Psychiatrists in Beaufort, SC
![Photo of Daniel J Balog, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/471920ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Balog practices adult psychiatry and specializes in the treatment of Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma-Related Disorders. Dr. Balog aims to provide high quality, collaborative, and patient-centered care for patients 18+ years of age.
Dr. Balog practices adult psychiatry and specializes in the treatment of Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma-Related Disorders. Dr. Balog aims to provide high quality, collaborative, and patient-centered care for patients 18+ years of age.
![Photo of Patrick Wiita - Patrick Wiita, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98534363-46b3-477c-a1ef-14eb50aeec9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Wiita, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29904 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Go to https://wiitamd.com/ to request a consultation.
Go to https://wiitamd.com/ to request a consultation.
![Photo of Kasara Helou, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, MPH, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1c28346-8393-4c08-940f-e91996e1cc4c/2/320x400.png)
Kasara provides effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She treats a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, ADHD and autism. She coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. She has a strong background working with children and adolescents alongside Dr. Julie Jensen, but also has a longstanding history caring for adults, the elderly and underserved.
Kasara provides effective evidence-based medication management and brief therapeutic counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She treats a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, ADHD and autism. She coordinates care by working closely with psycho-therapists, counselors, and other health care providers. She has a strong background working with children and adolescents alongside Dr. Julie Jensen, but also has a longstanding history caring for adults, the elderly and underserved.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Stephanie Price, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22bff30c-ae37-4510-b69b-66bbe8346568/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephanie Price is a board-certified psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. She believes in a collaborative approach to treatment planning because shared decision-making helps provide the best outcome for patients. She went to college at the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY and received her degree in Microbiology. She completed her medical education at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC, and completed her residency training at Creighton University School of Medicine-Valleywise Health in Phoenix, AZ.
Dr. Stephanie Price is a board-certified psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. She believes in a collaborative approach to treatment planning because shared decision-making helps provide the best outcome for patients. She went to college at the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY and received her degree in Microbiology. She completed her medical education at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC, and completed her residency training at Creighton University School of Medicine-Valleywise Health in Phoenix, AZ.
![Photo of Haylee Fiddie, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5146a94d-4559-4948-a54e-04b96096a4b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Haylee Fiddie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29492
In addition to medication management and therapy, I am committed to including holistic approaches and meaningful lifestyle changes in your treatment plan to promote lasting well-being.
In addition to medication management and therapy, I am committed to including holistic approaches and meaningful lifestyle changes in your treatment plan to promote lasting well-being.
![Photo of Chantal Stith, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a28683ba-cbd1-4633-8f5a-73d4af638d24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chantal Stith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Goose Creek, SC 29445
My name is Chantal and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I completed my MSN at Vanderbilt University in August 2023. I received my first nursing degree in 2017. I have worked in behavioral health for most of my nursing career. I have experience working with people across the lifespan with various psychiatric diagnosis.
My name is Chantal and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I completed my MSN at Vanderbilt University in August 2023. I received my first nursing degree in 2017. I have worked in behavioral health for most of my nursing career. I have experience working with people across the lifespan with various psychiatric diagnosis.
![Photo of Michelle Yvette Pinckney - We Care Healthcare, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/577ba8fb-ac11-4170-a792-ce5039e2908d/2/320x400.jpeg)
We Care Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
![Photo of Jared J. Carbone - Southern Om Telepsychiatric Services , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34331eea-5a62-4c13-b631-02f8d09fab07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Southern Om Telepsychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29424
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, I, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC have worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. I have had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in treating adult mood and other disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and adult ADHD. I incorporates the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents of SC.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, I, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC have worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. I have had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in treating adult mood and other disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and adult ADHD. I incorporates the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents of SC.
Hello; I’m Sean. I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to help people with mental health conditions. I’m a teacher at heart as I was a golf instructor for the first part of my adult life, and I enjoy educating my patients on why certain interventions and suggestions would give each patient the greatest chance to succeed. I implement evidence-based practice with all my patients, but this is not limited to pharmological interventions.
