Psychiatrists in Black Mountain, NC
![Photo of Maria MacDougall, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ef795a-0806-4d54-9f2d-82770fa15e3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria MacDougall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Black Mountain, NC 28711
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Denise Wilbanks, DNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b933375-459b-4c94-b6d8-d054affe5cd3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Wilbanks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805 (Online Only)
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
![Photo of Rosemary Shanahan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61532863-4de2-410e-885c-f62d9126eac5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rosemary Shanahan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28815 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Caring for others is my passion and life work. It feels natural to me. However, in my 30-plus years in the medical and mental health fields, traditional medical treatments don’t always feel natural. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to meet my clients needs by providing integrative care which focuses on treating the mind, body and spirit.
Caring for others is my passion and life work. It feels natural to me. However, in my 30-plus years in the medical and mental health fields, traditional medical treatments don’t always feel natural. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to meet my clients needs by providing integrative care which focuses on treating the mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Lisa J Ryan, MSN, APRN, PMH NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f766177b-891f-45d3-9be7-e8f2079e82e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa J Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
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.
![Photo of Randy Steven Gergel - Randy S. Gergel, MD, P.A., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44898b46-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Charisse Fullwood - Mind & Body Renew, ADN, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7031a53-a172-4336-a46f-32df516f3d2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind & Body Renew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ADN, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-c
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Mind & Body Renew is a Integrative Psych and Wellness practice focused on renewal of the mind, body and spirit . We offer packages personalized wellness packages for your health care needs . Like our name implies , we are here to help you feel better in your Mind and Body . Because of this we offer, Cognitive behavioral therapy services as part of our treatment and services . It’s our goal to help those who need customized , Weight loss & Nutrition plans , basic psychiatric medication management, and aesthetic services such as botox and hydra facials.
Mind & Body Renew is a Integrative Psych and Wellness practice focused on renewal of the mind, body and spirit . We offer packages personalized wellness packages for your health care needs . Like our name implies , we are here to help you feel better in your Mind and Body . Because of this we offer, Cognitive behavioral therapy services as part of our treatment and services . It’s our goal to help those who need customized , Weight loss & Nutrition plans , basic psychiatric medication management, and aesthetic services such as botox and hydra facials.
![Photo of Dr. Angela Rasheed, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f37129cf-a83d-4db9-91f6-16dc3238c005/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Rasheed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with experience providing the highest, quality medication management to diverse populations. Licensed in NC and NY. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions including Bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders, & eating disorders. I know it takes so much courage to finally take a step to refresh your mental health, but I hope to be able to develop a trusting relationship with you that will allow you to feel comfortable & willing to allow me to take this journey back to an optimal mental state with you!
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with experience providing the highest, quality medication management to diverse populations. Licensed in NC and NY. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions including Bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders, & eating disorders. I know it takes so much courage to finally take a step to refresh your mental health, but I hope to be able to develop a trusting relationship with you that will allow you to feel comfortable & willing to allow me to take this journey back to an optimal mental state with you!
![Photo of Arlette Owens-Mosley, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/259d323e-5a4f-44f2-94f8-8f71d1246a3b/2/320x400.png)
Arlette Owens-Mosley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience with psychiatric patients began with adults while working as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working with varied psychiatric disorders including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorders. In addition I am also experienced with Substance use and Alcohol use disorders. I also perform Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations and Substance Abuse Assessments.
I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience with psychiatric patients began with adults while working as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have experience working with varied psychiatric disorders including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorders. In addition I am also experienced with Substance use and Alcohol use disorders. I also perform Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations and Substance Abuse Assessments.
![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.
![Photo of Novlett Campbell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4986f0e-0244-40f0-b5bc-11528ed777d2/1/320x400.png)
Novlett Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205 (Online Only)
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
![Photo of Jacey Jurgensmeier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95ce21cd-fa0e-4302-8f1f-cf3acadc7ff0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacey Jurgensmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262 (Online Only)
Jacey is a highly dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holding her graduate degree from Herzing University and backed by an impressive 15-year tenure in the nursing field. Her unwavering commitment lies in destigmatizing mental health care and recognizing the profound value of providing an empathetic, non-judgmental listening space.
