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 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 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 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 Dr. Shy Wilson, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Shy Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
(803) 805-7214 View (803) 805-7214
Photo of Sarah McNight, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah McNight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Ms. McNight began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Ms. McNight worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
Ms. McNight began her career in mental health in 2011, working with crisis intervention and stabilization of patients with complex psychiatric needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting for 6 years. She is dual board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She completed a Master’s degree in Nursing from Clemson University in 2017 and holds a post-graduate degree in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse from Wilkes University. Prior to joining Sherbondy’s Psychiatric Solutions in 2020, Ms. McNight worked as a Nurse Practitioner in diverse specialty settings.
(864) 523-6776 View (864) 523-6776
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 Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29730  (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) 675-7882 View (803) 675-7882
Photo of Kristy Thompson - Living Healthy Body and Mind, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Living Healthy Body and Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29212
I am a licensed nurse practitioner with 14 years of professional experience who believes in empowering patients through compassionate and comprehensive care. My specialties include mental health and weight loss. Throughout my career, I observed how many patients ignore the body-mind connection, which can lead to mental health challenges. Oftentimes stress can be an underlying cause of weight gain and vice versa. It encouraged me to bridge the gap by focusing on psychotherapy and medication management. My patients receive practical guidance and individualized support to promote health and wellness.
I am a licensed nurse practitioner with 14 years of professional experience who believes in empowering patients through compassionate and comprehensive care. My specialties include mental health and weight loss. Throughout my career, I observed how many patients ignore the body-mind connection, which can lead to mental health challenges. Oftentimes stress can be an underlying cause of weight gain and vice versa. It encouraged me to bridge the gap by focusing on psychotherapy and medication management. My patients receive practical guidance and individualized support to promote health and wellness.
(803) 219-4116 View (803) 219-4116
Upstate ADHD Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651
At Upstate ADHD Center, LLC, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. We have the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues have no place in our practice; that's why we do not accept insurance. We provide comprehensive and excellent care.
At Upstate ADHD Center, LLC, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. We have the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues have no place in our practice; that's why we do not accept insurance. We provide comprehensive and excellent care.
(864) 432-5660 View (864) 432-5660
Photo of Judy Johnson, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
Accepting new clients! My ideal client is someone who is dedicated to taking the steps needed to meet their mental health goals. Some steps are tough and I am there to help them along the way but they have to be ready to take action.
Accepting new clients! My ideal client is someone who is dedicated to taking the steps needed to meet their mental health goals. Some steps are tough and I am there to help them along the way but they have to be ready to take action.
(864) 896-8508 View (864) 896-8508
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 Jared Joshua Carbone - Stress Management Center at Fernview, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stress Management Center at Fernview
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Anderson, SC 29621
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
Stress Management Center provides the best in both traditional and integrative medicine options for your optimal mental health. Medication & Psych Evaluations include medication management and all evidenced based proven treatments our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners, doctors and therapists offer a team approach offering pharmaceuticals and all options & proven methods to relieve any and all symptoms of anxiety, pain, depression, trauma, chronic and terminal illness! We are here for you! Call us at 864-225-0792!
(864) 225-0792 View (864) 225-0792
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
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 Melissa Harris Kannaday M. D., MD, Psychiatrist
Melissa Harris Kannaday M. D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29204
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
(803) 291-5657 View (803) 291-5657
Photo of Timothy Allen Naumann, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(864) 514-5881 View (864) 514-5881
Photo of Rebecca Merli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Merli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29730  (Online Only)
Rebecca Merli is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with over 25 years of experience working in psychiatry. She is experienced in treating both the child/adolescent and adult population of patients needing assistance with mental health diagnosis and medication management. Rebecca does not perform traditional psychotherapy but will incorporate brief psychotherapy into scheduled appointments. Rebecca understands that each person is a unique individual who deserves the time and respect of being heard and will give each patient her individual attention to address their specific needs.
Rebecca Merli is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with over 25 years of experience working in psychiatry. She is experienced in treating both the child/adolescent and adult population of patients needing assistance with mental health diagnosis and medication management. Rebecca does not perform traditional psychotherapy but will incorporate brief psychotherapy into scheduled appointments. Rebecca understands that each person is a unique individual who deserves the time and respect of being heard and will give each patient her individual attention to address their specific needs.
(803) 721-2914 View (803) 721-2914
Photo of Keith O'brian Plowden - Metropolitan Mobile Psychiatric Services, PhD, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Metropolitan Mobile Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Greenwood, SC 29646
I have over 30 years experience in health care. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 8 years. I offer a judgment free environment
I have over 30 years experience in health care. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 8 years. I offer a judgment free environment
(864) 606-3142 View (864) 606-3142
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 Nick Orlowsky, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Nick Orlowsky
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
If you're ready to take the next step on your mental health journey, I'm here to help. I am currently accepting new patients as a prescribing provider at iTrust Wellness, and I encourage you to reach out for more information and to schedule your first appointment.
If you're ready to take the next step on your mental health journey, I'm here to help. I am currently accepting new patients as a prescribing provider at iTrust Wellness, and I encourage you to reach out for more information and to schedule your first appointment.
(864) 664-4341 View (864) 664-4341

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.