Hello; I’m Sean. I’m a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to help people with mental health conditions. I’m a teacher at heart as I was a golf instructor for the first part of my adult life, and I enjoy educating my patients on why certain interventions and suggestions would give each patient the greatest chance to succeed. I implement evidence-based practice with all my patients, but this is not limited to pharmological interventions.
![Photo of Gabriella Farkas Md Phd, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459df1ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriella Farkas Md Phd
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (Online Only)
I love helping my patients feel healthy and happy, no matter where they need to start. I offer evidence-based diagnostic and medication management services. I welcome second opinion, medication revision, deprescribing inquiries. My services are conducted through a secure video application so you have access to them from the privacy and convenience of your home. I welcome residents of New York and South Carolina in my new practice. Please go to my website to complete your booking: drgabbyfarkas.com. I am looking forward to working with you.
I love helping my patients feel healthy and happy, no matter where they need to start. I offer evidence-based diagnostic and medication management services. I welcome second opinion, medication revision, deprescribing inquiries. My services are conducted through a secure video application so you have access to them from the privacy and convenience of your home. I welcome residents of New York and South Carolina in my new practice. Please go to my website to complete your booking: drgabbyfarkas.com. I am looking forward to working with you.
![Photo of Maureen Apollo, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92c2f76d-0a52-439a-afe8-6967d2d8c478/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Apollo
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
North Charleston, SC 29406
Maureen is dual board-certified as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve happiness, stability, and safety. Maureen focuses on adults and provides gender-affirming mental health care.
Maureen is dual board-certified as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve happiness, stability, and safety. Maureen focuses on adults and provides gender-affirming mental health care.
![Photo of Dr. Juandalyn Peters, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e65c386-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you happy with your life: your career, your relationships, and the way you feel about yourself? If not, then it may be time for us to talk. I can help you to overcome problems with sadness, worrying, stress and difficult past experiences that are holding you back. Whether you are a child, adolescent or adult, a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation can help determine the cause of your struggles. Then, we will work together using talk therapy and/or medications to help you get back on the road to a happy and successful life. Compassionate care will help you get there!
Are you happy with your life: your career, your relationships, and the way you feel about yourself? If not, then it may be time for us to talk. I can help you to overcome problems with sadness, worrying, stress and difficult past experiences that are holding you back. Whether you are a child, adolescent or adult, a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation can help determine the cause of your struggles. Then, we will work together using talk therapy and/or medications to help you get back on the road to a happy and successful life. Compassionate care will help you get there!
![Photo of Laura Burdette, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da9dc244-8b6a-4647-9352-cd65c3840106/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Laura Burdette, and I'm here to support you on your journey to mental well-being. As a board certified forensic psychiatrist and trained therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges to achieve lasting mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize understanding your unique experiences and collaboratively tailoring a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you're facing mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide support on your path to healing.
![Photo of Yevgeniy Gelfand - Zen Therapeutic Solutions, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83ef50a3-7a60-44e1-8a7f-ccf00393de9d/1/320x400.png)
People often come to Zen Therapeutic Solutions when they are feeling stuck in the same patterns misaligned with their goals and values. They have tried traditional talk-therapy and medication management, and although they may have experienced some relief at times, they cannot seem to find their way past trauma and adversity. We offer a blend of cutting-edge and ancient remedies to help individuals overcome obstacles to their best lives.
People often come to Zen Therapeutic Solutions when they are feeling stuck in the same patterns misaligned with their goals and values. They have tried traditional talk-therapy and medication management, and although they may have experienced some relief at times, they cannot seem to find their way past trauma and adversity. We offer a blend of cutting-edge and ancient remedies to help individuals overcome obstacles to their best lives.
![Photo of Lucretia D Wilson - The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f08e102-7290-4a08-bacf-533faf011398/2/320x400.png)
The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerville, SC 29486
Doctorally prepared, I possess the experience, qualities, personality, and credentials for your needs. I am a passionate and seasoned professional with over 30 years of high-profile nursing experience. The experience encompasses a profession in medicine and psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice in face-to-face and online settings. I am also a 30+ year veteran-spouse and mother of a current active-duty military family that fosters the ability to empathize and aid with military-affiliated patients. The tenants of my nursing practice primary aim are to deliver customized, purpose-driven care to all clients.
