Psychiatrists in Piedmont, SC

Photo of Timothy Allen Naumann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Timothy Allen Naumann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, SC 29673
I am a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My career in medicine began when I joined the United States Army as a Medic. I earned a Bachelors of Nursing Science from University of South Carolina. While working as a Registered Nurse for inpatient facility I earned a Masters of Nursing Science from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. While working as a Family Nurse Practitioner i gained experience and a passion for helping patients with acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I also have a passion for helping the men and women who wear the uniform, whether as a first responder or in defense of our nation.
I am a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My career in medicine began when I joined the United States Army as a Medic. I earned a Bachelors of Nursing Science from University of South Carolina. While working as a Registered Nurse for inpatient facility I earned a Masters of Nursing Science from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. While working as a Family Nurse Practitioner i gained experience and a passion for helping patients with acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I also have a passion for helping the men and women who wear the uniform, whether as a first responder or in defense of our nation.
(864) 514-5881 View (864) 514-5881
Photo of Dana Wiley, Psychiatrist, MD
Dana Wiley
Psychiatrist, MD
6 Endorsed
Piedmont, SC 29673
As a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication, I also appreciate the importance of therapy in helping patients improve. While I do incorporate supportive therapy in my sessions, for those patients who may need more intensive counseling, I have both male & female therapists in my practice and work with a psychologist, Dr. Yadira Baez-Lockard who treats children, adults & families in addition to psychological testing, DSS & forensic work. I treat the most common psychiatric disorders, but also have Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who appreciate the interface between medical and psychiatric disorders.
As a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication, I also appreciate the importance of therapy in helping patients improve. While I do incorporate supportive therapy in my sessions, for those patients who may need more intensive counseling, I have both male & female therapists in my practice and work with a psychologist, Dr. Yadira Baez-Lockard who treats children, adults & families in addition to psychological testing, DSS & forensic work. I treat the most common psychiatric disorders, but also have Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who appreciate the interface between medical and psychiatric disorders.
(864) 506-8517 View (864) 506-8517
Photo of Jennifer Burger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Jennifer Burger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Piedmont, SC 29673
Choosing a provider may be overwhelming and difficult. My goal is to offer a secure and accessible environment for patients to discuss their mental health concerns. I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority.
Choosing a provider may be overwhelming and difficult. My goal is to offer a secure and accessible environment for patients to discuss their mental health concerns. I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority.
(864) 351-4618 View (864) 351-4618
Photo of Jared Joshua Carbone - Stress Management Center at Fernview, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Stress Management Center at Fernview
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
(864) 225-0792 View (864) 225-0792

