Psychiatrists in Murfreesboro, TN

Photo of Dollie Byron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dollie Byron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Life can be challenging and we can all benefit from support. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my clients. I know how vulnerable it can feel seeking out someone to help with psychiatric needs, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I use a combination of therapy techniques, review of lifestyle modifications, and use of medication management in a thoughtful way to help you function at your best.
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Life can be challenging and we can all benefit from support. My style has been described as relationship oriented, as I believe in building strong rapport and embodying a warm, curious, and accepting approach to treating my clients. I know how vulnerable it can feel seeking out someone to help with psychiatric needs, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I use a combination of therapy techniques, review of lifestyle modifications, and use of medication management in a thoughtful way to help you function at your best.
(615) 257-8967 View (615) 257-8967
Photo of Dr. Shawn Malugin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Dr. Shawn Malugin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
Thank you for reviewing my profile. I’m Dr. Shawn, and I take a comprehensive, functional psychiatry approach that blends conventional psychiatric treatments with holistic, personalized care. My focus is on the powerful connection between the brain and body, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health. By integrating the latest clinical practices with a deep understanding of the whole person, I offer a treatment approach that promotes lasting, meaningful improvement. My goal is to help individuals achieve true balance, healing, and enhanced well-being.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. I’m Dr. Shawn, and I take a comprehensive, functional psychiatry approach that blends conventional psychiatric treatments with holistic, personalized care. My focus is on the powerful connection between the brain and body, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health. By integrating the latest clinical practices with a deep understanding of the whole person, I offer a treatment approach that promotes lasting, meaningful improvement. My goal is to help individuals achieve true balance, healing, and enhanced well-being.
(629) 222-9234 View (629) 222-9234
Photo of Megan Christenberry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Megan Christenberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Things right now are gross and feel absolutely out of control. Want help figuring things out and how to deal with the chaos? I'd love to help you navigate the mayhem and figure out if its time to start a medication or make a medication change.
Things right now are gross and feel absolutely out of control. Want help figuring things out and how to deal with the chaos? I'd love to help you navigate the mayhem and figure out if its time to start a medication or make a medication change.
(615) 527-8330 View (615) 527-8330
Photo of Jordan Stovall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jordan Stovall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Now welcoming new patients ages 12 and up! Let's work together to help you live your best life. Jordan understands that life is complex and sometimes overwhelming and would like to take the time to get to know you and your unique story. He uses a mind-body approach to help you heal so that you can accomplish your goals and is passionate about mental health. Jordan received his Bachelor of Science in nursing at Belmont University and received his Master of Science in Nursing at Union University specializing in psychiatry and is an experienced provider with a wide range of experience in the outpatient setting.
Now welcoming new patients ages 12 and up! Let's work together to help you live your best life. Jordan understands that life is complex and sometimes overwhelming and would like to take the time to get to know you and your unique story. He uses a mind-body approach to help you heal so that you can accomplish your goals and is passionate about mental health. Jordan received his Bachelor of Science in nursing at Belmont University and received his Master of Science in Nursing at Union University specializing in psychiatry and is an experienced provider with a wide range of experience in the outpatient setting.
(629) 288-1499 View (629) 288-1499
Photo of Sara Bienstock, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Sara Bienstock
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
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.
(423) 640-8984 View (423) 640-8984
Photo of Hannah Street, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, RN
Hannah Street
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, RN
6 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I am so eager to be a resource to you and our community about treating mental health! If you or your child are struggling with their mental health, I am here to guide you to success using medication management as a tool. You and I will work together as a team by designing a treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals in a holistic manner so you can obtain better health mentally, physically, and spiritually. You are not alone in this journey. If you would like to book an appointment with me, go to www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment.
I am so eager to be a resource to you and our community about treating mental health! If you or your child are struggling with their mental health, I am here to guide you to success using medication management as a tool. You and I will work together as a team by designing a treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals in a holistic manner so you can obtain better health mentally, physically, and spiritually. You are not alone in this journey. If you would like to book an appointment with me, go to www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment.
(629) 465-4388 View (629) 465-4388
Photo of Arlena S Obey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMNHNP
