Psychiatrists in Cleveland, SC
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in South Carolina below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of M. Brian Hendricks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c7800de-2e8e-4770-876d-b4acdee9631d/2/320x400.jpeg)
M. Brian Hendricks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easley, SC 29642
I concentrate on integrative psychiatry to understand you as a whole person. This allows you and I the ability to identify and treat the underlying causes of your condition, so we can move beyond just covering up symptoms with psychiatric medications and achieve profound life changes. We will often concentrate on nutrition, stress management, sleep and rest, work-life balance, movement, spirituality, relationships and community, personal development, mind-body connection, and healthy environment as ways to decrease polypharmacy.
I concentrate on integrative psychiatry to understand you as a whole person. This allows you and I the ability to identify and treat the underlying causes of your condition, so we can move beyond just covering up symptoms with psychiatric medications and achieve profound life changes. We will often concentrate on nutrition, stress management, sleep and rest, work-life balance, movement, spirituality, relationships and community, personal development, mind-body connection, and healthy environment as ways to decrease polypharmacy.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Patricia Banke, DNP, DSL, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a7eafd-1161-4e66-b653-c53935f6f937/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shatarra T Salley, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d3e9901-ff97-4bf6-a8e2-8a17da6bd08b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shatarra T Salley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spartanburg, SC 29306
My ideal client is looking for a provider that understands the signs, symptoms, and any associated factors of life that have brought on a change to their mental state or condition. As your mental health provider, I'll perform an initial screening to gather more background information and learn about you, and I enjoy taking this time to know each patient individually. You'll have the opportunity to express your preferences in regard to managing your mental health, and I'll work with you to develop an individual treatment plan based on your needs and concerns.
My ideal client is looking for a provider that understands the signs, symptoms, and any associated factors of life that have brought on a change to their mental state or condition. As your mental health provider, I'll perform an initial screening to gather more background information and learn about you, and I enjoy taking this time to know each patient individually. You'll have the opportunity to express your preferences in regard to managing your mental health, and I'll work with you to develop an individual treatment plan based on your needs and concerns.
Anacorita completed her Masters Degree in Nursing at the University of Phoenix and obtained her Post Masters Nurse Practitioner degree at the University of Massachusetts-Boston. She is a Board Certified Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She has a passion for Mental Health Awareness and is a strong believer in breaking the stigma of Mental Health/ Addiction. She was also a Covid-19 front liner who went to New York to provide aid when the pandemic first broke out.
Anacorita completed her Masters Degree in Nursing at the University of Phoenix and obtained her Post Masters Nurse Practitioner degree at the University of Massachusetts-Boston. She is a Board Certified Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She has a passion for Mental Health Awareness and is a strong believer in breaking the stigma of Mental Health/ Addiction. She was also a Covid-19 front liner who went to New York to provide aid when the pandemic first broke out.
![Photo of Bret Guidry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74fd4bb6-a448-43e7-934c-ce7b2052acab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
![Photo of Svetlana Robinson, FNP-C, MS, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87129cc7-ecc1-4bed-abfb-39c5327d2574/1/320x400.jpeg)
Svetlana Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, MS, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I look look forward to working with patients of all ages over 18 years old. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, insomnia, grief, separation disorders, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
I look look forward to working with patients of all ages over 18 years old. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, insomnia, grief, separation disorders, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
![Photo of Timothy Allen Naumann, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b096948-bd63-4656-9302-ffe44077ed50/2/320x400.jpeg)
Timothy Allen Naumann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, SC 29673
I am a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My career in medicine began when I joined the United States Army as a Medic. I earned a Bachelors of Nursing Science from University of South Carolina. While working as a Registered Nurse for inpatient facility I earned a Masters of Nursing Science from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. While working as a Family Nurse Practitioner i gained experience and a passion for helping patients with acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I also have a passion for helping the men and women who wear the uniform, whether as a first responder or in defense of our nation.
I am a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My career in medicine began when I joined the United States Army as a Medic. I earned a Bachelors of Nursing Science from University of South Carolina. While working as a Registered Nurse for inpatient facility I earned a Masters of Nursing Science from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. While working as a Family Nurse Practitioner i gained experience and a passion for helping patients with acute and chronic mental health diagnoses. I also have a passion for helping the men and women who wear the uniform, whether as a first responder or in defense of our nation.
![Photo of Taral R Sharma - Taral Sharma, MD -Spartanburg, Greenville & Seneca, MD, MBA, FAPA, FABPM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ab12c77-09eb-4648-8b4d-1176424dd728/6/320x400.jpeg)
Taral Sharma, MD -Spartanburg, Greenville & Seneca
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, FAPA, FABPM
Verified Verified
Seneca, SC 29678
Exceptional evidence based patient care
Exceptional evidence based patient care
![Photo of Leilani Lee - Total Care Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d696ad5-81ff-491f-a6d4-f32ba8506de7/2/320x400.png)
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
![Photo of Cassandra Hayes, FNP-C, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55745067-8477-4c14-bb01-ab3c91f4e4ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with patients of all ages that have different needs. I use my knowledge of diet, exercise and sleep to educate patients along with the pharmacologic and therapeutic aspects. I treat everyone as an individual and will customize a treatment plan based on the unique needs of each patient.
I enjoy working with patients of all ages that have different needs. I use my knowledge of diet, exercise and sleep to educate patients along with the pharmacologic and therapeutic aspects. I treat everyone as an individual and will customize a treatment plan based on the unique needs of each patient.
