Psychiatrists in South Carolina

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Photo of Chioma Ekechukwu - Ally Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Ally Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Camden, SC 29020
At Ally Psychiatry, our vision is to create a comprehensive and inclusive mental health care environment within the communities we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring seamless care for our patients, addressing unmet mental health needs with compassion and innovation. Our goal is to lead the industry by providing the most effective, efficient, and highest quality care for everyone. Because you matter, Ally Psychiatry is here for you—offering both in-office and telemedicine visits. Wherever you are, we’re with you. Because you are important, Ally Psychiatry is welcoming patients for both in office and telemedicine visits.
At Ally Psychiatry, our vision is to create a comprehensive and inclusive mental health care environment within the communities we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring seamless care for our patients, addressing unmet mental health needs with compassion and innovation. Our goal is to lead the industry by providing the most effective, efficient, and highest quality care for everyone. Because you matter, Ally Psychiatry is here for you—offering both in-office and telemedicine visits. Wherever you are, we’re with you. Because you are important, Ally Psychiatry is welcoming patients for both in office and telemedicine visits.
(803) 284-8647 View (803) 284-8647
Photo of Rielle Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rielle Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
My ideal client is one that is honest about where they are so that I can meet them there, open to the process of working as a team to explore their needs and goals, and motivated to do the work necessary for their self-improvement and healing.
My ideal client is one that is honest about where they are so that I can meet them there, open to the process of working as a team to explore their needs and goals, and motivated to do the work necessary for their self-improvement and healing.
(864) 319-0923 View (864) 319-0923
Photo of Jared Carbone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jared Carbone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Greenville, SC 29607
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, I, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC have worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. I have had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in treating adult mood disorders including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and insomnia. I incorporate the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents within the state of South Carolina & Massachusetts.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, I, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC have worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. I have had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in treating adult mood disorders including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and insomnia. I incorporate the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents within the state of South Carolina & Massachusetts.
(864) 756-8147 View (864) 756-8147
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 Dr. Evelyn M Rodriguez Thomas - Grand Strand Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBA
Grand Strand Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBA
I'm passionate about working with people to ensure they have the tools and resilience they need to thrive and succeed. Increasing demands on all of us, particularly young people and families, have placed unprecedented challenges and coping with them can be difficult. I take a comprehensive approach and spend the time necessary to tailor the best treatment plan for you. I have a deep interest in helping you to cope successfully with anxiety, panic disorder, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and other mental health issues with therapy and the judicious use of selection of medication when needed.
I'm passionate about working with people to ensure they have the tools and resilience they need to thrive and succeed. Increasing demands on all of us, particularly young people and families, have placed unprecedented challenges and coping with them can be difficult. I take a comprehensive approach and spend the time necessary to tailor the best treatment plan for you. I have a deep interest in helping you to cope successfully with anxiety, panic disorder, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and other mental health issues with therapy and the judicious use of selection of medication when needed.
(843) 279-4698 View (843) 279-4698
Photo of Michele Reina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, -BC
Michele Reina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, -BC
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 17 years of experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse. I am passionate, compassionate, and committed to providing the highest level of mental health care. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Daemen College and my Master's degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina. My goal is to work closely with each patient to develop individualized treatment plans that foster healing and promote overall mental well-being.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 17 years of experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, adjustment difficulties, OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse. I am passionate, compassionate, and committed to providing the highest level of mental health care. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Daemen College and my Master's degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina. My goal is to work closely with each patient to develop individualized treatment plans that foster healing and promote overall mental well-being.
(803) 882-3861 View (803) 882-3861
Photo of Alexis Guevara, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexis Guevara
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
As a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I pride myself in approaching each person with compassion and understanding to provide comprehensive, detailed, and individualized mental health treatment. To me, patients are not just clients, but are people with unique needs and goals who are shaped by their environments and experiences. Having worked in many clinical settings and with extensive ecperience, I strive to maintain the utmost professionalism, compassion, and confidentiality with each person I serve. I am excited to work with you on taking the next steps towards a happier, healthier life.
As a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I pride myself in approaching each person with compassion and understanding to provide comprehensive, detailed, and individualized mental health treatment. To me, patients are not just clients, but are people with unique needs and goals who are shaped by their environments and experiences. Having worked in many clinical settings and with extensive ecperience, I strive to maintain the utmost professionalism, compassion, and confidentiality with each person I serve. I am excited to work with you on taking the next steps towards a happier, healthier life.