Arlena S Obey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMNHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience in providing compassionate mental health care. I received Master of Science in Nursing from Saint Louis University and Poster's Master's Certification from South College, Knoxville, TN. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions, and mood disturbances. My approach is centered around empathy, collaboration, and understanding, ensuring each patient feels heard and supported as we work together toward a personalized treatment plan.
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of experience in providing compassionate mental health care. I received Master of Science in Nursing from Saint Louis University and Poster's Master's Certification from South College, Knoxville, TN. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions, and mood disturbances. My approach is centered around empathy, collaboration, and understanding, ensuring each patient feels heard and supported as we work together toward a personalized treatment plan.
(629) 265-9737 View (629) 265-9737
Photo of Tanitha Moncier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Tanitha Moncier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Every journey begins with one step. Perhaps you are feeling “stuck” and repeating the same patterns? I am committed to creating the possibility of well-being for you and helping you live a more fulfilling life, let’s work together so you can feel your best. With my expertise as a double board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, the focus of care in my practice is flexible and individualized to each client.
Every journey begins with one step. Perhaps you are feeling “stuck” and repeating the same patterns? I am committed to creating the possibility of well-being for you and helping you live a more fulfilling life, let’s work together so you can feel your best. With my expertise as a double board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, the focus of care in my practice is flexible and individualized to each client.
(615) 619-4204 View (615) 619-4204
Behavior Health Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Behavior Health Consultants specialize in medication management for mental health. We are passionate in helping you feel your best through therapeutic measures and becoming the best version of yourself. We are conveniently located close to downtown Murfreesboro and are accepting new patients ages 10+. In-office and virtual appointments are available.
Behavior Health Consultants specialize in medication management for mental health. We are passionate in helping you feel your best through therapeutic measures and becoming the best version of yourself. We are conveniently located close to downtown Murfreesboro and are accepting new patients ages 10+. In-office and virtual appointments are available.
(629) 226-6442 View (629) 226-6442
Photo of Tammy Lee Cyr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tammy Lee Cyr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I strive to provide a safe environment, both physically and emotionally for my patients. It is my privilege to come alongside my patients, hear their story and join them on their journey towards healing. I have a particular passion for and am drawn to patients that have endured traumatic experiences, as I have seen real healing occur with the right treatments and approaches. It brings me great joy to see patients heal so they can get back to the important things in life.
I strive to provide a safe environment, both physically and emotionally for my patients. It is my privilege to come alongside my patients, hear their story and join them on their journey towards healing. I have a particular passion for and am drawn to patients that have endured traumatic experiences, as I have seen real healing occur with the right treatments and approaches. It brings me great joy to see patients heal so they can get back to the important things in life.
(615) 551-9874 View (615) 551-9874
Photo of Courtney Michael - New Day Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
New Day Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Located in Murfreesboro and welcoming new patients, insurance accepted. We are experts in helping you feel your best and offer medication management for mental health. Have you ever felt like something is missing in your life or that life is harder than it should be? Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles and move forward to where you want to be in your life. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
Located in Murfreesboro and welcoming new patients, insurance accepted. We are experts in helping you feel your best and offer medication management for mental health. Have you ever felt like something is missing in your life or that life is harder than it should be? Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles and move forward to where you want to be in your life. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
(615) 282-5842 View (615) 282-5842
Photo of Brittni Cripps, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Brittni Cripps
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Hello and welcome! My name is Brittni, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with over ten years of diverse medical experience. My goal is to provide compassionate and high-quality care for your mental health needs, fostering a supportive environment where healing and well-being are priorities.
Hello and welcome! My name is Brittni, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with over ten years of diverse medical experience. My goal is to provide compassionate and high-quality care for your mental health needs, fostering a supportive environment where healing and well-being are priorities.
(629) 306-9052 View (629) 306-9052
Photo of Amanda Scales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Amanda Scales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I have been a nurse for almost 20 years, and throughout my nursing career, I have always felt drawn to patients dealing with anxiety and depression. I would love the opportunity to work together to remove obstacles that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential.
I have been a nurse for almost 20 years, and throughout my nursing career, I have always felt drawn to patients dealing with anxiety and depression. I would love the opportunity to work together to remove obstacles that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential.
(615) 930-3589 View (615) 930-3589
