages 10 and above. She has always been passionate about helping others achieve optimal levels of functioning; both physically and mentally despite health or sociological barriers. She believes in person-centered and holistic healthcare.
(980) 351-4354 View (980) 351-4354
Photo of Dr. Caleb Whitenack, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Caleb Whitenack
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I treat patients who are facing mental health challenges, like ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder as well as mental health issues specific to women. Patients are usually looking for relief from overwhelming symptoms, a deeper understanding of their emotions, and a pathway to healing. Their ultimate goal is not just survival but to thrive—to rediscover stability, boost self-esteem, and reclaim a life filled with purpose and joy.
I treat patients who are facing mental health challenges, like ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder as well as mental health issues specific to women. Patients are usually looking for relief from overwhelming symptoms, a deeper understanding of their emotions, and a pathway to healing. Their ultimate goal is not just survival but to thrive—to rediscover stability, boost self-esteem, and reclaim a life filled with purpose and joy.
(919) 261-3543 View (919) 261-3543
Photo of Phyllis Armstead Baez, MD, Psychiatrist
Phyllis Armstead Baez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I am originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where I completed both medical school and a psychiatric residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. I am adept at treating patients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings, including those with the most severe and persistent mental illnesses. I am committed to making quality mental health treatment convenient and accessible to all, especially to those in the rural and underserved areas and therefore focus on virtual med management. I do offer in-person visits when clinically indicated.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I am originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where I completed both medical school and a psychiatric residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. I am adept at treating patients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings, including those with the most severe and persistent mental illnesses. I am committed to making quality mental health treatment convenient and accessible to all, especially to those in the rural and underserved areas and therefore focus on virtual med management. I do offer in-person visits when clinically indicated.
(828) 501-0798 View (828) 501-0798
Photo of Megan Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Megan Jones, MSN, PMHNP-BC earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Working as a registered nurse in the emergency department, she developed a strong interest in mental health, leading her to pursue advanced practice training in psychiatry. She received her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care through a holistic and patient-centered approach.
Megan Jones, MSN, PMHNP-BC earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Working as a registered nurse in the emergency department, she developed a strong interest in mental health, leading her to pursue advanced practice training in psychiatry. She received her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care through a holistic and patient-centered approach.
(828) 860-2523 View (828) 860-2523
Photo of Kylie Zaccaria, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kylie Zaccaria
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
As a dedicated mental health professional, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate and overcome the challenges that life presents. I work with clients who are dealing with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, family concerns, ADHD and more.
As a dedicated mental health professional, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate and overcome the challenges that life presents. I work with clients who are dealing with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, family concerns, ADHD and more.
(828) 528-7611 View (828) 528-7611
Photo of Taylor Ellis, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylor Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Taylor Ellis, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated mental health professional based at the Apogee Behavioral Medicine office in Greensboro, NC. With a robust background in psychiatric care and an unwavering commitment to his patients, Taylor brings experience and compassion to his role. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing with honors from UNC Chapel Hill, where he was distinguished as a Behavioral Health Integration Scholar. Before pursuing advanced practice, Taylor gained extensive experience working in a variety of psychiatric and intensive care units, honing his skills in managing complex medical and mental health conditions.
Taylor Ellis, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated mental health professional based at the Apogee Behavioral Medicine office in Greensboro, NC. With a robust background in psychiatric care and an unwavering commitment to his patients, Taylor brings experience and compassion to his role. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing with honors from UNC Chapel Hill, where he was distinguished as a Behavioral Health Integration Scholar. Before pursuing advanced practice, Taylor gained extensive experience working in a variety of psychiatric and intensive care units, honing his skills in managing complex medical and mental health conditions.
(336) 502-8874 View (336) 502-8874
Photo of Catelyn Inman - LifeStance Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28625
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) 427-3493 View (980) 427-3493
Photo of Dr. Derek C Ayers, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Derek C Ayers
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
(336) 948-9249 View (336) 948-9249
Photo of Megan Trawick, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Megan Trawick
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Margaret (“Megan”) Trawick is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant with 9 years of experience as a provider and 5 years of experience treating patients with mental health and substance use disorders. With her work in addiction medicine and general psychiatry, she understands the importance of recovery friendly medicine and educating patients about the disease of addiction. Megan also treats patients with a variety of behavioral health challenges to include anxiety, panic, insomnia, depression, trauma, grief, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and ADHD.
Margaret (“Megan”) Trawick is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant with 9 years of experience as a provider and 5 years of experience treating patients with mental health and substance use disorders. With her work in addiction medicine and general psychiatry, she understands the importance of recovery friendly medicine and educating patients about the disease of addiction. Megan also treats patients with a variety of behavioral health challenges to include anxiety, panic, insomnia, depression, trauma, grief, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and ADHD.
(336) 842-2898 View (336) 842-2898
Photo of Kenneth Lyons, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kenneth Lyons
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ken is a Certified Physician Assistant with decades of specialty experience. He graduated from Wake Forest University in Winston Salem, NC with his PA-C degree. Ken has been serving the greater Winston Salem area for years and has touched countless lives through his career. Ken approaches health care from a holistic lens. He believes that self-care, physical activity, and proper nutrition are important components to one’s overall well-being. Ken is well versed in caring with a wide range of clients, from young children to late adulthood. He has a particular interest in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and life transitions.
Ken is a Certified Physician Assistant with decades of specialty experience. He graduated from Wake Forest University in Winston Salem, NC with his PA-C degree. Ken has been serving the greater Winston Salem area for years and has touched countless lives through his career. Ken approaches health care from a holistic lens. He believes that self-care, physical activity, and proper nutrition are important components to one’s overall well-being. Ken is well versed in caring with a wide range of clients, from young children to late adulthood. He has a particular interest in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and life transitions.
(336) 850-6225 View (336) 850-6225
Photo of Melissa Di Natale, EdD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Di Natale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
(828) 471-9234 View (828) 471-9234
Photo of Hannah Shay, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Shay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a provider at Stella Mental Health, who is passionate about providing exceptional care. My expertise include trauma-focused care for childhood, domestic violence, sexual abuse survivors, and military personnel. At Stella Mental Health, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a provider at Stella Mental Health, who is passionate about providing exceptional care. My expertise include trauma-focused care for childhood, domestic violence, sexual abuse survivors, and military personnel. At Stella Mental Health, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
(706) 989-9483 View (706) 989-9483
Photo of Lane Thompson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lane Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
(336) 443-6247 View (336) 443-6247
Photo of Taylor Ballew, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylor Ballew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
NOW accepting new clients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in the state of North Carolina. I offer both medication management and therapy. At Aspire Psychiatry, I offer both in- person and telehealth appointments. Dealing with my own depression and anxiety has made me passionate about ensuring everyone has access to cutting edge treatments for mental health issues. I'm proud to offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS); a revolutionary new treatment for depression.
NOW accepting new clients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in the state of North Carolina. I offer both medication management and therapy. At Aspire Psychiatry, I offer both in- person and telehealth appointments. Dealing with my own depression and anxiety has made me passionate about ensuring everyone has access to cutting edge treatments for mental health issues. I'm proud to offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS); a revolutionary new treatment for depression.
(828) 544-5101 View (828) 544-5101
Photo of Catelyn Inman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catelyn Inman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28625
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
(704) 666-8585 View (704) 666-8585

See more therapy options for Sherrills Ford

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sherrills Ford, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Sherrills Ford, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Sherrills Ford, NC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sherrills Ford?

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.