Psychiatrists in Gastonia, NC
![Photo of Shukairo 'shay' Baker, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, LCSW, LCAS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4e5d74c-1022-40da-835a-9e980da2476b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shukairo 'shay' Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
Young, old, rich or poor--- it does not matter your struggle as my virtual doors are open to assist you in achieving optimal wellness. I believe in meeting you where you are and offers therapy and wellness services in the office, home, community and schools. From the child struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or defiance problems to the adult grappling with depression, suicidal thoughts, or marital problems; to the elderly client mentally struggling with losing their independence or limited mobility, I strive to provide seamless and personally meaningful treatment and care.
Young, old, rich or poor--- it does not matter your struggle as my virtual doors are open to assist you in achieving optimal wellness. I believe in meeting you where you are and offers therapy and wellness services in the office, home, community and schools. From the child struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or defiance problems to the adult grappling with depression, suicidal thoughts, or marital problems; to the elderly client mentally struggling with losing their independence or limited mobility, I strive to provide seamless and personally meaningful treatment and care.
![Photo of Peter A. Bertelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adab79e3-a902-4394-b911-d0b9daef6626/1/320x400.png)
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Jacqueline Wait, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0588a2d4-a6fd-442f-9acf-873377f6f104/1/320x400.png)
Jacqueline Wait
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28056 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
![Photo of Shane Brown, RN, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79d3a6b0-8da2-4f8d-a7c4-9c21f7da75c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 8 years of psychiatric experience. I have worked with patients of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, and I believe in working collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 8 years of psychiatric experience. I have worked with patients of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, and I believe in working collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Dr. Tamara A. Neely, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2952eb54-a2b8-4361-8de0-f894963d0b4a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tamara A. Neely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054 (Online Only)
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
![Photo of Hazel T Maston - Partners in Prosperity Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18d831ee-a9dd-4a0e-b656-51921221d77e/4/320x400.png)
At Partners in Prosperity Health, we work with adults experiencing challenges with mood, anxiety, focus problems, relationships and career. We want to work with individuals interested in developing a true understanding of themselves and who wish to take control of their well-being. We believe you are the expert of your own life. We offer guidance rooted in years of experience and clinical training. Treatment will be based on your choices and goals and may include therapy, lifestyle changes, stress management, nutrition, supplements, and when appropriate, medications.
At Partners in Prosperity Health, we work with adults experiencing challenges with mood, anxiety, focus problems, relationships and career. We want to work with individuals interested in developing a true understanding of themselves and who wish to take control of their well-being. We believe you are the expert of your own life. We offer guidance rooted in years of experience and clinical training. Treatment will be based on your choices and goals and may include therapy, lifestyle changes, stress management, nutrition, supplements, and when appropriate, medications.
![Photo of Katherine Palmgren, PHMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/833e35a9-92d2-403f-acdc-bc13b559f60e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
![Photo of Carrie Hill, RN, MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a10f839d-59b7-4c25-900c-b10db55d0aad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054 (Online Only)
Hi! I am Carrie Hill, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (Advance Practice) with 8 years experience as an advanced practice provider and 16 years experience working in psychiatry. I provide assessment, diagnosis, medication management, therapy, and addiction treatment services. I work with you, on your team, and listen closely to your needs to develop an individualized treatment plan for those who need help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, binge eating disorder, and substance use disorders.
Hi! I am Carrie Hill, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (Advance Practice) with 8 years experience as an advanced practice provider and 16 years experience working in psychiatry. I provide assessment, diagnosis, medication management, therapy, and addiction treatment services. I work with you, on your team, and listen closely to your needs to develop an individualized treatment plan for those who need help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, binge eating disorder, and substance use disorders.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Urvashi Goswami, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec1f624a-b812-4030-9be0-f4b476b34534/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Urvashi Goswami chose psychiatry when she realized “whole of the body is in the mind, but the whole of the mind is not in the body.”
Dr. Urvashi Goswami chose psychiatry when she realized “whole of the body is in the mind, but the whole of the mind is not in the body.”
![Photo of Crystal Martinez - Zen Mind, PMHNP, BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cda9722-3493-4ad0-8946-bee25e543675/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zen Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, NC 28034 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Crystal Martinez and I want to help you be at your best! I have an affinity for Addictions, infertility, mood and anxiety disorders.
Hello, my name is Crystal Martinez and I want to help you be at your best! I have an affinity for Addictions, infertility, mood and anxiety disorders.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Ijaz Behavioral Rasul - Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8cff54-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
![Photo of Meredith Barrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf019ece-247b-4c81-9135-a91c130506a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Barrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28206 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling to get by each day? Do you feel like you keep hitting a wall? Or that no matter what you do, you cannot climb your way out of the hole? To struggle is to be human, but it is possible to find balance. It is possible to find contentment and joy. It is possible to discover release, to experience freedom from mental anguish. Unrelieved mental and emotional hurdles make our worlds small, and tend to propel us further and further into isolation. I am here to listen, and to help you achieve mental wellness by giving you the tools you need to regain control of your life.
