Psychiatrists in Greenville, SC

Photo of Kiana Huston-McNair, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Kiana Huston-McNair
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Greenville, SC 29607
My ideal client is anyone struggling with mood stability, anxiety, or depression, and who wants to be involved and collaborate in their medication treatment plan. A willingness to make lifestyle changes to improve their overall health is important, and I will be there to support them every step of the way.
My ideal client is anyone struggling with mood stability, anxiety, or depression, and who wants to be involved and collaborate in their medication treatment plan. A willingness to make lifestyle changes to improve their overall health is important, and I will be there to support them every step of the way.
(864) 713-9659 View (864) 713-9659
Photo of Laura Law, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Laura Law
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I strongly believe that healing begins with a trusting relationship, and I encourage my patients to be active participants in their care. I completed my Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I strongly believe that healing begins with a trusting relationship, and I encourage my patients to be active participants in their care. I completed my Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
(864) 713-8404 View (864) 713-8404
Photo of Rebekah Bailey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rebekah Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and in various practice settings. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy for patients experiencing a range of mental health concerns and diagnoses. These include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar and other mood disorders, sleep disturbances, stress intolerance, and recovery from substance use.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and in various practice settings. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy for patients experiencing a range of mental health concerns and diagnoses. These include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar and other mood disorders, sleep disturbances, stress intolerance, and recovery from substance use.
(864) 732-4643 View (864) 732-4643
Photo of Sejal Bhula, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sejal Bhula
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. Areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorders. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.
I am a board-certified Physician Assistant with prescriptive authority. Areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorders. I understand that everyone is different and will create a psychiatric medication management plan tailored to your unique needs.
(864) 581-2759 View (864) 581-2759
Photo of Porsha Kimbrough, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Porsha Kimbrough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Greenville, SC 29615
Porsha Kimbrough, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, provides psychiatric medication management for adults and adolescents in South Carolina, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. She is dedicated to reducing mental health stigma and helping clients lead healthier lives through a compassionate, clientcentered approach. As a provider at LifeStance Health, Porsha serves diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and military veterans. Porsha specializes in PTSD and traumarelated care, supporting patients in managing symptoms and rebuilding their sense of control.
Porsha Kimbrough, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, provides psychiatric medication management for adults and adolescents in South Carolina, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. She is dedicated to reducing mental health stigma and helping clients lead healthier lives through a compassionate, clientcentered approach. As a provider at LifeStance Health, Porsha serves diverse populations, including the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and military veterans. Porsha specializes in PTSD and traumarelated care, supporting patients in managing symptoms and rebuilding their sense of control.
(864) 668-2966 View (864) 668-2966
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Hamby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Sarah Elizabeth Hamby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I am a native of Upstate SC and am honored to serve all age populations, from children to matured adults, who suffer from a variety of psychiatric disorders. I know finding a psychiatric NP or psychiatrist can be difficult, especially when many patients have experienced feeling unheard by past providers fearing someone new may not understand, as well as feeling lost, ashamed, and a multitude of other emotions. I want to assure you that I am here with you on this journey to finding out what medication may work best for you in managing your symptoms. The best way to contact me is email!
I am a native of Upstate SC and am honored to serve all age populations, from children to matured adults, who suffer from a variety of psychiatric disorders. I know finding a psychiatric NP or psychiatrist can be difficult, especially when many patients have experienced feeling unheard by past providers fearing someone new may not understand, as well as feeling lost, ashamed, and a multitude of other emotions. I want to assure you that I am here with you on this journey to finding out what medication may work best for you in managing your symptoms. The best way to contact me is email!
(864) 740-4176 View (864) 740-4176
Photo of Clay Watson, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Clay Watson
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Greenville, SC 29601
Hi! My name is Clay and I am a board certified physician assistant in the state of South Carolina. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. My goal of treatment is to help completely resolve current symptoms and also prevent future symptoms from occurring. My approach is compassionate, thoughtful and relaxed - aiming to put you at ease.