Dr. Vanessa Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, GNP-BC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651
Are you feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried about your life. I am here to collaborate with you to establish an individualized plan of care that will help you restore and maintain your mental fitness. I am a Spartanburg native, and I received my graduate education from Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Anderson University. I have been a nurse practitioner for over a decade, and I hold dual board certifications in geriatrics and psychiatric mental healthcare. I have a diverse clinical background that includes gerontology, neurology, and psychiatry.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried about your life. I am here to collaborate with you to establish an individualized plan of care that will help you restore and maintain your mental fitness. I am a Spartanburg native, and I received my graduate education from Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Anderson University. I have been a nurse practitioner for over a decade, and I hold dual board certifications in geriatrics and psychiatric mental healthcare. I have a diverse clinical background that includes gerontology, neurology, and psychiatry.
![Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7267cbd7-710c-4c98-a7f6-28d5b92d3050/1/320x400.png)
Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29302 (Online Only)
Not currently accepting patients.
Not currently accepting patients.
![Photo of Liz Alexander, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eedbf060-cb6b-44cf-a65a-5fcf66e3b72e/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Jessica Stoelting, DNP, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a77eb6b-5afd-48f9-b5a5-fef3aac54a77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Stoelting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
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.
![Photo of Danielle Berry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, SANE-A, CEN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3b7668f-a5bb-470b-a722-ddf01b3043a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, SANE-A, CEN
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29306
Danielle graduated from USC-Upstate with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 2010; a proud alumna of Gardner Webb University, she earned her Doctorate in Nursing with a specialization in Mental Health as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Most recently she served as a forensic nurse and sexual assault nurse examiner in both a clinician and an educator role. In this role she provided expert care to patients experiencing sexual assault, intimate partner violence, child abuse/neglect, and vulnerable adult abuse/neglect.
Danielle graduated from USC-Upstate with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 2010; a proud alumna of Gardner Webb University, she earned her Doctorate in Nursing with a specialization in Mental Health as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Most recently she served as a forensic nurse and sexual assault nurse examiner in both a clinician and an educator role. In this role she provided expert care to patients experiencing sexual assault, intimate partner violence, child abuse/neglect, and vulnerable adult abuse/neglect.
![Photo of Lindsey Bauman - Mettā Vita Health, LLC, CPNP-PC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/827bfdc4-019f-4e44-a226-25bda93bb0eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mettā Vita Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP-PC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Mill, SC 29708
Fostering healing, resiliency, mindfulness, and healthy relationships. We help you gain control of the issues affecting your life. Our practice truly values people – your experiences, feelings, relationships, and unique lives. Our goal is to look at the big picture and treat each person and family holistically, uniquely, and wholeheartedly. Healthy habits and self-awareness are integral to our approach. Our in-depth evaluation process helps us get to the root of the problem. Our next step is to help you gain the necessary insight to move forward. Together we tailor a detailed treatment plan specific to your needs.
Fostering healing, resiliency, mindfulness, and healthy relationships. We help you gain control of the issues affecting your life. Our practice truly values people – your experiences, feelings, relationships, and unique lives. Our goal is to look at the big picture and treat each person and family holistically, uniquely, and wholeheartedly. Healthy habits and self-awareness are integral to our approach. Our in-depth evaluation process helps us get to the root of the problem. Our next step is to help you gain the necessary insight to move forward. Together we tailor a detailed treatment plan specific to your needs.
![Photo of Anglique Rich, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8931145c-722f-46e5-bd70-2f6ce7830425/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anglique Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
Angie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in various mental health backgrounds including: crisis stabilization, substance use detoxification, and cognitive disorders. She appreciates honesty, proactivity, patience, and self-awareness from her patients during the treatment process. She believes in the power of empathy, compassion, and understanding in transforming the lives of individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
![Photo of Gregory Smith - Frame of Mind Psychiatry, LMFT, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b62599-2ae5-45f9-8b62-116886b0c7d1/1/320x400.png)
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!
![Photo of Dr. Violeta Nistor, MD, Geriatr, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e3707a-7db1-4bdf-bbd7-8cae02c77d58/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are here it means you are ready to start your new life today. My strength is finding the right approach for you, finding the balance between your medical and psychiatric problems for the best outcome available. Here you can safely start your journey to YOU. No matter what your struggles are, I am here with no judgment, just acceptance, readiness to listen and to understand your story.
If you are here it means you are ready to start your new life today. My strength is finding the right approach for you, finding the balance between your medical and psychiatric problems for the best outcome available. Here you can safely start your journey to YOU. No matter what your struggles are, I am here with no judgment, just acceptance, readiness to listen and to understand your story.
![Photo of Chrissie Marie Middleton, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83c18139-6f07-4d8f-99b2-9b3722689f7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chrissie Marie Middleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615 (Online Only)
Thank you for visting my page. I am Dr. Chrissie Middleton, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been in healthcare for the last thirty years and I have practiced as a family medicine provider for the last 15 years. Within my role as a family healthcare practitioner, I have cared for many clients with anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Thank you for visting my page. I am Dr. Chrissie Middleton, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been in healthcare for the last thirty years and I have practiced as a family medicine provider for the last 15 years. Within my role as a family healthcare practitioner, I have cared for many clients with anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Nearby Searches for Cleveland
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FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cleveland?
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.