Psychiatrists in Charleston County, SC

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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 Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29405
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
(843) 417-0261 View (843) 417-0261
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 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 Cathy L. Mart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Cathy L. Mart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
My passion is to see people grow, heal and reach their full potential. I provide a faith based approach to those who are seeking faith based counseling. Treatment varies according to goals and preferences of each client. I take a holistic approach treating mind, body and spirit. I treat a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, BiPolar, trauma, grief, marriage issues, and codependency. Treatment includes medication management (when necessary), evidence-based psychotherapy, health coaching, and spiritual care.
My passion is to see people grow, heal and reach their full potential. I provide a faith based approach to those who are seeking faith based counseling. Treatment varies according to goals and preferences of each client. I take a holistic approach treating mind, body and spirit. I treat a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, BiPolar, trauma, grief, marriage issues, and codependency. Treatment includes medication management (when necessary), evidence-based psychotherapy, health coaching, and spiritual care.
(843) 486-2518 View (843) 486-2518
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 Quintella Riley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Quintella Riley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner that specializes in treating patients across the lifespan. My focus is primarily working with adults in the mental health community. My emphasis is to promote stabilization while building a rapport, forming individualized treatment plans, and managing care.
I am a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner that specializes in treating patients across the lifespan. My focus is primarily working with adults in the mental health community. My emphasis is to promote stabilization while building a rapport, forming individualized treatment plans, and managing care.
(843) 808-6091 View (843) 808-6091
Photo of Madelyn Myers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Madelyn Myers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
North Charleston, SC 29406
Madelyn Myers chose a field in mental health to help individuals and families deal with mental health challenges and attain wellness. Madelyn is most passionate about helping clients understand that identifying and treating mental health problems will help them to lead a fuller and more satisfying life. Madelyn would summarize her overall care philosophy as understanding and acceptance of mental health concerns, including proper treatment, self-help nutrition, rest, and exercise.
Madelyn Myers chose a field in mental health to help individuals and families deal with mental health challenges and attain wellness. Madelyn is most passionate about helping clients understand that identifying and treating mental health problems will help them to lead a fuller and more satisfying life. Madelyn would summarize her overall care philosophy as understanding and acceptance of mental health concerns, including proper treatment, self-help nutrition, rest, and exercise.
(855) 724-1139 View (855) 724-1139
Photo of Dr. Laura Burdette, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Laura Burdette
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
(843) 920-5636 View (843) 920-5636
Photo of Patricia Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patricia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 10 years of experience, she is knowledgeable in caring for and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence-based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 10 years of experience, she is knowledgeable in caring for and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence-based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
(980) 220-5911 View (980) 220-5911
Photo of John Ganz, Psychiatrist, MD
John Ganz
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I recognize the importance of a client-centered medical experience, which inspires me to create strong and long-lasting bonds with each of my patients. It's a privilege to serve the community of Charleston by providing quality medical attention through sound therapeutic advice and evidence-based treatment. For years, patients have depended on me to provide therapy in combination with medication management to best treat a multitude of conditions. I offer this and other individualized options to clients in need of a Psychiatrist they can trust. I'm dedicated to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity.
I recognize the importance of a client-centered medical experience, which inspires me to create strong and long-lasting bonds with each of my patients. It's a privilege to serve the community of Charleston by providing quality medical attention through sound therapeutic advice and evidence-based treatment. For years, patients have depended on me to provide therapy in combination with medication management to best treat a multitude of conditions. I offer this and other individualized options to clients in need of a Psychiatrist they can trust. I'm dedicated to building long-lasting relationships based on trust and medical integrity.
(843) 284-6165 View (843) 284-6165
Photo of Maureen Apollo, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Maureen Apollo
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
North Charleston, SC 29406
Maureen is dual board-certified as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve happiness, stability, and safety. Maureen focuses on adults and provides gender-affirming mental health care.
Maureen is dual board-certified as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve happiness, stability, and safety. Maureen focuses on adults and provides gender-affirming mental health care.
(855) 724-1139 View (855) 724-1139
Photo of Brittany Albright - Sweetgrass Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Sweetgrass Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
(843) 279-5563 View (843) 279-5563
Photo of Dr. Holland Palmgren, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Dr. Holland Palmgren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
North Charleston, SC 29418
I am a Charleston, SC Native with 10+ years of nursing and provider experience in numerous different career fields. I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family and Psychiatric Medicine. This experience allows me to provide a whole-patient perspective to your mental health needs.
I am a Charleston, SC Native with 10+ years of nursing and provider experience in numerous different career fields. I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family and Psychiatric Medicine. This experience allows me to provide a whole-patient perspective to your mental health needs.
(843) 968-1722 View (843) 968-1722
Photo of Abbey Borich, Psychiatrist, MD
Abbey Borich
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Dr. Borich is a seasoned child and adolescent psychiatrist dedicated to providing extraordinary care to children, adolescents, and young adults. With a wealth of experience spanning over a decade, Dr. Borich brings a compassionate, individually tailored, and evidence-based approach to every patient interaction. Dr. Borich has extensive inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room experience, and specializes in a wide range of pathologies including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, psychosis, mania, and behavioral disorders.
Dr. Borich is a seasoned child and adolescent psychiatrist dedicated to providing extraordinary care to children, adolescents, and young adults. With a wealth of experience spanning over a decade, Dr. Borich brings a compassionate, individually tailored, and evidence-based approach to every patient interaction. Dr. Borich has extensive inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room experience, and specializes in a wide range of pathologies including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, psychosis, mania, and behavioral disorders.
(843) 978-0450 View (843) 978-0450
Photo of Michael B Mefford, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael B Mefford
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Providing Online Psychiatric Care for Adult ADHD, Anxiety anywhere in SC. I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
Now Providing Online Psychiatric Care for Adult ADHD, Anxiety anywhere in SC. I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
(843) 350-6393 View (843) 350-6393
Photo of Rebecca Lawrence, Psychiatrist, MD
Rebecca Lawrence
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Dr. Rebecca Lawrence is a board certified adult psychiatrist trained at Yale University School of Medicine. She has extensive outpatient psychiatry experience and is committed to offering the latest, most effective treatments to all her patients. Dr. Lawrence offers personalized care in a serene and accessible location on the Charleston Harbor.
Dr. Rebecca Lawrence is a board certified adult psychiatrist trained at Yale University School of Medicine. She has extensive outpatient psychiatry experience and is committed to offering the latest, most effective treatments to all her patients. Dr. Lawrence offers personalized care in a serene and accessible location on the Charleston Harbor.
(843) 917-5216 View (843) 917-5216
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 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

See more therapy options for Charleston County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Charleston County, SC

90+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Charleston County, SC who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
81% Medication Management
77% Trauma and PTSD
73% ADHD
70% Bipolar Disorder
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
87% Cigna and Evernorth
82% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Charleston County, SC see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Charleston County?

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.