Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN

Photo of Rex Sparks, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rex Sparks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thompsons Station, TN 37179  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than twenty years of involvement in the mental health field. I am interested in treating patients with a wide range of issues including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Disturbances, and Thought Disorders. I welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. I strive for a nonjudgmental, “real” partnership, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care. My goal is to be a partner with you to help you fully realize your strengths and empower you to change your thoughts and behaviors to achieve a healthier, happier life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than twenty years of involvement in the mental health field. I am interested in treating patients with a wide range of issues including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Disturbances, and Thought Disorders. I welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. I strive for a nonjudgmental, “real” partnership, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care. My goal is to be a partner with you to help you fully realize your strengths and empower you to change your thoughts and behaviors to achieve a healthier, happier life.
(615) 697-6754 View (615) 697-6754

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Corina Picchiottino, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Corina Picchiottino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
As the founder and clinician at Redefining Roots, LLC, I believe your past choices should not define you. We will explore your biological, psychological, social, and spiritual influences to determine how they shape your view of yourself and the world around you. I utilize an integrative mental health care model that is whole-body focused, patient-centered, and trauma-informed to provide holistic healing with the use of various modalities including psychopharmacology, nutritional supplements, lab testing, and pharmacogenomic testing. Additionally, I provide individualized education and supportive therapy.
As the founder and clinician at Redefining Roots, LLC, I believe your past choices should not define you. We will explore your biological, psychological, social, and spiritual influences to determine how they shape your view of yourself and the world around you. I utilize an integrative mental health care model that is whole-body focused, patient-centered, and trauma-informed to provide holistic healing with the use of various modalities including psychopharmacology, nutritional supplements, lab testing, and pharmacogenomic testing. Additionally, I provide individualized education and supportive therapy.
(615) 857-1894 View (615) 857-1894
Photo of Dwight King - Tennessee Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Tennessee Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
(629) 333-3820 View (629) 333-3820
Photo of Kari Edick, RN,  MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kari Edick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Kari is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for all ages. She has experience treating a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to: bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD and personality disorders.
Kari is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for all ages. She has experience treating a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to: bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD and personality disorders.
(629) 258-6794 View (629) 258-6794
Photo of Taylor Berry, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylor Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spring Hill, TN 37174  (Online Only)
All appointments will be 100% virtual with the possibility for in-person appointments as early as January 2024 on Friday's in Franklin, TN. Accepting cash pay, Aetna, Cigna, Optum/United Healthcare, BCBS, and Tricare. VACCN coming soon!
All appointments will be 100% virtual with the possibility for in-person appointments as early as January 2024 on Friday's in Franklin, TN. Accepting cash pay, Aetna, Cigna, Optum/United Healthcare, BCBS, and Tricare. VACCN coming soon!
(615) 471-7521 View (615) 471-7521
Photo of Allie Denton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allie Denton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
After training and practicing at an academic medical center for the past six years, I wanted more for myself and my clients: more time, more connection, and a more holistic, mind-body approach. My practice philosophy is based on evidence, your values, and shared decision making to tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.
After training and practicing at an academic medical center for the past six years, I wanted more for myself and my clients: more time, more connection, and a more holistic, mind-body approach. My practice philosophy is based on evidence, your values, and shared decision making to tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.
(629) 253-6508 View (629) 253-6508
Photo of Allison Richardson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Mercy Community Healthcare offers comprehensive primary and mental healthcare to adults and children. Mercy’s psychiatric services enhance the quality of excellence in assessment, diagnosis, medication administration, evaluation and professional education. Mercy employs board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Mercy Community Healthcare offers comprehensive primary and mental healthcare to adults and children. Mercy’s psychiatric services enhance the quality of excellence in assessment, diagnosis, medication administration, evaluation and professional education. Mercy employs board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
(629) 299-2893 View (629) 299-2893
Photo of Lauren Caldwell, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Caldwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
While I am certified to provide care across the lifespan, my heart is for child and adolescent psychiatry. My goal is always to listen to kids, advocate for them, and be a support in their mental health journey. It is a role that I cherish and do not take lightly.
While I am certified to provide care across the lifespan, my heart is for child and adolescent psychiatry. My goal is always to listen to kids, advocate for them, and be a support in their mental health journey. It is a role that I cherish and do not take lightly.
(629) 729-4049 View (629) 729-4049
Photo of Kathryn Eckstein Jalovec, MD, Psychiatrist
Kathryn Eckstein Jalovec
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I am a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. I am a graduate of University of Tennessee Medical School, Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency, and Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Residency Program.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. I am a graduate of University of Tennessee Medical School, Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency, and Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Residency Program.
(615) 209-9114 View (615) 209-9114
Photo of Kendra O. Delaney, PhD, PMHNP, AGPCNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kendra O. Delaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, AGPCNP, RN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Welcome to Empowered Heart Integrative Mental Health Care, PLLC! We are an outpatient integrative mental health clinic that utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and the healing arts to work with children 5+, teens and adults to meet their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. We treat a variety of mental health conditions including, but not limited to: trauma, anxiety, & PTSD; depression & bipolar disorder; disordered eating; inattention & ADHD; and pre- and post-natal mood disorders, infertility, and loss.
Welcome to Empowered Heart Integrative Mental Health Care, PLLC! We are an outpatient integrative mental health clinic that utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and the healing arts to work with children 5+, teens and adults to meet their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. We treat a variety of mental health conditions including, but not limited to: trauma, anxiety, & PTSD; depression & bipolar disorder; disordered eating; inattention & ADHD; and pre- and post-natal mood disorders, infertility, and loss.
