Psychiatrists in Ansonville, 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 Robin Lee Casey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eda7c42-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use a complete approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families on the mind-body connection. I encourage my patients to be active advocates and participants in their treatment planning and care, including the use of complementary and natural therapies. I am also a strong proponent of optimizing outcomes through the concurrent use of therapy and mindfulness training in addition to pharmacological and other treatments. I appreciate working with all types of individuals and their unique concerns.
I use a complete approach to patient care, with emphasis on providing psychoeducation to patients and their families on the mind-body connection. I encourage my patients to be active advocates and participants in their treatment planning and care, including the use of complementary and natural therapies. I am also a strong proponent of optimizing outcomes through the concurrent use of therapy and mindfulness training in addition to pharmacological and other treatments. I appreciate working with all types of individuals and their unique concerns.
![Photo of Priscilla Hidalgo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b883b37-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stressed or depressed and not sure what to do? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start? I can help you! I focus on direct patient care and believe in an individual and tailored treatment for each of my patients. Please click on "website" or go to www.luxpsychiatry.com to learn more about my practice and schedule your appointment. I see patients who reside in North Carolina and Florida. We offer in-person and online (video) appointments. WEEKEND AND EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE.
Are you feeling stressed or depressed and not sure what to do? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start? I can help you! I focus on direct patient care and believe in an individual and tailored treatment for each of my patients. Please click on "website" or go to www.luxpsychiatry.com to learn more about my practice and schedule your appointment. I see patients who reside in North Carolina and Florida. We offer in-person and online (video) appointments. WEEKEND AND EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE.
![Photo of Tesheika Boomer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d6729f1-8e1f-4afe-87df-15d8d2eac47b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tesheika Boomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Tesheika. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work and life that you have to juggle? Do you find it hard to maintain your health and relationships? Are you having a difficult time being yourself?
Hi, I'm Tesheika. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work and life that you have to juggle? Do you find it hard to maintain your health and relationships? Are you having a difficult time being yourself?
![Photo of David Patton - Carolina Complete Psychiatry, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dca604cd-1b0f-47ae-a114-6e0be71cc268/2/320x400.png)
At Carolina Complete Psychiatry, our physician assistants treat each person as an individual and strive to help every patient live to their fullest potential. Our providers are trained to assess psychiatric conditions, form a diagnosis and prescribe medications if needed. We offer longer appointment times so that we can determine a collaborative treatment plan that is thorough and comprehensive. We believe in meeting the needs of people so we offer new patient appointments quickly without weeks of delay. Our office offers flexible appointment scheduling including evening hours and telemedicine appointments.
At Carolina Complete Psychiatry, our physician assistants treat each person as an individual and strive to help every patient live to their fullest potential. Our providers are trained to assess psychiatric conditions, form a diagnosis and prescribe medications if needed. We offer longer appointment times so that we can determine a collaborative treatment plan that is thorough and comprehensive. We believe in meeting the needs of people so we offer new patient appointments quickly without weeks of delay. Our office offers flexible appointment scheduling including evening hours and telemedicine appointments.
![Photo of Kesha Spaulding, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf04718-9c7f-4ba7-aff3-422b291345ef/1/320x400.png)
Kesha Spaulding
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615 (Online Only)
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
![Photo of J W Scott Wallace, MD, LFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f84884cb-004c-456d-b25d-2967a3824cbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
J W Scott Wallace
Psychiatrist, MD, LFAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211 (Online Only)
My practice is open to adults and adolescents in need of psychiatric care. I practice general psychiatry, primarily focused on, but not at all limited to, mood and anxiety disorders, dual diagnosis, and organic issues. My special interest is in eating disorders and am the former Medical Director of a hospital Eating Disorder Program, and I do have experience and skill in other disorders. I no longer do any hospital work, my practice being solely office-based. I am pleased to be part of of a multidisciplinary group of mental health professionals who can provide comprehensive care for you. I gladly collaborate with other providers.
