Psychiatrists in Henry County, TN
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dcc232d-0538-432c-a4a7-4fa465fe9426/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kristian Dambrino, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/883bb5ad-afa8-4677-97a6-71fb52897455/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristian Dambrino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Treating patients, ages 14+, I utilize a highly individualized treatment approach in prescribing medications for a variety of diagnostic symptoms. There is no template for a human being. Therefore, I believe every person deserves to be heard, so that no nuance is missed. Patients who are struggling with depression, psychosis, mood swings, difficulty with concentration, sleep, motivation, bipolar illness, trauma, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, and more, must be able to share freely what their specific treatment needs are. My goal is to hold space for everyone needing affordable, accessible, quality mental health care.
Treating patients, ages 14+, I utilize a highly individualized treatment approach in prescribing medications for a variety of diagnostic symptoms. There is no template for a human being. Therefore, I believe every person deserves to be heard, so that no nuance is missed. Patients who are struggling with depression, psychosis, mood swings, difficulty with concentration, sleep, motivation, bipolar illness, trauma, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, and more, must be able to share freely what their specific treatment needs are. My goal is to hold space for everyone needing affordable, accessible, quality mental health care.
![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 Luyan Zhao Emfinger, MS, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dc73691-a280-4df4-b256-7ccde69533fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Luyan Zhao Emfinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Welcome! I recognize taking care of your mental health can be hard and appreciate the opportunity to be part of your journey. At Resilient Minds TN, I use an integrative psychiatry approach and therapeutic lens to help you heal your mind and body. Research shows the therapeutic relationship is a vital part of helping clients feel better. That is what I focus on, listening to you and meeting your needs! As part of your care team, I aim to provide compassionate and thoughtful care to help you achieve maximum mental and physical wellness.
Welcome! I recognize taking care of your mental health can be hard and appreciate the opportunity to be part of your journey. At Resilient Minds TN, I use an integrative psychiatry approach and therapeutic lens to help you heal your mind and body. Research shows the therapeutic relationship is a vital part of helping clients feel better. That is what I focus on, listening to you and meeting your needs! As part of your care team, I aim to provide compassionate and thoughtful care to help you achieve maximum mental and physical wellness.
![Photo of Rachel Ortiz, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60ffd781-31af-4b35-ae9b-d9ec9091783e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Ortiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.
![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 Brittany Haskell, DNP, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05854f89-b295-4e73-a727-d3c298ab1153/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Haskell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
One of the bravest things anyone can do is ask for help. We are proud of you for taking the first step. Let's be honest, life is not easy. When you are feeling down, anxious, or stressed, life can feel downright overwhelming. Sometimes, even if we are trying our best to help ourselves, getting out of that miserable place can be a challenge. You do not have to do it alone! If you find yourself in this space, it might be time to consider mental health medications.
One of the bravest things anyone can do is ask for help. We are proud of you for taking the first step. Let's be honest, life is not easy. When you are feeling down, anxious, or stressed, life can feel downright overwhelming. Sometimes, even if we are trying our best to help ourselves, getting out of that miserable place can be a challenge. You do not have to do it alone! If you find yourself in this space, it might be time to consider mental health medications.
![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 Nicole Libert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92a0ad99-188f-4080-ab03-85eb4fc2b456/1/320x400.jpeg)
I view all of my clients as the leaders in this journey towards improved wellbeing, and my goal is to act as a guide that gives options, a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities and maintain safety standards throughout the process. I look forward to hearing your story.
I view all of my clients as the leaders in this journey towards improved wellbeing, and my goal is to act as a guide that gives options, a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities and maintain safety standards throughout the process. I look forward to hearing your story.
![Photo of Victoria Maclellan, PMHMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/702ba8c0-a7d0-4192-9f46-da7de78ea385/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe in holistic care, which emphasizes treating the mind, body, and spirit. It can be very scary to reach out for help, and often difficult to open up about our needs. My goal is to create a space for everyone to feel safe and welcome, so that they can receive the care they deserve. As a provider at Family Care Center, I offer medication management. Medication is a powerful tool that can aid you in your mental health journey. Medication reduces/ treats our symptoms, allowing us to feel healthier in order to dive into simultaneous treatments, such as meditation and therapy.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe in holistic care, which emphasizes treating the mind, body, and spirit. It can be very scary to reach out for help, and often difficult to open up about our needs. My goal is to create a space for everyone to feel safe and welcome, so that they can receive the care they deserve. As a provider at Family Care Center, I offer medication management. Medication is a powerful tool that can aid you in your mental health journey. Medication reduces/ treats our symptoms, allowing us to feel healthier in order to dive into simultaneous treatments, such as meditation and therapy.
![Photo of Laura Reynolds, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6428626d-f5fd-4cf9-b8fb-58eab6807fb3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Reynolds started her practice to serve her patients and help them lead enriched and fulfilling lives. She will guide and support you as you navigate life’s stressors and challenges. In addition to medication, she will use a comprehensive approach for your mental health needs that focuses on the whole self. It takes courage to ask for help and Dr. Reynolds will use her knowledge and compassion to help you achieve your treatment goals. In-person and Telepsychiatry appointments are available for your convenience.