(843) 896-6459 View (843) 896-6459
Photo of Sara McCracken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, APRN
Sara McCracken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, APRN
Summerville, SC 29483
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or weight management. They seek guidance in overcoming emotional or physical challenges and want a compassionate provider who listens and understands. They desire a holistic, evidence-based approach to improve their mental and physical health, regain confidence, and achieve lasting well-being. Whether managing stress, sleep issues, or lifestyle changes, they seek support to feel empowered, motivated, and in control of their health.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, or weight management. They seek guidance in overcoming emotional or physical challenges and want a compassionate provider who listens and understands. They desire a holistic, evidence-based approach to improve their mental and physical health, regain confidence, and achieve lasting well-being. Whether managing stress, sleep issues, or lifestyle changes, they seek support to feel empowered, motivated, and in control of their health.
(854) 246-7926 View (854) 246-7926
Photo of Keith O'brian Plowden - Metropolitan Mobile Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, BC
Metropolitan Mobile Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, BC
Greenwood, SC 29646
I have over 30 years experience in health care. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 8 years. I offer a judgment free environment
I have over 30 years experience in health care. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 8 years. I offer a judgment free environment
(864) 606-3142 View (864) 606-3142
Photo of Dr. Julia Mahaney, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Julia Mahaney
Psychiatrist, DO
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Dr. Julia Mahaney, DO provides compassionate and expert psychiatric care to adults across South Carolina. With over two decades of experience, she specializes in medication management and individual therapy, helping patients navigate complex mental health challenges. Dr. Mahaney is boardcertified in both Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, equipping her to address conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use disorders. She also provides specialized care for sleep disorders, reproductive challenges, and laterlife transitions.
Dr. Julia Mahaney, DO provides compassionate and expert psychiatric care to adults across South Carolina. With over two decades of experience, she specializes in medication management and individual therapy, helping patients navigate complex mental health challenges. Dr. Mahaney is boardcertified in both Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, equipping her to address conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use disorders. She also provides specialized care for sleep disorders, reproductive challenges, and laterlife transitions.
(843) 484-9912 View (843) 484-9912
Photo of Dana Wiley, Psychiatrist, MD
Dana Wiley
Psychiatrist, MD
7 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 Emile Barrouk - Bedrock Mental Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Bedrock Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Greer, SC 29650
We treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and dementia. Our team of highly experienced and compassionate professionals includes a Board-Certified Psychiatrist as well as a skilled Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in treating psychiatric illness. Together, we focus on helping our clients achieve better mental health through a comprehensive approach. We don’t just prescribe medication—we take the time to address your concerns and provide personalized care.
We treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and dementia. Our team of highly experienced and compassionate professionals includes a Board-Certified Psychiatrist as well as a skilled Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in treating psychiatric illness. Together, we focus on helping our clients achieve better mental health through a comprehensive approach. We don’t just prescribe medication—we take the time to address your concerns and provide personalized care.
(864) 657-5084 View (864) 657-5084
Photo of Dr. James Lee, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. James Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Lee is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult psychiatry and minority mental health. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and later received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. After graduating from Meharry, he completed his psychiatry residency at the University of South Carolina/ Palmetto Health in Columbia, SC and a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Tulane University. After completing his training, he entered private practice in Rock Hill, SC and served the community for 11+ years.
Dr. Lee is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult psychiatry and minority mental health. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and later received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. After graduating from Meharry, he completed his psychiatry residency at the University of South Carolina/ Palmetto Health in Columbia, SC and a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Tulane University. After completing his training, he entered private practice in Rock Hill, SC and served the community for 11+ years.
(866) 720-3748 View (866) 720-3748
Photo of Amanda Groome, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
Amanda Groome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29611
Hello, I am a certified AGNP and PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I am honored to have now been in the nursing field for over fifteen years. I have always held an interest in the mind and human behavior. Working in the adult outpatient program (PHP) program taught me a lot about the intertwined roles of nursing and social work, as well as allowed me the opportunity to teach coping skill classes (e.g., guided imagery, self-esteem, sleep hygiene, and medication adherence). Serving both private practice and elderly care clients, I specialize in treating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and dementia.
