Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC

Photo of W Rodney Andrews - Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, PMHNP
Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29412
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
(843) 920-3891 View (843) 920-3891
Photo of Erik Cantrell, Psychiatrist, MD
Erik Cantrell
Psychiatrist, MD
Charleston, SC 29414
When times are tough, or when you're having issues, it's hard to find things to find pride in. The courage to seek help is something to take pride in, and I commend you for that. As a provider, my skill set lends itself towards being very good at diagnosing your issue, then explaining it well, and working with you in finding the right treatment. I generally find that a combination of medication and counseling works best. I focus on adult patients of any age, and I am board certified in psychiatry.
When times are tough, or when you're having issues, it's hard to find things to find pride in. The courage to seek help is something to take pride in, and I commend you for that. As a provider, my skill set lends itself towards being very good at diagnosing your issue, then explaining it well, and working with you in finding the right treatment. I generally find that a combination of medication and counseling works best. I focus on adult patients of any age, and I am board certified in psychiatry.
(843) 806-1071 View (843) 806-1071
Photo of Nicole Lucas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Nicole Lucas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Charleston, SC 29407
Nicole Lucas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Nicole's goal is to provide patient-centered holistic care to each and every patient. Every person is unique, and they deserve care that reflects their individual qualities. Nicole wants every patient to feel heard and to trust that they can, together, meet each individual goal. Nicole recognizes the many factors that come with medication management for treatment and takes the time to listen and educate so that they can come to a solution together.
Nicole Lucas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Nicole's goal is to provide patient-centered holistic care to each and every patient. Every person is unique, and they deserve care that reflects their individual qualities. Nicole wants every patient to feel heard and to trust that they can, together, meet each individual goal. Nicole recognizes the many factors that come with medication management for treatment and takes the time to listen and educate so that they can come to a solution together.
(854) 204-4490 View (854) 204-4490
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Shierlock, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jennifer Shierlock
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
(843) 954-0260 View (843) 954-0260
Photo of Donna C Orvin, Psychiatrist, MD
Donna C Orvin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr Orvin combines years of psychiatry experience with an avid concern for keeping up to date in the latest updates in psychiatric practice.  Dr. Orvin graduated from Duke University, from George Washington School of Medicine, and then completed her psychiatric residency at Tuft’s New England Medical Center. After her training, she practiced for several years in Harvard affiliated hospitals where her duties included the supervision of psychiatric residents. 
 Since returning to South Carolina, Dr Orvin has focused her practice on adults in outpatient settings.
Dr Orvin combines years of psychiatry experience with an avid concern for keeping up to date in the latest updates in psychiatric practice.  Dr. Orvin graduated from Duke University, from George Washington School of Medicine, and then completed her psychiatric residency at Tuft’s New England Medical Center. After her training, she practiced for several years in Harvard affiliated hospitals where her duties included the supervision of psychiatric residents. 
 Since returning to South Carolina, Dr Orvin has focused her practice on adults in outpatient settings.
(803) 879-5317 View (803) 879-5317
Photo of Lanier Summerall, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Lanier Summerall
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Charleston, SC 29407
I was fortunate to grow up in Charleston where my family has lived for many generations. I spent my childhood playing on Sullivan's Island and sailing at my grandparents' House on Wadmalaw Island. I attended medical school at the university of Colorado and completed psychiatry residency at Dartmouth. I emphasize a holistic, patient focused treatment built on a foundation of a strong doctor-patient alliance. In 2014 I decided to return home to my family in Charleston. I was in a clinical leadership position downtown at the VA until joining Mt. Pleasant Psychiatry in 2017.
I was fortunate to grow up in Charleston where my family has lived for many generations. I spent my childhood playing on Sullivan's Island and sailing at my grandparents' House on Wadmalaw Island. I attended medical school at the university of Colorado and completed psychiatry residency at Dartmouth. I emphasize a holistic, patient focused treatment built on a foundation of a strong doctor-patient alliance. In 2014 I decided to return home to my family in Charleston. I was in a clinical leadership position downtown at the VA until joining Mt. Pleasant Psychiatry in 2017.
(843) 885-8052 View (843) 885-8052
Photo of Gloria K Wilson - Abundant Grace Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Abundant Grace Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Charleston, SC 29412
