Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, SC

Photo of Peter A. Bertelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peter A. Bertelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
(803) 913-5128 View (803) 913-5128

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Liz Alexander, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liz Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
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.
(803) 525-0982 View (803) 525-0982
Photo of Dr. Bret Guidry - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 235-2734 View (844) 235-2734
Photo of Treasure Vaughn, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Treasure Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
Treasure Vaughn is a Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated with her Master's of Science from Ohio University with a focus in Psychiatric Mental health Nursing. Treasure has more than 15 years of experience in mental health. She is enthusiastic about her career and helping others. She has a lot of passion for mental health and human behaviors. Outside of work, Treasure loves spending time with her family and friends, trying new recipes, traveling, and photography.
Treasure Vaughn is a Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated with her Master's of Science from Ohio University with a focus in Psychiatric Mental health Nursing. Treasure has more than 15 years of experience in mental health. She is enthusiastic about her career and helping others. She has a lot of passion for mental health and human behaviors. Outside of work, Treasure loves spending time with her family and friends, trying new recipes, traveling, and photography.
(803) 770-5102 View (803) 770-5102

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kameron Price, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kameron Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seneca, SC 29672
My ideal client would be someone who has been battling the stressors of life and is looking for guidance on where to start with making a change. This client may be battling issues stemming from anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, or trauma that are affecting their overall functioning. The ideal client would be motivated to create positive changes to their life and overall functioning.
My ideal client would be someone who has been battling the stressors of life and is looking for guidance on where to start with making a change. This client may be battling issues stemming from anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, or trauma that are affecting their overall functioning. The ideal client would be motivated to create positive changes to their life and overall functioning.
(864) 619-0659 View (864) 619-0659
Photo of Christina L Blake, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina L Blake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Simpsonville, SC 29681
Accepting NEW patients. ADHD testing and treatment available. Christina is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management. She empowers her clients to take an active role in their treatment plan within a patient-centered relationship. She offers mental health support in unhurried appointments in which her clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
Accepting NEW patients. ADHD testing and treatment available. Christina is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management. She empowers her clients to take an active role in their treatment plan within a patient-centered relationship. She offers mental health support in unhurried appointments in which her clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
(864) 662-6840 View (864) 662-6840
Photo of Anglique Rich, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(864) 531-8377 View (864) 531-8377
Photo of Kimberly Parker, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
It's important to find the right provider, who you can trust to walk with you. I'm open, caring, and create a nonjudgmental, empathetic space to work through life. Receiving the correct diagnosis, and understanding your symptoms and diagnosis will help you manage life better. My treatment takes a holistic approach. Sleep, nutrients, stress management, and exercise all affect our physical and mental health. I can prescribe medications and also recommend supplements to help improve symptoms. I've been a nurse practitioner for over 20 years, working with varying health conditions and clients across the lifespan.
It's important to find the right provider, who you can trust to walk with you. I'm open, caring, and create a nonjudgmental, empathetic space to work through life. Receiving the correct diagnosis, and understanding your symptoms and diagnosis will help you manage life better. My treatment takes a holistic approach. Sleep, nutrients, stress management, and exercise all affect our physical and mental health. I can prescribe medications and also recommend supplements to help improve symptoms. I've been a nurse practitioner for over 20 years, working with varying health conditions and clients across the lifespan.
(864) 774-5432 View (864) 774-5432
Photo of Brandi Morgan, DNP, Psych, NP, Psychiatric Nurse
Brandi Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, Psych, NP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29212  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!***We are a private psychiatry practice servicing clients in the state of South Carolina. I am open to all clients in need of services from the most severe illnesses, to those in need of temporary healing. In my experience I have come to realize how important mental health is to one’s overall wellbeing. My approach for treatment can be summarized in a few words, "no judgement zone." To book services with us or for more information visit us at www.prismreflections.net.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!***We are a private psychiatry practice servicing clients in the state of South Carolina. I am open to all clients in need of services from the most severe illnesses, to those in need of temporary healing. In my experience I have come to realize how important mental health is to one’s overall wellbeing. My approach for treatment can be summarized in a few words, "no judgement zone." To book services with us or for more information visit us at www.prismreflections.net.
(803) 525-0675 View (803) 525-0675
Photo of Helen (Chandler) Stallings, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen (Chandler) Stallings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Seneca, SC 29672
