Psychiatrists in Durham County, NC
![Photo of Nicole E. Miller, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bd8e12d-beb3-40a7-95da-bd5d520e5942/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who are facing various mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma, or other behavioral issues. They may be seeking help and support in finding balance, improving their well-being, and reaching their mental health goals. They may want to better understand their emotions, gain coping skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. Their goal may be to experience a greater sense of self-awareness, increase their resilience, and find a sustainable level of mental wellness.
I work with clients who are facing various mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma, or other behavioral issues. They may be seeking help and support in finding balance, improving their well-being, and reaching their mental health goals. They may want to better understand their emotions, gain coping skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. Their goal may be to experience a greater sense of self-awareness, increase their resilience, and find a sustainable level of mental wellness.
![Photo of Amar Arafat, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0f7344d-2dfb-4e63-8bf2-69cbb88a6a2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a specialist in general adult outpatient psychiatry, Dr. Arafat is committed to providing compassionate, down-to-earth care tailored to each individual. His ideal clients are those who are proactive and patient in their mental health journey. He prioritizes treating every patient as a unique human being, focusing on creating effective medication regimens in collaboration with each of them. Whether the patient is managing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other psychiatric conditions, his goal is to support them with personalized treatment strategies that empower his patients to lead a fulfilling life.
As a specialist in general adult outpatient psychiatry, Dr. Arafat is committed to providing compassionate, down-to-earth care tailored to each individual. His ideal clients are those who are proactive and patient in their mental health journey. He prioritizes treating every patient as a unique human being, focusing on creating effective medication regimens in collaboration with each of them. Whether the patient is managing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other psychiatric conditions, his goal is to support them with personalized treatment strategies that empower his patients to lead a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Hilary Boydston, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f113757-0752-4f1b-a7d7-51c397fe4d3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hilary focuses on adults and completes bariatric surgery evaluations. She is passionate about patient education and provides care tailored to each patient. Hilary believes mind care is an underserved area of medicine with the most significant potential to improve general health and functionality.
Hilary focuses on adults and completes bariatric surgery evaluations. She is passionate about patient education and provides care tailored to each patient. Hilary believes mind care is an underserved area of medicine with the most significant potential to improve general health and functionality.
![Photo of Mariah Mitchell, DNP , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f45fbf9-c95e-4639-9623-6894cef15ed9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariah Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have 9 years of experience in mental health in a variety of settings. I have extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan and a variety of gender identities and backgrounds. I have treated a range of mental health disorders including but not limited to: schizophrenia, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, personality disorders, and behavioral developmental disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have 9 years of experience in mental health in a variety of settings. I have extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan and a variety of gender identities and backgrounds. I have treated a range of mental health disorders including but not limited to: schizophrenia, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, personality disorders, and behavioral developmental disorders.
![Photo of Ariel Lucci, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79402e2a-806a-4014-89e9-d66b2c77133b/1/320x400.png)
I work with patients who are struggling with mental health issues. With the privilege of diverse experience, I've honed my skills in providing top-notch outpatient psychiatric care and medication management. My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions, and I'm well-equipped to diagnose and treat patients of all ages. Armed with a Master's in Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University and a background in Respiratory Therapy, I bring valuable insights to ensure effective mental health care.
I work with patients who are struggling with mental health issues. With the privilege of diverse experience, I've honed my skills in providing top-notch outpatient psychiatric care and medication management. My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions, and I'm well-equipped to diagnose and treat patients of all ages. Armed with a Master's in Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University and a background in Respiratory Therapy, I bring valuable insights to ensure effective mental health care.
![Photo of Vaishali Cooper, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe2b7b48-c605-41b1-8786-3e32d1bb97a2/1/320x400.png)
I work with patients facing mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other behavioral issues. They seek support in finding balance, improving well-being, and reaching mental health goals. As a firm believer in the mind-body connection, I emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyle choices, strong social bonds, and spirituality in promoting mental well-being. My clients want to understand their emotions better, gain coping skills, and enhance their quality of life. Their goals include achieving greater self-awareness, increasing resilience, and finding sustainable mental wellness.
I work with patients facing mental health challenges such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other behavioral issues. They seek support in finding balance, improving well-being, and reaching mental health goals. As a firm believer in the mind-body connection, I emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyle choices, strong social bonds, and spirituality in promoting mental well-being. My clients want to understand their emotions better, gain coping skills, and enhance their quality of life. Their goals include achieving greater self-awareness, increasing resilience, and finding sustainable mental wellness.
![Photo of Kate DiGeronimo, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e2b8da-a461-42f2-8034-f7b702b898dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patients I work with come from all backgrounds and life experiences and are usually facing mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by life’s stressors, past experiences, or family history and need support to improve their well-being. I offer collaborative and personalized care that respects their unique experiences and addresses issues like ADHD, anxiety, or depression. Their goal is to overcome stigmas and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life. They want to understand their mental health better, establish effective daily habits, and reach their treatment goals through a comprehensive, empathetic approach.
