Psychiatrists in Carroll County, TN

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Photo of Sara Bienstock, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sara Bienstock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon, TN 38344
When you’re struggling with low motivation, self-doubt, hopelessness, or executive dysfunction, finding the right mental health care can feel overwhelming. Barriers like long waitlists, inconvenient clinic hours, confusing bills, or not feeling heard can make you question whether seeking treatment is even worth the frustration.
When you’re struggling with low motivation, self-doubt, hopelessness, or executive dysfunction, finding the right mental health care can feel overwhelming. Barriers like long waitlists, inconvenient clinic hours, confusing bills, or not feeling heard can make you question whether seeking treatment is even worth the frustration.
(731) 260-2975 View (731) 260-2975
Photo of Joshua Freedman - healthPiper, Psychiatrist
healthPiper
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKenzie, TN 38201
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(731) 361-8058 View (731) 361-8058

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Antonio L Eddings Sr., MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Antonio L Eddings Sr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.
Antonio is a Dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that is passionate about helping all people have the best physical and mental health as possible. He is the owner and founder of All About You Healthcare Family Practice & Behavioral Health that was founded in 2017. He has been in healthcare for over 24 years working in various clinical settings. He graduated from TSU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in IDS with concentration in Psychology and Social Work, 2005 with BSN, 2012 with MSN/FNP, and Aug 2021 Post Certification as PMHNP from Western Kentucky University.
(615) 709-6180 View (615) 709-6180
Photo of Jennifer Hicks, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of experience in mental health and family practice. I treat a variety of issues, including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Weight Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Disturbances, and Thought Disorders. I warmly welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. My approach emphasizes a nonjudgmental, collaborative partnership, empowering individuals to take an active role in their care. I prioritize genuine listening, believing everyone has a unique story that deserves to be heard.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of experience in mental health and family practice. I treat a variety of issues, including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Weight Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Disturbances, and Thought Disorders. I warmly welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. My approach emphasizes a nonjudgmental, collaborative partnership, empowering individuals to take an active role in their care. I prioritize genuine listening, believing everyone has a unique story that deserves to be heard.
(629) 276-7019 View (629) 276-7019
Photo of Kimberley Hatler, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberley Hatler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Helping people who have experienced multiple medication failures is a passion of mine. Partial alleviation of symptoms is not good enough. Every person has a unique combination of medications that will work best for them. My goal is to work with you to find that perfect combination, so that you can feel your best.
Helping people who have experienced multiple medication failures is a passion of mine. Partial alleviation of symptoms is not good enough. Every person has a unique combination of medications that will work best for them. My goal is to work with you to find that perfect combination, so that you can feel your best.
(901) 883-6611 View (901) 883-6611
Photo of Parker Loy, MD, Psychiatrist
Parker Loy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Parker Loy is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. After finishing undergraduate studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, he completed the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Master of Science program before enrolling in medical school at the same institution.
Dr. Parker Loy is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. After finishing undergraduate studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, he completed the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Master of Science program before enrolling in medical school at the same institution.
(629) 249-6349 View (629) 249-6349
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee. 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.
(901) 676-8564 View (901) 676-8564
Photo of William Siegal, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
William Siegal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37069
Will is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience working in Mental Health. He specializes in psychiatric medication management as well as psychotherapy and sees children (ages 6 and up), adolescents and adults with a range of conditions including but not limited to ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and autism. Will works collaboratively with clients in an open and nonjudgmental manner, often with humor, curiosity, and intentional therapeutic self-disclosure to help uncover the biological, medical, spiritual and social dimensions of concerns.
Will is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience working in Mental Health. He specializes in psychiatric medication management as well as psychotherapy and sees children (ages 6 and up), adolescents and adults with a range of conditions including but not limited to ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and autism. Will works collaboratively with clients in an open and nonjudgmental manner, often with humor, curiosity, and intentional therapeutic self-disclosure to help uncover the biological, medical, spiritual and social dimensions of concerns.
(629) 465-4880 View (629) 465-4880
Photo of Edward Massey, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edward Massey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am a Psychotherapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have worked in psychiatry and mental health for over 30 years, with over 20 years in private practice in Middle Tennessee. I have worked with almost every variation of every common issue that brings people to therapy, and with most of the less common ones as well. I find that more often than not, people are not certain what exactly it is that brings them to therapy; only that something is not working for them, or something doesn’t feel right, and they haven’t been able to fix it or understand it on their own.
I am a Psychotherapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have worked in psychiatry and mental health for over 30 years, with over 20 years in private practice in Middle Tennessee. I have worked with almost every variation of every common issue that brings people to therapy, and with most of the less common ones as well. I find that more often than not, people are not certain what exactly it is that brings them to therapy; only that something is not working for them, or something doesn’t feel right, and they haven’t been able to fix it or understand it on their own.
(629) 299-2635 View (629) 299-2635
Photo of William Scott West - Nashville NeuroCare Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Nashville NeuroCare Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We understand that while depression may be common, it is a serious illness that requires proven methodologies to renew one’s life. Our TMS Therapy approach provides a safe and drug-free path to living better. Everyone occasionally feels blue or sad. But these feelings are usually short-lived and pass within a couple of days. When you have depression, it interferes with daily life and causes pain for both you and those who care about you. Many people with a depressive illness never seek treatment. But the majority, even those with the most severe depression, can get better with treatment.
We understand that while depression may be common, it is a serious illness that requires proven methodologies to renew one’s life. Our TMS Therapy approach provides a safe and drug-free path to living better. Everyone occasionally feels blue or sad. But these feelings are usually short-lived and pass within a couple of days. When you have depression, it interferes with daily life and causes pain for both you and those who care about you. Many people with a depressive illness never seek treatment. But the majority, even those with the most severe depression, can get better with treatment.
(615) 395-6539 View (615) 395-6539