Do you find yourself struggling to get by each day? Do you feel like you keep hitting a wall? Or that no matter what you do, you cannot climb your way out of the hole? To struggle is to be human, but it is possible to find balance. It is possible to find contentment and joy. It is possible to discover release, to experience freedom from mental anguish. Unrelieved mental and emotional hurdles make our worlds small, and tend to propel us further and further into isolation. I am here to listen, and to help you achieve mental wellness by giving you the tools you need to regain control of your life.
![Photo of Novlett Campbell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4986f0e-0244-40f0-b5bc-11528ed777d2/1/320x400.png)
Novlett Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205 (Online Only)
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
![Photo of Tracy Baltzell, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5dfae65-811d-442b-9a56-502781bd2d0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy is dual-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She is inspired to enhance the lives of those with mental health concerns. Tracy helps children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, panic disorders, and trauma. She creates a calm, respectful, caring, and non-judgmental atmosphere where patients can feel heard.
Tracy is dual-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She is inspired to enhance the lives of those with mental health concerns. Tracy helps children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, panic disorders, and trauma. She creates a calm, respectful, caring, and non-judgmental atmosphere where patients can feel heard.
![Photo of Ajith Abraham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3e7244d-f40d-44b3-be18-cf8b5550d4ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! This is Ajith Abraham. Are you struggling with mental health issues, feeling stressed, overwhelmed with emotions? Taking the first step can be the hardest and most challenging. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression or any of the other mental health diagnoses, there is hope. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Hi! This is Ajith Abraham. Are you struggling with mental health issues, feeling stressed, overwhelmed with emotions? Taking the first step can be the hardest and most challenging. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression or any of the other mental health diagnoses, there is hope. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
![Photo of Martha Kerubo Ochako - Abundant Life Health Support, Dr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f170ffcd-0f2f-4bb0-b836-477a566d143a/1/320x400.png)
Abundant Life Health Support
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Dr
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202
Mental health conditions are real. Their impacts on general health, occupation, relationships, or academics are real. I'm a board-certified PMHNP. My work entails assessing patients, diagnosing disorders, and prescribing the necessary treatments. I offer my services with empathic quality because I have experienced depression.
Mental health conditions are real. Their impacts on general health, occupation, relationships, or academics are real. I'm a board-certified PMHNP. My work entails assessing patients, diagnosing disorders, and prescribing the necessary treatments. I offer my services with empathic quality because I have experienced depression.
Philip Russell Couch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
I am a provider who believes in treating the "whole person" which is why I am credentialed as an FNP and a PMHNP. I can help patients with their medical issues as well as their mental health needs. We also have therapists on staff to help those who benefit best from therapy. I believe if the medical side can speak to the mental health side it ensures a more thorough level of care. I enjoy working with elderly, adults, teens who present with a variety of medical and mental health needs.
I am a provider who believes in treating the "whole person" which is why I am credentialed as an FNP and a PMHNP. I can help patients with their medical issues as well as their mental health needs. We also have therapists on staff to help those who benefit best from therapy. I believe if the medical side can speak to the mental health side it ensures a more thorough level of care. I enjoy working with elderly, adults, teens who present with a variety of medical and mental health needs.
![Photo of Gretchen Danielle Barnes, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dbe5efc-79c4-4afd-9d4e-ed9d7e2eb636/1/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
![Photo of Kelly Teabo, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe267fdb-aa07-4e2b-b78b-96dd9257a520/1/320x400.png)
Kelly is now offering telehealth visits to help with Behavioral Health, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care, and much more. We have dual board-certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today.
Kelly is now offering telehealth visits to help with Behavioral Health, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care, and much more. We have dual board-certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today.
![Photo of Vanessa Graham - J.E.M Behavioral Health, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60ceff2d-11ab-42f0-81ef-a3f56f524be4/2/320x400.jpeg)
J.E.M Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Here at J.E.M Behavioral Health, we are committed to improving the quality of life for our patients, their family members and the community by increasing access to mental health treatment and medication management. We recognize that everyone’s path to wellness and psychological wellbeing looks different. By working with you to identify mental health goals, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. This includes personalized psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy as needed.
Here at J.E.M Behavioral Health, we are committed to improving the quality of life for our patients, their family members and the community by increasing access to mental health treatment and medication management. We recognize that everyone’s path to wellness and psychological wellbeing looks different. By working with you to identify mental health goals, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. This includes personalized psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy as needed.
See more therapy options for Gastonia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gastonia, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Gastonia, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
88% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Gastonia, NC see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gastonia?
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.