Psychiatrists in Smithfield, NC

Heart & Mind Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
Accepting New Patients! Embrace Mental Wellness with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook our mental health. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a balanced, fulfilling life. Shameka Johnson, PMHNP, brings years of experience and a compassionate approach to mental health, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and peace. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need support, she offers personalized care tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward first step toward a brighter tomorrow.
Accepting New Patients! Embrace Mental Wellness with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook our mental health. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a balanced, fulfilling life. Shameka Johnson, PMHNP, brings years of experience and a compassionate approach to mental health, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and peace. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need support, she offers personalized care tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward first step toward a brighter tomorrow.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Olivia Faye Vogel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I provide medication management for a range of mental health issues, including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder to clients across the lifespan. I believe that the relationship between patient and provider should be a collaborative partnership founded on effective communication and problem solving. I integrate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to provide the safest and most effective patient outcomes. I demonstrate a strong passion for mental health and wellness, continuously seeking to enhance my understanding and expertise in the field.
I provide medication management for a range of mental health issues, including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder to clients across the lifespan. I believe that the relationship between patient and provider should be a collaborative partnership founded on effective communication and problem solving. I integrate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to provide the safest and most effective patient outcomes. I demonstrate a strong passion for mental health and wellness, continuously seeking to enhance my understanding and expertise in the field.

Since beginning his career in the United States in 1994, Dr. Mohammad Abu-Salha has become known for his compassionate and culturally sensitive approach, ensuring every patient feels heard and understood, regardless of their background. He adopts a biopsychosocial framework to address mental health, empowering patients to understand their conditions, harness their strengths, and make informed treatment decisions. Dr. Abu-Salha emphasizes patient autonomy and collaboration, frequently coordinating care with therapists, counselors, other medical specialists, and physicians to achieve holistic well-being.
Since beginning his career in the United States in 1994, Dr. Mohammad Abu-Salha has become known for his compassionate and culturally sensitive approach, ensuring every patient feels heard and understood, regardless of their background. He adopts a biopsychosocial framework to address mental health, empowering patients to understand their conditions, harness their strengths, and make informed treatment decisions. Dr. Abu-Salha emphasizes patient autonomy and collaboration, frequently coordinating care with therapists, counselors, other medical specialists, and physicians to achieve holistic well-being.

Do you ever feel like your mind is a prison, filled with worries, intrusive thoughts, and relentless negativity? Perhaps anxiety or panic attacks are holding you hostage, or maybe sleeplessness and depression are draining your energy. You don't have to live this way. Imagine a life free from these burdens, where you can finally experience peace and clarity. Let's work together to break free from the prison of your mind and build a path towards lasting well-being.
Do you ever feel like your mind is a prison, filled with worries, intrusive thoughts, and relentless negativity? Perhaps anxiety or panic attacks are holding you hostage, or maybe sleeplessness and depression are draining your energy. You don't have to live this way. Imagine a life free from these burdens, where you can finally experience peace and clarity. Let's work together to break free from the prison of your mind and build a path towards lasting well-being.

Tara Nate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Pardon our mess while we build our very own private practice! I am not accepting patients at this time but drop me a line via the email link to get on the waitlist!
Pardon our mess while we build our very own private practice! I am not accepting patients at this time but drop me a line via the email link to get on the waitlist!

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in working with adults , but I have a a special niche in diagnosing and treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I understand the unique emotional challenges that can arise during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals through this transformative time.Currently, I am a fellow in the Reproductive and Integrative Psychiatry program, where I am expanding my expertise in managing reproductive mental health concerns using an integrative, whole-person approach.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in working with adults , but I have a a special niche in diagnosing and treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I understand the unique emotional challenges that can arise during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals through this transformative time.Currently, I am a fellow in the Reproductive and Integrative Psychiatry program, where I am expanding my expertise in managing reproductive mental health concerns using an integrative, whole-person approach.
Charisse Fullwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Charisse Fullwood, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Not accepting new clients

I have enjoyed 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience, providing compassionate care to individuals in North Carolina with mood and anxiety disorders, to name a few. Reaching out for help should be easy. That is why I offer virtual visits. Let's meet where you are most comfortable. I focus on your unique circumstance and address and tailor solutions specific to you. Solutions may include genetic testing, psychiatric medications, evidence-based natural supplements, weight loss, and other interventions depending on your needs.
I have enjoyed 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience, providing compassionate care to individuals in North Carolina with mood and anxiety disorders, to name a few. Reaching out for help should be easy. That is why I offer virtual visits. Let's meet where you are most comfortable. I focus on your unique circumstance and address and tailor solutions specific to you. Solutions may include genetic testing, psychiatric medications, evidence-based natural supplements, weight loss, and other interventions depending on your needs.

Elizabeth Shaffer, MD, is an accomplished psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her M.D. degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Appalachian State University where she graduated summa cum laude. Dr. Shaffer's passion for working with children and families developed during her involvement in a pre-K Head Start Program in Rural North Carolina. She completed her General Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine at Campbell University.
Elizabeth Shaffer, MD, is an accomplished psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her M.D. degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Appalachian State University where she graduated summa cum laude. Dr. Shaffer's passion for working with children and families developed during her involvement in a pre-K Head Start Program in Rural North Carolina. She completed her General Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine at Campbell University.

Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.
Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.

Cana Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Are you suffering from Anxiety? Hopelessness, helplessness, lack of self-worth, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, ANGER, ADHD, unsure of your diagnosis, or any other mental health disorders? Are you feeling a low mood? I am Board-Certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP-BC) offering TELEPSYCH services in RTP and the surrounding area in North Carolina.
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Are you suffering from Anxiety? Hopelessness, helplessness, lack of self-worth, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, ANGER, ADHD, unsure of your diagnosis, or any other mental health disorders? Are you feeling a low mood? I am Board-Certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP-BC) offering TELEPSYCH services in RTP and the surrounding area in North Carolina.

Stanisha Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. With years of dedicated experience, I am committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals of all ages. Visit www.embracemp.com to schedule your appointment.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. With years of dedicated experience, I am committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals of all ages. Visit www.embracemp.com to schedule your appointment.

Accepting New Clients
Provides personalized & Holistic Mental Health Care. Struggling with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders, or substance use? You don’t have to navigate this alone. With 20+ years of experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that blends medication management, therapy (CBT, DBT), and holistic approaches to support your well-being. In-person & virtual sessions available with flexible scheduling.
Accepting New Clients
Provides personalized & Holistic Mental Health Care. Struggling with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders, or substance use? You don’t have to navigate this alone. With 20+ years of experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that blends medication management, therapy (CBT, DBT), and holistic approaches to support your well-being. In-person & virtual sessions available with flexible scheduling.

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.

**YES-Medication Wellness Program is Accepting New Patients!** Erin Eves maintains a Child & Adolescent focus and is also versed in Adult Treatment. Erin provides Comprehensive Evaluations, Pharmacotherapy, and Psychotherapy. She will also provide medication management for individuals who currently have a therapist and will communicate regularly with that therapist to provide the most individualized care possible. Erin Eves has extensive experience treating people with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, OCD, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, and Psychotic Disorders.
**YES-Medication Wellness Program is Accepting New Patients!** Erin Eves maintains a Child & Adolescent focus and is also versed in Adult Treatment. Erin provides Comprehensive Evaluations, Pharmacotherapy, and Psychotherapy. She will also provide medication management for individuals who currently have a therapist and will communicate regularly with that therapist to provide the most individualized care possible. Erin Eves has extensive experience treating people with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, OCD, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, and Psychotic Disorders.

Psychiatric assessment, diagnosis and care are best undertaken with humility and humor in all parties. Though the human condition often feels impossible and suffering unbearable, Psychiatry can offer help with these complex and vexing issues. I promise to do my best to communicate clearly and to listen diligently to your concerns and problems. Working with parents and their children is a special privilege for me. I enjoy helping people meet the tasks of becoming a parent and learning to parent their child. I have found that these challenges are among the most difficult that most people ever encounter.
Psychiatric assessment, diagnosis and care are best undertaken with humility and humor in all parties. Though the human condition often feels impossible and suffering unbearable, Psychiatry can offer help with these complex and vexing issues. I promise to do my best to communicate clearly and to listen diligently to your concerns and problems. Working with parents and their children is a special privilege for me. I enjoy helping people meet the tasks of becoming a parent and learning to parent their child. I have found that these challenges are among the most difficult that most people ever encounter.

I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. I treat all psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions with special interests in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. I treat all psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions with special interests in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.

At Best Day Psychiatry, we pride ourselves in providing the time necessary to render excellent care to all age groups, assist our clients in navigating a complex system, finding the best supporting specialists and enabling excellent communication to ensure the highest quality services. Our collaborative approach includes specialized and creative interventions based on your specific needs, whether it is psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. We are passionate about helping our clients live happier lives and approach each client’s challenges with a caring optimism.
At Best Day Psychiatry, we pride ourselves in providing the time necessary to render excellent care to all age groups, assist our clients in navigating a complex system, finding the best supporting specialists and enabling excellent communication to ensure the highest quality services. Our collaborative approach includes specialized and creative interventions based on your specific needs, whether it is psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. We are passionate about helping our clients live happier lives and approach each client’s challenges with a caring optimism.

Finding a psychiatrist can be a difficult and sometimes overwhelming task. My goal is to make this process a straightforward and valuable experience. Together we can work to help find the tools that you need to achieve life balance and mental well being.
Finding a psychiatrist can be a difficult and sometimes overwhelming task. My goal is to make this process a straightforward and valuable experience. Together we can work to help find the tools that you need to achieve life balance and mental well being.

Dr. Megan Freeman is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency training at Vidant Medical Center at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina in 2021 where she was the chief resident. Since then, she has worked as an attending physician at an inpatient adult psychiatric unit in Burlington, North Carolina. As a resident and attending she has treated adults of all ages and in all areas of mental health.
Dr. Megan Freeman is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency training at Vidant Medical Center at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina in 2021 where she was the chief resident. Since then, she has worked as an attending physician at an inpatient adult psychiatric unit in Burlington, North Carolina. As a resident and attending she has treated adults of all ages and in all areas of mental health.
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Nearby Searches for Smithfield
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Smithfield, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Smithfield, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Smithfield, 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 Smithfield?
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.