I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia but have been a Clemson Tiger my entire life. While working as an RN for Prisma Health as an internal resource nurse, I spent a large amount of time working in emergency medicine. This setting provided an opportunity for me to hone my passion and skillset for working in mental health, especially with the geriatric population. However, I am certified to treat patients across the entirety of their lifespans and carry prescriptive authority.
I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia but have been a Clemson Tiger my entire life. While working as an RN for Prisma Health as an internal resource nurse, I spent a large amount of time working in emergency medicine. This setting provided an opportunity for me to hone my passion and skillset for working in mental health, especially with the geriatric population. However, I am certified to treat patients across the entirety of their lifespans and carry prescriptive authority.
(864) 664-2169 View (864) 664-2169
Photo of Kimberly Hammonds, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Kimberly Hammonds
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29210
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
(803) 489-8471 View (803) 489-8471
Photo of Dr. Consola Esambe - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 235-2734 View (844) 235-2734
Photo of Sunil K Bhatia, MD, Psychiatrist
Sunil K Bhatia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
Do you have mental pain and every day life seems like a chore and trying harder doesn’t help? Do you feel helpless and hopeless most days and have trouble sleeping and enjoying the little pleasures of life? Do you dread waking up and not able to trust your near and dear? If you think you could answer “ yes” to these, you probably need a little psychiatric “ tune up”. Psychiatrist can help by altering your neurochemistry with medications and psychotherapy to correct your emotions, sleep and develop coping techniques. I have had extensive training in Psychopharmacology and Psychoanalysis. I have practiced psychiatry for 30 years.
(864) 383-9766 View (864) 383-9766
Photo of Raynia McGee, MD, Psychiatrist
Raynia McGee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201  (Online Only)
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
(803) 403-0190 View (803) 403-0190
Photo of Mary Goldin, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Goldin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
(803) 886-9313 View (803) 886-9313
Photo of Jason Alan Flassing, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Jason Alan Flassing
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Most of my patients are previously diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Affective Disorder. Many have co-existing anxiety disorders ranging from generalized anxiety disorder to panic disorder with agoraphobia. My patients range in age from teens to seniors.
Most of my patients are previously diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Affective Disorder. Many have co-existing anxiety disorders ranging from generalized anxiety disorder to panic disorder with agoraphobia. My patients range in age from teens to seniors.
(864) 383-9487 View (864) 383-9487
Photo of William R. Hall, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
William R. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and have been working in mental health for several years now. I have experience with adult and geriatric patients, and specialize in Medication Management treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia and PTSD. As my client, you can expect to have a better understanding of the issues you may struggle with, and I will work with you to develop a mutually agreed upon treatment plan. All of my clients can expect to be treated with empathy, and without judgement. You may use my website link to book your appointment, or call for a free 15 minute phone consultation!
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and have been working in mental health for several years now. I have experience with adult and geriatric patients, and specialize in Medication Management treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia and PTSD. As my client, you can expect to have a better understanding of the issues you may struggle with, and I will work with you to develop a mutually agreed upon treatment plan. All of my clients can expect to be treated with empathy, and without judgement. You may use my website link to book your appointment, or call for a free 15 minute phone consultation!
(803) 590-0915 View (803) 590-0915
Photo of Celena Nicole Shivers, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Celena Nicole Shivers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Mill, SC 29715
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, or lingering traumas that disrupt your sleep and daily life? Celena Shivers Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), understands the challenges you face and are here to guide you towards a brighter, more stable future. She specializes in comprehensive mental health care for adults, adolescents, and children dealing with conditions such as ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and psychosis, among others. She is committed is to empower you with hope, courage, and purpose, by enhancing your metal well-being as you navigate life.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, or lingering traumas that disrupt your sleep and daily life? Celena Shivers Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), understands the challenges you face and are here to guide you towards a brighter, more stable future. She specializes in comprehensive mental health care for adults, adolescents, and children dealing with conditions such as ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and psychosis, among others. She is committed is to empower you with hope, courage, and purpose, by enhancing your metal well-being as you navigate life.
(803) 801-8186 View (803) 801-8186
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
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.
(803) 336-2001 View (803) 336-2001
Photo of Demetris Wright - A Practitioner's Touch, LLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Practitioner's Touch, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29203  (Online Only)
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
(803) 962-7306 View (803) 962-7306

See more therapy options for Lake Wylie

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, SC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, SC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Spirituality
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Autism

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Lake Wylie, SC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lake Wylie?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.