Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC
The Greater Works of Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN/Ed, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangeburg, SC 29115
Doctorally prepared, I possess the experience, qualities, personality, and credentials for your needs. I am a passionate and seasoned professional with over 30 years of high-profile nursing experience. The experience encompasses a profession in medicine and psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice in face-to-face and online settings. I am also a 30+ year veteran-spouse and mother of a current active-duty military family that fosters the ability to empathize and aid with military-affiliated patients. The tenants of my nursing practice primary aim are to deliver customized, purpose-driven care to all clients.
Doctorally prepared, I possess the experience, qualities, personality, and credentials for your needs. I am a passionate and seasoned professional with over 30 years of high-profile nursing experience. The experience encompasses a profession in medicine and psychiatry, healthcare, education, and clinical nursing practice in face-to-face and online settings. I am also a 30+ year veteran-spouse and mother of a current active-duty military family that fosters the ability to empathize and aid with military-affiliated patients. The tenants of my nursing practice primary aim are to deliver customized, purpose-driven care to all clients.
Online Psychiatrists
Felicia Heyward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a minor in Nursing Education. Outside of work, Felicia loves working in her yard, traveling, snorkeling, tennis, and cooking for family and friends.
Felicia Heyward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a minor in Nursing Education. Outside of work, Felicia loves working in her yard, traveling, snorkeling, tennis, and cooking for family and friends.
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
Maihan Yazmine Aurah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Cayce, SC 29033
Maihan Yazmine Aurah is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina. She received her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati in 2022. Maihan has more than 12 years of experience and success as a registered nurse in direct patient care and nursing management positions in inpatient and outpatient settings. Her experience spans ER, OB, Acute Care, Peds, and public health environments. Her experience demonstrated the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body/spiritual connection is often ignored.
Maihan Yazmine Aurah is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina. She received her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati in 2022. Maihan has more than 12 years of experience and success as a registered nurse in direct patient care and nursing management positions in inpatient and outpatient settings. Her experience spans ER, OB, Acute Care, Peds, and public health environments. Her experience demonstrated the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body/spiritual connection is often ignored.
Dr. Steven Sinderman is passionate about providing the best treatment for his patients in a collaborative atmosphere. Dr. Sinderman specializes in adult psychiatry. He was fascinated with the function of the brain and psychology in college, but was side-tracked and pursued a career in neurosurgery.
Dr. Steven Sinderman is passionate about providing the best treatment for his patients in a collaborative atmosphere. Dr. Sinderman specializes in adult psychiatry. He was fascinated with the function of the brain and psychology in college, but was side-tracked and pursued a career in neurosurgery.
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!
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
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.
Are you facing a personal problem? Perhaps you need help after a traumatic event? When you find yourself in situations like these, feel free to come and visit us at Angel Oak Counseling for assistance. We provide professional counseling services for individuals seeking support and guidance in dealing with significant life changes. We also evaluate your need for psychiatric medication and prescribe as needed. Allow us to help you in your time of need. Visit our counseling clinic in Johns Island, SC today to properly discuss your needs.
Are you facing a personal problem? Perhaps you need help after a traumatic event? When you find yourself in situations like these, feel free to come and visit us at Angel Oak Counseling for assistance. We provide professional counseling services for individuals seeking support and guidance in dealing with significant life changes. We also evaluate your need for psychiatric medication and prescribe as needed. Allow us to help you in your time of need. Visit our counseling clinic in Johns Island, SC today to properly discuss your needs.
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
I use a personalized approach to treatment, integrating evidence-based medicine and a holistic understanding of your unique needs and circumstances. I'm dedicated to understanding who you are as a whole person, not just a diagnosis or set of symptoms. My style is one of warmth, compassion, and empathy. Through psychotherapy, medication management, and collaborative goal-setting, I want to help you navigate your mental health journey with confidence and resilience. I am here to help promote healing, growth and the achievement of your goals.
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
Dr. Guidry graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He completed his psychiatry residency training in Augusta Georgia. He is uniquely qualified a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Dr. Guidry is board certified in Psychiatry and OBGYN. His specialties include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, anger management, sexual assault, and trauma. Dr. Guidry is a combat veteran, who retired from the United States Army after 25 years of service. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing novels, playing his guitar, and riding his motorcycle on mountain backroads.
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
Life can be challenging and difficult. All of us are vulnerable to feelings of sadness/worry when life's stressors become too much. Sometimes these issues can develop into more serious mental illness, such as clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, even psychosis. If your mood is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or reach your goals, it's time to seek help. If your struggles with trauma or feeling broken are making it impossible to experience life to its fullest or even just function day-to-day, it is well past time start moving forward. If in Texas or South Carolina, reach out! (Emailed preferred.)
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Throughout his career, Dr. Cluver has provided clinical care for patients along the full spectrum of mental illnesses and treatment settings, from in-patient care to outpatient clinics, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions. He is especially interested in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders (such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, social and other phobias, PTSD, and panic disorder) using a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29412
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
Angela Rasheed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chapin, SC 29036 (Online Only)
During medication management with me, our first visit will consist of me listening to your concerns while obtaining a thorough history from you & assessing your needs and situation. I will provide clinical advice based on my expertise based on evidence based clinical data and studies and allowing you to participate actively in your treatment.
During medication management with me, our first visit will consist of me listening to your concerns while obtaining a thorough history from you & assessing your needs and situation. I will provide clinical advice based on my expertise based on evidence based clinical data and studies and allowing you to participate actively in your treatment.
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.
Nick Germano, MSN, PMHNP-BC Nick Germano is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Nick believes that the most essential component to medication management is collaboration.
Nick Germano, MSN, PMHNP-BC Nick Germano is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Nick believes that the most essential component to medication management is collaboration.
Cheryl A. Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29407
My focus is working with patients experiencing chronic pain issues. Too many times I have seen where pain starts to define the person and then takes over their life. It does not have to be this way.
My focus is working with patients experiencing chronic pain issues. Too many times I have seen where pain starts to define the person and then takes over their life. It does not have to be this way.
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.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with various mental health diagnoses. My goal is to have a diverse group of patients, regardless of race, sexuality, and gender. My interests include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. I want to help young people achieve happiness and success in life, while overcoming challenges that mental health conditions may bring.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with various mental health diagnoses. My goal is to have a diverse group of patients, regardless of race, sexuality, and gender. My interests include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD. I want to help young people achieve happiness and success in life, while overcoming challenges that mental health conditions may bring.
See more therapy options for Orangeburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Anger Management |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Orangeburg, SC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Orangeburg?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.