Psychiatrists in Wrightsville Beach, NC

Photo of Elizabeth Toppin, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Toppin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. In my practice, I take a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care, treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. My focus is on addressing the root causes of mental health conditions by combining conventional psychiatric treatments with complementary therapies to offer my patients a comprehensive path to healing. .
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. In my practice, I take a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care, treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. My focus is on addressing the root causes of mental health conditions by combining conventional psychiatric treatments with complementary therapies to offer my patients a comprehensive path to healing. .
(910) 983-1814 View (910) 983-1814
Photo of David L. Brenner, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
David L. Brenner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board certified Psychiatric Physician Assistant with prescribing authority. I have over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I provide medication management using a holistic, evidence-based approach. I understand how there are often medical factors that can contribute to mood symptoms and, if indicated, recommend additional testing to ensure that there are no other underlying concerns that need to be addressed.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Physician Assistant with prescribing authority. I have over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I provide medication management using a holistic, evidence-based approach. I understand how there are often medical factors that can contribute to mood symptoms and, if indicated, recommend additional testing to ensure that there are no other underlying concerns that need to be addressed.
(910) 708-4228 View (910) 708-4228
Photo of Craig Cook - Landfall Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Landfall Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Please note that appointments for this practice are typically 45 minutes in length to incorporate ample time for communication and therapy in addition to medication management.
Please note that appointments for this practice are typically 45 minutes in length to incorporate ample time for communication and therapy in addition to medication management.
(910) 218-8353 View (910) 218-8353

