Psychiatrists in Cherokee County, SC

Photo of Kevin Cromer, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kevin Cromer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Meet Kevin Cromer, a Spartanburg native deeply committed to the local mental health community since 2014. Starting as a registered nurse at Spartanburg Medical Center, Kevin's passion for mental health led him to pursue advanced education, becoming an ANCC-Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient care, he established Upstate Mental Health, LLC in January 2021, making history as Spartanburg's first Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-owned office in December 2021.
Meet Kevin Cromer, a Spartanburg native deeply committed to the local mental health community since 2014. Starting as a registered nurse at Spartanburg Medical Center, Kevin's passion for mental health led him to pursue advanced education, becoming an ANCC-Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient care, he established Upstate Mental Health, LLC in January 2021, making history as Spartanburg's first Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-owned office in December 2021.
(864) 365-2729 View (864) 365-2729

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kimberly Parker, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
17 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
Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Keeley Psychiatry is currently accepting new patients in the Greenville area. Timely, convenient and affordable appointments by video for medication management and psychiatric services. It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office. We offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments. Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. Call or email our office to schedule your initial appointment.
Keeley Psychiatry is currently accepting new patients in the Greenville area. Timely, convenient and affordable appointments by video for medication management and psychiatric services. It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office. We offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments. Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. Call or email our office to schedule your initial appointment.
(864) 202-4797 View (864) 202-4797
Photo of Samantha Suffren - Women's Transitional Healthcare, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Women's Transitional Healthcare
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
We are a Women's Mental Health clinic that focuses on helping women through their hormonal life transitions. We work closely with your OB/GYN and provide you with other resource options to help you reach your goals.
We are a Women's Mental Health clinic that focuses on helping women through their hormonal life transitions. We work closely with your OB/GYN and provide you with other resource options to help you reach your goals.
(704) 675-7013 View (704) 675-7013
Photo of Ken Nicholson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ken Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seneca, SC 29678
I provide a positive and goal oriented plan including wellness and/or medication management for a variety of mental health disorders for ages six and older. Treatment for: Mood, ADHD, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar, Borderline, Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Addiction, Dementia, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sleep Disorders. I also utilize assessment tools and lab testing as needed to help manage or adjust symptoms disrupting your daily life. I also offer services for lifestyle and wellness.
I provide a positive and goal oriented plan including wellness and/or medication management for a variety of mental health disorders for ages six and older. Treatment for: Mood, ADHD, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar, Borderline, Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Addiction, Dementia, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sleep Disorders. I also utilize assessment tools and lab testing as needed to help manage or adjust symptoms disrupting your daily life. I also offer services for lifestyle and wellness.
(864) 732-6116 View (864) 732-6116
Upstate ADHD Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651
At Upstate ADHD Center, LLC, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. We have the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues have no place in our practice; that's why we do not accept insurance. We provide comprehensive and excellent care.
At Upstate ADHD Center, LLC, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. We have the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues have no place in our practice; that's why we do not accept insurance. We provide comprehensive and excellent care.
(864) 432-5660 View (864) 432-5660
Photo of Anesha Holmes, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anesha Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cayce, SC 29033
Anesha L. Holmes, PMHNP, provides compassionate, patientcentered care to individuals seeking support with their mental health. Serving patients across South Carolina, she specializes in managing complex mental health conditions through tailored medication management plans. Anesha understands that each patient’s journey is unique, and she strives to create a safe and supportive environment that promotes healing and wellness. With a strong focus on treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis, Anesha is particularly passionate about helping individuals regain stability and improve their quality of life.
Anesha L. Holmes, PMHNP, provides compassionate, patientcentered care to individuals seeking support with their mental health. Serving patients across South Carolina, she specializes in managing complex mental health conditions through tailored medication management plans. Anesha understands that each patient’s journey is unique, and she strives to create a safe and supportive environment that promotes healing and wellness. With a strong focus on treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis, Anesha is particularly passionate about helping individuals regain stability and improve their quality of life.
(803) 859-4863 View (803) 859-4863
Photo of Stephanie Manceor, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Stephanie Manceor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
I'm here to help clients struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, or severe mental illness. They may feel unsure about seeking help and need a provider who listens, educates, and empowers them. My ideal client's goals include achieving symptom relief, stability, and improved mental well-being, and they are seeking a trusted partner to guide them through their treatment. Above all, my clients want to feel heard, respected, and supported in their journey toward better mental health.
I'm here to help clients struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, or severe mental illness. They may feel unsure about seeking help and need a provider who listens, educates, and empowers them. My ideal client's goals include achieving symptom relief, stability, and improved mental well-being, and they are seeking a trusted partner to guide them through their treatment. Above all, my clients want to feel heard, respected, and supported in their journey toward better mental health.
(864) 479-4207 View (864) 479-4207
Photo of Catherine Aho, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Aho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Life is constantly full of challenges; sometimes, facing them alone becomes too much, and you need a helping hand. I'm here to help! I specialize in medical treatment of bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, depression, PTSD, adult ADHD, grief, substance abuse disorders, supporting perinatal mental health, and more.