Jacey is a highly dedicated Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holding her graduate degree from Herzing University and backed by an impressive 15-year tenure in the nursing field. Her unwavering commitment lies in destigmatizing mental health care and recognizing the profound value of providing an empathetic, non-judgmental listening space.
![Photo of Cheryl Norris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fe4bccc-043e-46e1-951a-20862a3c6708/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Norris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Cheryl. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I know the importance of treating mental health with not only medications but also therapy. We all need tools in our toolbox to be the best version of ourselves. I am committed to helping each client in their personal journey. I do not believe in one size fits all solutions.
Hello! My name is Cheryl. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I know the importance of treating mental health with not only medications but also therapy. We all need tools in our toolbox to be the best version of ourselves. I am committed to helping each client in their personal journey. I do not believe in one size fits all solutions.
![Photo of Sakina Alston, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e9d8ad8-ef30-4856-b73d-38853f96fb59/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have always had an innate passion to treat not the disease, but rather to assist individuals in living up to their desired level of optimal functioning despite health or sociological barriers they face. Twelve years of nursing experience allowed me to treat and gain familiarity with people from all walks of life; I also had the opportunity to understand their barriers to functioning at their best. I have cared for adolescents, children and babies when they were in crisis in the emergency department providing reassurance and safety.
I have always had an innate passion to treat not the disease, but rather to assist individuals in living up to their desired level of optimal functioning despite health or sociological barriers they face. Twelve years of nursing experience allowed me to treat and gain familiarity with people from all walks of life; I also had the opportunity to understand their barriers to functioning at their best. I have cared for adolescents, children and babies when they were in crisis in the emergency department providing reassurance and safety.
![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 Carrie Hill, RN, MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a10f839d-59b7-4c25-900c-b10db55d0aad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012 (Online Only)
Hi! I am Carrie Hill, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (Advance Practice) with 8 years experience as an advanced practice provider and 16 years experience working in psychiatry. I provide assessment, diagnosis, medication management, therapy, and addiction treatment services. I work with you, on your team, and listen closely to your needs to develop an individualized treatment plan for those who need help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, binge eating disorder, and substance use disorders.
Hi! I am Carrie Hill, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (Advance Practice) with 8 years experience as an advanced practice provider and 16 years experience working in psychiatry. I provide assessment, diagnosis, medication management, therapy, and addiction treatment services. I work with you, on your team, and listen closely to your needs to develop an individualized treatment plan for those who need help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, binge eating disorder, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Catelyn Inman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86558b69-e99a-4412-b963-78cf2cdd536e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
![Photo of Erin Elizabeth Klender - Common Ground Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb9d8189-66b7-4504-a54a-6f23d63c694a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Common Ground Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Common Ground Psychiatry is here to help North Carolina adults and teens get back to feeling happy again! We prescribe medication that makes sense for you and your unique situation, taking the time to listen, truly understand your goals, and educate you on all available options. Experience 100% confidential care in-person in our Davidson, or Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill location. The goal at Common Ground is to help you feel less anxious, more rested, and ready to crush your goals in relationships, business, parenthood, or whatever YOU want.
Common Ground Psychiatry is here to help North Carolina adults and teens get back to feeling happy again! We prescribe medication that makes sense for you and your unique situation, taking the time to listen, truly understand your goals, and educate you on all available options. Experience 100% confidential care in-person in our Davidson, or Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill location. The goal at Common Ground is to help you feel less anxious, more rested, and ready to crush your goals in relationships, business, parenthood, or whatever YOU want.
![Photo of Dr. Anita Jothy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/610c0e8c-4018-4cec-83a8-88ede392cd32/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
![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 Melissa Di Natale, EdD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/698bb202-bfc5-4cf9-af33-3e6ac4442175/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Di Natale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
See more therapy options for Black Mountain
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Black Mountain, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Black Mountain, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Anger Management |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Black Mountain, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Black Mountain?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.