Hi! My name is Clay and I am a board certified physician assistant in the state of South Carolina. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. My goal of treatment is to help completely resolve current symptoms and also prevent future symptoms from occurring. My approach is compassionate, thoughtful and relaxed - aiming to put you at ease.
(864) 581-3186 x730 View (864) 581-3186 x730
Photo of Stephanie Manceor, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Stephanie Manceor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
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 Greg Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Greg Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
I understand seeing a new provider or switching providers can be stressful, but I want my patients to know when it comes to their treatment, they play a major role. I always take into consideration what has previously worked well and what has not, and together we will create a treatment plan that best supports improving overall mental health with a focus on finding the right options for medication management and blended psychotherapy.
I understand seeing a new provider or switching providers can be stressful, but I want my patients to know when it comes to their treatment, they play a major role. I always take into consideration what has previously worked well and what has not, and together we will create a treatment plan that best supports improving overall mental health with a focus on finding the right options for medication management and blended psychotherapy.
(864) 618-2817 View (864) 618-2817
Photo of Mel Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, WHNP-BC, PMH-C, APRN
Mel Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, WHNP-BC, PMH-C, APRN
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
I am a board-certified Women's Health Nurse Practitioner with additional training in perinatal mental health and psychotropic medications. I am an advocate of psychopharmacology as well as behavioral therapy, and I believe strongly in the wellness approach when it comes to treating mental health conditions.
I am a board-certified Women's Health Nurse Practitioner with additional training in perinatal mental health and psychotropic medications. I am an advocate of psychopharmacology as well as behavioral therapy, and I believe strongly in the wellness approach when it comes to treating mental health conditions.
(864) 642-1626 View (864) 642-1626
Photo of Ashley Harrell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Harrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 13 years of experience in healthcare, including the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider (APP). I treat patients aged 18-65+ with a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger, insomnia, and trauma. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care to help you manage and overcome these challenges, supporting your journey toward better mental health and overall well-being.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 13 years of experience in healthcare, including the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider (APP). I treat patients aged 18-65+ with a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger, insomnia, and trauma. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care to help you manage and overcome these challenges, supporting your journey toward better mental health and overall well-being.
(864) 523-6137 View (864) 523-6137
Photo of Steven Krozer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, APRN
Steven Krozer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I received my education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN and am proficient in treating clients across the lifespan, starting at age 10. I have experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings and have managed both acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I am SAMSHA trained and certified to prescribe to and manage clients with suboxone / buprenorphine and substance abuse backgrounds. I look forward to working with you!
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I received my education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN and am proficient in treating clients across the lifespan, starting at age 10. I have experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings and have managed both acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I am SAMSHA trained and certified to prescribe to and manage clients with suboxone / buprenorphine and substance abuse backgrounds. I look forward to working with you!
(864) 372-6926 View (864) 372-6926
Photo of Chrissie Marie Middleton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Chrissie Marie Middleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Thank you for visting my page. I am Dr. Chrissie Middleton, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been in healthcare for the last thirty years and I have practiced as a family medicine provider for the last 15 years. Within my role as a family healthcare practitioner, I have cared for many clients with anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Thank you for visting my page. I am Dr. Chrissie Middleton, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been in healthcare for the last thirty years and I have practiced as a family medicine provider for the last 15 years. Within my role as a family healthcare practitioner, I have cared for many clients with anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
(864) 375-6604 View (864) 375-6604
Photo of Hannah Heusing, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Hannah Heusing
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Greenville, SC 29611
My ideal client is someone who is ready to work together to make improvements in their lifestyle and their medication management. I enjoy working with a diverse background of conditions, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, substance use, and attention concerns. Mental health improvement is a journey that requires work, and I am here to provide guidance and tools to help you reach your goals. I appreciate my clients' honesty and transparency to ensure their medications and treatment plan are appropriate and effective!
