Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN
Simonpeter Emokpaire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my practice focuses on comprehensive care across all age groups, specializing in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. I have a particular interest in integrating medication management with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to enhance treatment outcomes, especially for mood disorders.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my practice focuses on comprehensive care across all age groups, specializing in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. I have a particular interest in integrating medication management with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to enhance treatment outcomes, especially for mood disorders.
Whitney Trotter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38120 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions. Over the years, I have honed my skills in diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients through their mental health challenges, always striving to offer the highest standard of care. My clinical approach is holistic, considering the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively with my patients
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions. Over the years, I have honed my skills in diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients through their mental health challenges, always striving to offer the highest standard of care. My clinical approach is holistic, considering the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively with my patients
Better Vibes Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you suffer from extreme sadness, lack of energy, insomnia, or have lost the desire to do things you used to love, you may have depression. Depression is just one illness that can negatively affect your life. Mental illnesses prevent people from living their lives to the fullest. If you are tired of suffering, understand that it is a must to take care of your mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical health. I treat various mental illnesses. I provide quality treatment with dignity and patient-centered care. If you're not taking care of your mental health it will affect other parts of your life.
If you suffer from extreme sadness, lack of energy, insomnia, or have lost the desire to do things you used to love, you may have depression. Depression is just one illness that can negatively affect your life. Mental illnesses prevent people from living their lives to the fullest. If you are tired of suffering, understand that it is a must to take care of your mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical health. I treat various mental illnesses. I provide quality treatment with dignity and patient-centered care. If you're not taking care of your mental health it will affect other parts of your life.
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.
Kimberly Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38115 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a board-certified virtual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in Memphis Tennessee, with over 24 years of experience in the nursing industry.
Hello, I am a board-certified virtual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in Memphis Tennessee, with over 24 years of experience in the nursing industry.
My nursing background consists of 15 years in the pre-hospital and emergency medicine setting, ten of those years at a Level 1 Trauma Center, and 7 of those years as a medevac flight nurse and was awarded the Tennessee Star of Life Award in 2017.
My nursing background consists of 15 years in the pre-hospital and emergency medicine setting, ten of those years at a Level 1 Trauma Center, and 7 of those years as a medevac flight nurse and was awarded the Tennessee Star of Life Award in 2017.
Amber Gordon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119
“Wellness encompasses a healthy body, a sound mind and a tranquil spirit. Enjoy the journey as you strive for wellness.” – Laurette Gagnon Beaulieu. You may have struggled with mood and anxiety for some time with no support or true relief. Or perhaps, you are taking psychiatric medication but the depression and anxiety still manage to creep in and increase throughout your day-to-day routine. You may also long for a provider that will actually take time to hear you out instead of pushing you out of the door with a prescription in hand. If any of the above resonates with you, I would like to help.
“Wellness encompasses a healthy body, a sound mind and a tranquil spirit. Enjoy the journey as you strive for wellness.” – Laurette Gagnon Beaulieu. You may have struggled with mood and anxiety for some time with no support or true relief. Or perhaps, you are taking psychiatric medication but the depression and anxiety still manage to creep in and increase throughout your day-to-day routine. You may also long for a provider that will actually take time to hear you out instead of pushing you out of the door with a prescription in hand. If any of the above resonates with you, I would like to help.
Steven John Meek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have a passion for designing specialized treatment plans tailored to analyzing and caring for the root elements of mental health. My solution-based focus and patient orientated treatment style has attained consistent results. I apply an array of treatment modalities supporting the biological, psychological, and social dynamics of mental health.
I have a passion for designing specialized treatment plans tailored to analyzing and caring for the root elements of mental health. My solution-based focus and patient orientated treatment style has attained consistent results. I apply an array of treatment modalities supporting the biological, psychological, and social dynamics of mental health.
Mobile Psych is a psychiatric practice established by Alfonso Canady and Dr Berenese Canady, DNP with a goal of providing compassionate and affordable mental health treatment. We take time to understand your needs, and partner with you to develop a course of treatment to help you function at your best. Situated in East Memphis, we are conveniently located near the I-240 and Popular Ave exit, with easy access.
Mobile Psych is a psychiatric practice established by Alfonso Canady and Dr Berenese Canady, DNP with a goal of providing compassionate and affordable mental health treatment. We take time to understand your needs, and partner with you to develop a course of treatment to help you function at your best. Situated in East Memphis, we are conveniently located near the I-240 and Popular Ave exit, with easy access.
Sara Bienstock
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38103 (Online Only)
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.
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Justin McAdoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CRNA, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
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.
Amanda L Eaves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
Verified Verified
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.
Jaquay Brister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38125 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Tennessee. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. I completed a 1 year residency at a VA Medical Center and have been practicing for 3 years. I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, with a focus on promoting holistic wellness and empowering individuals to achieve their mental health goals.
