Psychiatrists in North Carolina
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
Kevin Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Kevin, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of medical and military experience, including raising two autistic boys. I approach each client with profound respect, focusing on trust, empathy, and collaboration to develop personalized treatment plans. I prioritize holistic care, empowering clients to navigate mental health challenges with resilience and hope. Together, we create a safe space to address concerns and aspirations, integrating evidence-based psychiatric care with mindfulness practices and lifestyle adjustments. Regular check-ins ensure you feel supported and empowered on your path to mental wellness.
Hello, I'm Kevin, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of medical and military experience, including raising two autistic boys. I approach each client with profound respect, focusing on trust, empathy, and collaboration to develop personalized treatment plans. I prioritize holistic care, empowering clients to navigate mental health challenges with resilience and hope. Together, we create a safe space to address concerns and aspirations, integrating evidence-based psychiatric care with mindfulness practices and lifestyle adjustments. Regular check-ins ensure you feel supported and empowered on your path to mental wellness.
Rebekah MacNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
I am a Duke-trained physician (MD), double board-certified in psychiatry and addiction medicine. I treat individuals ages 16+ who are struggling to thrive due to psychiatric or substance use disorders. My approach integrates psychopharmacology, somatic interventions, psychotherapy, nutrition, and mindfulness. I have served as a faculty member at Duke University School of Medicine since 2014. I continue as an Adjunct Assistant Professor. My passion is using my extensive training to empathically treat those at the intersection of trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. My practice is located on a beautiful farm.
I am a Duke-trained physician (MD), double board-certified in psychiatry and addiction medicine. I treat individuals ages 16+ who are struggling to thrive due to psychiatric or substance use disorders. My approach integrates psychopharmacology, somatic interventions, psychotherapy, nutrition, and mindfulness. I have served as a faculty member at Duke University School of Medicine since 2014. I continue as an Adjunct Assistant Professor. My passion is using my extensive training to empathically treat those at the intersection of trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. My practice is located on a beautiful farm.
Arnab Datta, MD, is a psychiatrist who also provides psychotherapy, couples therapy, meditation, and EMDR. It’s important to listen deeply to your conscious and unconscious mind—so we can differentiate your false self from your true self. Here you can have psychoanalytic interpretations, and have it not take 6 months. Dr. Datta is a controlled substance specialist who treats Adderall, Xanax, and Suboxone patients and also uncovers the psychological reasons why you’re on these meds. Dr. Datta completed 2 fellowships in addiction psychiatry. He treats drug addictions as well as behavioral addictions like gambling, the internet, etc
Arnab Datta, MD, is a psychiatrist who also provides psychotherapy, couples therapy, meditation, and EMDR. It’s important to listen deeply to your conscious and unconscious mind—so we can differentiate your false self from your true self. Here you can have psychoanalytic interpretations, and have it not take 6 months. Dr. Datta is a controlled substance specialist who treats Adderall, Xanax, and Suboxone patients and also uncovers the psychological reasons why you’re on these meds. Dr. Datta completed 2 fellowships in addiction psychiatry. He treats drug addictions as well as behavioral addictions like gambling, the internet, etc
Robin Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hello. My name is Robin. I have been a psychiatric Nurse for over 25 years. I have experience, knowledge and expertise working with a variety of clients. I use a person centered approach in order to meet the individualized needs of each client. I graduated from University of Texas in Austin with a Bachelor in Nursing and received a post masters certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Vanderbilt university. I retired from active duty 2016.
Hello. My name is Robin. I have been a psychiatric Nurse for over 25 years. I have experience, knowledge and expertise working with a variety of clients. I use a person centered approach in order to meet the individualized needs of each client. I graduated from University of Texas in Austin with a Bachelor in Nursing and received a post masters certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Vanderbilt university. I retired from active duty 2016.
Linh Tran believes that mental health has been an undervalued area of medicine, yet it is so vital to our overall function and well being. Growing up within a culture where mental health was, and still is, suppressed, and having helped individuals from different walks of life through their stress, anxiety, and depression, she knew she wanted to work in a field where she could provide high-quality care to those needing it most and help make a positive difference on their outlook.
Linh Tran believes that mental health has been an undervalued area of medicine, yet it is so vital to our overall function and well being. Growing up within a culture where mental health was, and still is, suppressed, and having helped individuals from different walks of life through their stress, anxiety, and depression, she knew she wanted to work in a field where she could provide high-quality care to those needing it most and help make a positive difference on their outlook.
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
Morgan Stenger, PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from High Point University. Before pursuing PA school, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Morgan's passion for mental health began when she took AP Psychology in high school where she became inspired to one day become a psychiatric provider. Throughout her education, her passion for mental health continued to grow. During her clinical year of PA school, Morgan completed two psychiatry rotations where she gained experience caring for pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.
Verve Psychiatry: Dr. Sayanti Bhattacharya
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am a board certified psychiatrist and see patients ages 18 and above. I help people struggling with relationship, work and school problems, low motivation, social anxiety, isolation, communication issues and low self-esteem. My goal is to help you lead a full life to the best of your abilities.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and see patients ages 18 and above. I help people struggling with relationship, work and school problems, low motivation, social anxiety, isolation, communication issues and low self-esteem. My goal is to help you lead a full life to the best of your abilities.