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 Christopher Spellicy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Christopher Spellicy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Greenville, SC 29615
Chris approaches patient care holistically, viewing each individual as more than a sum of symptoms or diagnoses. He prioritizes safety, trust, and collaboration in creating treatment plans, ensuring patients feel heard and understood. Known for his empathetic, non-judgmental style, Chris builds strong rapport and tailors care to each person’s unique needs.
Chris approaches patient care holistically, viewing each individual as more than a sum of symptoms or diagnoses. He prioritizes safety, trust, and collaboration in creating treatment plans, ensuring patients feel heard and understood. Known for his empathetic, non-judgmental style, Chris builds strong rapport and tailors care to each person’s unique needs.
(855) 724-1139 View (855) 724-1139
Photo of Kevin Cromer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Kevin Cromer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Meet Kevin Cromer, a Spartanburg native deeply committed to the local mental health community since 2014. Starting as a registered nurse at Spartanburg Medical Center, Kevin's passion for mental health led him to pursue advanced education, becoming an ANCC-Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient care, he established Upstate Mental Health, LLC in January 2021, making history as Spartanburg's first Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-owned office in December 2021.
Meet Kevin Cromer, a Spartanburg native deeply committed to the local mental health community since 2014. Starting as a registered nurse at Spartanburg Medical Center, Kevin's passion for mental health led him to pursue advanced education, becoming an ANCC-Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient care, he established Upstate Mental Health, LLC in January 2021, making history as Spartanburg's first Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-owned office in December 2021.
(864) 365-2729 View (864) 365-2729
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
Photo of Ken Nicholson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ken Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Seneca, SC 29678
I provide a positive and goal oriented plan including wellness and/or medication management for a variety of mental health disorders for ages six and older. Treatment for: Mood, ADHD, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar, Borderline, Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Addiction, Dementia, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sleep Disorders. I also utilize assessment tools and lab testing as needed to help manage or adjust symptoms disrupting your daily life. I also offer services for lifestyle and wellness.
I provide a positive and goal oriented plan including wellness and/or medication management for a variety of mental health disorders for ages six and older. Treatment for: Mood, ADHD, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar, Borderline, Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Addiction, Dementia, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sleep Disorders. I also utilize assessment tools and lab testing as needed to help manage or adjust symptoms disrupting your daily life. I also offer services for lifestyle and wellness.
(864) 883-9681 View (864) 883-9681
Photo of Dr. Dorothy J Nivens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Dr. Dorothy J Nivens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
(704) 459-2435 View (704) 459-2435
Photo of Gundu Reddy, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(843) 920-4592 View (843) 920-4592
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 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 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 Gundu Reddy, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(803) 675-7882 View (803) 675-7882
Photo of Peter Longstreet, Psychiatrist, MD
Peter Longstreet
Psychiatrist, MD
Greenville, SC 29601
Not accepting new clients
Something brought you here today.  Something you’re seeking.  Some solution, some perspective to some predicament or other.  You’re here in hopes of finding a safe place to tell your story, to be heard, to be seen as the person you are.  This you know. Just as you know, you don't want to be yet another patient midst a legion of others to be sized up within the first fifteen minutes made complete with a diagnosis and a pocket full of medications.    You’re seeking to be understood and what your suffering has been like for you.    ​
Something brought you here today.  Something you’re seeking.  Some solution, some perspective to some predicament or other.  You’re here in hopes of finding a safe place to tell your story, to be heard, to be seen as the person you are.  This you know. Just as you know, you don't want to be yet another patient midst a legion of others to be sized up within the first fifteen minutes made complete with a diagnosis and a pocket full of medications.    You’re seeking to be understood and what your suffering has been like for you.    ​
(864) 523-7790 x1 View (864) 523-7790 x1
Photo of Rebecca Frost, Psychiatrist, MD
Rebecca Frost
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
(701) 558-9231 View (701) 558-9231
Photo of Daisy Drayton - Brightside Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(803) 921-8252 View (803) 921-8252
Photo of Luron Fleming, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Luron Fleming
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My medical career began when I joined the United States Army Reserve as a Medic. I then went on to finish my Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Wofford College. After leaving active duty in 2002, I did full-time ministry as a Church Administrator, Music Director, Youth Director, Outreach Director, and Director of Addictions Ministry. This has led to have a profound commitment to the mental health profession.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My medical career began when I joined the United States Army Reserve as a Medic. I then went on to finish my Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Wofford College. After leaving active duty in 2002, I did full-time ministry as a Church Administrator, Music Director, Youth Director, Outreach Director, and Director of Addictions Ministry. This has led to have a profound commitment to the mental health profession.
(864) 514-5662 View (864) 514-5662
Photo of Mary Reames Rinehart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Mary Reames Rinehart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Lucera Health is a modern mental health clinic that integrates medical and therapeutic frameworks to support individuals and families. We deeply value the mantra whole-person care, all stories welcome. At Lucera, we adhere to an integrative approach to mental and physical health that is unique and collaborative with the women, children, adolescents, and families we see. Our clinic utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and various therapeutic modalities to combine advanced medical expertise with deep, personalized therapeutic care.
Lucera Health is a modern mental health clinic that integrates medical and therapeutic frameworks to support individuals and families. We deeply value the mantra whole-person care, all stories welcome. At Lucera, we adhere to an integrative approach to mental and physical health that is unique and collaborative with the women, children, adolescents, and families we see. Our clinic utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and various therapeutic modalities to combine advanced medical expertise with deep, personalized therapeutic care.
(629) 209-5013 View (629) 209-5013

See more therapy options for Piedmont

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Piedmont, SC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Piedmont, SC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Piedmont, SC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Male
25% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Piedmont?

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.