Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN
I am a board-certified psychiatrist (accepting most insurance), and my goal is to help each of my patients build a greater sense of purpose & direction in their daily lives. My approach emphasizes affirming who you are while working on strategies to overcome negative assumptions, along with using appropriate medication. I see patients ages 21-69 for monthly visits, and I focus on depression and anxiety. With every patient, my goal is not just about "making you feel better" - it's about enabling you to be more of an active participant in your own life, especially in how you address the fears or sources of stress you face.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist (accepting most insurance), and my goal is to help each of my patients build a greater sense of purpose & direction in their daily lives. My approach emphasizes affirming who you are while working on strategies to overcome negative assumptions, along with using appropriate medication. I see patients ages 21-69 for monthly visits, and I focus on depression and anxiety. With every patient, my goal is not just about "making you feel better" - it's about enabling you to be more of an active participant in your own life, especially in how you address the fears or sources of stress you face.
I am a Psychiatrist with training and experience in a multitude of mental health and substance use disorders. I believe each person has their own unique story and goals and look forward to exploring how I can help you on your journey to wellness. I am excited for the opportunity to working alongside the other mental health providers at Family Care Center so
I am a Psychiatrist with training and experience in a multitude of mental health and substance use disorders. I believe each person has their own unique story and goals and look forward to exploring how I can help you on your journey to wellness. I am excited for the opportunity to working alongside the other mental health providers at Family Care Center so
I provide professional, personal, and accessible psychiatric care. I have a home office, and my office phone number connects to my cellular phone. I am able to schedule patients/clients for initial evaluations within a few days of an initial call, if we decide that we might be a good fit and that we might be able to partner in accomplishing good work. My approach to mental health is both psychotherapeutic and medical —and requires the engagement of the whole person in an honest, thoughtful, and meaningful search for solutions to life's difficulties and problems.
I provide professional, personal, and accessible psychiatric care. I have a home office, and my office phone number connects to my cellular phone. I am able to schedule patients/clients for initial evaluations within a few days of an initial call, if we decide that we might be a good fit and that we might be able to partner in accomplishing good work. My approach to mental health is both psychotherapeutic and medical —and requires the engagement of the whole person in an honest, thoughtful, and meaningful search for solutions to life's difficulties and problems.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience treating patients with various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in Medication Management of mental health symptoms, yet approach treatment from a holistic perspective that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of my patients. My experience has enabled an understanding that life creates stressors for people in diverse occupations, difficulties within relationships and families, and while pursuing educational milestones, and realize treatment must be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience treating patients with various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I specialize in Medication Management of mental health symptoms, yet approach treatment from a holistic perspective that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of my patients. My experience has enabled an understanding that life creates stressors for people in diverse occupations, difficulties within relationships and families, and while pursuing educational milestones, and realize treatment must be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Dianna Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP-c
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203 (Online Only)
Dianna Smith, MSN, PMHNP-C, DNP-c is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of professional nursing experience caring for psychiatric, mental health/behavioral, developmental/intellectual disability, and substance abuse clients in the community and acute settings. She loves providing direct care and values her expanded capacity to serve as a Provider. Diana states she is honored and reverent that her practice role allows the responsibility of managing and facilitating care;
Dianna Smith, MSN, PMHNP-C, DNP-c is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of professional nursing experience caring for psychiatric, mental health/behavioral, developmental/intellectual disability, and substance abuse clients in the community and acute settings. She loves providing direct care and values her expanded capacity to serve as a Provider. Diana states she is honored and reverent that her practice role allows the responsibility of managing and facilitating care;
Dr. Lindsay Works is board certified in Psychiatry as well as Addiction Medicine. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Works was a staff Psychiatrist at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and the clinical consultant for substance abuse treatment at Fort Campbell, KY, providing patient care in an inpatient and outpatient setting. After completing 8 years of active duty service, Dr. Works honorably left army service at the rank of Major.
Dr. Lindsay Works is board certified in Psychiatry as well as Addiction Medicine. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Works was a staff Psychiatrist at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and the clinical consultant for substance abuse treatment at Fort Campbell, KY, providing patient care in an inpatient and outpatient setting. After completing 8 years of active duty service, Dr. Works honorably left army service at the rank of Major.
I'm a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating mental illness in adults (17 and up). I enjoy working in a partnership with all individuals to achieve optimum quality of life. I will work collaboratively with psychologists and counselors and reinforce their therapy goals for you. Both prescription medications and holistic therapies are utilized for clients depending on their specific needs. Some of the holistic approaches include meditation and scripted muscle relaxation techniques. I welcome all patients and I am LGBT friendly. It's our goal to get patients usually seen the same week I'm contacted.
I'm a Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating mental illness in adults (17 and up). I enjoy working in a partnership with all individuals to achieve optimum quality of life. I will work collaboratively with psychologists and counselors and reinforce their therapy goals for you. Both prescription medications and holistic therapies are utilized for clients depending on their specific needs. Some of the holistic approaches include meditation and scripted muscle relaxation techniques. I welcome all patients and I am LGBT friendly. It's our goal to get patients usually seen the same week I'm contacted.
**I am unable to accept new patients at this time** As a physician, my goal is to perform a thorough diagnostic examination and to develop a treatment plan that allows for improvement in daily quality of life and function. Psychiatric care is my specialty area, but I believe in treating patients as a whole and considering how other medical conditions may be affecting a person's overall mental health.
