Psychiatrists in Anderson, SC

Photo of Jared Joshua Carbone - Stress Management Center at Fernview, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stress Management Center at Fernview
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
(864) 225-0792 View (864) 225-0792
Photo of Dana Wiley, MD, Psychiatrist
Dana Wiley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Anderson, SC 29621
As a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication, I also appreciate the importance of therapy in helping patients improve. While I do incorporate supportive therapy in my sessions, for those patients who may need more intensive counseling, I have both male & female therapists in my practice and work with a psychologist, Dr. Yadira Baez-Lockard who treats children, adults & families in addition to psychological testing, DSS & forensic work. I treat the most common psychiatric disorders, but also have Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who appreciate the interface between medical and psychiatric disorders.
As a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication, I also appreciate the importance of therapy in helping patients improve. While I do incorporate supportive therapy in my sessions, for those patients who may need more intensive counseling, I have both male & female therapists in my practice and work with a psychologist, Dr. Yadira Baez-Lockard who treats children, adults & families in addition to psychological testing, DSS & forensic work. I treat the most common psychiatric disorders, but also have Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who appreciate the interface between medical and psychiatric disorders.
(864) 225-1195 View (864) 225-1195
Photo of Meagan Totman, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meagan Totman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anderson, SC 29621
My personal philosophy stems from my own mental health issues and struggles. My values are an integration of integrity, connecting, compassion, and trustworthiness. My passion involves taking care of others with a positive impact in the lives of others. My personal philosophy is grounded with dignity, service, and evidence based practice. It is focused on holistic wellness and empowerment of each patient while upholding respect regardless or ethnicity, socioeconomic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, or life choices.
My personal philosophy stems from my own mental health issues and struggles. My values are an integration of integrity, connecting, compassion, and trustworthiness. My passion involves taking care of others with a positive impact in the lives of others. My personal philosophy is grounded with dignity, service, and evidence based practice. It is focused on holistic wellness and empowerment of each patient while upholding respect regardless or ethnicity, socioeconomic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, or life choices.
(864) 732-6936 View (864) 732-6936
Photo of Violeta Nistor, MD, Psychiatrist
Violeta Nistor
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anderson, SC 29621
If you are here it means you are ready to start your new life today. My strength is finding the right approach for you, finding the balance between your medical and psychiatric problems for the best outcome available. Here you can safely start your journey to YOU. No matter what your struggles are, I am here with no judgment, just acceptance, readiness to listen and to understand your story.
If you are here it means you are ready to start your new life today. My strength is finding the right approach for you, finding the balance between your medical and psychiatric problems for the best outcome available. Here you can safely start your journey to YOU. No matter what your struggles are, I am here with no judgment, just acceptance, readiness to listen and to understand your story.
(864) 668-2079 View (864) 668-2079
Photo of Dannah Michele Moore, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dannah Michele Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
Each of us are unique beings worthy of love, belonging, purpose, self-acceptance, happiness, and peace. Attainment of these beliefs and practices may come as a challenge for those struggling with their mental health. My passion is to walk alongside children, teens, and their families and work to eliminate barriers which limit their potential for joy, success, and personal growth. I believe in a holistic approach, using medications, as well as recommendations for supplements, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and behaviors related to autism.
Each of us are unique beings worthy of love, belonging, purpose, self-acceptance, happiness, and peace. Attainment of these beliefs and practices may come as a challenge for those struggling with their mental health. My passion is to walk alongside children, teens, and their families and work to eliminate barriers which limit their potential for joy, success, and personal growth. I believe in a holistic approach, using medications, as well as recommendations for supplements, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and behaviors related to autism.
(864) 351-6691 View (864) 351-6691
Photo of Dr. Wanda Samake, DNP, PMHNP, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Wanda Samake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29622
I am a Greenville native and I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Clemson University. In 2008, I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Medical College of Georgia. I have been a nurse practitioner for 15 years and I hold dual board certifications in family practice and psychiatric mental healthcare. I have a very diverse clinical background that includes psychiatry, neurology and gerontology. As a nurse practitioner, I have practiced both neurology and psychiatry locally in physician groups here in Greenville and I have first-hand knowledge of how difficult it can be to find a mental health provider
I am a Greenville native and I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Clemson University. In 2008, I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Medical College of Georgia. I have been a nurse practitioner for 15 years and I hold dual board certifications in family practice and psychiatric mental healthcare. I have a very diverse clinical background that includes psychiatry, neurology and gerontology. As a nurse practitioner, I have practiced both neurology and psychiatry locally in physician groups here in Greenville and I have first-hand knowledge of how difficult it can be to find a mental health provider
(864) 479-4957 View (864) 479-4957
Photo of Anglique Rich, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anglique Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
(864) 531-8377 View (864) 531-8377
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Hamby, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Elizabeth Hamby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
I am a native of Upstate SC and am a board certified FNP with 14 years of experience in the medical field ranging from pediatrics to adult ICUs. I am honored to serve all age populations of the Upstate, from children to matured adults, who suffer from a variety of psychiatric disorders. These disorders include ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar 1 and 2, OCD, schizoaffective disorder and schizophrenia. As a wife of a Marine Corps Veteran who suffers from PTSD, I have an intense desire to assist those who are looking to improve their quality of life and better manage their psychiatric disorders.
I am a native of Upstate SC and am a board certified FNP with 14 years of experience in the medical field ranging from pediatrics to adult ICUs. I am honored to serve all age populations of the Upstate, from children to matured adults, who suffer from a variety of psychiatric disorders. These disorders include ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar 1 and 2, OCD, schizoaffective disorder and schizophrenia. As a wife of a Marine Corps Veteran who suffers from PTSD, I have an intense desire to assist those who are looking to improve their quality of life and better manage their psychiatric disorders.
(864) 740-4176 View (864) 740-4176
Photo of Taral R Sharma - Taral Sharma, MD -Spartanburg, Greenville & Seneca, MD, MBA, FAPA, FABPM, Psychiatrist
Taral Sharma, MD -Spartanburg, Greenville & Seneca
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, FAPA, FABPM
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
Exceptional evidence based patient care
Exceptional evidence based patient care
(864) 844-9432 View (864) 844-9432