I believe in the caring and connected holistic approach integrating physical, mental, social and spiritual values. I value you and will inspire trust, will listen well, evaluate and treat . The techniques I utilize along with medication management are CBT, Mindfulness, Coaching , Holistic Thinking , Dietary and Lifestyle Changes. Together We will Develop a Plan in harmony with a doctor ( Psychologist or Medical). We will Develop an Individualized plan that Promotes Healing and Allows you to reach Your Goals.
I believe in the caring and connected holistic approach integrating physical, mental, social and spiritual values. I value you and will inspire trust, will listen well, evaluate and treat . The techniques I utilize along with medication management are CBT, Mindfulness, Coaching , Holistic Thinking , Dietary and Lifestyle Changes. Together We will Develop a Plan in harmony with a doctor ( Psychologist or Medical). We will Develop an Individualized plan that Promotes Healing and Allows you to reach Your Goals.
(843) 594-2321 View (843) 594-2321
Photo of Elizabeth Coakley Perkins, Psychiatrist, MD
Elizabeth Coakley Perkins
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Life is hard. We all have moments when we need to reach out for help. I truly enjoy the process of watching a patient go from floundering to thriving. I am here to not only help you with things that are wrong, but to set you up for a future of health, longevity and happiness. I am board certified in psychiatry and board eligible in addiction medicine.
Life is hard. We all have moments when we need to reach out for help. I truly enjoy the process of watching a patient go from floundering to thriving. I am here to not only help you with things that are wrong, but to set you up for a future of health, longevity and happiness. I am board certified in psychiatry and board eligible in addiction medicine.
(843) 484-4157 View (843) 484-4157
Photo of Suzanne Kerns, Psychiatrist, MD, FCTMSS
Suzanne Kerns
Psychiatrist, MD, FCTMSS
Charleston, SC 29403
At Inner Healing Charleston we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. As downtown Charleston’s only locally owned, physician-led psychiatric clinic specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and integrative psychiatric services, we are redefining what it means to heal the mind. Our team brings decades of clinical expertise across interventional psychiatry, medication management, and psychotherapy — creating a safe, inclusive space where each individual is seen, heard, and supported.
At Inner Healing Charleston we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. As downtown Charleston’s only locally owned, physician-led psychiatric clinic specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and integrative psychiatric services, we are redefining what it means to heal the mind. Our team brings decades of clinical expertise across interventional psychiatry, medication management, and psychotherapy — creating a safe, inclusive space where each individual is seen, heard, and supported.
(854) 400-6036 View (854) 400-6036
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Leigh Price - Stephanie L. Price, DO, LLC, Psychiatrist, DO
Stephanie L. Price, DO, LLC
Psychiatrist, DO
3 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
(843) 306-4339 View (843) 306-4339
Photo of Julie Bass, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Julie Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Charleston, SC 29407
You're high-functioning on the outside but feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck inside. You’ve done the checklists, the meds, the therapy—and you’re still asking, Why do I feel this way? You’re not looking for a quick fix; you want deeper insight, practical tools, and someone who truly listens. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, burnout, trauma, identity shifts, or major life transitions, you want more than labels—you want meaning, clarity, and lasting change. You're craving an approach that honors your story, not just your symptoms—and you're ready to feel like yourself again.
You're high-functioning on the outside but feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck inside. You’ve done the checklists, the meds, the therapy—and you’re still asking, Why do I feel this way? You’re not looking for a quick fix; you want deeper insight, practical tools, and someone who truly listens. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, burnout, trauma, identity shifts, or major life transitions, you want more than labels—you want meaning, clarity, and lasting change. You're craving an approach that honors your story, not just your symptoms—and you're ready to feel like yourself again.
(843) 258-5276 View (843) 258-5276
Photo of Robin Secrist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Robin Secrist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Charleston, SC 29403
I am pleased to be a part of Inner Healing Charleston where we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. At Inner Healing Charleston we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. As Charleston’s only locally owned, physician-led psychiatric clinic specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and integrative psychiatric services, we are redefining what it means to heal the mind.
I am pleased to be a part of Inner Healing Charleston where we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. At Inner Healing Charleston we believe mental wellness begins with compassionate, personalized care grounded in science and guided by empathy. As Charleston’s only locally owned, physician-led psychiatric clinic specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), and integrative psychiatric services, we are redefining what it means to heal the mind.
(854) 209-5580 View (854) 209-5580
Photo of Sean Eberhard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Sean Eberhard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Charleston, SC 29414
