Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC
![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 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 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 W Rodney Andrews - Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health, AGNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98aac361-db71-44c8-a822-c977531ac50b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29412
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ed12833-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Donna C Orvin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee5d529f-26d0-4eec-975c-ec8eee948cb0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Orvin combines years of psychiatry experience with an avid concern for keeping up to date in the latest updates in psychiatric practice. Dr. Orvin graduated from Duke University, from George Washington School of Medicine, and then completed her psychiatric residency at Tuft’s New England Medical Center. After her training, she practiced for several years in Harvard affiliated hospitals where her duties included the supervision of psychiatric residents.
Since returning to South Carolina, Dr Orvin has focused her practice on adults in outpatient settings.
Dr Orvin combines years of psychiatry experience with an avid concern for keeping up to date in the latest updates in psychiatric practice. Dr. Orvin graduated from Duke University, from George Washington School of Medicine, and then completed her psychiatric residency at Tuft’s New England Medical Center. After her training, she practiced for several years in Harvard affiliated hospitals where her duties included the supervision of psychiatric residents.
Since returning to South Carolina, Dr Orvin has focused her practice on adults in outpatient settings.
![Photo of Nicholas Germano, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e31d26f-61db-4d7d-9e45-14ea187980c7/2/320x400.png)
Nick Germano, MSN, PMHNP-BC Nick Germano is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Nick believes that the most essential component to medication management is collaboration.
Nick Germano, MSN, PMHNP-BC Nick Germano is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Nick believes that the most essential component to medication management is collaboration.
![Photo of Lanier Summerall, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4385d5f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I was fortunate to grow up in Charleston where my family has lived for many generations. I spent my childhood playing on Sullivan's Island and sailing at my grandparents' House on Wadmalaw Island. I attended medical school at the university of Colorado and completed psychiatry residency at Dartmouth. I emphasize a holistic, patient focused treatment built on a foundation of a strong doctor-patient alliance. In 2014 I decided to return home to my family in Charleston. I was in a clinical leadership position downtown at the VA until joining Mt. Pleasant Psychiatry in 2017.
I was fortunate to grow up in Charleston where my family has lived for many generations. I spent my childhood playing on Sullivan's Island and sailing at my grandparents' House on Wadmalaw Island. I attended medical school at the university of Colorado and completed psychiatry residency at Dartmouth. I emphasize a holistic, patient focused treatment built on a foundation of a strong doctor-patient alliance. In 2014 I decided to return home to my family in Charleston. I was in a clinical leadership position downtown at the VA until joining Mt. Pleasant Psychiatry in 2017.
![Photo of Carla Warren, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43485bb0-f569-4abf-9aa4-4a67bc29ca60/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
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![Photo of Amy James, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68dffcb5-f4b4-4705-8552-f348970a0bb3/1/320x400.png)
My 22 years of nursing experience has been dedicated to working with military Veterans in inpatient, outpatient, and community health care settings. In 2016, I started a DNP program at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) specializing in Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practice. During this time, I completed over 1160 clinical hours treating various mental health disorders.
My 22 years of nursing experience has been dedicated to working with military Veterans in inpatient, outpatient, and community health care settings. In 2016, I started a DNP program at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) specializing in Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practice. During this time, I completed over 1160 clinical hours treating various mental health disorders.
![Photo of Cerrissa Hugie - MyNDSpace Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baa680c7-955c-482a-bb93-4985874fe04c/1/320x400.png)
At MyNDSpace, we endeavor to create a culture of mental health awareness and sensitivity, to reduce mental health disparities, and to bridge the gap between community organizations and mental health services.
At MyNDSpace, we endeavor to create a culture of mental health awareness and sensitivity, to reduce mental health disparities, and to bridge the gap between community organizations and mental health services.
![Photo of Gloria K Wilson - Abundant Grace Wellness, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35ca775b-f53f-43d7-9edf-180692eb2029/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abundant Grace Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29412
I believe in the caring and connected holistic approach integrating physical, mental, social and spiritual values. I value you and will inspire trust, will listen well, evaluate and treat . The techniques I utilize along with medication management are CBT, Mindfulness, Coaching , Holistic Thinking , Dietary and Lifestyle Changes. Together We will Develop a Plan in harmony with a doctor ( Psychologist or Medical). We will Develop an Individualized plan that Promotes Healing and Allows you to reach Your Goals.
I believe in the caring and connected holistic approach integrating physical, mental, social and spiritual values. I value you and will inspire trust, will listen well, evaluate and treat . The techniques I utilize along with medication management are CBT, Mindfulness, Coaching , Holistic Thinking , Dietary and Lifestyle Changes. Together We will Develop a Plan in harmony with a doctor ( Psychologist or Medical). We will Develop an Individualized plan that Promotes Healing and Allows you to reach Your Goals.
![Photo of Erik Cantrell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fdd668e-b2f0-4de1-ad69-30618bb8d4b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
When times are tough, or when you're having issues, it's hard to find things to find pride in. The courage to seek help is something to take pride in, and I commend you for that. As a provider, my skill set lends itself towards being very good at diagnosing your issue, then explaining it well, and working with you in finding the right treatment. I generally find that a combination of medication and counseling works best. I focus on adult patients of any age, and I am board certified in psychiatry.
When times are tough, or when you're having issues, it's hard to find things to find pride in. The courage to seek help is something to take pride in, and I commend you for that. As a provider, my skill set lends itself towards being very good at diagnosing your issue, then explaining it well, and working with you in finding the right treatment. I generally find that a combination of medication and counseling works best. I focus on adult patients of any age, and I am board certified in psychiatry.
![Photo of Jeffrey Cluver, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa4c7c4f-70fc-4700-8afb-78b8f30f86d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jennifer Shierlock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/752a1f9e-997e-4550-9030-813e7970ccdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Leigh Price - Stephanie L. Price, DO, LLC, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35bdd970-0bf6-4d9d-afe4-7099773a2657/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
![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 Daniel Uderitz - Angel Oak Counseling, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47818c2a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you facing a personal problem? Perhaps you need help after a traumatic event? When you find yourself in situations like these, feel free to come and visit us at Angel Oak Counseling for assistance. We provide professional counseling services for individuals seeking support and guidance in dealing with significant life changes. We also evaluate your need for psychiatric medication and prescribe as needed. Allow us to help you in your time of need. Visit our counseling clinic in Johns Island, SC today to properly discuss your needs.
Are you facing a personal problem? Perhaps you need help after a traumatic event? When you find yourself in situations like these, feel free to come and visit us at Angel Oak Counseling for assistance. We provide professional counseling services for individuals seeking support and guidance in dealing with significant life changes. We also evaluate your need for psychiatric medication and prescribe as needed. Allow us to help you in your time of need. Visit our counseling clinic in Johns Island, SC today to properly discuss your needs.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC
30+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
84% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
84% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Charleston, SC see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
59% | Female | |
41% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Charleston?
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.