Online Psychiatrists

Anacorita Ellisor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Simpsonville, SC 29681
Anacorita completed her Masters Degree in Nursing at the University of Phoenix and obtained her Post Masters Nurse Practitioner degree at the University of Massachusetts-Boston. She is a Board Certified Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She has a passion for Mental Health Awareness and is a strong believer in breaking the stigma of Mental Health/ Addiction. She was also a Covid-19 front liner who went to New York to provide aid when the pandemic first broke out.
Anacorita completed her Masters Degree in Nursing at the University of Phoenix and obtained her Post Masters Nurse Practitioner degree at the University of Massachusetts-Boston. She is a Board Certified Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She has a passion for Mental Health Awareness and is a strong believer in breaking the stigma of Mental Health/ Addiction. She was also a Covid-19 front liner who went to New York to provide aid when the pandemic first broke out.
(864) 803-3287 View (864) 803-3287
Photo of Kameron Price, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kameron Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seneca, SC 29672
My ideal client would be someone who has been battling the stressors of life and is looking for guidance on where to start with making a change. This client may be battling issues stemming from anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, or trauma that are affecting their overall functioning. The ideal client would be motivated to create positive changes to their life and overall functioning.
My ideal client would be someone who has been battling the stressors of life and is looking for guidance on where to start with making a change. This client may be battling issues stemming from anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, or trauma that are affecting their overall functioning. The ideal client would be motivated to create positive changes to their life and overall functioning.
(864) 619-0659 View (864) 619-0659
Photo of Greg Smith, MS, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Greg Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
I understand seeing a new provider or switching providers can be stressful, but I want my patients to know when it comes to their treatment, they play a major role. I always take into consideration what has previously worked well and what has not, and together we will create a treatment plan that best supports improving overall mental health with a focus on finding the right options for medication management and blended psychotherapy.
I understand seeing a new provider or switching providers can be stressful, but I want my patients to know when it comes to their treatment, they play a major role. I always take into consideration what has previously worked well and what has not, and together we will create a treatment plan that best supports improving overall mental health with a focus on finding the right options for medication management and blended psychotherapy.
(864) 618-2817 View (864) 618-2817
Photo of Dr. Brad Wuerfel, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Brad Wuerfel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Dr. Brad Wuerfel struggled with mental health symptoms during his adolescence and has received treatment that changed his life, ultimately pushing him into a mental health career. He is most passionate about educating patients about their conditions and helping them understand their diagnosis is not what defines them.
Dr. Brad Wuerfel struggled with mental health symptoms during his adolescence and has received treatment that changed his life, ultimately pushing him into a mental health career. He is most passionate about educating patients about their conditions and helping them understand their diagnosis is not what defines them.
(855) 724-1139 View (855) 724-1139
Photo of Kimberly Hammonds, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Kimberly Hammonds
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29210
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
(803) 489-8471 View (803) 489-8471
Photo of Kimberly Parker, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
It's important to find the right provider, who you can trust to walk with you. I'm open, caring, and create a nonjudgmental, empathetic space to work through life. Receiving the correct diagnosis, and understanding your symptoms and diagnosis will help you manage life better. My treatment takes a holistic approach. Sleep, nutrients, stress management, and exercise all affect our physical and mental health. I can prescribe medications and also recommend supplements to help improve symptoms. I've been a nurse practitioner for over 20 years, working with varying health conditions and clients across the lifespan.
It's important to find the right provider, who you can trust to walk with you. I'm open, caring, and create a nonjudgmental, empathetic space to work through life. Receiving the correct diagnosis, and understanding your symptoms and diagnosis will help you manage life better. My treatment takes a holistic approach. Sleep, nutrients, stress management, and exercise all affect our physical and mental health. I can prescribe medications and also recommend supplements to help improve symptoms. I've been a nurse practitioner for over 20 years, working with varying health conditions and clients across the lifespan.
(864) 774-5432 View (864) 774-5432
Omega Psychiatric Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29203
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
(803) 941-5517 View (803) 941-5517
Photo of Marina Osborn, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marina Osborn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Seneca, SC 29672
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
(864) 734-4736 View (864) 734-4736
Photo of Doris Reid, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doris Reid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615  (Online Only)
Doris Reid is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Over the course of her 15 years in mental health care, she's treated adolescents, adults, and older adults suffering from a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, OCD, insomnia, trauma, PTSD, and alcohol abuse.
Doris Reid is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Over the course of her 15 years in mental health care, she's treated adolescents, adults, and older adults suffering from a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, OCD, insomnia, trauma, PTSD, and alcohol abuse.
(864) 301-6147 View (864) 301-6147
Photo of Bret Guidry, MD, Psychiatrist
Bret Guidry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
(980) 372-8112 View (980) 372-8112
Photo of Joshua Werblin, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Werblin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lexington, SC 29072  (Online Only)
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
(803) 353-1230 View (803) 353-1230

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Anderson, SC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Anderson, SC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Medication Management
78% ADHD
78% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% TRICARE

How Psychiatrists in Anderson, SC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Anderson?

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.