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Todd Michael MacKillop - Trinity Wellness Center, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Trinity Wellness Center
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28411
I am here to help you with medication management for psychiatric disorders. These disorders include anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD etc. I am available in office at Trinity Wellness Porter's Neck location in person or on Tele medicine.
I am here to help you with medication management for psychiatric disorders. These disorders include anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD etc. I am available in office at Trinity Wellness Porter's Neck location in person or on Tele medicine.
(910) 390-8389 View (910) 390-8389
Photo of Benjamin Crawford - CapeSide Psychiatry & CapeSide Addiction Care, DO, Psychiatrist
CapeSide Psychiatry & CapeSide Addiction Care
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Capeside Psychiatry is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide evaluations, psychological assessments, therapy, and medication management for a range of psychological and behavioral health disorders. Capeside Addiction Care is committed to reducing opioid dependence. Our telehealth services and customized treatment plans allow patients to go through recovery anonymously, keeping their everyday lives intact. Our patients hold the power of their recovery when given the opportunity to get the help they truly need.
Capeside Psychiatry is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. We provide evaluations, psychological assessments, therapy, and medication management for a range of psychological and behavioral health disorders. Capeside Addiction Care is committed to reducing opioid dependence. Our telehealth services and customized treatment plans allow patients to go through recovery anonymously, keeping their everyday lives intact. Our patients hold the power of their recovery when given the opportunity to get the help they truly need.
(910) 537-5143 View (910) 537-5143
Photo of Dr. Angela Rasheed, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Angela Rasheed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with experience providing the highest, quality medication management to diverse populations. Licensed in NC and NY. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions including Bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders, & eating disorders. I know it takes so much courage to finally take a step to refresh your mental health, but I hope to be able to develop a trusting relationship with you that will allow you to feel comfortable & willing to allow me to take this journey back to an optimal mental state with you!
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with experience providing the highest, quality medication management to diverse populations. Licensed in NC and NY. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions including Bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders, & eating disorders. I know it takes so much courage to finally take a step to refresh your mental health, but I hope to be able to develop a trusting relationship with you that will allow you to feel comfortable & willing to allow me to take this journey back to an optimal mental state with you!
(704) 741-0355 View (704) 741-0355
Photo of Emily Pevtsov, MMS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Emily Pevtsov
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychiatric PA with over 10 years of inpatient and outpatient mental health experience. I offer telehealth (virtual) services to residents of North Carolina, ages 18+. Services include medication management for common mental health problems ranging from depression and anxiety to ADHD.
I am a psychiatric PA with over 10 years of inpatient and outpatient mental health experience. I offer telehealth (virtual) services to residents of North Carolina, ages 18+. Services include medication management for common mental health problems ranging from depression and anxiety to ADHD.
(919) 899-4461 View (919) 899-4461
Photo of Danielle Kurtz, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Kurtz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
At Mindful Pathways Psychiatric Services, Danielle Kurtz's mission is to provide compassionate and personalized mental health care to those in need. I understand the complexities and challenges individuals face and am here to offer a supportive and empathetic environment where you can find guidance and resources to improve your overall well-being. I am dedicated to helping you achieve optimal mental and emotional health. I utilize evidence-based therapies and cutting-edge treatment approaches to address a wide range of mental health concerns, from depression and anxiety to trauma.
At Mindful Pathways Psychiatric Services, Danielle Kurtz's mission is to provide compassionate and personalized mental health care to those in need. I understand the complexities and challenges individuals face and am here to offer a supportive and empathetic environment where you can find guidance and resources to improve your overall well-being. I am dedicated to helping you achieve optimal mental and emotional health. I utilize evidence-based therapies and cutting-edge treatment approaches to address a wide range of mental health concerns, from depression and anxiety to trauma.
(910) 665-7923 x302 View (910) 665-7923 x302
Photo of Margaret Ward, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I am one of the few integrative psychiatry providers in Wilmington. Specializing in medication management and collaborative treatment planning: Welcome to Stella Maris, which in Latin means star of the sea to encompass that we are on a journey together. Like the north star to a sailor or a lighthouse to a ship I wish to be a place of hope, safety, and guidance!
I am one of the few integrative psychiatry providers in Wilmington. Specializing in medication management and collaborative treatment planning: Welcome to Stella Maris, which in Latin means star of the sea to encompass that we are on a journey together. Like the north star to a sailor or a lighthouse to a ship I wish to be a place of hope, safety, and guidance!
(910) 812-8867 View (910) 812-8867
Photo of Jacqueline Hudson - Integral Mental Healthcare PLLC, PA-C, MPAP, Physician Assistant
Integral Mental Healthcare PLLC
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
Hello. My name is Jackie Hudson. Life presents a host of challenges both mentally and physically. My goal is to provide compassionate and effective care to help you become the best possible version of you that you were meant to be. I believe in a collaborative as well as wholistic approach to treatment in which I work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs. Everyone and their experience is unique and thus should care be as well. Evidence-based practices are used to reach your mental health goals.
Hello. My name is Jackie Hudson. Life presents a host of challenges both mentally and physically. My goal is to provide compassionate and effective care to help you become the best possible version of you that you were meant to be. I believe in a collaborative as well as wholistic approach to treatment in which I work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs. Everyone and their experience is unique and thus should care be as well. Evidence-based practices are used to reach your mental health goals.
(910) 698-8355 View (910) 698-8355
Photo of Amanda McGill, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda McGill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(919) 948-7193 View (919) 948-7193
Photo of David Ahlberg - Affiliated Medical Group, MD, Psychiatrist
Affiliated Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