(615) 488-8675 View (615) 488-8675
Photo of Erin Fish, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Fish
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a compassionate psychiatric provider? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessment, consultation, and medication management utilizing current standards of care and evidence- based practice. As both a medication provider and clinically trained mental health therapist, I truly believe in patient-centered care focusing on the "whole person" via integration of physical, emotional, and social aspects in an individual's life. In our appointments we will discuss both medication and non-medication treatment interventions.
Are you searching for a compassionate psychiatric provider? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessment, consultation, and medication management utilizing current standards of care and evidence- based practice. As both a medication provider and clinically trained mental health therapist, I truly believe in patient-centered care focusing on the "whole person" via integration of physical, emotional, and social aspects in an individual's life. In our appointments we will discuss both medication and non-medication treatment interventions.
(615) 576-8433 View (615) 576-8433
Photo of Michael Ferri - InSight Recovery & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist
InSight Recovery & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
The InSight team welcomes patients suffering from mental illness and addictions of all kinds. Here at InSight, we work to engage the whole person by integrating psychiatric treatment, behavioral health counseling, peer support, case management, and specialized primary care, all to promote sustained recovery from addiction and mental illness and improve overall well-being. We are located in Franklin, TN. We serve the greater Nashville area and beyond.
The InSight team welcomes patients suffering from mental illness and addictions of all kinds. Here at InSight, we work to engage the whole person by integrating psychiatric treatment, behavioral health counseling, peer support, case management, and specialized primary care, all to promote sustained recovery from addiction and mental illness and improve overall well-being. We are located in Franklin, TN. We serve the greater Nashville area and beyond.
(615) 437-9643 View (615) 437-9643
Photo of Debra Ann York - The Art of Healing, P.C., APRN-BC, LPC-MHS, IFMCP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
The Art of Healing, P.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, LPC-MHS, IFMCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Deb York is good at helping you through the art of resilience, we can get through problems together. She feels like the most important aspect of counseling is empathy and unconditional regard; her job is to help you understand yourself and support your chosen path! She has a holistic view for psychiatric problems. She does trauma therapy and has her EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) certification. She continues to take UHC and Aetna but will be dropping insurance in 2024.
Deb York is good at helping you through the art of resilience, we can get through problems together. She feels like the most important aspect of counseling is empathy and unconditional regard; her job is to help you understand yourself and support your chosen path! She has a holistic view for psychiatric problems. She does trauma therapy and has her EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) certification. She continues to take UHC and Aetna but will be dropping insurance in 2024.
(615) 229-6384 View (615) 229-6384
Photo of Leslie Binford, DNP, RN, PHMNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leslie Binford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PHMNPBC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Many patients are hesitant when first introduced to the idea of taking medication. At Tennessee Reproductive Therapy, we understand that this is a deeply personal decision. We understand that every woman is unique and we will create a medication management plan tailored to your unique needs. Our thorough and compassionate approach to medication management involves carefully evaluating your needs and creating a treatment plan that is specific to you and your situation. Different from other medication providers, Leslie will spend a full 60 minutes with each client, getting to know you, your needs and your desires for treatment.
Many patients are hesitant when first introduced to the idea of taking medication. At Tennessee Reproductive Therapy, we understand that this is a deeply personal decision. We understand that every woman is unique and we will create a medication management plan tailored to your unique needs. Our thorough and compassionate approach to medication management involves carefully evaluating your needs and creating a treatment plan that is specific to you and your situation. Different from other medication providers, Leslie will spend a full 60 minutes with each client, getting to know you, your needs and your desires for treatment.
(615) 857-3886 View (615) 857-3886
Photo of Christopher Van Schenck - Tennessee Psychiatry, MB, BHC, BAO, Psychiatrist
Tennessee Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MB, BHC, BAO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
(731) 467-5515 View (731) 467-5515
Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(629) 276-6166 View (629) 276-6166
Photo of Theresa Wilson - Stepping Stones Psychiatric Services, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stepping Stones Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, TN 37174
Theresa Wilson is a Tennessee licensed board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority, specializing in a wide range of psychiatric services to patients across the life span. Her areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, behavioral issues, thought disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum, addictions, abuse, and trauma. No person should be defined by their diagnosis. Theresa embraces everyone's uniqueness. She delivers a personalized treatment plan tailored to fit each individual needs.
Theresa Wilson is a Tennessee licensed board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority, specializing in a wide range of psychiatric services to patients across the life span. Her areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, behavioral issues, thought disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum, addictions, abuse, and trauma. No person should be defined by their diagnosis. Theresa embraces everyone's uniqueness. She delivers a personalized treatment plan tailored to fit each individual needs.
(615) 374-7735 View (615) 374-7735
Photo of Sam Burress, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sam Burress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Sam Burress received his Bachelor’s degree from Martin Methodist College in 2015. Sam has a background in Intensive Care and Emergency nursing, but quickly realized that his true passion was in psychiatric nursing. He worked in Centennial’s inpatient psychiatric hospital in various bedside and administrative roles for 6 years prior to attending Middle Tennessee State University to obtain a Master’s degree and PMHNP certification. He strives to provide excellent and compassionate care to all of his clients.
Sam Burress received his Bachelor’s degree from Martin Methodist College in 2015. Sam has a background in Intensive Care and Emergency nursing, but quickly realized that his true passion was in psychiatric nursing. He worked in Centennial’s inpatient psychiatric hospital in various bedside and administrative roles for 6 years prior to attending Middle Tennessee State University to obtain a Master’s degree and PMHNP certification. He strives to provide excellent and compassionate care to all of his clients.
(615) 455-0026 View (615) 455-0026
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
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.
View
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spring Hill, TN 37174  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(901) 676-8564 View (901) 676-8564

See more therapy options for Thompsons Station

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Life Coaching
100% Grief

Average years in practice

28 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Male

How Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Thompsons Station?

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.