Psychiatrists in Dickson, TN
![Photo of David Andrew Vincent - Elite Psychiatry of Tennessee, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89fe067b-2b4d-49c3-9afa-b09caaf3ad7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elite Psychiatry of Tennessee
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dickson, TN 37055 (Online Only)
What sets Elite Psychiatry apart? This is a locally owned practice where you will have continuous and personalized care with the same provider every visit, which is essential for appropriate diagnosis and medication management. We offer compassionate care without judgement; you will feel heard. This is your journey. You will have to put the work in, but we are here to help and pride ourselves on being as invested as you are!
What sets Elite Psychiatry apart? This is a locally owned practice where you will have continuous and personalized care with the same provider every visit, which is essential for appropriate diagnosis and medication management. We offer compassionate care without judgement; you will feel heard. This is your journey. You will have to put the work in, but we are here to help and pride ourselves on being as invested as you are!
![Photo of LaTasha Mcvey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42f8db10-f18b-40ff-9d62-b4445e3aaf82/1/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Tasha McVey and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with mental health disorders. I started my calling to help these individuals with my first degree, a bachelors in Psychology, from Mississippi State University. I later attended nursing school at Northeast MS Community College, and then continued my nursing education with a Master of Science Nursing degree, with a concentration in psychiatric mental health. I am currently accepting new clients. - Tasha!
Hello! My name is Tasha McVey and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with mental health disorders. I started my calling to help these individuals with my first degree, a bachelors in Psychology, from Mississippi State University. I later attended nursing school at Northeast MS Community College, and then continued my nursing education with a Master of Science Nursing degree, with a concentration in psychiatric mental health. I am currently accepting new clients. - Tasha!
![Photo of Toni A. Williams, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bed73f6-6425-4338-b083-c6cfb9f35f82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Toni A. Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Dickson, TN 37055 (Online Only)
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
![Photo of Brandon D Teeftaller, APN, RN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2b708b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating a wide variety of mental illness in adolescents and adults. In the last 20 years, I have developed a special interest in helping individuals achieve personal goals. I support and assist clients to develop a healthy self. It is my goal each day to help individuals improve their daily functioning. I believe the combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy offers clients the best tools for success. I work hard with each client offering my expertise in both areas to maximize his/her potential for holistic growth.
I specialize in treating a wide variety of mental illness in adolescents and adults. In the last 20 years, I have developed a special interest in helping individuals achieve personal goals. I support and assist clients to develop a healthy self. It is my goal each day to help individuals improve their daily functioning. I believe the combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy offers clients the best tools for success. I work hard with each client offering my expertise in both areas to maximize his/her potential for holistic growth.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Sonya Butler, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab47aee4-435b-433c-8a00-bb9d4ec4f69f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sonya Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027 (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with numerous years of dedicated experience, Sonya is deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and various thought and mood disorders. Her passion lies in helping her clients achieve mental well-being and regain control of their lives. She has honed her skills in treating anxiety and depression, recognizing that these conditions can profoundly impact an individual's daily functioning and overall quality of life.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with numerous years of dedicated experience, Sonya is deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and various thought and mood disorders. Her passion lies in helping her clients achieve mental well-being and regain control of their lives. She has honed her skills in treating anxiety and depression, recognizing that these conditions can profoundly impact an individual's daily functioning and overall quality of life.
![Photo of Nicole Hart, PMHNP, BC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0d3e2a0-df84-4a2f-95a0-d63f531b047b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders take charge of their lives by offering personalized, responsible care with psychotherapy and medication management. I do not participate in any insurance plans, however, invoices can be provided for you to submit to insurance for reimbursement or toward your deductible. For a consultation, please visit my website: nicolehartnp.com
I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and mood disorders take charge of their lives by offering personalized, responsible care with psychotherapy and medication management. I do not participate in any insurance plans, however, invoices can be provided for you to submit to insurance for reimbursement or toward your deductible. For a consultation, please visit my website: nicolehartnp.com
![Photo of Allyson Witters Cundiff, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a82c196-7816-475f-a24e-ea832363f611/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Allyson Witters Cundiff and I am pleased to offer psychiatric care in the middle TN area for all ages. As a Nashville native with an understanding and appreciation of the growth of this wonderful community, I am very aware of the increased stress that our community has endured with this growth and specifically the last few years with the fallout from the pandemic and other tragedies. I am grateful to be able to work collaboratively in order to best help patients achieve their goals for mental wellbeing and healing.
My name is Allyson Witters Cundiff and I am pleased to offer psychiatric care in the middle TN area for all ages. As a Nashville native with an understanding and appreciation of the growth of this wonderful community, I am very aware of the increased stress that our community has endured with this growth and specifically the last few years with the fallout from the pandemic and other tragedies. I am grateful to be able to work collaboratively in order to best help patients achieve their goals for mental wellbeing and healing.
![Photo of Mackenzie Grimes, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a03ffd4-5c97-409d-897e-f219db93c111/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mackenzie Grimes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Solstice Psychiatry, I am driven by a deep passion for helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. With a holistic approach, I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to adults and teens aged 16 and older. My goal is to empower my patients to overcome their challenges, enhance their quality of life, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. Considering the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit, my approach to psychiatric care encompasses all aspects of an individual's life.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and owner of Solstice Psychiatry, I am driven by a deep passion for helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. With a holistic approach, I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to adults and teens aged 16 and older. My goal is to empower my patients to overcome their challenges, enhance their quality of life, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. Considering the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit, my approach to psychiatric care encompasses all aspects of an individual's life.
