Psychiatrists in Anson County, NC
![Photo of Lied Metcalf, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c84a102f-395d-47c0-b61b-5af4df5254ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I have been a nurse for 20 years and a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for two years. I received my nursing degree at NYU and my nurse practitioner degree at Frontier Nursing University. Therapy is an important part of my practice and I work to ensure patients are educated on choices and medication. I have worked with all ages but particularly like working with kids and teenagers.
Hi. I have been a nurse for 20 years and a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for two years. I received my nursing degree at NYU and my nurse practitioner degree at Frontier Nursing University. Therapy is an important part of my practice and I work to ensure patients are educated on choices and medication. I have worked with all ages but particularly like working with kids and teenagers.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Sarah Goldston, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aec3000-0373-4230-b6b7-9e5251c92eb0/1/320x400.png)
As a PA with over 8 years of experience, I work collaboratively with other providers and therapists to provide quality mental health care to clients. This care includes the evaluation, diagnosis, and management (including education, medication prescribing and monitoring) of adults with mental health problems with the goal of helping to restore them to their highest level of functioning. I love to work alongside clients to achieve their goals as I strive to always provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based psychiatric care in a warm and inclusive environment.
As a PA with over 8 years of experience, I work collaboratively with other providers and therapists to provide quality mental health care to clients. This care includes the evaluation, diagnosis, and management (including education, medication prescribing and monitoring) of adults with mental health problems with the goal of helping to restore them to their highest level of functioning. I love to work alongside clients to achieve their goals as I strive to always provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based psychiatric care in a warm and inclusive environment.
![Photo of Daniela Marques, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a4792f9-7693-4a1f-ac70-65ee1011acdd/2/320x400.png)
Daniela Marques, a dedicated Physician Assistant, brings four years of experience in Internal Medicine to her transition into psychiatry, driven by a profound passion for prioritizing the mental wellbeing of her patients. Her previous experience has provided a foundation in addressing a broad spectrum of both physical and mental health concerns.
Daniela Marques, a dedicated Physician Assistant, brings four years of experience in Internal Medicine to her transition into psychiatry, driven by a profound passion for prioritizing the mental wellbeing of her patients. Her previous experience has provided a foundation in addressing a broad spectrum of both physical and mental health concerns.
![Photo of Dorine Henrietta Martin - Mindology, MSN, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/171670d8-0095-4906-b8ed-ef3822056c6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
![Photo of Jacqueline Wait, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ce9b8c7-02d0-472d-aeb0-ef5051eb8210/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Wait
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262 (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 Xiomara Nieves Alvarado, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/537b8da8-a991-4a3c-9c89-0233c1639a92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is a recent psychiatry graduate from Duke Psychiatry Residency program. She is board-certified and has experience with psychodynamic and supportive therapy. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is originally from Puerto Rico and practices psychiatry in both English and Spanish.
Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is a recent psychiatry graduate from Duke Psychiatry Residency program. She is board-certified and has experience with psychodynamic and supportive therapy. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is originally from Puerto Rico and practices psychiatry in both English and Spanish.
![Photo of Gisela E Knebl Kohl - Certus Psychiatry and Integrated Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46efb397-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
![Photo of Catherine Wehmann, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59549361-23bd-4576-80a7-379dadccf646/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board-certified Psychiatrist with experience treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges including but not limited to depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), ADHD, adjustment issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, peripartum depression and anxiety, and psychosis. I can provide diagnostic evaluations, consultations, medication management and/or psychotherapy depending on the needs of the individual and family.
I am a double board-certified Psychiatrist with experience treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges including but not limited to depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), ADHD, adjustment issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, peripartum depression and anxiety, and psychosis. I can provide diagnostic evaluations, consultations, medication management and/or psychotherapy depending on the needs of the individual and family.
![Photo of Matt Bader, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0bef55-a010-4e0c-8cdc-93aa87e3acea/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bader is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with subspecialty training in addiction psychiatry. Given his specialty training, he has a great deal of experience treating a wide range of addictions including alcohol, opiates, marijuana, cocaine, & prescription medications just to name a few. He strives to treat the client as a whole individual rather than focusing on one side of the addiction versus mood coin.
Dr. Bader is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with subspecialty training in addiction psychiatry. Given his specialty training, he has a great deal of experience treating a wide range of addictions including alcohol, opiates, marijuana, cocaine, & prescription medications just to name a few. He strives to treat the client as a whole individual rather than focusing on one side of the addiction versus mood coin.
![Photo of Shanika Bostic Smith, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d429a737-13ef-4c5d-b754-08a6cc3d5b9c/4/320x400.jpeg)
Shanika Bostic Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
Living with mental health challenges can be exhausting. Is your life driven by fear, uncertainties, sadness, and worry? Are you fighting a daily battle to stay afloat? I understand the complexities of mental health and the significant impact it can have on your life and overall well-being. Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting experience, but it can also be the first step towards a better life. The right diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference. You don't have to face this journey alone. Reach out today and take the first step towards a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow.
Living with mental health challenges can be exhausting. Is your life driven by fear, uncertainties, sadness, and worry? Are you fighting a daily battle to stay afloat? I understand the complexities of mental health and the significant impact it can have on your life and overall well-being. Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting experience, but it can also be the first step towards a better life. The right diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference. You don't have to face this journey alone. Reach out today and take the first step towards a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow.