(910) 939-0724 View (910) 939-0724
Photo of Borhan Darmal, MD, Psychiatrist
Borhan Darmal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
Dr Borhan Darmal, MD is a psychiatrist who is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology a chapter of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr. Darmal was raised in Hawaii and received his undergraduate degree from San Diego state university. He earned his medical degree from St George’s university school of medicine. He completed his psychiatric residency at Lewisgale medical center in southwest Virginia, where he became interested in incorporating spirituality into the biopsychosocial model. Dr. Darmal aims to provide patients the highest level of care.
Dr Borhan Darmal, MD is a psychiatrist who is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology a chapter of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr. Darmal was raised in Hawaii and received his undergraduate degree from San Diego state university. He earned his medical degree from St George’s university school of medicine. He completed his psychiatric residency at Lewisgale medical center in southwest Virginia, where he became interested in incorporating spirituality into the biopsychosocial model. Dr. Darmal aims to provide patients the highest level of care.
(754) 253-0239 View (754) 253-0239
Photo of Elizabeth McNeill Bunting - Tideline Psych, DSc, MS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Tideline Psych
Physician Assistant, DSc, MS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of complex mental health conditions in patients aged 6 and up, with a focus on adjustment disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, developmental disabilities, mood disorders, OCD, post-partum depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, other disruptive behavioral disorders.
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of complex mental health conditions in patients aged 6 and up, with a focus on adjustment disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, developmental disabilities, mood disorders, OCD, post-partum depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, other disruptive behavioral disorders.
(910) 406-6103 View (910) 406-6103
Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Sheila Marano - Safe Landing Wellness Center: In-office or virtual, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Safe Landing Wellness Center: In-office or virtual
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Looking outside of the typical mental health diagnosis box, that's what I do best. I customize treatment plans by considering all medical possibilities for your target symptoms that are causing you distress, along with your mental health history. Together we come up with a medication plan. Utilizing evidence-based practice to positively impact the neuroplasticity of your brain's neural pathways is key. The goal is to decrease the pain around the main target symptom and beyond. Each session, I assess for symptoms of what could be impairing your higher functioning in life. We build from the foundation up, a healthier, brighter you.
Looking outside of the typical mental health diagnosis box, that's what I do best. I customize treatment plans by considering all medical possibilities for your target symptoms that are causing you distress, along with your mental health history. Together we come up with a medication plan. Utilizing evidence-based practice to positively impact the neuroplasticity of your brain's neural pathways is key. The goal is to decrease the pain around the main target symptom and beyond. Each session, I assess for symptoms of what could be impairing your higher functioning in life. We build from the foundation up, a healthier, brighter you.
(910) 601-2466 View (910) 601-2466
Photo of Tameshia Wiggins - Evolve Mental Health and Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evolve Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
(419) 938-4259 View (419) 938-4259
Photo of Elizabeth Eaton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
My name is Elizabeth Eaton and I am a board-certified mental health practitioner. I provide medication management with talk therapy. I do not believe medication is always the answer and I am here to help you determine if it can be the right choice for you. I believe focusing on you and your needs is what is important to help you restore your mental health. INTAKES- VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON
My name is Elizabeth Eaton and I am a board-certified mental health practitioner. I provide medication management with talk therapy. I do not believe medication is always the answer and I am here to help you determine if it can be the right choice for you. I believe focusing on you and your needs is what is important to help you restore your mental health. INTAKES- VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON
(910) 597-2906 View (910) 597-2906
Photo of Tanya Fowler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tanya Fowler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
Accepting New Clients! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience across the lifespan. I started in a Surgical Trauma ICU helping patients and their families navigate through difficult traumatic experiences. I have always believed in the resiliency of the human spirit and have devoted my practice to providing care that is empathetic, evidenced-based, and unique to the individual. I try to provide a wholistic approach to treatment and advocate for optimizing brain health with medications, nutrition, exercise, supplements, and talk therapy.
Accepting New Clients! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience across the lifespan. I started in a Surgical Trauma ICU helping patients and their families navigate through difficult traumatic experiences. I have always believed in the resiliency of the human spirit and have devoted my practice to providing care that is empathetic, evidenced-based, and unique to the individual. I try to provide a wholistic approach to treatment and advocate for optimizing brain health with medications, nutrition, exercise, supplements, and talk therapy.
(910) 714-4144 View (910) 714-4144
Photo of Patrick McConnell, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Patrick McConnell
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Patrick McConnell, PA-C relocated to Wilmington in 2004. Mr. McConnell trained in Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked at The Cleveland Clinic, hospitals and healthcare facilities. He has extensive training and experience in Psychiatry, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care and Family Practice Medicine. He is board certified by the NCCPA with over 35 years of experience.
Patrick McConnell, PA-C relocated to Wilmington in 2004. Mr. McConnell trained in Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked at The Cleveland Clinic, hospitals and healthcare facilities. He has extensive training and experience in Psychiatry, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care and Family Practice Medicine. He is board certified by the NCCPA with over 35 years of experience.
(910) 996-5652 View (910) 996-5652

See more therapy options for Wrightsville Beach

Nearby Searches for Wrightsville Beach

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wrightsville Beach, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wrightsville Beach, NC who prioritize treating:

67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Medication Management
33% ADHD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
50% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Wrightsville Beach, NC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wrightsville Beach?

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.