Patients I work with come from all backgrounds and life experiences and are usually facing mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by life’s stressors, past experiences, or family history and need support to improve their well-being. I offer collaborative and personalized care that respects their unique experiences and addresses issues like ADHD, anxiety, or depression. Their goal is to overcome stigmas and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life. They want to understand their mental health better, establish effective daily habits, and reach their treatment goals through a comprehensive, empathetic approach.
![Photo of Ajith Abraham, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae3eaf6-c082-4276-aa9e-7f1436e5c927/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Serene Minds Mental Health PLLC! Are you having a hard time controlling your emotions? Perhaps find yourself wondering why forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or distractability have become a part of your daily life. Maybe getting out of bed is a struggle, motivation is non-existent, and tearfulness strikes without any reason. Are nighttime sleep disturbances, frequent waking, and subsequent exhaustion affecting your well-being? Are you feeling anxious, panicky, past traumas left you feeling on edge? You don't have to navigate these these challenges alone. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Welcome to Serene Minds Mental Health PLLC! Are you having a hard time controlling your emotions? Perhaps find yourself wondering why forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or distractability have become a part of your daily life. Maybe getting out of bed is a struggle, motivation is non-existent, and tearfulness strikes without any reason. Are nighttime sleep disturbances, frequent waking, and subsequent exhaustion affecting your well-being? Are you feeling anxious, panicky, past traumas left you feeling on edge? You don't have to navigate these these challenges alone. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
![Photo of Kerry Landry, MD, MS, CEDS, FAPA, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498923f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry Landry
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, CEDS, FAPA, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychiatrist board-certified in providing care for children, adolescents, and adults, with experience working with patients, families, and providers across all levels of care, my goal is to provide compassionate, individualized, evidence-based care and guidance to those who seek my services. Pursuit of this goal requires that I take the time to thoughtfully learn about the individuals who choose to see me. I have extensive experience caring for individuals with a wide variety of emotional and behavioral conditions through empirically-based individual and family therapy modalities, diagnostic evaluations, psychopharmacology,
As a psychiatrist board-certified in providing care for children, adolescents, and adults, with experience working with patients, families, and providers across all levels of care, my goal is to provide compassionate, individualized, evidence-based care and guidance to those who seek my services. Pursuit of this goal requires that I take the time to thoughtfully learn about the individuals who choose to see me. I have extensive experience caring for individuals with a wide variety of emotional and behavioral conditions through empirically-based individual and family therapy modalities, diagnostic evaluations, psychopharmacology,
![Photo of Mattias Hartmann, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/247dde35-fa24-41c4-8cfb-bae68444937d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, amongst other mental health conditions, using approaches such as solution-focused therapy, trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and medication management as needed. Sometimes my patients' needs include medication management or strategies for leading a healthier lifestyle. They may also seek guidance in developing coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and fostering positive relationships. Their ultimate goal is to improve their mental health.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, amongst other mental health conditions, using approaches such as solution-focused therapy, trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and medication management as needed. Sometimes my patients' needs include medication management or strategies for leading a healthier lifestyle. They may also seek guidance in developing coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and fostering positive relationships. Their ultimate goal is to improve their mental health.
![Photo of Corbin Burns, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d963673e-53ea-427d-b9f4-89942d6bae12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
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![Photo of Sydney Johnston, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f813b893-6ad7-43d7-bd86-be0e40b37270/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Johnston
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713 (Online Only)
I am wholeheartedly committed to building a trusting relationship with you on our journey towards a life brimming with happiness and fulfillment. Leveraging my extensive expertise in mental health, including but not limited to addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, drug abuse, eating disorders, loss, grief, and bereavement, life transitions, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sleep or insomnia, stress, substance abuse, women's issues, adjustment difficulties and disorders, phobias and fears, burnout, panic attacks/panic disorder, and many more—I prioritize transparent communication and honesty.
I am wholeheartedly committed to building a trusting relationship with you on our journey towards a life brimming with happiness and fulfillment. Leveraging my extensive expertise in mental health, including but not limited to addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, drug abuse, eating disorders, loss, grief, and bereavement, life transitions, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sleep or insomnia, stress, substance abuse, women's issues, adjustment difficulties and disorders, phobias and fears, burnout, panic attacks/panic disorder, and many more—I prioritize transparent communication and honesty.
![Photo of Ana Carla Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7db6ff93-8434-4b04-88e4-dff2efde5abf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a friendly, open-minded and nurturing psychiatrist, who has been board certified in General Psychiatry, Child Psychiatry and Adolescent Psychiatry for 10+ years. I enjoy learning about my patients and believe that the doctor/patient relationship is a partnership—you are an integral member of your treatment team.
I am a friendly, open-minded and nurturing psychiatrist, who has been board certified in General Psychiatry, Child Psychiatry and Adolescent Psychiatry for 10+ years. I enjoy learning about my patients and believe that the doctor/patient relationship is a partnership—you are an integral member of your treatment team.