Doctorally prepared, I possess the experience, qualities, personality, and credentials for your needs. I am a passionate and seasoned professional with over 30 years of high-profile nursing experience. The experience encompasses a profession in medicine and psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice in face-to-face and online settings. I am also a 30+ year veteran-spouse and mother of a current active-duty military family that fosters the ability to empathize and aid with military-affiliated patients. The tenants of my nursing practice primary aim are to deliver customized, purpose-driven care to all clients.
![Photo of Dr. Steven Sinderman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36095faf-2a4f-4da8-9bf4-0bac78594a1a/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Steven Sinderman is passionate about providing the best treatment for his patients in a collaborative atmosphere. Dr. Sinderman specializes in adult psychiatry. He was fascinated with the function of the brain and psychology in college, but was side-tracked and pursued a career in neurosurgery.
Dr. Steven Sinderman is passionate about providing the best treatment for his patients in a collaborative atmosphere. Dr. Sinderman specializes in adult psychiatry. He was fascinated with the function of the brain and psychology in college, but was side-tracked and pursued a career in neurosurgery.
![Photo of Dr. Amanda Allen-Sands, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/385e9537-d4a1-4b81-9dff-bb59a9c7a86e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Being alive in today's world can often mean feeling overworked, under-supported, and filled with insecurities and instability. Navigating this on our best day can be challenging, and if you find yourself dealing with sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, rage, it starts to feel nearly impossible to put one foot in front of the other day by day. Because so much of today's world is out of our control, it is important to grasp onto the things we do have control of, namely our mental health. If you, your job, your relationships, your world are struggling because of your mental health, I am here to help.
Being alive in today's world can often mean feeling overworked, under-supported, and filled with insecurities and instability. Navigating this on our best day can be challenging, and if you find yourself dealing with sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, rage, it starts to feel nearly impossible to put one foot in front of the other day by day. Because so much of today's world is out of our control, it is important to grasp onto the things we do have control of, namely our mental health. If you, your job, your relationships, your world are struggling because of your mental health, I am here to help.
![Photo of Reaghan Hicks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a4cbc4-8112-4e31-a3e6-052b53f6f049/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
Dr. Reaghan Hicks is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at The College of Charleston followed by medical school at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Hicks completed Residency in General Psychiatry at The University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at The Medical University of South Carolina.
![Photo of Juan Pablo Galindo, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29df9868-8d83-4755-95fe-f59c830ed202/2/320x400.jpeg)
Over my years of practice, I have realized the limitations of the standard tools and medicines within psychiatry. At times the best our standard treatments can do was help people “get by” and as one veteran patient once told me, “survive by numbness.” This way of helping is not enough. It is through the extensive studying of psychedelics and their potential for profound healing that has given me renewed hope in this field.
Over my years of practice, I have realized the limitations of the standard tools and medicines within psychiatry. At times the best our standard treatments can do was help people “get by” and as one veteran patient once told me, “survive by numbness.” This way of helping is not enough. It is through the extensive studying of psychedelics and their potential for profound healing that has given me renewed hope in this field.
![Photo of Madelyn Myers, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/584b75e6-9a99-4eb9-9215-04f27c1a8cb5/1/320x400.png)
Madelyn Myers chose a field in mental health to help individuals and families deal with mental health challenges and attain wellness. Madelyn is most passionate about helping clients understand that identifying and treating mental health problems will help them to lead a fuller and more satisfying life. Madelyn would summarize her overall care philosophy as understanding and acceptance of mental health concerns, including proper treatment, self-help nutrition, rest, and exercise.
Madelyn Myers chose a field in mental health to help individuals and families deal with mental health challenges and attain wellness. Madelyn is most passionate about helping clients understand that identifying and treating mental health problems will help them to lead a fuller and more satisfying life. Madelyn would summarize her overall care philosophy as understanding and acceptance of mental health concerns, including proper treatment, self-help nutrition, rest, and exercise.
See more therapy options for Beaufort
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Beaufort, SC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Beaufort, SC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Beaufort, SC see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Beaufort?
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.