My practice is open to adults and adolescents in need of psychiatric care. I practice general psychiatry, primarily focused on, but not at all limited to, mood and anxiety disorders, dual diagnosis, and organic issues. My special interest is in eating disorders and am the former Medical Director of a hospital Eating Disorder Program, and I do have experience and skill in other disorders. I no longer do any hospital work, my practice being solely office-based. I am pleased to be part of of a multidisciplinary group of mental health professionals who can provide comprehensive care for you. I gladly collaborate with other providers.
![Photo of Karen Shugart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3108f10e-e806-4bf3-a135-9854fa1f83a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a focus primarily on medication evaluation and management, I offer a warm, open, and non-judgmental approach that empowers clients to share freely and fully participate as they move toward their goals. My goal is to offer evidence-based, inclusive treatment that helps clients function at their highest level.
With a focus primarily on medication evaluation and management, I offer a warm, open, and non-judgmental approach that empowers clients to share freely and fully participate as they move toward their goals. My goal is to offer evidence-based, inclusive treatment that helps clients function at their highest level.
![Photo of Neil Scheurich, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f645de6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOTE that as of 6/23/24 my schedule is too full to permit new patient scheduling. I do not keep a waiting list, but typically I am able to reopen periodically. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer either video or in-person sessions.
NOTE that as of 6/23/24 my schedule is too full to permit new patient scheduling. I do not keep a waiting list, but typically I am able to reopen periodically. I am a psychiatrist offering medication treatments and/or psychotherapy as appropriate. Most of my patients struggle with anxiety or depression, although I also have broad experience in treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as various issues of life adjustments and relationships. Note that I do not specialize in treating children and adolescents, couples therapy, or addiction treatment. I offer either video or in-person sessions.
![Photo of Demetris Wright - A Practitioner's Touch, LLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3e63ea6-0081-4f30-b67a-874725f22285/1/320x400.png)
A Practitioner's Touch, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025 (Online Only)
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
![Photo of Shannon Blankenbeckler, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/325e1947-84ec-498d-b1b6-08e6d819f23e/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Blankenbeckler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Shannon Blankenbeckler is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Shannon collaborates with her patients to improve their functioning and quality of life. With active listening, kindness, and compassion, she works with her patients to identify the issues holding them back. She helps them focus on their unique strengths, address their struggles, and set meaningful, achievable goals so they can thrive and find peace. Shannon knows that patients seek help when they’re brave enough to identify that something in their life needs to change.
Shannon Blankenbeckler is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Shannon collaborates with her patients to improve their functioning and quality of life. With active listening, kindness, and compassion, she works with her patients to identify the issues holding them back. She helps them focus on their unique strengths, address their struggles, and set meaningful, achievable goals so they can thrive and find peace. Shannon knows that patients seek help when they’re brave enough to identify that something in their life needs to change.
![Photo of Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/020147ac-65c6-4470-82c6-46aea6824210/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Muyonga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204 (Online Only)
My name is Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
My name is Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
![Photo of Sophia Yuan - Forsyth Psychiatric Associates, MD, LCAS, LCSW, LPC, LMFT-A, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1caa9f22-e78f-4652-94b8-e829af2c9d94/2/320x400.jpeg)
Forsyth Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist, MD, LCAS, LCSW, LPC, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Forsyth Psychiatric Associates is comprised of a strong team of knowledgeable, skilled, experienced, compassionate, caring professionals, including the psychiatrist and therapists. Our therapist team has extensive training and experience in depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, trauma, family and marriage struggle, substance use, etc. Our goals are to meet our clients where they are in their journey, and to tailor our interventions to meet the needs of each individual.
Forsyth Psychiatric Associates is comprised of a strong team of knowledgeable, skilled, experienced, compassionate, caring professionals, including the psychiatrist and therapists. Our therapist team has extensive training and experience in depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, trauma, family and marriage struggle, substance use, etc. Our goals are to meet our clients where they are in their journey, and to tailor our interventions to meet the needs of each individual.
![Photo of Phyllis Armstead Baez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d03bbbe-69fc-4442-b8cf-3d13614b75a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I am originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where I completed both medical school and a psychiatric residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. I am adept at treating patients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings, including those with the most severe and persistent mental illnesses. I am committed to making quality mental health treatment convenient and accessible to all, especially to those in the rural and underserved areas and therefore focus on virtual med management. I do offer in-person visits when clinically indicated.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I am originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where I completed both medical school and a psychiatric residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. I am adept at treating patients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings, including those with the most severe and persistent mental illnesses. I am committed to making quality mental health treatment convenient and accessible to all, especially to those in the rural and underserved areas and therefore focus on virtual med management. I do offer in-person visits when clinically indicated.
