Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, SC

Photo of Peter A. Bertelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peter A. Bertelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
(803) 913-5128 View (803) 913-5128

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Liz Alexander, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liz Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
Dr. Liz Alexander is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. Dr. Liz earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Northeastern University where her PhD thesis focused on improving the quality care of opioid-dependent patients in primary care with Vivitrol injections. Dr. Liz has worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an Urgent Care and Primary Care Clinics in Boston, Massachusetts, where she developed a special expertise in addiction medicine. She is authorized to treat opioid dependency with buprenorphine in South Carolina.
Dr. Liz Alexander is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. Dr. Liz earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Northeastern University where her PhD thesis focused on improving the quality care of opioid-dependent patients in primary care with Vivitrol injections. Dr. Liz has worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an Urgent Care and Primary Care Clinics in Boston, Massachusetts, where she developed a special expertise in addiction medicine. She is authorized to treat opioid dependency with buprenorphine in South Carolina.
(803) 525-0982 View (803) 525-0982
Photo of Treasure Vaughn, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Treasure Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
Treasure Vaughn is a Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated with her Master's of Science from Ohio University with a focus in Psychiatric Mental health Nursing. Treasure has more than 15 years of experience in mental health. She is enthusiastic about her career and helping others. She has a lot of passion for mental health and human behaviors. Outside of work, Treasure loves spending time with her family and friends, trying new recipes, traveling, and photography.
Treasure Vaughn is a Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated with her Master's of Science from Ohio University with a focus in Psychiatric Mental health Nursing. Treasure has more than 15 years of experience in mental health. She is enthusiastic about her career and helping others. She has a lot of passion for mental health and human behaviors. Outside of work, Treasure loves spending time with her family and friends, trying new recipes, traveling, and photography.
(803) 770-5102 View (803) 770-5102