Hello, I am a certified AGNP and PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I am honored to have now been in the nursing field for over fifteen years. I have always held an interest in the mind and human behavior. Working in the adult outpatient program (PHP) program taught me a lot about the intertwined roles of nursing and social work, as well as allowed me the opportunity to teach coping skill classes (e.g., guided imagery, self-esteem, sleep hygiene, and medication adherence). Serving both private practice and elderly care clients, I specialize in treating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and dementia.
(864) 668-6311 View (864) 668-6311
Photo of Wanda Samake, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wanda Samake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m Wanda Samake I have been a nurse practitioner for over 20 years and I hold dual board certifications in family practice and psychiatric mental health. I have always enjoyed helping/supporting others. I use this approach along with motivational interviewing to help my clients better manage their mental health and psychiatric issues. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia. ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I encourage clear and open communication. Additionally, I listen attentively to my clients’ concerns to help improve their overall mental health.
I’m Wanda Samake I have been a nurse practitioner for over 20 years and I hold dual board certifications in family practice and psychiatric mental health. I have always enjoyed helping/supporting others. I use this approach along with motivational interviewing to help my clients better manage their mental health and psychiatric issues. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia. ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I encourage clear and open communication. Additionally, I listen attentively to my clients’ concerns to help improve their overall mental health.
(854) 458-6232 View (854) 458-6232
Photo of Laura Law, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Laura Law
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I strongly believe that healing begins with a trusting relationship, and I encourage my patients to be active participants in their care. I completed my Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I strongly believe that healing begins with a trusting relationship, and I encourage my patients to be active participants in their care. I completed my Master's degree in Nursing at Walden University.
(864) 713-8404 View (864) 713-8404
Photo of Ashley Cromer - Upstate Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Upstate Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Spartanburg, SC 29306
Now Accepting New Patients with Primary Care Provider Referral: Upstate Mental Health, LLC is owned and operated by a Professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, ANCC Board Certified, serving patients with a range of mental health diagnoses in an outpatient setting. Beyond outpatient services, we also offer free collaboration with local therapist and psychologist for the better care of patients within our community.
Now Accepting New Patients with Primary Care Provider Referral: Upstate Mental Health, LLC is owned and operated by a Professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, ANCC Board Certified, serving patients with a range of mental health diagnoses in an outpatient setting. Beyond outpatient services, we also offer free collaboration with local therapist and psychologist for the better care of patients within our community.
(864) 365-2729 View (864) 365-2729
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Hamby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Sarah Elizabeth Hamby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Greenville, SC 29607
I am a native of Upstate SC and am honored to serve all age populations, from children to matured adults, who suffer from a variety of psychiatric disorders. I know finding a psychiatric NP or psychiatrist can be difficult, especially when many patients have experienced feeling unheard by past providers fearing someone new may not understand, as well as feeling lost, ashamed, and a multitude of other emotions. I want to assure you that I am here with you on this journey to finding out what medication may work best for you in managing your symptoms. The best way to contact me is email!
I am a native of Upstate SC and am honored to serve all age populations, from children to matured adults, who suffer from a variety of psychiatric disorders. I know finding a psychiatric NP or psychiatrist can be difficult, especially when many patients have experienced feeling unheard by past providers fearing someone new may not understand, as well as feeling lost, ashamed, and a multitude of other emotions. I want to assure you that I am here with you on this journey to finding out what medication may work best for you in managing your symptoms. The best way to contact me is email!
(864) 740-4176 View (864) 740-4176
Photo of Michael Casey Kundert - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
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) 204-5551 View (854) 204-5551
Photo of Dr. Holland Palmgren, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Dr. Holland Palmgren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
North Charleston, SC 29418
I am a Charleston, SC Native with 10+ years of nursing and provider experience in numerous different career fields. I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family and Psychiatric Medicine. This experience allows me to provide a whole-patient perspective to your mental health needs.
I am a Charleston, SC Native with 10+ years of nursing and provider experience in numerous different career fields. I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family and Psychiatric Medicine. This experience allows me to provide a whole-patient perspective to your mental health needs.
(843) 968-1722 View (843) 968-1722

See more therapy options for South Carolina

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in South Carolina who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
91% Anxiety
77% Trauma and PTSD
76% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
63% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in South Carolina see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in South Carolina?

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.