![Photo of Mina Boazak - Animo Sano Psychiatry, MD, PA-C, LCSW, LCMHC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4089c663-1872-4dd0-b0c6-f60a178a63a9/1/320x400.png)
Animo Sano Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, LCSW, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
![Photo of Lane Thompson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee297c5a-617b-4f7f-9808-de85dc20385d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
![Photo of Megan Arvidson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b629fce-3289-4f59-aaa0-40b5a2a32f44/2/320x400.jpeg)
I love helping clients commit to their health. From my years of work as a psychiatrist, I understand the impact of medical and social factors on a person’s mental well-being. I also appreciate how scary new ventures can be and that for some people, prioritizing one’s health can feel unfamiliar. My work focuses on people experiencing late adulthood transitions, work or school-related stressors, social isolation, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic illness, among other circumstances. I have a collaborative approach aimed at empowering clients and providing a safe space for healing.
I love helping clients commit to their health. From my years of work as a psychiatrist, I understand the impact of medical and social factors on a person’s mental well-being. I also appreciate how scary new ventures can be and that for some people, prioritizing one’s health can feel unfamiliar. My work focuses on people experiencing late adulthood transitions, work or school-related stressors, social isolation, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic illness, among other circumstances. I have a collaborative approach aimed at empowering clients and providing a safe space for healing.
![Photo of Saman Hasan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d5514f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist run a private practice called Max Psychiatry, conveniently located in Apex, NC. I have been practicing psychiatry from over 10 years in Cary, Apex, Durham, Raleigh Holly Springs, Wake Forest area of NC. I believe in comprehensive treatment plan with an appropriate blend of psychotherapy and medication management. My specialties include treatment of symptoms such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, family conflicts, stress management, women issues, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, Schizophrenia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychosis.
![Photo of Dr. Myra Saha, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbf8c7c2-9203-4ed6-bf8a-8e8514ce11c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Myra Saha is board-certified and specializes in general adult psychiatry, managing psychiatric disorders and co-occurring substance-use disorders. Dr. Saha provides holistic, mind, and body care utilizing medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy-based psychotherapeutic models.
Dr. Myra Saha is board-certified and specializes in general adult psychiatry, managing psychiatric disorders and co-occurring substance-use disorders. Dr. Saha provides holistic, mind, and body care utilizing medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy-based psychotherapeutic models.
![Photo of Derek Ayers - Apogee Behavioral Medicine, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad845fc1-6406-46dd-8889-b03c7cbb22c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
![Photo of Dr. De'Edda Powell, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a88fc966-5ae8-4bbb-a1b0-8570fc021936/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. De'Edda Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Hello, I am so happy you are here. My name is Dr. Powell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving North Carolina. I prided myself in providing comprehensive mental health care with a patient-centered and holistic approach to adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. I am experienced in addressing unique mental health disparities of the underrepresented populations in the African American and LGBTQ+ communities and offer treatment for a variety of mental health disorders, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, and drug, alcohol addiction and more.
Hello, I am so happy you are here. My name is Dr. Powell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving North Carolina. I prided myself in providing comprehensive mental health care with a patient-centered and holistic approach to adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. I am experienced in addressing unique mental health disparities of the underrepresented populations in the African American and LGBTQ+ communities and offer treatment for a variety of mental health disorders, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, and drug, alcohol addiction and more.
![Photo of Raeanne Tatem Johnson, PNP, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0283273-2886-43a5-9b35-e0d15c9a1454/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority and treat most psychiatric conditions. Does your child have BIG feelings? So big that they have a hard time going throughout the day without several meltdowns? Does your adolescent have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep? Is it hard to watch them struggle with anxiety and worry that does not seem to fit the situation? Is it hard to know whether or not what they are experiencing is because of their age or context, or something that needs professional expertise?
I am a board certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority and treat most psychiatric conditions. Does your child have BIG feelings? So big that they have a hard time going throughout the day without several meltdowns? Does your adolescent have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep? Is it hard to watch them struggle with anxiety and worry that does not seem to fit the situation? Is it hard to know whether or not what they are experiencing is because of their age or context, or something that needs professional expertise?
![Photo of Victoria Brooks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6769684-4753-43f8-b0c6-9985c64907de/1/320x400.png)
Victoria Brooks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in the medical field. Victoria earned her Master’s degree in Nursing at Eastern Kentucky University in 2022 and her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2019. Victoria practices in general psychiatry, including (but not limited to) the treatment of depression, mood disorders and anxiety.
Victoria Brooks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in the medical field. Victoria earned her Master’s degree in Nursing at Eastern Kentucky University in 2022 and her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2019. Victoria practices in general psychiatry, including (but not limited to) the treatment of depression, mood disorders and anxiety.
![Photo of Taylor Price, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5103a3c8-1297-40ed-9731-3564777ceaa1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor pursued a career in mental health after learning the impact mental health can have on every individual’s life. She is passionate about learning about each patient and finding the root of their issues. She understands that treating symptoms can be like a puzzle, and creates collaborative treatment plans individualized to each patient.
Taylor pursued a career in mental health after learning the impact mental health can have on every individual’s life. She is passionate about learning about each patient and finding the root of their issues. She understands that treating symptoms can be like a puzzle, and creates collaborative treatment plans individualized to each patient.
See more therapy options for Anson County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Anson County, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Anson County, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Autism |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Dementia |
100% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Anson County, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Anson 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.