Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC

Photo of Ashley Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Ashley Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My goal is to help those who may struggle with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, and or seeking help for emotional relief and stability. You will get personalized, holistic care aimed at improving daily functioning. My intention is to help others regain control over their life, feel more balanced, and develop coping strategies. I am a compassionate, nonjudgmental provider who listens and develops treatment plans to fit one's unique needs for long-term well-being and recovery.
My goal is to help those who may struggle with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, and or seeking help for emotional relief and stability. You will get personalized, holistic care aimed at improving daily functioning. My intention is to help others regain control over their life, feel more balanced, and develop coping strategies. I am a compassionate, nonjudgmental provider who listens and develops treatment plans to fit one's unique needs for long-term well-being and recovery.
(843) 380-5934 View (843) 380-5934
Photo of Lucretia D Wilson - The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a doctoral prepared professional, I bring extensive experience, qualities, and credentials to meet your needs. With over 30 years of nursing experience, I am a passionate and dedicated individual. My career has encompassed high-profile roles in medicine, psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice, both in face-to-face and online settings. As a veteran spouse and mother of an active-duty military family, I possess a strong understanding of the needs of military-affiliated patients. My primary goal is to provide purpose-driven, customized care to all clients.
As a doctoral prepared professional, I bring extensive experience, qualities, and credentials to meet your needs. With over 30 years of nursing experience, I am a passionate and dedicated individual. My career has encompassed high-profile roles in medicine, psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice, both in face-to-face and online settings. As a veteran spouse and mother of an active-duty military family, I possess a strong understanding of the needs of military-affiliated patients. My primary goal is to provide purpose-driven, customized care to all clients.
(854) 212-7671 View (854) 212-7671

