Psychiatrists in Ripley, TN
Strong Foundation Behavioral Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Ripley, TN 38063
Life is a journey and sometimes it is a struggle. During difficult and overwhelming times it is important to reach out for help. At Strong Foundation we partner with you to help you regain quality of life. We strive at every visit to instill hope and focus on your unique qualities that only you possess.
Life is a journey and sometimes it is a struggle. During difficult and overwhelming times it is important to reach out for help. At Strong Foundation we partner with you to help you regain quality of life. We strive at every visit to instill hope and focus on your unique qualities that only you possess.
Strong Foundation Behavorial Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Ripley, TN 38063
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
Welcome to the first step to a happier you. We don't treat labels; We are symptomologist. We specialize in treating low energy, poor concentration, low motivation, crying spells, being easily startled, crowd avoidance, nightmares, unstable mood, auditory and visual hallucination, aggression, Sleep disturbances (too much or too little), impulsiveness,mild to severe anxiousness and nervousness. Our focus is on the whole person, treating them symptomatically, working closely with them. Our mission is to guide our clients in taking charge of their mental health
Online Psychiatrists
Hi! I am a board certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am licensed in Tennessee and Texas.
Hi! I am a board certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am licensed in Tennessee and Texas.
Just Journey Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38125 (Online Only)
Mental health stability can open the door for unlimited possibilities in our journey through life. My job as a mental health provider is to help clients open new doors by changing their perspectives with medication management and psychotherapy. I encourage clients to take the initiative and responsibility for their mental health wellness. As a mental health provider, it is important for me to stay abreast of effective mental health principles and treatment options to ensure that all clients reach their full potential during their lifelong journey to positive mental health outcomes.
Mental health stability can open the door for unlimited possibilities in our journey through life. My job as a mental health provider is to help clients open new doors by changing their perspectives with medication management and psychotherapy. I encourage clients to take the initiative and responsibility for their mental health wellness. As a mental health provider, it is important for me to stay abreast of effective mental health principles and treatment options to ensure that all clients reach their full potential during their lifelong journey to positive mental health outcomes.
Kristin Fitchpatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38120
I am a compassionate and highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals facing a wide range of challenges. I possess a deep commitment to inclusivity and cultural intelligence.
I am a compassionate and highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals facing a wide range of challenges. I possess a deep commitment to inclusivity and cultural intelligence.
Jakeisha T Goston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bartlett, TN 38134
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
Integrative Healthcare Solutions, PLLC is a psychiatric/minor medical practice established by Dr. Jakeisha Goston, DNP with a goal of providing person centered care. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am committed to treating the whole person utilizing an integrative approach to assist persons in reaching full potential/purpose and live in optimal health. I treat patient of all ages with various mental health disorders. I provide medication management with brief supportive psychotherapy/motivational interviewing.
Breianne Chisholm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , CCHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, TN 38068
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 19 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help you achieve your mental health goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I'm here to support you on your journey to wellness.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 19 years of experience in the healthcare field. I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help you achieve your mental health goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I'm here to support you on your journey to wellness.
Sherika Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 17 years total of nursing experience. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University in 2021. I believe in forming a personalized plan of care that values you and put your feelings first by use of evidence based practice, strong communication, and listening skills.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with 17 years total of nursing experience. I received my Masters Degree from Walden University in 2021. I believe in forming a personalized plan of care that values you and put your feelings first by use of evidence based practice, strong communication, and listening skills.
Marilynn Yvette Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38109 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Marilynn Richardson. I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden, University in 2020. I have a deep commitment to compassionate and effective care. I provide medication management for adults 18 and older for symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. I provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. I help clients manage their conditions effectively and improve their overall well-being.
Hello, I am Marilynn Richardson. I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my master's from Walden, University in 2020. I have a deep commitment to compassionate and effective care. I provide medication management for adults 18 and older for symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. I provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. I help clients manage their conditions effectively and improve their overall well-being.
Stephanie Sweeny, Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 37501 (Online Only)
The services we provide are designed to alleviate emotional and mental health symptoms for women who feel alone and stuck and are experiencing emotional or mental health symptoms. As women, there is a need for support, guidance, and help to identify what is normal. Our providers strive to help you reach your goals and live a happy and fulfilling life.
The services we provide are designed to alleviate emotional and mental health symptoms for women who feel alone and stuck and are experiencing emotional or mental health symptoms. As women, there is a need for support, guidance, and help to identify what is normal. Our providers strive to help you reach your goals and live a happy and fulfilling life.
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collierville, TN 38017 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist 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 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.
iMind Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, TN 38305
Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Licensed therapists provide comprehensive Mental Health Care services for individuals with Psychiatric and Mental Health Disorders. We use a person-centered approach to meet the individual needs of our clients to improve their overall quality of life.
Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Licensed therapists provide comprehensive Mental Health Care services for individuals with Psychiatric and Mental Health Disorders. We use a person-centered approach to meet the individual needs of our clients to improve their overall quality of life.
Tami Sholar- Conard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38125 (Online Only)
Hello I'm Tami, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a medical professional since 2010 in a variety of fields including mental health, Med-Surg, Nephrology among others. My experience in the various medical fields as a nurse led me to my passion, which is mental health. I treat each individual with empathy and absolute positive regard. Depending on your needs, I customize your treatment plan to achieve your goals and overall well being. This may include therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I use evidence based practice to ensure you are receiving the care needed to obtain optimal wellness.