Life is constantly full of challenges; sometimes, facing them alone becomes too much, and you need a helping hand. I'm here to help! I specialize in medical treatment of bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, depression, PTSD, adult ADHD, grief, substance abuse disorders, supporting perinatal mental health, and more.
(864) 756-3228 View (864) 756-3228
Photo of Demetris Wright - A Practitioner's Touch, LLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Practitioner's Touch, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
(803) 962-7306 View (803) 962-7306
Photo of Stacy Spratley, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Spratley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or past trauma? Balancing mental health with daily life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. With 20+ years of experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care through medication management and supportive therapy. My holistic approach focuses on your unique needs, helping you regain control, find stability, and improve your well-being. Let’s work together to create a path toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or past trauma? Balancing mental health with daily life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. With 20+ years of experience, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care through medication management and supportive therapy. My holistic approach focuses on your unique needs, helping you regain control, find stability, and improve your well-being. Let’s work together to create a path toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(803) 910-4769 View (803) 910-4769
Photo of Maihan Yazmine Aurah, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maihan Yazmine Aurah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cayce, SC 29033
Maihan Aurah is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati, driven by a passion for bridging the gap between medical and psychiatric care. Maihan is committed to empowering her clients with compassionate, stigma-free care, creating personalized treatment plans based on evidence and collaboration. Outside of work, she enjoys family time, reading, and traveling.
Maihan Aurah is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati, driven by a passion for bridging the gap between medical and psychiatric care. Maihan is committed to empowering her clients with compassionate, stigma-free care, creating personalized treatment plans based on evidence and collaboration. Outside of work, she enjoys family time, reading, and traveling.
(803) 805-1262 View (803) 805-1262
Photo of Melissa Pate, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Pate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner (NP). I have worked to manage a wide variety of mental health concerns such as crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and social issues, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, caregiver fatigue, and addiction disorders. I am easy to talk to and strive to help you feel comfortable with sharing in order to best manage your mental and emotional health. I am compassionate in providing comprehensive mental health services to all ages. My role as a PMHNP includes being a medication manager, therapist, educator, and mental health advocate.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner (NP). I have worked to manage a wide variety of mental health concerns such as crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and social issues, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, caregiver fatigue, and addiction disorders. I am easy to talk to and strive to help you feel comfortable with sharing in order to best manage your mental and emotional health. I am compassionate in providing comprehensive mental health services to all ages. My role as a PMHNP includes being a medication manager, therapist, educator, and mental health advocate.
(803) 974-8867 View (803) 974-8867
Dr. Vanessa Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29306
Are you feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried about your life. I am here to collaborate with you to establish an individualized plan of care that will help you restore and maintain your mental fitness. I am a Spartanburg native, and I received my graduate education from Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Anderson University. I have been a nurse practitioner for over a decade, and I hold dual board certifications in geriatrics and psychiatric mental healthcare. I have a diverse clinical background that includes gerontology, neurology, and psychiatry.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried about your life. I am here to collaborate with you to establish an individualized plan of care that will help you restore and maintain your mental fitness. I am a Spartanburg native, and I received my graduate education from Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Anderson University. I have been a nurse practitioner for over a decade, and I hold dual board certifications in geriatrics and psychiatric mental healthcare. I have a diverse clinical background that includes gerontology, neurology, and psychiatry.
(864) 263-2653 View (864) 263-2653
Photo of Kimberly G Kinard, MD, Psychiatrist
Kimberly G Kinard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
(803) 913-3347 View (803) 913-3347
Photo of Celeste Mendez, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Celeste Mendez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29210
I am Celeste Mendez, an accomplished, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a diverse skill set that includes therapy, medication management, Christian counseling, marriage counseling, and expertise in a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and various mood disorders. Beyond my role as a healthcare provider, I am also a loving mother of two children and find immense joy in my faith, being actively involved in my church and community. My spiritual beliefs serve as the foundation for my compassionate care and deep understanding of humans.
I am Celeste Mendez, an accomplished, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a diverse skill set that includes therapy, medication management, Christian counseling, marriage counseling, and expertise in a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and various mood disorders. Beyond my role as a healthcare provider, I am also a loving mother of two children and find immense joy in my faith, being actively involved in my church and community. My spiritual beliefs serve as the foundation for my compassionate care and deep understanding of humans.
(803) 266-1297 View (803) 266-1297
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29210
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(803) 474-8181 View (803) 474-8181
Photo of Patricia Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Ramesh Gihwala, MD, Psychiatrist
Ramesh Gihwala
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29204
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
(803) 828-0963 View (803) 828-0963
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
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.
(803) 675-7882 View (803) 675-7882

See more therapy options for Cherokee County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cherokee County, SC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cherokee County, SC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Cherokee County, SC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cherokee 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.