Please visit our website envisionbehavioralhealth.com and select "request a consultation" to request an appointment. Dr. Jessica Derreberry is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults age 18 and older. She completed her psychiatric residency at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem, NC. She obtained her medical degree from Marshall University in Huntington, WV and her Bachelor's of Science degree in Biochemistry from West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. In person or telehealth appointments available.
Please visit our website envisionbehavioralhealth.com and select "request a consultation" to request an appointment. Dr. Jessica Derreberry is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults age 18 and older. She completed her psychiatric residency at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem, NC. She obtained her medical degree from Marshall University in Huntington, WV and her Bachelor's of Science degree in Biochemistry from West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. In person or telehealth appointments available.
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
Board certified Psychiatrists (Child & Adult), Psychologists and Therapists in Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Raleigh-Durham (North Carolina) provide comprehensive psychiatric care and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Depression and OCD.
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Dr. Nathan Carter is currently Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. In addition, he is currently Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Carter is well aware that substance abuse and dependence are among today's greatest public health problems. His certifications compliment his desire to be a conduit of recovery to his patients from their addictions and mental illnesses. Dr. Carter practices psychiatry both in the inpatient and outpatient settings and has a vast understanding of patient needs.
Dr. Nathan Carter is currently Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. In addition, he is currently Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Carter is well aware that substance abuse and dependence are among today's greatest public health problems. His certifications compliment his desire to be a conduit of recovery to his patients from their addictions and mental illnesses. Dr. Carter practices psychiatry both in the inpatient and outpatient settings and has a vast understanding of patient needs.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over ten years of experience treating various psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, anxiety disorder, co-morbid substance use disorder, and psychotic disorder. My goal is to ensure that patients have a positive experience while seeking psychiatric treatment by establishing a patient-centered environment that promotes privacy and patient comfort.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over ten years of experience treating various psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, anxiety disorder, co-morbid substance use disorder, and psychotic disorder. My goal is to ensure that patients have a positive experience while seeking psychiatric treatment by establishing a patient-centered environment that promotes privacy and patient comfort.
Gretchen Danielle Barnes
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27157
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
Taquita is a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health in the state of North Carolina and Georgia. She graduated from South University in Savannah, GA with her family medicine studies and from Maryville University in St. Louis, MI with her psychiatric study. Taquita has over 12 years of emergency/trauma experience, which has helped with responding to urgent treatment, severe medical conditions, and crisis stabilization. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages. Taquita is an advocate for innovations in healthcare and suicide prevention.
Taquita is a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health in the state of North Carolina and Georgia. She graduated from South University in Savannah, GA with her family medicine studies and from Maryville University in St. Louis, MI with her psychiatric study. Taquita has over 12 years of emergency/trauma experience, which has helped with responding to urgent treatment, severe medical conditions, and crisis stabilization. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages. Taquita is an advocate for innovations in healthcare and suicide prevention.
Tiffany Lindsay is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with six years of experience with mental illness and substance use. Having worked primarily as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse (PMHN-BC) in an inpatient crisis stabilization unit, Tiffany decided to pursue an advanced practice nursing degree to better bridge the gap in access to care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness in her community. Tiffany obtained a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University and a Master's degree in nursing from East Carolina University.
Tiffany Lindsay is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with six years of experience with mental illness and substance use. Having worked primarily as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse (PMHN-BC) in an inpatient crisis stabilization unit, Tiffany decided to pursue an advanced practice nursing degree to better bridge the gap in access to care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness in her community. Tiffany obtained a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University and a Master's degree in nursing from East Carolina University.
Mood Treatment Center Winston-Salem
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Psychiatric center with offices in Winston-Salem, Clemmmons, Boone, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
Psychiatric center with offices in Winston-Salem, Clemmmons, Boone, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
Cheryl Norris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Cheryl. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I know the importance of treating mental health with not only medications but also therapy. We all need tools in our toolbox to be the best version of ourselves. I am committed to helping each client in their personal journey. I do not believe in one size fits all solutions.
Hello! My name is Cheryl. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I know the importance of treating mental health with not only medications but also therapy. We all need tools in our toolbox to be the best version of ourselves. I am committed to helping each client in their personal journey. I do not believe in one size fits all solutions.
My goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space for my patients. I provide both short term and long term psychotherapy and medication management, if needed. In my work, I aim to delve beyond diagnostic labels to uncover the core issues underlying clinical symptoms. This process acknowledges each individual’s unique experience and helps minimize reliance on medications. My clinical expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, life transitions, chronic physical illnesses, workplace burnout, academic stress and immigrant, expat and minority stress.
My goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space for my patients. I provide both short term and long term psychotherapy and medication management, if needed. In my work, I aim to delve beyond diagnostic labels to uncover the core issues underlying clinical symptoms. This process acknowledges each individual’s unique experience and helps minimize reliance on medications. My clinical expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, life transitions, chronic physical illnesses, workplace burnout, academic stress and immigrant, expat and minority stress.
Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
See more therapy options for North Carolina
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in North Carolina who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
80% | ADHD |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Medication Management |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in North Carolina see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in North Carolina?
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.