Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN

Photo of Chandra Price, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Chandra Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38134
At PRC Psychiatry, PLLC., we provide holistic and coordinated care tailored to address your physical, emotional, and social needs. Our commitment is to foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where you are heard, respected, and supported. Led by Chandra Price, a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, our telepsychiatry practice offers psychiatric diagnosis and evidence-based psychopharmacological treatment to clients in TN, ME, VT, and KS. Chandra's professional focus lies in integrated behavioral health, ensuring personalized care for each individual.
At PRC Psychiatry, PLLC., we provide holistic and coordinated care tailored to address your physical, emotional, and social needs. Our commitment is to foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where you are heard, respected, and supported. Led by Chandra Price, a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, our telepsychiatry practice offers psychiatric diagnosis and evidence-based psychopharmacological treatment to clients in TN, ME, VT, and KS. Chandra's professional focus lies in integrated behavioral health, ensuring personalized care for each individual.
(901) 582-8959 View (901) 582-8959
Photo of Sherika Cowan - Sherika Cowan Telepsychiatry Practice, SCTP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Sherika Cowan Telepsychiatry Practice, SCTP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 17 years total of nursing experience. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University in 2021. I believe in forming a personalized plan of care that values you and put your feelings first by use of evidence based practice, strong communication, and listening skills.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 17 years total of nursing experience. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University in 2021. I believe in forming a personalized plan of care that values you and put your feelings first by use of evidence based practice, strong communication, and listening skills.
(629) 280-4777 View (629) 280-4777
Photo of Justin McAdoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CRNA, PMHNPBC
Justin McAdoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CRNA, PMHNPBC
Memphis, TN 38120
At times, we can feel alone at sea when navigating through the storms of life. Time after time, our attempts at sailing toward calmer waters become more challenging. Taking the first step is often the most difficult due to the stigma surrounding mental illness. I am passionate about having the opportunity to help clients in their journey toward mental health wellness. Clients are more than a diagnosis, medication, and therapy approach. My practice philosophy focuses on a holistic care model incorporating a client’s life story, experiences, and biological factors.
At times, we can feel alone at sea when navigating through the storms of life. Time after time, our attempts at sailing toward calmer waters become more challenging. Taking the first step is often the most difficult due to the stigma surrounding mental illness. I am passionate about having the opportunity to help clients in their journey toward mental health wellness. Clients are more than a diagnosis, medication, and therapy approach. My practice philosophy focuses on a holistic care model incorporating a client’s life story, experiences, and biological factors.
(901) 676-6486 View (901) 676-6486
Photo of Amanda Tenison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Amanda Tenison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38120
I provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals facing anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, ADHD, mood disorders, irritability and other mental health struggles. My goal is to empower patients through evidence-based treatments, fostering a supportive environment where they can achieve emotional resilience and improved well-being. With a strong commitment to patient-centered care, I aim to address unique mental health needs, promote healing, and contribute positively to the communities I serve by ensuring accessible and empathetic psychiatric support.
I provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals facing anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, ADHD, mood disorders, irritability and other mental health struggles. My goal is to empower patients through evidence-based treatments, fostering a supportive environment where they can achieve emotional resilience and improved well-being. With a strong commitment to patient-centered care, I aim to address unique mental health needs, promote healing, and contribute positively to the communities I serve by ensuring accessible and empathetic psychiatric support.
(901) 582-8812 View (901) 582-8812
Photo of Melanie Nolan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Melanie Nolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
To request a consultation, please submit a request via my website at: psycheplus.net. I am not able to respond directly via phone or this profile. This is NOT just another appointment! My clients are seeking more holistic treatment to better their mental and emotional health. They are willing to actively work with me to develop mindset shifts. They are interested in thinking outside of the box and looking to compliment medical science with ancient wisdom. My clients are often students, professionals, parents, and entrepreneurs. My clients want more healing options, giving them the best chances at feeling better.
To request a consultation, please submit a request via my website at: psycheplus.net. I am not able to respond directly via phone or this profile. This is NOT just another appointment! My clients are seeking more holistic treatment to better their mental and emotional health. They are willing to actively work with me to develop mindset shifts. They are interested in thinking outside of the box and looking to compliment medical science with ancient wisdom. My clients are often students, professionals, parents, and entrepreneurs. My clients want more healing options, giving them the best chances at feeling better.
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Photo of Dongmo Tekobo, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Dongmo Tekobo
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Dr. Dongmo Tekobo is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) with over ten years of experience in the healthcare field. She received her DNP from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC). She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Tekobo demonstrates a commitment to providing evidence-based, compassionate care that is tailored to each patient's individual needs.