Photo of Emily Logan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Emily Logan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Hi! I’m Emily, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in the mental health of children, adolescents, and adults. I treat conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder by creating personalized care plans to foster resilience and long-term stability. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, and fostering a supportive environment for emotional growth and healing. If this sounds like the care you have been searching for, head on over to our website and choose the "book an appointment" tab to begin our seamless booking process!
Hi! I’m Emily, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in the mental health of children, adolescents, and adults. I treat conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder by creating personalized care plans to foster resilience and long-term stability. I’m passionate about reducing mental health stigma, and fostering a supportive environment for emotional growth and healing. If this sounds like the care you have been searching for, head on over to our website and choose the "book an appointment" tab to begin our seamless booking process!
(629) 302-3506 View (629) 302-3506
Photo of Janet Webster-Call - Strong Foundation Behavorial Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Strong Foundation Behavorial Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
(615) 829-8811 View (615) 829-8811
Photo of Bailey G Dryden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Bailey G Dryden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Hey y’all! I started my career working in rural community mental health, where I developed a love for underserved populations. I will see all ages, starting at age 5, but have a special love for teens and young adults. I also love working pregnant and postpartum patients. I have experience with ADHD, ODD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and PTSD. I have a passion for using medication as well as more holistic methods for optimal mental wellness. I want to help you become the best version of yourself!
Hey y’all! I started my career working in rural community mental health, where I developed a love for underserved populations. I will see all ages, starting at age 5, but have a special love for teens and young adults. I also love working pregnant and postpartum patients. I have experience with ADHD, ODD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and PTSD. I have a passion for using medication as well as more holistic methods for optimal mental wellness. I want to help you become the best version of yourself!
(629) 295-8580 View (629) 295-8580
Photo of Kimberly Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimberly Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
The journey of self-discovery is the best road traveled. I am a doctorate level Therapist and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
The journey of self-discovery is the best road traveled. I am a doctorate level Therapist and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(615) 492-3559 View (615) 492-3559
Photo of Rachel Hill - Positive Minds Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Positive Minds Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Empowering individuals to meet their individualized mental health goals through a team approach is my passion. I treat the whole person not a diagnosis. I think outside of the box and provide education, treatment options, and support each person in obtaining their optimal level of mental health. I perform psychiatric evaluations, provide medication management and supportive therapy for those suffering from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and specializing in autism spectrum disorder.
Empowering individuals to meet their individualized mental health goals through a team approach is my passion. I treat the whole person not a diagnosis. I think outside of the box and provide education, treatment options, and support each person in obtaining their optimal level of mental health. I perform psychiatric evaluations, provide medication management and supportive therapy for those suffering from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and specializing in autism spectrum disorder.
(615) 395-3882 View (615) 395-3882
Photo of Kimberly Hunt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimberly Hunt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hunting for a Solution is currently accepting new patients, and you can be seen within 1-2 weeks! Hi! My name is Kimberly Hunt the owner of Hunting for a Solution, LLC. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is licensed in many states including Tennessee, Illinois, and North Carolina. I have over 10 years of mental health experience as a nurse.
Hunting for a Solution is currently accepting new patients, and you can be seen within 1-2 weeks! Hi! My name is Kimberly Hunt the owner of Hunting for a Solution, LLC. I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is licensed in many states including Tennessee, Illinois, and North Carolina. I have over 10 years of mental health experience as a nurse.
(629) 263-6708 View (629) 263-6708
Photo of Jhakendra Hampton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Jhakendra Hampton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Your mental health reimagined! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a radical approach to wellness: you're the expert of your experience, and I'm your most supportive ally. With personalized, compassionate care, we'll transform challenges into opportunities for growth—meeting you where you are, online or in-person.
Your mental health reimagined! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a radical approach to wellness: you're the expert of your experience, and I'm your most supportive ally. With personalized, compassionate care, we'll transform challenges into opportunities for growth—meeting you where you are, online or in-person.
(629) 263-0324 View (629) 263-0324

See more therapy options for Murfreesboro

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Murfreesboro, TN

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Murfreesboro, TN who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
85% Trauma and PTSD
83% ADHD
82% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Optum
86% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Murfreesboro, TN see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
24% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Murfreesboro?

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.