Psychiatrists in Abbeville County, SC
Metropolitan Mobile Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Abbeville, SC 29620
I have over 30 years experience in health care. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 8 years. I offer a judgment free environment
I have over 30 years experience in health care. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 8 years. I offer a judgment free environment
Online Psychiatrists
Frame of Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
At Frame of Mind Psychiatry our clinicians and prescribers are passionate in working closely with one another for all patients receiving both therapy and medication management. Your clinician is also open to working with any of your healthcare providers that you deem important. We hold treatment team meetings to devise the best plan of treatment once per week, to make certain you are receiving the best possible treatment from every angle because we know that you are worth it!
At Frame of Mind Psychiatry our clinicians and prescribers are passionate in working closely with one another for all patients receiving both therapy and medication management. Your clinician is also open to working with any of your healthcare providers that you deem important. We hold treatment team meetings to devise the best plan of treatment once per week, to make certain you are receiving the best possible treatment from every angle because we know that you are worth it!
Tiffany Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615 (Online Only)
Dr. Tiffany Stewart is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina. She has worked in healthcare for the past 18 years, with the last 7 as an Advanced Practice Provider. Dr. Stewart holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Clemson University, where she also teaches graduate nursing students in the area of mental health.Dr. Stewart’s practice mission is to guide patients toward their best life by addressing the combination of mental, spiritual, and physical health.
Dr. Tiffany Stewart is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of South Carolina. She has worked in healthcare for the past 18 years, with the last 7 as an Advanced Practice Provider. Dr. Stewart holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Clemson University, where she also teaches graduate nursing students in the area of mental health.Dr. Stewart’s practice mission is to guide patients toward their best life by addressing the combination of mental, spiritual, and physical health.
Jessica Stoelting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
I specialize in treating working clients (including stay-at-home parents!) with high-stress lives, who need a provider to help them optimize their life and manage stress. Success means empowering you to make needed changes in your life to bring peace and ultimate wellness.
Rebecca Merli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29730 (Online Only)
Rebecca Merli is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with over 25 years of experience working in psychiatry. She is experienced in treating both the child/adolescent and adult population of patients needing assistance with mental health diagnosis and medication management. Rebecca does not perform traditional psychotherapy but will incorporate brief psychotherapy into scheduled appointments. Rebecca understands that each person is a unique individual who deserves the time and respect of being heard and will give each patient her individual attention to address their specific needs.
Rebecca Merli is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with over 25 years of experience working in psychiatry. She is experienced in treating both the child/adolescent and adult population of patients needing assistance with mental health diagnosis and medication management. Rebecca does not perform traditional psychotherapy but will incorporate brief psychotherapy into scheduled appointments. Rebecca understands that each person is a unique individual who deserves the time and respect of being heard and will give each patient her individual attention to address their specific needs.
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
As a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication, I also appreciate the importance of therapy in helping patients improve. While I do incorporate supportive therapy in my sessions, for those patients who may need more intensive counseling, I have both male & female therapists in my practice and work with a psychologist, Dr. Yadira Baez-Lockard who treats children, adults & families in addition to psychological testing, DSS & forensic work. I treat the most common psychiatric disorders, but also have Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who appreciate the interface between medical and psychiatric disorders.
As a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication, I also appreciate the importance of therapy in helping patients improve. While I do incorporate supportive therapy in my sessions, for those patients who may need more intensive counseling, I have both male & female therapists in my practice and work with a psychologist, Dr. Yadira Baez-Lockard who treats children, adults & families in addition to psychological testing, DSS & forensic work. I treat the most common psychiatric disorders, but also have Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who appreciate the interface between medical and psychiatric disorders.
Stress Management Center at Fernview
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
My ideal clients are those who are interested in combining elements of traditional therapies with psychiatric medication management. I take a holistic approach to symptom management and consider current stressors, traumas, lifestyle, diet, and any underlying conditions that may be contributing to mental health concerns to develop a treatment plan. I enjoy working with clients who are driven to improve their overall wellbeing while also improving their mental health.
Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, AGNP-C, CDCES
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29303 (Online Only)
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
Ashley Harrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615 (Online Only)
Ashley Harrell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in healthcare for 13 years in various settings and the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider (APP). Ashley treats patients in the age range of 18-65+ with a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger, insomnia, and trauma.
