Psychiatrists in East Ridge, TN

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

I have been working as a mental health provider for 30 years. I have worked in community mental health centers, hospitals, and now in private practice. My experience includes case management, crisis response, outpatient and inpatient treatment of all the various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, I like to help clients achieve goals to improve mind, body, and spirit. With respect, patience, empathy, and non-judgement, I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with every client.
I have been working as a mental health provider for 30 years. I have worked in community mental health centers, hospitals, and now in private practice. My experience includes case management, crisis response, outpatient and inpatient treatment of all the various mental health issues. My approach is holistic, I like to help clients achieve goals to improve mind, body, and spirit. With respect, patience, empathy, and non-judgement, I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with every client.

Sara Bienstock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
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.

Lauren Louise Hansen: Bloom Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MEd, APRN, WHNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide comprehensive, holistic, medical-based mental health care.
I provide comprehensive, holistic, medical-based mental health care.

Angie Janicek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Clients! Now offering Spravato! Are you ready to seize control of your life and unleash your inner resilience? I commend you for taking this courageous step on your healing journey. I am wholeheartedly committed to guiding you on your path to recovery; I know that rediscovering joy and resilience are within your reach. With 20 years of mental health experience, I have a deep understanding of mood disorders and am particularly passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma. I
Accepting New Clients! Now offering Spravato! Are you ready to seize control of your life and unleash your inner resilience? I commend you for taking this courageous step on your healing journey. I am wholeheartedly committed to guiding you on your path to recovery; I know that rediscovering joy and resilience are within your reach. With 20 years of mental health experience, I have a deep understanding of mood disorders and am particularly passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma. I

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.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.

Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.

My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.
My ideal client is someone seeking support for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They may need help managing symptoms, understanding their condition, or navigating medication decisions. Their goals include achieving stability, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They aspire to live a balanced life, where mental health challenges are effectively managed and wellness is a priority.

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.

Denise Y O'Neil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I am dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner here to help you make the best decision in regard to your mental health. I am a compassionate provider who encourages my clients to actively participate in the decision-making process, which results in autonomy, empowerment, and overall improvement in their wellbeing. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.
I am dual Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner here to help you make the best decision in regard to your mental health. I am a compassionate provider who encourages my clients to actively participate in the decision-making process, which results in autonomy, empowerment, and overall improvement in their wellbeing. If you find yourself wondering if medication may be an option for you and/or if you think you may need an adjustment to your current medication regimen, give me a call. We can work together to get your questions answered and determine the best approach for you.

Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.

Rachel Ortiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.

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.

Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.

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.

Integrative Psychiatry is intended to do more than help you manage your symptoms. It is designed to help you live a complete, healthy, fulfilling life. Dr. Pooler will collaborate with you to identify potential factors and contributors to your mental health. This collaboration may include blood work, genetic testing, assessment of gut function, and hormone panels, to name a few. The results of these tests and discussions will help to formulate your specific treatment plan. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, stress reduction techniques, exercise regimens, trauma therapy, diet changes, and more can all be part of your treatment plan.
Integrative Psychiatry is intended to do more than help you manage your symptoms. It is designed to help you live a complete, healthy, fulfilling life. Dr. Pooler will collaborate with you to identify potential factors and contributors to your mental health. This collaboration may include blood work, genetic testing, assessment of gut function, and hormone panels, to name a few. The results of these tests and discussions will help to formulate your specific treatment plan. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, stress reduction techniques, exercise regimens, trauma therapy, diet changes, and more can all be part of your treatment plan.

My ideal client is an adult seeking clarity and support for their mental health concerns. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, and they desire a safe, compassionate space to discuss their concerns. Their goal is to gain a better understanding of their condition, improve their emotional well-being, and develop strategies to live a more fulfilling life. They seek personalized, empathetic care because they want to feel heard, valued, and supported in their journey to mental wellness.
My ideal client is an adult seeking clarity and support for their mental health concerns. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, and they desire a safe, compassionate space to discuss their concerns. Their goal is to gain a better understanding of their condition, improve their emotional well-being, and develop strategies to live a more fulfilling life. They seek personalized, empathetic care because they want to feel heard, valued, and supported in their journey to mental wellness.

Sandra Okengwu (Licensed in Tennessee/New York)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.

Welcome to Uplift Psychiatry, LLC! I’m Erica Winter, PMHNP and I’m here to support your mental health journey through a balanced, thoughtful approach. I provide medication management via telehealth, making care accessible, flexible, and tailored to you—wherever you are in Tennessee. Here’s what you can expect: A focus on finding the least amount of medication needed to help you feel your best. Discussions on holistic ways to improve your mental health—like mindfulness, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and movement.
Welcome to Uplift Psychiatry, LLC! I’m Erica Winter, PMHNP and I’m here to support your mental health journey through a balanced, thoughtful approach. I provide medication management via telehealth, making care accessible, flexible, and tailored to you—wherever you are in Tennessee. Here’s what you can expect: A focus on finding the least amount of medication needed to help you feel your best. Discussions on holistic ways to improve your mental health—like mindfulness, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and movement.
See more therapy options for East Ridge
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in East Ridge, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in East Ridge, TN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
32 Years
How Psychiatrists in East Ridge, TN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in East Ridge?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.