![Photo of Tiffany Wilson, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed2c8ae2-ad6f-4cc9-b71a-513d2876ae63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Lindsay is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with six years of experience with mental illness and substance use. Having worked primarily as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse (PMHN-BC) in an inpatient crisis stabilization unit, Tiffany decided to pursue an advanced practice nursing degree to better bridge the gap in access to care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness in her community. Tiffany obtained a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University and a Master's degree in nursing from East Carolina University.
Tiffany Lindsay is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with six years of experience with mental illness and substance use. Having worked primarily as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse (PMHN-BC) in an inpatient crisis stabilization unit, Tiffany decided to pursue an advanced practice nursing degree to better bridge the gap in access to care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness in her community. Tiffany obtained a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University and a Master's degree in nursing from East Carolina University.
![Photo of Benjamin Jeffrey, MSN, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ebbb90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Benjamin Jeffrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616 (Online Only)
**YES-Medication Wellness Program is Accepting New Patients!** I have the opportunity to help serve the adult population with mental health concerns such as depression, PTSD, Panic attacks, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and other mood disorders. Besides safe and effective medication management I also work with a close team of therapists to address multiple avenues of psychiatric health. I believe it is important to address healthy changes such as diet and exercise which is pivotal to improve mental well-being as well as exploring family and vocational aspects of a patients life.
**YES-Medication Wellness Program is Accepting New Patients!** I have the opportunity to help serve the adult population with mental health concerns such as depression, PTSD, Panic attacks, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and other mood disorders. Besides safe and effective medication management I also work with a close team of therapists to address multiple avenues of psychiatric health. I believe it is important to address healthy changes such as diet and exercise which is pivotal to improve mental well-being as well as exploring family and vocational aspects of a patients life.
![Photo of Rohan Matthews - Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cddb7951-5b15-4486-bde9-d7323fa0c970/2/320x400.jpeg)
Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
![Photo of Noel Treglia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2026208-afa6-483d-8651-4a37a5afec19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Noel Treglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
Hello to you! My name is Noel Treglia and I am a family nurse practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry.
Hello to you! My name is Noel Treglia and I am a family nurse practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry.
![Photo of Amy Main, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38ca3133-657d-4620-bb37-d7c1a525ad3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Main
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101 (Online Only)
I believe that no one should be made to feel guilty about their struggles with mental health, and that everyone deserves to have a safe place to talk about these issues. Just as every person is unique, there is no one right way to treat mental illness. I strive to approach each individual with this in mind, knowing that they may have been through many treatment options already. I know this can be a challenging and frustrating process, but I will listen to your concerns and work with you through the journey.
I believe that no one should be made to feel guilty about their struggles with mental health, and that everyone deserves to have a safe place to talk about these issues. Just as every person is unique, there is no one right way to treat mental illness. I strive to approach each individual with this in mind, knowing that they may have been through many treatment options already. I know this can be a challenging and frustrating process, but I will listen to your concerns and work with you through the journey.
![Photo of Ndukwe Bassey Kalu, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a12527ce-dd31-428c-af76-e41139f29de9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ndukwe Bassey Kalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Welcome! I am your compassionate board-certified Practitioner specializing in the assessment, diagnoses, medication management, and therapeutic treatment for pediatric and adult populations. I have had 17 years of experience in healthcare including but not limited to inpatient psychiatry, community health, correctional mental health, and adolescent inpatient hospitalization.
Welcome! I am your compassionate board-certified Practitioner specializing in the assessment, diagnoses, medication management, and therapeutic treatment for pediatric and adult populations. I have had 17 years of experience in healthcare including but not limited to inpatient psychiatry, community health, correctional mental health, and adolescent inpatient hospitalization.
Nearby Searches for Ansonville
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ansonville, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ansonville, 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 Ansonville, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ansonville?
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.