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Tennessee. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. I completed a 1 year residency at a VA Medical Center and have been practicing for 3 years. I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, with a focus on promoting holistic wellness and empowering individuals to achieve their mental health goals.
Lea H Brainerd
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, MSPAS, PCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Functional Medicine with a focus on Brain Health. I utilize an integrative approach assessing and treating clients holistically. My ideal client is dedicated to wellness and motivated to "do the work" required for healing. I serve clients in-person with a hybrid model option for follow-up visit. My intention: To provide outstanding client care with trust, empathy, and compassion, empowering clients to awaken their inner healer and be free of the burdens that weigh them down.
I specialize in Functional Medicine with a focus on Brain Health. I utilize an integrative approach assessing and treating clients holistically. My ideal client is dedicated to wellness and motivated to "do the work" required for healing. I serve clients in-person with a hybrid model option for follow-up visit. My intention: To provide outstanding client care with trust, empathy, and compassion, empowering clients to awaken their inner healer and be free of the burdens that weigh them down.
Victoria L. Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104
Not accepting new clients
Outpatient services available include the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specialized treatment is provided through the continued evaluation and management of psychotropic medication.
Outpatient services available include the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specialized treatment is provided through the continued evaluation and management of psychotropic medication.
Just Journey Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38125 (Online Only)
Mental health stability can open the door for unlimited possibilities in our journey through life. My job as a mental health provider is to help clients open new doors by changing their perspectives with medication management and psychotherapy. I encourage clients to take the initiative and responsibility for their mental health wellness. As a mental health provider, it is important for me to stay abreast of effective mental health principles and treatment options to ensure that all clients reach their full potential during their lifelong journey to positive mental health outcomes.
Mental health stability can open the door for unlimited possibilities in our journey through life. My job as a mental health provider is to help clients open new doors by changing their perspectives with medication management and psychotherapy. I encourage clients to take the initiative and responsibility for their mental health wellness. As a mental health provider, it is important for me to stay abreast of effective mental health principles and treatment options to ensure that all clients reach their full potential during their lifelong journey to positive mental health outcomes.
Kendra Hooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38138 (Online Only)
At Revive Psychiatry, you can expect the highest quality compassionate mental health services. We offer telepsychiatry evaluations and medication management visits to adolescents and adults. We pride ourselves on taking the time to understand your needs in a thorough, holistic manner. Through our comprehensive assessments, we partner with you to chart out a course of treatment designed to meet your treatment goals. Our priority is to help you regain your inner strength and take back control over your life.
At Revive Psychiatry, you can expect the highest quality compassionate mental health services. We offer telepsychiatry evaluations and medication management visits to adolescents and adults. We pride ourselves on taking the time to understand your needs in a thorough, holistic manner. Through our comprehensive assessments, we partner with you to chart out a course of treatment designed to meet your treatment goals. Our priority is to help you regain your inner strength and take back control over your life.
Dr. Janice I. Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MHNP-BC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117 (Online Only)
I care deeply about serving your mental health needs. Through Ascending Pathways, LLC, patients with will be empowered to reach their best mental health. This is primarily a telehealth service. My doctoral education as a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner has given me many options to help patients examine solutions for better mental health. My professional nursing mental health experience covers over ten years of working with patients who have had depression, anxiety, mood disorders, anger issues, family problems, post-traumatic stress, attention deficit hyperactivity, and other mental health illnesses.
I care deeply about serving your mental health needs. Through Ascending Pathways, LLC, patients with will be empowered to reach their best mental health. This is primarily a telehealth service. My doctoral education as a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner has given me many options to help patients examine solutions for better mental health. My professional nursing mental health experience covers over ten years of working with patients who have had depression, anxiety, mood disorders, anger issues, family problems, post-traumatic stress, attention deficit hyperactivity, and other mental health illnesses.
Mandy Yount
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38103
Visit my website to schedule an appointment! www.DowntownPsychiatricServices.com. I love helping people who have tried other providers in the past and left feeling unheard and unchanged. I find so much joy in connecting with people and being able to FINALLY find the right combination of care techniques to change someone's life. Have you struggled with depression for years and never found the right medication? Do you struggle with anxiety and feel you are missing out on life? Are you struggling to manage parenthood, a career and a marriage and feeling stagnant? I believe in kindness. Let me help.
Visit my website to schedule an appointment! www.DowntownPsychiatricServices.com. I love helping people who have tried other providers in the past and left feeling unheard and unchanged. I find so much joy in connecting with people and being able to FINALLY find the right combination of care techniques to change someone's life. Have you struggled with depression for years and never found the right medication? Do you struggle with anxiety and feel you are missing out on life? Are you struggling to manage parenthood, a career and a marriage and feeling stagnant? I believe in kindness. Let me help.
See more therapy options for Memphis
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN
60+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
87% | Trauma and PTSD |
86% | Medication Management |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Aetna |
84% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Memphis, TN see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
96% | Female | |
4% | 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.
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.