![Photo of Mari-Jane Shaffer, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb316e8-130b-4cef-8441-0119dc944e88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mari-Jane Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
As a dedicated psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I find fulfillment in collaborating with patients across all age groups, guiding them towards holistic wellness.
As a dedicated psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I find fulfillment in collaborating with patients across all age groups, guiding them towards holistic wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Jesse Pearce, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbca77dc-ceeb-43a2-9103-dcc82a96f4bf/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Jesse Pearce helps adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, and depression. He believes in an individualized approach to understanding the unique factors driving each patient's mental suffering. Dr. Pearce creates a safe, non-judgmental space for patients to openly share their experiences.
Dr. Jesse Pearce helps adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, and depression. He believes in an individualized approach to understanding the unique factors driving each patient's mental suffering. Dr. Pearce creates a safe, non-judgmental space for patients to openly share their experiences.
![Photo of Jamilah Aisha Broderick, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57735b5b-37e0-44a8-87a2-e5cbabc921b9/2/320x400.png)
Jamilah Aisha Broderick
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713 (Online Only)
I am a physician assistant with both the passion and experience treating patients who feel unseen or unsupported. I received my master’s degree in physician assistant studies from South University in Savannah, GA. I am the child of immigrant parents that worked hard to provide for my sibling and I, therefore it’s important to me to advocate for our underserved, minority, and more vulnerable populations. With experience in addiction medicine, treating adolescents/adults with depression, anxiety, mood and neurodevelopmental disorders, I am dedicated to continuing to learn/educate patients on how to best treat their Mental Health!
I am a physician assistant with both the passion and experience treating patients who feel unseen or unsupported. I received my master’s degree in physician assistant studies from South University in Savannah, GA. I am the child of immigrant parents that worked hard to provide for my sibling and I, therefore it’s important to me to advocate for our underserved, minority, and more vulnerable populations. With experience in addiction medicine, treating adolescents/adults with depression, anxiety, mood and neurodevelopmental disorders, I am dedicated to continuing to learn/educate patients on how to best treat their Mental Health!
![Photo of Carmen Chatten, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/351734aa-cc00-4339-9778-36af9ef8db3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified nurse practitioner who has been in practice for 12 years. I provide mental health care as a first line approach to health care and then branch patients, who desire, into primary care services as a secondary service. I use genetic testing and advanced lab work to assess general health and utilize behavioral approaches to chronic disease management.
I am a board certified nurse practitioner who has been in practice for 12 years. I provide mental health care as a first line approach to health care and then branch patients, who desire, into primary care services as a secondary service. I use genetic testing and advanced lab work to assess general health and utilize behavioral approaches to chronic disease management.
![Photo of Kelly Smedley - Waypoint Counseling & Maternal Wellness, PLLC, MSN, PMHCNS, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31fdea11-387d-44c1-a23b-0ecfb989618d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Waypoint Counseling & Maternal Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHCNS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Our mission is to promote the mental health of mothers and women through counseling, treatment, and education. We are committed to empowering mothers to prioritize their emotional health because when a mom feels her best, everyone benefits.
Our mission is to promote the mental health of mothers and women through counseling, treatment, and education. We are committed to empowering mothers to prioritize their emotional health because when a mom feels her best, everyone benefits.
![Photo of Rachel C Poliquin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/510fd543-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist who works primarily by psychotherapy, listening carefully to understand your experience. Feeling understood and accepted can be liberating, which helps us as we work together to understand problems in daily life, such as work, relationships, or school. Our exploration might include talking about your thoughts, feelings, dreams, fears, and fantasies. This process opens up more happiness, well-being, and freedom to make the choices you want.
I am a psychiatrist who works primarily by psychotherapy, listening carefully to understand your experience. Feeling understood and accepted can be liberating, which helps us as we work together to understand problems in daily life, such as work, relationships, or school. Our exploration might include talking about your thoughts, feelings, dreams, fears, and fantasies. This process opens up more happiness, well-being, and freedom to make the choices you want.
![Photo of Stoney Lee Bowman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/474b4c34-6f75-484d-a80c-6a710db5f98b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stoney Lee Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701 (Online Only)
My clinical interests include treating psychiatric patients across the life spectrum. His clinical practice includes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy services. I am interested in a holistic approach to patient care including dealing with nutritional, exercise, sleep, and stress reduction strategies to improve overall mental health conditions. My clinical style has been described as friendly, conversational, and engaging.
My clinical interests include treating psychiatric patients across the life spectrum. His clinical practice includes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy services. I am interested in a holistic approach to patient care including dealing with nutritional, exercise, sleep, and stress reduction strategies to improve overall mental health conditions. My clinical style has been described as friendly, conversational, and engaging.
See more therapy options for Durham County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Durham County, NC
100+
Average cost per session
$167
Psychiatrists in Durham County, NC who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
87% | ADHD |
82% | Medication Management |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
82% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Durham County, NC see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Durham County?
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.