Dr. Dongmo Tekobo is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) with over ten years of experience in the healthcare field. She received her DNP from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC). She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Tekobo demonstrates a commitment to providing evidence-based, compassionate care that is tailored to each patient's individual needs.
(901) 668-5189 View (901) 668-5189
Photo of Sara Bienstock, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Sara Bienstock
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38103
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.
(901) 250-9109 View (901) 250-9109
Photo of Amanda L Eaves, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
Amanda L Eaves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38103
I bring a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for my patients. I specialize in medication management of depression, anxiety, attention deficits, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric diagnoses, while providing brief supportive psychotherapy.
I bring a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for my patients. I specialize in medication management of depression, anxiety, attention deficits, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric diagnoses, while providing brief supportive psychotherapy.
(901) 495-2430 View (901) 495-2430
Photo of Rachel Wise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, -BC
Rachel Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Rachel and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Tennessee. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, college & graduate student mental health, insomnia & sleep issues, life transitions, OCD, trauma and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Rachel and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Tennessee. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, college & graduate student mental health, insomnia & sleep issues, life transitions, OCD, trauma and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(901) 557-8081 View (901) 557-8081
Photo of Marilynn Yvette Richardson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marilynn Yvette Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am Marilynn Richardson. I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden, University in 2020. I have a deep commitment to compassionate and effective care. I provide medication management for adults 18 and older for symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. I provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. I help clients manage their conditions effectively and improve their overall well-being.
Hello, I am Marilynn Richardson. I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden, University in 2020. I have a deep commitment to compassionate and effective care. I provide medication management for adults 18 and older for symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. I provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. I help clients manage their conditions effectively and improve their overall well-being.
(901) 665-5247 View (901) 665-5247
Photo of Jennifer Thorsen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Jennifer Thorsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Memphis, TN 38119
As a parent of a child with autism, I have a deep passion and drive to help autistic individuals and their families. Since I have a child with autism, I not only developed a deeper understanding of ASD, but I also learned to be compassionate to my patients. I have six years of experience working in Women's health, so I am eager to help with prenatal mental health, as well as postpartum anxiety and depression. One goal I want to achieve is advocating for people who haven't felt heard or validated. Each person has a story to tell, and I am hear to listen.
As a parent of a child with autism, I have a deep passion and drive to help autistic individuals and their families. Since I have a child with autism, I not only developed a deeper understanding of ASD, but I also learned to be compassionate to my patients. I have six years of experience working in Women's health, so I am eager to help with prenatal mental health, as well as postpartum anxiety and depression. One goal I want to achieve is advocating for people who haven't felt heard or validated. Each person has a story to tell, and I am hear to listen.
(901) 582-6771 View (901) 582-6771
Photo of Angela Lovell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Lovell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress, feeling overwhelmed and seeking support. They need a safe, compassionate space where they can be heard without judgment. They want personalized care that respects their unique journey and empowers them to heal and grow. Together, we’ll work toward your goals at your pace, helping you find balance and hope. I’m here to support you every step of the way.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress, feeling overwhelmed and seeking support. They need a safe, compassionate space where they can be heard without judgment. They want personalized care that respects their unique journey and empowers them to heal and grow. Together, we’ll work toward your goals at your pace, helping you find balance and hope. I’m here to support you every step of the way.
(901) 403-7511 View (901) 403-7511
Photo of Marqueta Abraham - CLR Mind Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
CLR Mind Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Memphis, TN 38116
At CLR Mind Psychiatry, our ideal clients are individuals across all age groups—children, adolescents, and adults—who are struggling with a variety of mental health challenges and are seeking support to improve their well-being. These clients may be facing issues like anxiety, depression, psychosis, ADHD, or stress. They often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward, and they are looking for a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental health care that empowers them to heal and thrive. By using treatment plan with medication management and psychiatric evaluation to see what fits your needs.
At CLR Mind Psychiatry, our ideal clients are individuals across all age groups—children, adolescents, and adults—who are struggling with a variety of mental health challenges and are seeking support to improve their well-being. These clients may be facing issues like anxiety, depression, psychosis, ADHD, or stress. They often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward, and they are looking for a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental health care that empowers them to heal and thrive. By using treatment plan with medication management and psychiatric evaluation to see what fits your needs.
(901) 582-6218 View (901) 582-6218
Photo of Brittany Moten - New Vision Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
New Vision Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