**I am unable to accept new patients at this time** As a physician, my goal is to perform a thorough diagnostic examination and to develop a treatment plan that allows for improvement in daily quality of life and function. Psychiatric care is my specialty area, but I believe in treating patients as a whole and considering how other medical conditions may be affecting a person's overall mental health.
Dr. Dominique Holley is a triple board-certified psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Holley completed her post-doctoral residency and fellowship training at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She has served as an active US Army officer and recently separated from the US Army after 11 years of service. In her most recent role, she served as the Deputy Chief of the Department of Behavioral Health at Fort Campbell, KY where she provided clinical and administrative supervision, as well as mentorship and guidance for an interdisciplinary team of over 140 personnel.
Dr. Dominique Holley is a triple board-certified psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Holley completed her post-doctoral residency and fellowship training at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She has served as an active US Army officer and recently separated from the US Army after 11 years of service. In her most recent role, she served as the Deputy Chief of the Department of Behavioral Health at Fort Campbell, KY where she provided clinical and administrative supervision, as well as mentorship and guidance for an interdisciplinary team of over 140 personnel.
Miriam Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
Kendra O. Delaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, AGPCNP, RN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
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.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204 (Online Only)
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.
Dr. Chandra Krishnasastry has over 40 years of experience in psychotic disorders, substance abuse, addiction, mood disorders, and trauma. He is a nationally recognized psychiatrist with an extensive resume, and is currently the medical director at Saint Thomas Behavioral Health. He continues a private practice to help even more people achieve wellness and live to their full potential.
Dr. Chandra Krishnasastry has over 40 years of experience in psychotic disorders, substance abuse, addiction, mood disorders, and trauma. He is a nationally recognized psychiatrist with an extensive resume, and is currently the medical director at Saint Thomas Behavioral Health. He continues a private practice to help even more people achieve wellness and live to their full potential.
Brittany Haskell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
One of the bravest things anyone can do is ask for help. We are proud of you for taking the first step. Let's be honest, life is not easy. When you are feeling down, anxious, or stressed, life can feel downright overwhelming. Sometimes, even if we are trying our best to help ourselves, getting out of that miserable place can be a challenge. You do not have to do it alone! If you find yourself in this space, it might be time to consider mental health medications.
One of the bravest things anyone can do is ask for help. We are proud of you for taking the first step. Let's be honest, life is not easy. When you are feeling down, anxious, or stressed, life can feel downright overwhelming. Sometimes, even if we are trying our best to help ourselves, getting out of that miserable place can be a challenge. You do not have to do it alone! If you find yourself in this space, it might be time to consider mental health medications.
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.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211 (Online Only)
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
My goals are to help you feel your best, in all areas of your life! Whether you have had mental health struggles before or are seeking mental health support for the first time. I have firsthand experience and knowledge of the options available - from complex medication management to therapy options. Together we can close the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
I am a psychiatrist board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Sleep Medicine. My focus is the behavioral treatment of insomnia. I provide medical supervision provided to those desiring taper off sleep medications. Telehealth is offered. Please note I do not accept insurance. Email me for rates and details: nwsleepandbehavior@gmail.com. I am currently only accepting patients located in Tennessee.
I am a psychiatrist board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Sleep Medicine. My focus is the behavioral treatment of insomnia. I provide medical supervision provided to those desiring taper off sleep medications. Telehealth is offered. Please note I do not accept insurance. Email me for rates and details: nwsleepandbehavior@gmail.com. I am currently only accepting patients located in Tennessee.
Amber Kerby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203 (Online Only)
NEW clients BOOK an appointment on my WEBSITE: www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment ...My primary goal is to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and my approach is WHOLE-istic, incorporating the mind, body, spirit, empathy and understanding. My focus is on building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients, where we can work collaboratively towards a fulfilling life.
NEW clients BOOK an appointment on my WEBSITE: www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment ...My primary goal is to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and my approach is WHOLE-istic, incorporating the mind, body, spirit, empathy and understanding. My focus is on building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients, where we can work collaboratively towards a fulfilling life.
Nicole Libert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
I view all of my clients as the leaders in this journey towards improved wellbeing, and my goal is to act as a guide that gives options, a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities and maintain safety standards throughout the process. I look forward to hearing your story.
I view all of my clients as the leaders in this journey towards improved wellbeing, and my goal is to act as a guide that gives options, a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities and maintain safety standards throughout the process. I look forward to hearing your story.
I provide telepsychiatry services to clients in Tennessee, Oregon, and Florida, with a pending license in Washington. As a small, client-focused practice, I ensure you have direct access to me, your medical provider, through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. Whether you prefer to communicate via phone, text, or through the app, I am here to answer any questions and provide ongoing support. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where we can work together to restore balance and improve your mental well-being. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey to better mental health.
I provide telepsychiatry services to clients in Tennessee, Oregon, and Florida, with a pending license in Washington. As a small, client-focused practice, I ensure you have direct access to me, your medical provider, through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. Whether you prefer to communicate via phone, text, or through the app, I am here to answer any questions and provide ongoing support. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where we can work together to restore balance and improve your mental well-being. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey to better mental health.
See more therapy options for Nashville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN
100+
Average cost per session
$197
Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
85% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
25% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nashville?
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.