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Stacy Spratley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stacy Spratley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
(240) 981-4505 View (240) 981-4505
Photo of Chinenye LOVETH Chukwu - Mind Haven Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Mind Haven Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Columbia, SC 29223
At Mind Haven Psychiatry, our ideal client is someone who’s high-functioning on the outside but struggling within—battling anxiety, depression, overwhelm, or past trauma. They’re ready for support, open to care, and looking for clarity, balance, and relief. They want to understand their mental health, explore treatment options, and feel more like themselves again. Whether it’s through medication, therapy, or both, they’re seeking a safe, compassionate space to heal, grow, and reclaim their peace of mind.
At Mind Haven Psychiatry, our ideal client is someone who’s high-functioning on the outside but struggling within—battling anxiety, depression, overwhelm, or past trauma. They’re ready for support, open to care, and looking for clarity, balance, and relief. They want to understand their mental health, explore treatment options, and feel more like themselves again. Whether it’s through medication, therapy, or both, they’re seeking a safe, compassionate space to heal, grow, and reclaim their peace of mind.
(803) 836-9544 View (803) 836-9544
Photo of Sean Eberhard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Sean Eberhard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Charleston, SC 29414
Hello; I’m Sean. I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to help people with mental health conditions. I’m a teacher at heart as I was a golf instructor for the first part of my adult life, and I enjoy educating my patients on why certain interventions and suggestions would give each patient the greatest chance to succeed. I implement evidence-based practice with all my patients, but this is not limited to pharmological interventions.
Hello; I’m Sean. I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to help people with mental health conditions. I’m a teacher at heart as I was a golf instructor for the first part of my adult life, and I enjoy educating my patients on why certain interventions and suggestions would give each patient the greatest chance to succeed. I implement evidence-based practice with all my patients, but this is not limited to pharmological interventions.
(843) 396-6437 View (843) 396-6437
Photo of Dr. William Walkup - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbia, SC 29223
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) 991-0782 View (803) 991-0782
Photo of Angie Overton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Angie Overton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Columbia, SC 29223
Angie Overton is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across South Carolina. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), she focuses on helping clients overcome anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder through a combination of medication management and therapy. Whether you're navigating complex conditions like OCD, eating disorders, or sleep disorders, Angie works to ensure her clients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout their mental health journey.
Angie Overton is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across South Carolina. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), she focuses on helping clients overcome anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder through a combination of medication management and therapy. Whether you're navigating complex conditions like OCD, eating disorders, or sleep disorders, Angie works to ensure her clients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout their mental health journey.
(803) 913-8363 View (803) 913-8363
Photo of Dr. Laura Burdette, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Laura Burdette
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
(843) 920-5636 View (843) 920-5636
Photo of Gloria K Wilson - Abundant Grace Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Abundant Grace Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Charleston, SC 29412
I believe in the caring and connected holistic approach integrating physical, mental, social and spiritual values. I value you and will inspire trust, will listen well, evaluate and treat . The techniques I utilize along with medication management are CBT, Mindfulness, Coaching , Holistic Thinking , Dietary and Lifestyle Changes. Together We will Develop a Plan in harmony with a doctor ( Psychologist or Medical). We will Develop an Individualized plan that Promotes Healing and Allows you to reach Your Goals.
I believe in the caring and connected holistic approach integrating physical, mental, social and spiritual values. I value you and will inspire trust, will listen well, evaluate and treat . The techniques I utilize along with medication management are CBT, Mindfulness, Coaching , Holistic Thinking , Dietary and Lifestyle Changes. Together We will Develop a Plan in harmony with a doctor ( Psychologist or Medical). We will Develop an Individualized plan that Promotes Healing and Allows you to reach Your Goals.
(843) 594-2321 View (843) 594-2321
Photo of Leah Carter Lafountain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leah Carter Lafountain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Port Royal, SC 29935
Dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey with compassion and evidence-based care. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, focus issues, mood disorders, or other challenges, I provide a personalized approach that integrates motivational interviewing, medication management, and lifestyle strategies to support your well-being. Let’s work together to build a path toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. Empowering you through medication management, education, & brief supportive therapy.
Dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey with compassion and evidence-based care. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, focus issues, mood disorders, or other challenges, I provide a personalized approach that integrates motivational interviewing, medication management, and lifestyle strategies to support your well-being. Let’s work together to build a path toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. Empowering you through medication management, education, & brief supportive therapy.
(843) 380-2400 View (843) 380-2400
Photo of Dawn Marie DeVaux - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Summerville, SC 29486
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.
(854) 400-9058 View (854) 400-9058
Photo of Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29405
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
(843) 417-0261 View (843) 417-0261
Photo of Dr. Ciara Styles, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ciara Styles
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Ciara Styles is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she’s a proud “Double-Gator” completing both her undergraduate and medical school training at the University of Florida. She completed her psychiatric residency at the Medical University of South Carolina, where she also recently finished a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry. She plans to complete her child board certification later this year. She enjoys treating patients of diverse and minoritized backgrounds.
Dr. Ciara Styles is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she’s a proud “Double-Gator” completing both her undergraduate and medical school training at the University of Florida. She completed her psychiatric residency at the Medical University of South Carolina, where she also recently finished a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry. She plans to complete her child board certification later this year. She enjoys treating patients of diverse and minoritized backgrounds.
(843) 894-3758 View (843) 894-3758
Photo of Ryan Johnson - Law of Tranquility, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Law of Tranquility
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Summerville, SC 29485
Hi! I am Ryan Johnson, a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC) practicing in the Summerville area. My focus is the identification and treatment of various psychiatric conditions. It is my desire to serve those who are often overlooked or underserved. I provide a judgement-free, relaxed environment and believe in building a trusting provider-patient relationship in which you achieve your desired goals- I always want the best for you!
Hi! I am Ryan Johnson, a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC) practicing in the Summerville area. My focus is the identification and treatment of various psychiatric conditions. It is my desire to serve those who are often overlooked or underserved. I provide a judgement-free, relaxed environment and believe in building a trusting provider-patient relationship in which you achieve your desired goals- I always want the best for you!
(854) 842-3750 View (854) 842-3750
Photo of Shanika Bostic Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Shanika Bostic Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Florence, SC 29501
Dealing with mental health difficulties can be draining. Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed by fear, doubt, sadness, and anxiety? Do you find yourself struggling every day just to keep your head above water? I recognize the challenges that come with mental health issues and how they can profoundly impact your life and happiness. Seeking help for your mental health may seem intimidating, but it could also be the beginning of a positive change. The right diagnosis and treatment can transform your world. You don't have to tackle this path by yourself. Reach out today and embark on the journey towards a more promising future.
Dealing with mental health difficulties can be draining. Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed by fear, doubt, sadness, and anxiety? Do you find yourself struggling every day just to keep your head above water? I recognize the challenges that come with mental health issues and how they can profoundly impact your life and happiness. Seeking help for your mental health may seem intimidating, but it could also be the beginning of a positive change. The right diagnosis and treatment can transform your world. You don't have to tackle this path by yourself. Reach out today and embark on the journey towards a more promising future.
(833) 643-6660 x1 View (833) 643-6660 x1
Photo of Pamela Ridley, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHCNS
Pamela Ridley
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHCNS
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Pamela Ridley, PMHCNS, provides comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric medication management to teens, adults, and seniors across South Carolina. She supports individuals struggling with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs of each person. Pamela partners closely with her patients to explore safe and effective medication options and empowers them to play an active role in their treatment journey.
Pamela Ridley, PMHCNS, provides comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric medication management to teens, adults, and seniors across South Carolina. She supports individuals struggling with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs of each person. Pamela partners closely with her patients to explore safe and effective medication options and empowers them to play an active role in their treatment journey.
(803) 615-1869 View (803) 615-1869
Photo of Michael B Mefford, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael B Mefford
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Providing Online Psychiatric Care for Adult ADHD, Anxiety anywhere in SC. I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
Now Providing Online Psychiatric Care for Adult ADHD, Anxiety anywhere in SC. I believe in the therapeutic approach known as unconditional positive regard, which means I strive to be accepting, non-judgmental, and empathic. I practice the one skill I believe to be crucial in this field: I listen. After 13 years in child and adolescent psychiatry, I realized I had spent a great deal of my career treating ADHD. As psychiatry began to realize ADHD symptoms last into adulthood far more commonly than we previously thought, I became fascinated with this condition and its long term effects throughout the life cycle.
(843) 350-6393 View (843) 350-6393
Photo of Katherine Tharp, Psychiatrist, MD
Katherine Tharp
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. ​ If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. ​ If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
(254) 455-5344 View (254) 455-5344
Photo of Dr. Joan M Burns, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Joan M Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I provide care to patients (14 and older) with a wide range of mental health concerns, specializing in mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as psychotic, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I also provide prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum psychiatric care.
I provide care to patients (14 and older) with a wide range of mental health concerns, specializing in mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as psychotic, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I also provide prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum psychiatric care.
(321) 450-8172 View (321) 450-8172
Photo of Nicole Lucas - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Summerville, SC 29486
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.
(854) 215-3798 View (854) 215-3798

See more therapy options for Orangeburg

Nearby Searches for Orangeburg

See More Psychiatrists

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC who prioritize treating:

50% Depression
50% Anxiety
50% ADHD
50% Grief
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Anger Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Orangeburg?

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.