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 Denis Ingle, MSN, NP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denis Ingle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I am passionate about mental health and count it a blessing to help others in their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is patient-centered, compassionate, and conscientious. I greatly value the sacred relationship in partnering with my patients for the betterment of their mental health, and to help in achieving their wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority, I am well versed and actively experienced in prescribing medications which would greatly aid towards your treatment goals.
I am passionate about mental health and count it a blessing to help others in their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is patient-centered, compassionate, and conscientious. I greatly value the sacred relationship in partnering with my patients for the betterment of their mental health, and to help in achieving their wellness goals. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority, I am well versed and actively experienced in prescribing medications which would greatly aid towards your treatment goals.
(864) 428-7195 View (864) 428-7195
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 Doris Reid, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doris Reid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615  (Online Only)
Doris Reid is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Over the course of her 15 years in mental health care, she's treated adolescents, adults, and older adults suffering from a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, OCD, insomnia, trauma, PTSD, and alcohol abuse.
Doris Reid is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Over the course of her 15 years in mental health care, she's treated adolescents, adults, and older adults suffering from a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, OCD, insomnia, trauma, PTSD, and alcohol abuse.
(864) 301-6147 View (864) 301-6147
Photo of Leilani Lee - Total Care Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Total Care Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Easley, SC 29640  (Online Only)
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.
(864) 572-7687 View (864) 572-7687
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 Chrisanthe Garilas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chrisanthe Garilas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
I am looking to work collaboratively with my clients by identifying key concerns that are diminishing their quality of life mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Together with the client's preferences, wants, and needs, in combination with my clinical and professional advice, we will form a healthy treatment plan and healing regimen.
I am looking to work collaboratively with my clients by identifying key concerns that are diminishing their quality of life mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Together with the client's preferences, wants, and needs, in combination with my clinical and professional advice, we will form a healthy treatment plan and healing regimen.
(864) 465-8629 View (864) 465-8629
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 Dr. Felicia L Walker - Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker, MD, Psychiatrist
Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
(803) 941-5717 View (803) 941-5717
Photo of Catherine Aho, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Aho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Life is constantly full of challenges; sometimes, facing them alone becomes too much, and you need a helping hand. I'm here to help! I specialize in medical treatment of bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, depression, PTSD, adult ADHD, grief, substance abuse disorders, supporting perinatal mental health, and more.
Life is constantly full of challenges; sometimes, facing them alone becomes too much, and you need a helping hand. I'm here to help! I specialize in medical treatment of bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, depression, PTSD, adult ADHD, grief, substance abuse disorders, supporting perinatal mental health, and more.
(864) 756-3228 View (864) 756-3228
Photo of Cassandra Hayes, FNP-C, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Hayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Seneca, SC 29672
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.
(864) 514-5635 View (864) 514-5635
Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29302  (Online Only)
Not currently accepting patients.
Not currently accepting patients.
(864) 202-4797 View (864) 202-4797
Photo of Celena Nicole Shivers, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Celena Nicole Shivers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Mill, SC 29715
Do you often feel weighed down from feelings of anxiety or depression that may be keeping you up at night? Can’t get past traumas and need someone who can understand? Look no further, allow Celena Shivers Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) to manage your care.
Do you often feel weighed down from feelings of anxiety or depression that may be keeping you up at night? Can’t get past traumas and need someone who can understand? Look no further, allow Celena Shivers Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) to manage your care.
(704) 457-1691 View (704) 457-1691
Photo of Danielle Berry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, SANE-A, CEN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(864) 661-6926 View (864) 661-6926
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601  (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.
(843) 920-4592 View (843) 920-4592
Photo of Kimberly G Kinard, MD, Psychiatrist
Kimberly G Kinard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
(803) 913-3347 View (803) 913-3347
Photo of Gregory Smith - Frame of Mind Psychiatry, LMFT, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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!
(864) 661-6209 View (864) 661-6209

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.