My ideal client is someone who is ready to work together to make improvements in their lifestyle and their medication management. I enjoy working with a diverse background of conditions, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, substance use, and attention concerns. Mental health improvement is a journey that requires work, and I am here to provide guidance and tools to help you reach your goals. I appreciate my clients' honesty and transparency to ensure their medications and treatment plan are appropriate and effective!
(864) 535-0213 View (864) 535-0213
Photo of Dannah Michele Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Dannah Michele Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Greenville, SC 29607
Each of us are unique beings worthy of self-acceptance, belonging, happiness, and peace. Attainment of these beliefs and practices may come as a challenge for those struggling with their mental health. My passion is to walk alongside my patients and their families and work to eliminate barriers which limit their potential for joy, success, and personal growth. I believe in a holistic approach, using medications, as well as recommendations for supplements, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and behaviors related to autism.
Each of us are unique beings worthy of self-acceptance, belonging, happiness, and peace. Attainment of these beliefs and practices may come as a challenge for those struggling with their mental health. My passion is to walk alongside my patients and their families and work to eliminate barriers which limit their potential for joy, success, and personal growth. I believe in a holistic approach, using medications, as well as recommendations for supplements, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and behaviors related to autism.
(864) 351-6691 View (864) 351-6691
Photo of Consola Esambe, Psychiatrist, MD
Consola Esambe
Psychiatrist, MD
Greenville, SC 29615
Dr. Consola Esambe is a Psychiatrist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the Brody School of Medicine. Dr. Esambe believes in forming a partnership with the patient so that they are an integral part of their health journey. This leads to buy in which fosters a better therapeutic alliance with the patient. Outside of work, Dr. Esambe enjoys watching TV, spending time with friends and family, reading and traveling.
Dr. Consola Esambe is a Psychiatrist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the Brody School of Medicine. Dr. Esambe believes in forming a partnership with the patient so that they are an integral part of their health journey. This leads to buy in which fosters a better therapeutic alliance with the patient. Outside of work, Dr. Esambe enjoys watching TV, spending time with friends and family, reading and traveling.
(864) 477-6397 View (864) 477-6397
Photo of Catherine Portch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CLC, CNL
Catherine Portch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CLC, CNL
3 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 Julia Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Julia Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
Julia Rodriguez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2012. She has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the College of Charleston and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the Medical University of SC. Julia works with clients who suffer from a broad range of mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and schizophrenia. She also works with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such the death of a loved one or the end of relationship.
Julia Rodriguez is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2012. She has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the College of Charleston and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the Medical University of SC. Julia works with clients who suffer from a broad range of mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and schizophrenia. She also works with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such the death of a loved one or the end of relationship.
(864) 387-5721 View (864) 387-5721
Photo of Sarah Rolfe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Sarah Rolfe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Mrs. Rolfe began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Mrs. Rolfe worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
Mrs. Rolfe began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Mrs. Rolfe worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
(864) 523-6776 View (864) 523-6776
Photo of Dr. Andrea Bandfield, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Bandfield
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Dr. Bandfield, MD is a Psychiatrist AND Therapist accepting new clients at her Greenville office. For almost 20 years, her greatest joy has been helping her clients solve their Anxiety, Worry, OCD, and Panic. Visit drbandfield.com to learn more! Dr. Bandfield's expertise in therapy has helped clients solve these symptoms Anxiety— Worry — Panic —- OCD — Irrational Fears. You may be surprised to learn that medication is sometimes not at all necessary. Her practice is warm, welcoming, and in-person, starting with your first session. Every detail has been structured to protect your privacy and confidentiality.
Dr. Bandfield, MD is a Psychiatrist AND Therapist accepting new clients at her Greenville office. For almost 20 years, her greatest joy has been helping her clients solve their Anxiety, Worry, OCD, and Panic. Visit drbandfield.com to learn more! Dr. Bandfield's expertise in therapy has helped clients solve these symptoms Anxiety— Worry — Panic —- OCD — Irrational Fears. You may be surprised to learn that medication is sometimes not at all necessary. Her practice is warm, welcoming, and in-person, starting with your first session. Every detail has been structured to protect your privacy and confidentiality.
(864) 501-5402 View (864) 501-5402

See more therapy options for Greenville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Greenville, SC

70+

Average cost per session

$139

Psychiatrists in Greenville, SC who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
84% Trauma and PTSD
80% ADHD
80% Bipolar Disorder
78% Medication Management
75% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
89% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Greenville, SC see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Greenville?

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.