Dr. Reynolds started her practice to serve her patients and help them lead enriched and fulfilling lives. She will guide and support you as you navigate life’s stressors and challenges. In addition to medication, she will use a comprehensive approach for your mental health needs that focuses on the whole self. It takes courage to ask for help and Dr. Reynolds will use her knowledge and compassion to help you achieve your treatment goals. In-person and Telepsychiatry appointments are available for your convenience.
![Photo of Jason Cheng, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86555476-4407-4ad4-8b1b-1b21cbe9221e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for more than medications for your life journey? I can bridge traditions of the East and West to curate a mental health wellness plan for you. My integrative psychiatry practice combines conventional medicine with other evidence-based treatments. I've learned techniques during medical school at the University of Michigan, psychiatry residency at UC San Francisco, the public psychiatry fellowship at Columbia University, and the Integrative Psychiatry Institute fellowship accredited by the University of Colorado. I'm one of a limited number of Accelerated Resolution Therapists (acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com).
Are you looking for more than medications for your life journey? I can bridge traditions of the East and West to curate a mental health wellness plan for you. My integrative psychiatry practice combines conventional medicine with other evidence-based treatments. I've learned techniques during medical school at the University of Michigan, psychiatry residency at UC San Francisco, the public psychiatry fellowship at Columbia University, and the Integrative Psychiatry Institute fellowship accredited by the University of Colorado. I'm one of a limited number of Accelerated Resolution Therapists (acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com).
![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 Ali Wittenberg, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7d0f5f-76f1-47c6-93f3-1ca9f3928e5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ali Wittenberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Waitlist for new clients
I aim to provide individualized care to help folks feel like themselves again. I’m acutely aware that psychiatric care is intimidating, so I invite you to look at our first appointment as a chat where you tell me all about yourself—your interests, the important people in your life and what it’s like to be you. After getting to know you, we can come up with a plan that may include medication or nonpharmacologic treatments like psychotherapy or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). I offer all three of these services at the clinic, and it is my goal to work with you to achieve your treatment goals.
I aim to provide individualized care to help folks feel like themselves again. I’m acutely aware that psychiatric care is intimidating, so I invite you to look at our first appointment as a chat where you tell me all about yourself—your interests, the important people in your life and what it’s like to be you. After getting to know you, we can come up with a plan that may include medication or nonpharmacologic treatments like psychotherapy or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). I offer all three of these services at the clinic, and it is my goal to work with you to achieve your treatment goals.
![Photo of Susannah Williams, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/105eb681-5741-4c0c-9154-ef3211521cb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. S. Taylor Williams is a psychiatrist with Talkiatry. She is board-certified in psychiatry and has been practicing over 14 years. Dr. Williams received her MD from the University of Alabama School of Medicine at UAB. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Prior to joining Talkiatry, she held an academic appointment to UTHSC as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, and was the Clinical Director of the Memphis Mental Health Institute. She specializes in the treatment of young adults and LGBTQ patients. Her practice focuses on medication management.
Dr. S. Taylor Williams is a psychiatrist with Talkiatry. She is board-certified in psychiatry and has been practicing over 14 years. Dr. Williams received her MD from the University of Alabama School of Medicine at UAB. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Prior to joining Talkiatry, she held an academic appointment to UTHSC as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, and was the Clinical Director of the Memphis Mental Health Institute. She specializes in the treatment of young adults and LGBTQ patients. Her practice focuses on medication management.
![Photo of Stanley Chima, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec7368b0-d578-495b-bb21-58c298de6836/1/320x400.png)
Stanley Chima is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2021. Stanley's great experience in different healthcare settings over the past 15 years has prepared him as mental health provider with great compassion who strives to organically find a lasting solution. In his spare time, Stanley likes to travel the world with his family and he loves sports, especially the NBA.
Stanley Chima is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2021. Stanley's great experience in different healthcare settings over the past 15 years has prepared him as mental health provider with great compassion who strives to organically find a lasting solution. In his spare time, Stanley likes to travel the world with his family and he loves sports, especially the NBA.
![Photo of Sam Burress, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d0d5250-d1fb-43fa-a8cb-f20daef68b5f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Burress received his Bachelor’s degree from Martin Methodist College in 2015. Sam has a background in Intensive Care and Emergency nursing, but quickly realized that his true passion was in psychiatric nursing. He worked in Centennial’s inpatient psychiatric hospital in various bedside and administrative roles for 6 years prior to attending Middle Tennessee State University to obtain a Master’s degree and PMHNP certification. He strives to provide excellent and compassionate care to all of his clients.
Sam Burress received his Bachelor’s degree from Martin Methodist College in 2015. Sam has a background in Intensive Care and Emergency nursing, but quickly realized that his true passion was in psychiatric nursing. He worked in Centennial’s inpatient psychiatric hospital in various bedside and administrative roles for 6 years prior to attending Middle Tennessee State University to obtain a Master’s degree and PMHNP certification. He strives to provide excellent and compassionate care to all of his clients.
![Photo of Toni Williams, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dae89c51-8ca8-4fcc-b53d-8d6ae620ab97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Toni Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013 (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 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 Eric Avent, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbe16a99-32e3-41e7-9d54-448355118a85/3/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Avent is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. His training and experience qualify him to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Eric's primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. He offers telemedicine services. Some of his practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Eric Avent is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. His training and experience qualify him to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Eric's primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. He offers telemedicine services. Some of his practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
See more therapy options for Henry County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Henry County, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Henry County, TN who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Infertility |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Henry County, TN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Henry County?
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.