![Photo of Tanitha Moncier, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c640805e-1c60-4838-8ee2-5b3d848f266c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tanitha Moncier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Every journey begins with one step. Perhaps you are feeling “stuck” and repeating the same patterns? I am committed to creating the possibility of well-being for you and helping you live a more fulfilling life, let’s work together so you can feel your best. With my expertise as a double board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, the focus of care in my practice is flexible and individualized to each client.
Every journey begins with one step. Perhaps you are feeling “stuck” and repeating the same patterns? I am committed to creating the possibility of well-being for you and helping you live a more fulfilling life, let’s work together so you can feel your best. With my expertise as a double board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, the focus of care in my practice is flexible and individualized to each client.
![Photo of Miriam Rose, RN, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51f29682-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Miriam Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
![Photo of Paula Wilt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a3ce1de-4a63-49c1-8b13-4501ebc022fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
![Photo of Dr. Christopher Lombardi - Dr. Chris Lombardi | IntelePsych, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76a34036-c053-4c2b-a485-913b6a717dd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chris Lombardi | IntelePsych
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nolensville, TN 37135 (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming at times - and so can seeking mental health care. At IntelePsych, we want you to feel comfortable from the very first time you call our office. Dr. Lombardi, our board-certified M.D., takes a holistic approach, tailoring your individualized care to include medication, therapy, or both. So whether you have anxiety, depression, bipolar, motivation issues, ADHD, PTSD, or other struggles, we're here to help you live your best life.
Life can feel overwhelming at times - and so can seeking mental health care. At IntelePsych, we want you to feel comfortable from the very first time you call our office. Dr. Lombardi, our board-certified M.D., takes a holistic approach, tailoring your individualized care to include medication, therapy, or both. So whether you have anxiety, depression, bipolar, motivation issues, ADHD, PTSD, or other struggles, we're here to help you live your best life.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0280b6b0-1515-47cd-bc47-56b8d913dd7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee. 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.
![Photo of Stasha Hampton, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c3a4fa-6ec5-4aeb-99ec-1aeaa435f9ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stasha Hampton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37209
Our vision at Prosperity Mental Wellness Center is to provide holistic care that balances eastern & western philosophies to assist patients in achieving & maintaining mental wellness. We believe in the importance of creating a personalized care plan for each of our patients, taking into account their medical history, lifestyle, & personal goals. We strive to create a healthy space where patients will feel safe and supported to begin their healing journey. We are dedicated to highlighting the power of the brain & body conversation in order to improve the overall health & wellbeing of our patients.
Our vision at Prosperity Mental Wellness Center is to provide holistic care that balances eastern & western philosophies to assist patients in achieving & maintaining mental wellness. We believe in the importance of creating a personalized care plan for each of our patients, taking into account their medical history, lifestyle, & personal goals. We strive to create a healthy space where patients will feel safe and supported to begin their healing journey. We are dedicated to highlighting the power of the brain & body conversation in order to improve the overall health & wellbeing of our patients.
![Photo of Margot Feintuch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3675f8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My private practice provides psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy and medication management. I work collaboratively with each person to tailor the most current treatment modalities to meet their individual needs.
My private practice provides psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy and medication management. I work collaboratively with each person to tailor the most current treatment modalities to meet their individual needs.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcc5acc8-d9eb-454c-9ba1-3c0097041791/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee. 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.
![Photo of Taylor Berry, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba6c8375-8dd5-445f-95f8-009d52eef15b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064 (Online Only)
All appointments will be 100% virtual with the possibility for in-person appointments as early as January 2024 on Friday's in Franklin, TN. Accepting cash pay, Aetna, Cigna, Optum/United Healthcare, BCBS, and Tricare. VACCN coming soon!
All appointments will be 100% virtual with the possibility for in-person appointments as early as January 2024 on Friday's in Franklin, TN. Accepting cash pay, Aetna, Cigna, Optum/United Healthcare, BCBS, and Tricare. VACCN coming soon!
![Photo of Saydie Marshall, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f4ee35-8345-490b-9b01-593f57c28184/1/320x400.jpeg)
Saydie Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
![Photo of Marilyn D Haymaker, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ea03008-87de-45a6-9808-3adfe5c8d3aa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn D Haymaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Originally from Columbia Falls, Montana, Marilyn has lived in Tennessee since the late 80’s. She attended Tennessee State University, where she received her RN in 1992. Marilyn was drawn to the field of mental health after working in substance abuse treatment as a registered nurse, and returned to graduate school to further her education, earning her MSN and certification as Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from the Vanderbilt School of Nursing. With over 29 years in healthcare, including 11 in mental health, Marilyn brings extensive knowledge to her practice. She draws from experience in a multitude of settings.
Originally from Columbia Falls, Montana, Marilyn has lived in Tennessee since the late 80’s. She attended Tennessee State University, where she received her RN in 1992. Marilyn was drawn to the field of mental health after working in substance abuse treatment as a registered nurse, and returned to graduate school to further her education, earning her MSN and certification as Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from the Vanderbilt School of Nursing. With over 29 years in healthcare, including 11 in mental health, Marilyn brings extensive knowledge to her practice. She draws from experience in a multitude of settings.
![Photo of Haley Stovall, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb48d07e-bb5e-48df-82bb-97f426e40039/1/320x400.jpeg)
Haley Stovall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Now welcoming new patients ages 12+! Let's work together to help you live your best life. I understand that life is complex and sometimes overwhelming and would like to take the time to get to know you and your own unique story. I will be your partner in creating a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your optimal health vision.
Now welcoming new patients ages 12+! Let's work together to help you live your best life. I understand that life is complex and sometimes overwhelming and would like to take the time to get to know you and your own unique story. I will be your partner in creating a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your optimal health vision.
See more therapy options for Dickson
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dickson, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Dickson, TN who prioritize treating:
75% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Dickson, TN see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dickson?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.