New Vision Psychiatry was created to provide accessible psychiatric medication management services to those in Memphis, TN and surrounding areas. Our mission is to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment, so that people of all ages feel comfortable seeking help. No more feeling unheard or waiting several weeks for your medication to be refilled. We pride ourselves in providing thorough and timely care.
New Vision Psychiatry was created to provide accessible psychiatric medication management services to those in Memphis, TN and surrounding areas. Our mission is to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment, so that people of all ages feel comfortable seeking help. No more feeling unheard or waiting several weeks for your medication to be refilled. We pride ourselves in providing thorough and timely care.
(901) 660-5644 View (901) 660-5644
Photo of Melissa Hardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Memphis, TN 38120
Mental health does not discriminate and impacts almost everyone in some way whether it is dealing with it personally or having a relative who is struggling through it. I am here to provide individualized care to every patient that I see because every situation and individual is different. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions. Taking that first step can be scary, but we can walk through it together.
Mental health does not discriminate and impacts almost everyone in some way whether it is dealing with it personally or having a relative who is struggling through it. I am here to provide individualized care to every patient that I see because every situation and individual is different. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions. Taking that first step can be scary, but we can walk through it together.
(901) 660-3165 View (901) 660-3165
Photo of Sherika Cowan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Sherika Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Memphis, TN 38109
My ideal client is someone navigating the challenges of mood disorders, trauma, or chronic mental illness. They may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or disconnected, searching for stability and clarity in their mental health journey. Their goal is to regain control over their emotions, improve daily functioning, and build resilience. They want compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers them, free from stigma or judgment.
My ideal client is someone navigating the challenges of mood disorders, trauma, or chronic mental illness. They may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or disconnected, searching for stability and clarity in their mental health journey. Their goal is to regain control over their emotions, improve daily functioning, and build resilience. They want compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers them, free from stigma or judgment.
(901) 716-8345 View (901) 716-8345
Photo of Allyson Stewart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Allyson Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Memphis, TN 38119
At Feel Good Health & Wellness, we emphasize the importance of holistic health, recognizing that mental and emotional well-being are key to your overall vitality. Allyson Stewart's compassionate, evidence-based approach ensures that those seeking mental health services in Memphis, TN receive the tailored care they deserve.
At Feel Good Health & Wellness, we emphasize the importance of holistic health, recognizing that mental and emotional well-being are key to your overall vitality. Allyson Stewart's compassionate, evidence-based approach ensures that those seeking mental health services in Memphis, TN receive the tailored care they deserve.
(901) 660-3760 View (901) 660-3760
Photo of Latasha Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Latasha Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Memphis, TN 38120
Mental health disorders often go untreated & suppressed due to the stigma surrounding seeking help & treatment for mental health conditions. Symptoms often associated with depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, insomnia, grief, attention deficit disorder can lead to disturbances in your personal and professional lives. Seeking professional help and treatment for mental health conditions can often be met with apprehension but at Peace of Mind Mental Health & Wellness Center, the goal is to ease that apprehension and provide a calm & stress free environment to meet your needs. We assure you will be seen and heard.
Mental health disorders often go untreated & suppressed due to the stigma surrounding seeking help & treatment for mental health conditions. Symptoms often associated with depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, insomnia, grief, attention deficit disorder can lead to disturbances in your personal and professional lives. Seeking professional help and treatment for mental health conditions can often be met with apprehension but at Peace of Mind Mental Health & Wellness Center, the goal is to ease that apprehension and provide a calm & stress free environment to meet your needs. We assure you will be seen and heard.
(901) 673-8032 View (901) 673-8032
Photo of Kimberley Hatler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Kimberley Hatler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Helping people who have experienced multiple medication failures is a passion of mine. Partial alleviation of symptoms is not good enough. My goal is to work with you to find that combination of medications (and other options) so that you can feel your best. I achieve this by listening to you carefully, educating you on how treatments work, and including your input as an essential part of the treatment process. I am also very open to and affirming of holistic approaches to healing.
Helping people who have experienced multiple medication failures is a passion of mine. Partial alleviation of symptoms is not good enough. My goal is to work with you to find that combination of medications (and other options) so that you can feel your best. I achieve this by listening to you carefully, educating you on how treatments work, and including your input as an essential part of the treatment process. I am also very open to and affirming of holistic approaches to healing.
(901) 883-6611 View (901) 883-6611
Photo of Mohammed Altaher, Psychiatrist, MD
Mohammed Altaher
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I'm Dr. Mo — a psychiatrist likes to keep it real, human and helpful. My job is to help you make sense of what’s going on in your mind, and figure out the best way forward — whether that’s medication, therapy, or just someone to talk to who actually gets it.
I'm Dr. Mo — a psychiatrist likes to keep it real, human and helpful. My job is to help you make sense of what’s going on in your mind, and figure out the best way forward — whether that’s medication, therapy, or just someone to talk to who actually gets it.
(901) 599-2078 View (901) 599-2078

See more therapy options for Memphis

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN

90+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
92% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Memphis?

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.