Psychiatrists in Arden, NC
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
Life can be difficult for everyone, don't suffer alone. I am dedicated to helping people overcome suffering, experience healing and achieve lasting change through compassionate, individualized care. Dr Bierrenbach is a board certified Psychiatrist and has been practicing Psychiatry for over 20 years.
Life can be difficult for everyone, don't suffer alone. I am dedicated to helping people overcome suffering, experience healing and achieve lasting change through compassionate, individualized care. Dr Bierrenbach is a board certified Psychiatrist and has been practicing Psychiatry for over 20 years.
Anne Fulbright
Physician Assistant, MA, MMS, PA
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704
Not accepting new clients
People do best when they are curious about furthering their own understanding of themselves, and want to learn to demonstrate empathy and forgiveness, this solves problems for people. Improving coping skills and healing from trauma help people feel better as well. The foundations of treatment success are compassion, trust and support, which allow for the development of skills and insights as well as improved self care. Many stressors are related to health, and it is valuable to think "whole person" as medical problems, such as thyroid disease, can cause anxiety, for example.
People do best when they are curious about furthering their own understanding of themselves, and want to learn to demonstrate empathy and forgiveness, this solves problems for people. Improving coping skills and healing from trauma help people feel better as well. The foundations of treatment success are compassion, trust and support, which allow for the development of skills and insights as well as improved self care. Many stressors are related to health, and it is valuable to think "whole person" as medical problems, such as thyroid disease, can cause anxiety, for example.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Elizabeth Lemons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Elizabeth "Liz" Lemons 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, sleep/insomnia, OCD, Bipolar II, PTSD, substance use, and other areas. She has over 10 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors.
Elizabeth "Liz" Lemons 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, sleep/insomnia, OCD, Bipolar II, PTSD, substance use, and other areas. She has over 10 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors.
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
Asheville Integrative Psychiatry is an integrative mental health practice offering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, that uses nature connection as a foundation for healing. We offer a comprehensive health assessment with our psychiatrist, Dr Tiffany Sauls, to help determine root causes of existing mental and physical health challenges. We offer recommendations around diet, nutrition, supplements, stress management, exercise/movement, and medications adjustment/reduction to improve your health and well-being. If appropriate, Ketamine Assisted Therapy combined with guided nature connection is offered.
Asheville Integrative Psychiatry is an integrative mental health practice offering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, that uses nature connection as a foundation for healing. We offer a comprehensive health assessment with our psychiatrist, Dr Tiffany Sauls, to help determine root causes of existing mental and physical health challenges. We offer recommendations around diet, nutrition, supplements, stress management, exercise/movement, and medications adjustment/reduction to improve your health and well-being. If appropriate, Ketamine Assisted Therapy combined with guided nature connection is offered.
Mentable, PLLC- Camellia Douglas, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Mentable, PLLC IS accepting NEW patients. Mentable, PLLC is an integrative and holistic mental wellness practice. Our mission is to offer a sanctuary for healing, growth, and discovery, where empathetic care meets clinical excellence. We strive to understand and illuminate the diverse spectrum of human emotions, advocating for mental wellness for every walk of life. During our first session, you can expect a warm, patient-centered approach by our provider Camellia Douglas, PMHNP-BC by listening first to collaborate for a better YOU, with an improved quality of life.
Mentable, PLLC IS accepting NEW patients. Mentable, PLLC is an integrative and holistic mental wellness practice. Our mission is to offer a sanctuary for healing, growth, and discovery, where empathetic care meets clinical excellence. We strive to understand and illuminate the diverse spectrum of human emotions, advocating for mental wellness for every walk of life. During our first session, you can expect a warm, patient-centered approach by our provider Camellia Douglas, PMHNP-BC by listening first to collaborate for a better YOU, with an improved quality of life.
Ataraxia Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. 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. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. 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. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Mountain Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Not accepting new clients
I'm a nurse practitioner, psychiatric specialist with more than 20 years of experience, providing compassionate mental health care for residents of NC. At your first appointment we will explore your life's journey and evaluate any previous treatment response, then medication is prescribed or adjusted, and a plan of action is made through collaboration. My philosophy for prescribing medication incorporates evidence-based science and wellness. We keep in touch in between appointments with a medical app giving you the best opportunity for successful and sustained wellness.
I'm a nurse practitioner, psychiatric specialist with more than 20 years of experience, providing compassionate mental health care for residents of NC. At your first appointment we will explore your life's journey and evaluate any previous treatment response, then medication is prescribed or adjusted, and a plan of action is made through collaboration. My philosophy for prescribing medication incorporates evidence-based science and wellness. We keep in touch in between appointments with a medical app giving you the best opportunity for successful and sustained wellness.
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
Lisa J Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
John Charles Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems all can interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems all can interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
Maria MacDougall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
Josephine W Hazeley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
In the past thirteen years I've primarily focused on providing perinatal and postnatal care. As a mother myself, I can offer a unique perspective and support for each of your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to help you make the best decisions for yourself as an individual as well as your families so you can lead a fulfilling and productive life. I'm a strong advocate of therapy and medication management and provide a holistic, safe, and supportive environment for all of my clients. I offer evidence-based and personalized treatment utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication.
In the past thirteen years I've primarily focused on providing perinatal and postnatal care. As a mother myself, I can offer a unique perspective and support for each of your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to help you make the best decisions for yourself as an individual as well as your families so you can lead a fulfilling and productive life. I'm a strong advocate of therapy and medication management and provide a holistic, safe, and supportive environment for all of my clients. I offer evidence-based and personalized treatment utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication.
Dr. Ami Pearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
See more therapy options for Arden
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Arden, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Arden, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | Grief |
67% | Divorce |
67% | Behavioral Issues |
67% | Suicidal Ideation |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Arden, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arden?
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.