Ashley Harrell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in healthcare for 13 years in various settings and the last 7 years as an Advanced Practice Provider (APP). Ashley treats patients in the age range of 18-65+ with a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger, insomnia, and trauma.
Maihan Yazmine Aurah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Cayce, SC 29033
Maihan Yazmine Aurah is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina. She received her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati in 2022. Maihan has more than 12 years of experience and success as a registered nurse in direct patient care and nursing management positions in inpatient and outpatient settings. Her experience spans ER, OB, Acute Care, Peds, and public health environments. Her experience demonstrated the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body/spiritual connection is often ignored.
Maihan Yazmine Aurah is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina. She received her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati in 2022. Maihan has more than 12 years of experience and success as a registered nurse in direct patient care and nursing management positions in inpatient and outpatient settings. Her experience spans ER, OB, Acute Care, Peds, and public health environments. Her experience demonstrated the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body/spiritual connection is often ignored.
Omega Psychiatric Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29203
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
Dr. Liz Alexander is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. Dr. Liz earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Northeastern University where her PhD thesis focused on improving the quality care of opioid-dependent patients in primary care with Vivitrol injections. Dr. Liz has worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an Urgent Care and Primary Care Clinics in Boston, Massachusetts, where she developed a special expertise in addiction medicine. She is authorized to treat opioid dependency with buprenorphine in South Carolina.
Dr. Liz Alexander is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. Dr. Liz earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Northeastern University where her PhD thesis focused on improving the quality care of opioid-dependent patients in primary care with Vivitrol injections. Dr. Liz has worked as a Nurse Practitioner in an Urgent Care and Primary Care Clinics in Boston, Massachusetts, where she developed a special expertise in addiction medicine. She is authorized to treat opioid dependency with buprenorphine in South Carolina.
Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
Patricia Banke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DSL, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651 (Online Only)
I am an Adult ADHD specialist. I understand the negative impact it has on a clients' life when left untreated. Many times adults with ADHD go most of their lives not recognizing their need for treatment because they have managed to move through life and get by. At some point, they realize certain things are harder for them than they seem to be for others. My clients come to me after they have begun to recognize they could use help. I look forward each day to working with my clients to maximize their abilities and engage life in a way that allows them to optimize their potential.
I am an Adult ADHD specialist. I understand the negative impact it has on a clients' life when left untreated. Many times adults with ADHD go most of their lives not recognizing their need for treatment because they have managed to move through life and get by. At some point, they realize certain things are harder for them than they seem to be for others. My clients come to me after they have begun to recognize they could use help. I look forward each day to working with my clients to maximize their abilities and engage life in a way that allows them to optimize their potential.
Jason Alan Flassing
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Most of my patients are previously diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Affective Disorder. Many have co-existing anxiety disorders ranging from generalized anxiety disorder to panic disorder with agoraphobia. My patients range in age from teens to seniors.
Most of my patients are previously diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Affective Disorder. Many have co-existing anxiety disorders ranging from generalized anxiety disorder to panic disorder with agoraphobia. My patients range in age from teens to seniors.
Caitlin Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615 (Online Only)
Caitlin Jenning is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of South Carolina with 13 years of healthcare experience treating adult and senior-aged clients who are suffering from, depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and personality disorders, including BPD or bipolar disorder.
Caitlin Jenning is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of South Carolina with 13 years of healthcare experience treating adult and senior-aged clients who are suffering from, depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and personality disorders, including BPD or bipolar disorder.
Angela Rasheed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chapin, SC 29036 (Online Only)
During medication management with me, our first visit will consist of me listening to your concerns while obtaining a thorough history from you & assessing your needs and situation. I will provide clinical advice based on my expertise based on evidence based clinical data and studies and allowing you to participate actively in your treatment.
During medication management with me, our first visit will consist of me listening to your concerns while obtaining a thorough history from you & assessing your needs and situation. I will provide clinical advice based on my expertise based on evidence based clinical data and studies and allowing you to participate actively in your treatment.
See more therapy options for Abbeville County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Abbeville County, SC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Abbeville County, SC who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Grief |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BHS | Behavioral Health Systems |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Abbeville County, SC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Abbeville County?
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.