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29302  (Online Only)
Not currently accepting patients.
Not currently accepting patients.
(864) 202-4797 View (864) 202-4797
Photo of Kimberly Hammonds, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Kimberly Hammonds
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29210
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
(803) 489-8471 View (803) 489-8471
Photo of Jessica Stoelting, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Stoelting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
(864) 475-9482 View (864) 475-9482
Photo of Michele Reina, PHMNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michele Reina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29730  (Online Only)
Michele is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) with more than 17 years of experience working with adults who are suffering from anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse. She is hard-working, compassionate, and empathic with a commitment to providing the best mental health care services to individuals. Michele obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Daemen College and completed her Master's degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina.
Michele is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) with more than 17 years of experience working with adults who are suffering from anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse. She is hard-working, compassionate, and empathic with a commitment to providing the best mental health care services to individuals. Michele obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Daemen College and completed her Master's degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina.
(803) 882-3861 View (803) 882-3861
Photo of Kiana Huston-McNair, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kiana Huston-McNair
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
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 Marina Osborn, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marina Osborn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Seneca, SC 29672
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
(864) 734-4736 View (864) 734-4736
Photo of Nick Orlowsky, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Nick Orlowsky
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
If you're ready to take the next step on your mental health journey, I'm here to help. I am currently accepting new patients as a prescribing provider at iTrust Wellness, and I encourage you to reach out for more information and to schedule your first appointment.
If you're ready to take the next step on your mental health journey, I'm here to help. I am currently accepting new patients as a prescribing provider at iTrust Wellness, and I encourage you to reach out for more information and to schedule your first appointment.
(864) 664-4341 View (864) 664-4341
Photo of Laura Law, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Law
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615  (Online Only)
Laura is 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. She believes strongly that healing begins with a trusting relationship and encourages her patients to be active participants in their care. Laura completed her Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
Laura is 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. She believes strongly that healing begins with a trusting relationship and encourages her patients to be active participants in their care. Laura completed her Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
(864) 713-8404 View (864) 713-8404
Photo of Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, AGNP-C, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, AGNP-C, CDCES
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29303  (Online Only)
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
(332) 244-9796 View (332) 244-9796
Photo of Kathleen Dubost, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kathleen Dubost
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spartanburg, SC 29306
I help people dealing with anxiety or depression, as these are common but challenging conditions. You'll be treated with empathy and no judgment, focusing on you as an individual. Together, we’ll work on getting you back to your daily activities and hobbies, the things that bring joy and normalcy. Your goals are my goals, whether it’s improving wellness, incorporating exercise, or any personal objectives. We'll create a personalized plan to help you find balance and feel better, step by step.
I help people dealing with anxiety or depression, as these are common but challenging conditions. You'll be treated with empathy and no judgment, focusing on you as an individual. Together, we’ll work on getting you back to your daily activities and hobbies, the things that bring joy and normalcy. Your goals are my goals, whether it’s improving wellness, incorporating exercise, or any personal objectives. We'll create a personalized plan to help you find balance and feel better, step by step.
(864) 568-4804 View (864) 568-4804
Photo of Raynia McGee, MD, Psychiatrist
Raynia McGee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201  (Online Only)
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
(803) 403-0190 View (803) 403-0190
Photo of Rebecca Merli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Merli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29730  (Online Only)
Rebecca Merli is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with over 25 years of experience working in psychiatry. She is experienced in treating both the child/adolescent and adult population of patients needing assistance with mental health diagnosis and medication management. Rebecca does not perform traditional psychotherapy but will incorporate brief psychotherapy into scheduled appointments. Rebecca understands that each person is a unique individual who deserves the time and respect of being heard and will give each patient her individual attention to address their specific needs.
Rebecca Merli is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with over 25 years of experience working in psychiatry. She is experienced in treating both the child/adolescent and adult population of patients needing assistance with mental health diagnosis and medication management. Rebecca does not perform traditional psychotherapy but will incorporate brief psychotherapy into scheduled appointments. Rebecca understands that each person is a unique individual who deserves the time and respect of being heard and will give each patient her individual attention to address their specific needs.
(803) 721-2914 View (803) 721-2914
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(843) 920-4592 View (843) 920-4592
Photo of Chrisanthe Garilas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chrisanthe Garilas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I am looking to work collaboratively with my clients by identifying key concerns that are diminishing their quality of life mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Together with the client's preferences, wants, and needs, in combination with my clinical and professional advice, we will form a healthy treatment plan and healing regimen.
I am looking to work collaboratively with my clients by identifying key concerns that are diminishing their quality of life mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Together with the client's preferences, wants, and needs, in combination with my clinical and professional advice, we will form a healthy treatment plan and healing regimen.
(864) 465-8629 View (864) 465-8629
Photo of Clarence Johnson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clarence Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201  (Online Only)
www.reflectivemindsmw.com. Visit my website to request an appointment! Openings within the week! HI! Now treating ADHD! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. I have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, and I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
www.reflectivemindsmw.com. Visit my website to request an appointment! Openings within the week! HI! Now treating ADHD! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. I have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, and I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
(301) 478-8609 View (301) 478-8609
Photo of Corrie Crook, DNP,  PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Corrie Crook
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29223
Corrie L. Crook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2016. Corrie provides a supportive environment for those seeking medication management. She will work with each client to establish a treatment plan unique to them. Outside of work, Corrie enjoys spending time with family/friends, kayaking, watching movies, and hockey games.
Corrie L. Crook is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2016. Corrie provides a supportive environment for those seeking medication management. She will work with each client to establish a treatment plan unique to them. Outside of work, Corrie enjoys spending time with family/friends, kayaking, watching movies, and hockey games.
(855) 252-6396 View (855) 252-6396
Photo of Shatarra T Salley, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shatarra T Salley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29306
My ideal client is looking for a provider that understands the signs, symptoms, and any associated factors of life that have brought on a change to their mental state or condition. As your mental health provider, I'll perform an initial screening to gather more background information and learn about you, and I enjoy taking this time to know each patient individually. You'll have the opportunity to express your preferences in regard to managing your mental health, and I'll work with you to develop an individual treatment plan based on your needs and concerns.
My ideal client is looking for a provider that understands the signs, symptoms, and any associated factors of life that have brought on a change to their mental state or condition. As your mental health provider, I'll perform an initial screening to gather more background information and learn about you, and I enjoy taking this time to know each patient individually. You'll have the opportunity to express your preferences in regard to managing your mental health, and I'll work with you to develop an individual treatment plan based on your needs and concerns.
(864) 702-2520 View (864) 702-2520

See more therapy options for Lake Wylie

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, SC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, SC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Spirituality
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Autism

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, 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 Lake Wylie?

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.