Hello; I’m Sean. I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to help people with mental health conditions. I’m a teacher at heart as I was a golf instructor for the first part of my adult life, and I enjoy educating my patients on why certain interventions and suggestions would give each patient the greatest chance to succeed. I implement evidence-based practice with all my patients, but this is not limited to pharmological interventions.
Hello; I’m Sean. I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to help people with mental health conditions. I’m a teacher at heart as I was a golf instructor for the first part of my adult life, and I enjoy educating my patients on why certain interventions and suggestions would give each patient the greatest chance to succeed. I implement evidence-based practice with all my patients, but this is not limited to pharmological interventions.
(843) 396-6437 View (843) 396-6437
Photo of James Young, Psychiatrist, DO
James Young
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.
(843) 894-6965 View (843) 894-6965
Photo of Cerrissa Hugie - MyNDSpace Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MyNDSpace Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
At MyNDSpace, we endeavor to create a culture of mental health awareness and sensitivity, to reduce mental health disparities, and to bridge the gap between community organizations and mental health services.
At MyNDSpace, we endeavor to create a culture of mental health awareness and sensitivity, to reduce mental health disparities, and to bridge the gap between community organizations and mental health services.
(843) 890-0315 View (843) 890-0315
Photo of Gundu Reddy, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(843) 920-4592 View (843) 920-4592
Photo of Xelleni Alyanna 'yanni' Pagayon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Xelleni Alyanna 'yanni' Pagayon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Charleston, SC 29414
Hello, my name is Yanni. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong foundation in emergency room nursing. I bring a calm, clear-headed approach to mental health care — even in life’s most difficult moments. I understand that mental health struggles often come with complexity, urgency, and deep personal impact. My goal is to provide you with grounded, compassionate, and clinically sound care - without judgement. I work with adults and adolescents facing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and major life stressors.
Hello, my name is Yanni. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong foundation in emergency room nursing. I bring a calm, clear-headed approach to mental health care — even in life’s most difficult moments. I understand that mental health struggles often come with complexity, urgency, and deep personal impact. My goal is to provide you with grounded, compassionate, and clinically sound care - without judgement. I work with adults and adolescents facing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, and major life stressors.
(854) 220-0889 View (854) 220-0889
Photo of Jeffrey Cluver, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey Cluver
Psychiatrist, MD
Charleston, SC 29492
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
(843) 919-4658 View (843) 919-4658
Photo of Luke Meier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Luke Meier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Charleston, SC 29414
Hey I’m Luke. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have a diverse background and education. My path started in psych field as a teen and then moved to studying law, emergency medical treatment, surgical operations and inevitably back to psych. I always came back to psych because I believe it is one of the core roots of health. My philosophy came from trying to understand why we, as humans, knew that we could be healthier and happier, and we just weren’t doing the things to make that happen.
Hey I’m Luke. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have a diverse background and education. My path started in psych field as a teen and then moved to studying law, emergency medical treatment, surgical operations and inevitably back to psych. I always came back to psych because I believe it is one of the core roots of health. My philosophy came from trying to understand why we, as humans, knew that we could be healthier and happier, and we just weren’t doing the things to make that happen.
(843) 938-1974 View (843) 938-1974
Photo of Juan Pablo Galindo, Psychiatrist, DO
Juan Pablo Galindo
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29412
Over my years of practice, I have realized the limitations of the standard tools and medicines within psychiatry. At times the best our standard treatments can do was help people “get by” and as one veteran patient once told me, “survive by numbness.” This way of helping is not enough. It is through the extensive studying of psychedelics and their potential for profound healing that has given me renewed hope in this field.
Over my years of practice, I have realized the limitations of the standard tools and medicines within psychiatry. At times the best our standard treatments can do was help people “get by” and as one veteran patient once told me, “survive by numbness.” This way of helping is not enough. It is through the extensive studying of psychedelics and their potential for profound healing that has given me renewed hope in this field.
(843) 896-3873 View (843) 896-3873

See more therapy options for Charleston

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC

60+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Anxiety
77% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% ADHD
68% Bipolar Disorder
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
85% Optum
82% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Charleston?

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.