Hello I'm Tami, a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a medical professional since 2010 in a variety of fields including mental health, Med-Surg, Nephrology among others. My experience in the various medical fields as a nurse led me to my passion, which is mental health. I treat each individual with empathy and absolute positive regard. Depending on your needs, I customize your treatment plan to achieve your goals and overall well being. This may include therapy, medications, or a combination of both. I use evidence based practice to ensure you are receiving the care needed to obtain optimal wellness.
Tonia Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 37501 (Online Only)
Though we may all suffer from stressors of the world and trauma, we all deserve to be treated as individuals. At Tailored Psychiatric Wellness Center, the goal is to understand the needs of each client and create a treatment plan specialized for them. I bring a unique perspective to psychiatric care, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I understand the importance of addressing the root cause of mental health concerns and working with my patients to develop individualized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs.
Though we may all suffer from stressors of the world and trauma, we all deserve to be treated as individuals. At Tailored Psychiatric Wellness Center, the goal is to understand the needs of each client and create a treatment plan specialized for them. I bring a unique perspective to psychiatric care, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I understand the importance of addressing the root cause of mental health concerns and working with my patients to develop individualized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs.
Amanda L Eaves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38103
I bring a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for my patients. I specialize in medication management of depression, anxiety, attention deficits, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric diagnoses, while providing brief supportive psychotherapy.
I bring a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and an abiding commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for my patients. I specialize in medication management of depression, anxiety, attention deficits, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric diagnoses, while providing brief supportive psychotherapy.
Mobile Psych is a psychiatric practice established by Alfonso Canady and Dr Berenese Canady, DNP with a goal of providing compassionate and affordable mental health treatment. We take time to understand your needs, and partner with you to develop a course of treatment to help you function at your best. Situated in East Memphis, we are conveniently located near the I-240 and Popular Ave exit, with easy access.
Mobile Psych is a psychiatric practice established by Alfonso Canady and Dr Berenese Canady, DNP with a goal of providing compassionate and affordable mental health treatment. We take time to understand your needs, and partner with you to develop a course of treatment to help you function at your best. Situated in East Memphis, we are conveniently located near the I-240 and Popular Ave exit, with easy access.
Whitney Trotter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38120 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions. Over the years, I have honed my skills in diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients through their mental health challenges, always striving to offer the highest standard of care. My clinical approach is holistic, considering the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively with my patients
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment to individuals struggling with various psychiatric conditions. Over the years, I have honed my skills in diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients through their mental health challenges, always striving to offer the highest standard of care. My clinical approach is holistic, considering the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively with my patients
My goal is to help people in need to achieve mental wellness. While meeting each patient where they are on their journey to a stronger healthier mental well-being. Assisting with symptoms of depression, anxiety and ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders and various other mental health concerns. I have been in healthcare for over 20 years. In those 20 years I have delveloped the skill to listen and strive to understand what my patients are going through. I want people to know that they are not alone. That someone cares and is willing to help. I see patients across the lifespan. Ages 6 years through 99 years.
My goal is to help people in need to achieve mental wellness. While meeting each patient where they are on their journey to a stronger healthier mental well-being. Assisting with symptoms of depression, anxiety and ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders and various other mental health concerns. I have been in healthcare for over 20 years. In those 20 years I have delveloped the skill to listen and strive to understand what my patients are going through. I want people to know that they are not alone. That someone cares and is willing to help. I see patients across the lifespan. Ages 6 years through 99 years.
Chandra Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38134
At PRC Psychiatry, PLLC., we provide holistic and coordinated care tailored to address your physical, emotional, and social needs. Our commitment is to foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where you are heard, respected, and supported. Led by Chandra Price, a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, our telepsychiatry practice offers psychiatric diagnosis and evidence-based psychopharmacological treatment to clients in TN, ME, VT, KS, CO, and DE. Chandra's professional focus lies in integrated behavioral health, ensuring personalized care for each individual.
At PRC Psychiatry, PLLC., we provide holistic and coordinated care tailored to address your physical, emotional, and social needs. Our commitment is to foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where you are heard, respected, and supported. Led by Chandra Price, a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, our telepsychiatry practice offers psychiatric diagnosis and evidence-based psychopharmacological treatment to clients in TN, ME, VT, KS, CO, and DE. Chandra's professional focus lies in integrated behavioral health, ensuring personalized care for each individual.
Kristin Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cordova, TN 38018
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in various capacities. I have treated patients of all ages with a variety of mental illnesses ranging from depression and anxiety to severe thought and mood disorders and psychosis. My main focus is on medication management in combination with brief supportive psychotherapy. My goal is to provide my clients with the tools to improve functioning in their daily lives.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in various capacities. I have treated patients of all ages with a variety of mental illnesses ranging from depression and anxiety to severe thought and mood disorders and psychosis. My main focus is on medication management in combination with brief supportive psychotherapy. My goal is to provide my clients with the tools to improve functioning in their daily lives.
See more therapy options for Ripley
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ripley, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ripley, TN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Ripley, TN 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 Ripley?
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.