Photo of Brittany Moten, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Moten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Brittany Moten and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take a holistic and evidenced-based approach to mental healthcare. I also implement treatment plans that are tailored to each client's needs and comfort. I take a holistic approach to providing mental healthcare, as I understand that simply prescribing medications isn't enough to help an individual get to the root cause of their concerns. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Brittany Moten and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take a holistic and evidenced-based approach to mental healthcare. I also implement treatment plans that are tailored to each client's needs and comfort. I take a holistic approach to providing mental healthcare, as I understand that simply prescribing medications isn't enough to help an individual get to the root cause of their concerns. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(629) 206-4966 View (629) 206-4966
Photo of Dr. Shoshana Scott, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Shoshana Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). My philosophy about health and mental well-being requires an integration of mind and body, treating the whole person. My specialties include diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD for adolescents 13 years and adults of all ages. Therapy is also available to complement treatment if you choose to start medications.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). My philosophy about health and mental well-being requires an integration of mind and body, treating the whole person. My specialties include diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD for adolescents 13 years and adults of all ages. Therapy is also available to complement treatment if you choose to start medications.
View
Photo of Eric Avent, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric Avent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eric Avent is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. His training and experience qualify him to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Eric's primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. He offers telemedicine services. Some of his practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Eric Avent is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. His training and experience qualify him to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Eric's primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. He offers telemedicine services. Some of his practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
(615) 708-4950 View (615) 708-4950
Photo of Allyson Witters Cundiff, MD, Psychiatrist
Allyson Witters Cundiff
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
My name is Allyson Witters Cundiff and I am pleased to offer psychiatric care in the middle TN area for all ages. As a Nashville native with an understanding and appreciation of the growth of this wonderful community, I am very aware of the increased stress that our community has endured with this growth and specifically the last few years with the fallout from the pandemic and other tragedies. I am grateful to be able to work collaboratively in order to best help patients achieve their goals for mental wellbeing and healing.
My name is Allyson Witters Cundiff and I am pleased to offer psychiatric care in the middle TN area for all ages. As a Nashville native with an understanding and appreciation of the growth of this wonderful community, I am very aware of the increased stress that our community has endured with this growth and specifically the last few years with the fallout from the pandemic and other tragedies. I am grateful to be able to work collaboratively in order to best help patients achieve their goals for mental wellbeing and healing.
(615) 258-7610 View (615) 258-7610
Photo of Alice Bernet, PhD, PMHNP, NBC-HWC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alice Bernet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
My ideal client values precision and individualized treatment. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I offer a holistic approach through medications combined with therapeutic interventions such as motivational interviewing. I prioritize open communication and collaboration. If you seek a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm here to empower you on your journey to mental health and wellness.
My ideal client values precision and individualized treatment. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I offer a holistic approach through medications combined with therapeutic interventions such as motivational interviewing. I prioritize open communication and collaboration. If you seek a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm here to empower you on your journey to mental health and wellness.
(615) 903-8255 View (615) 903-8255
Photo of Laracel D'Andrea, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laracel D'Andrea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
NP Laracel D'Andrea is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Wyoming. She has always had a passion for psychology and the study of human nature, and received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology before completing her nursing degree. She sees the role of a psychiatric nurse practitioner as a bridge between psychology and medicine. NP Laracel's approach involves treating each person mentally, physically, and spiritually through pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments.
NP Laracel D'Andrea is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Wyoming. She has always had a passion for psychology and the study of human nature, and received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology before completing her nursing degree. She sees the role of a psychiatric nurse practitioner as a bridge between psychology and medicine. NP Laracel's approach involves treating each person mentally, physically, and spiritually through pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments.
(321) 730-3591 View (321) 730-3591
Photo of Alicia Ellis, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I'm Alicia Ellis. Choosing you is the first step towards gaining control over your mental health because, honestly – initiating therapy can be scary and enlightening all at the same time. I am passionate about assisting patients who have experienced trauma-related experiences. I can assist Veterans that experienced PTSD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and depression. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows my clients to explore their triggers that have caused them undue trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and/or self-care.
Hello! I'm Alicia Ellis. Choosing you is the first step towards gaining control over your mental health because, honestly – initiating therapy can be scary and enlightening all at the same time. I am passionate about assisting patients who have experienced trauma-related experiences. I can assist Veterans that experienced PTSD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and depression. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows my clients to explore their triggers that have caused them undue trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and/or self-care.
(931) 391-3301 View (931) 391-3301
Photo of Dr. Shristi Shrestha - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
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.
(629) 302-3165 View (629) 302-3165
Photo of Stephanie Hamrick, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Hamrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to assist clients with their mental health concerns by addressing each client's needs on an individualized basis.
My goal is to assist clients with their mental health concerns by addressing each client's needs on an individualized basis.
(931) 345-2132 View (931) 345-2132
Photo of Katharine Dinwiddie, DO, Psychiatrist
Katharine Dinwiddie
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I enjoy the collaborative nature of psychiatry. Working with parents/guardians, teachers, therapists and primary care providers to help kids thrive is very important to me.
I enjoy the collaborative nature of psychiatry. Working with parents/guardians, teachers, therapists and primary care providers to help kids thrive is very important to me.
(615) 488-4976 View (615) 488-4976

See more therapy options for Carroll County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Carroll County, TN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Carroll County, TN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Other
100% Medication Management
50% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

32 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in Carroll County, TN see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Carroll County?

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.