Psychiatrists in Burlington, NC
Hewan Adefris Mezgebu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, NC 27215
Hello, my name is Hewan Mezgebu, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am passionate about mental health! I am honored to have the opportunity to assist others on their journey to mental wellness. I firmly believe that we are more than our diagnoses, the medications we take, and the level of support we require to maintain good health.
Hello, my name is Hewan Mezgebu, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am passionate about mental health! I am honored to have the opportunity to assist others on their journey to mental wellness. I firmly believe that we are more than our diagnoses, the medications we take, and the level of support we require to maintain good health.
![Photo of Susan Caceres, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0547bdf-6a0e-4505-ae10-6c887427a7e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Caceres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, NC 27215
Adulting is tough! Demands are high and stressors can be debilitating. Worry can prevent us from living in the moment, generate self-doubt, and cause us to avoid situations. I am bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I work with young adults facing such challenges. I listen to your goals, and I help you find the most appropriate interventions to meet those goals. I offer emotional support and medication management. If you are interested in learning more, you can self-schedule a free phone consultation on my website laurelmindcare.com
Adulting is tough! Demands are high and stressors can be debilitating. Worry can prevent us from living in the moment, generate self-doubt, and cause us to avoid situations. I am bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I work with young adults facing such challenges. I listen to your goals, and I help you find the most appropriate interventions to meet those goals. I offer emotional support and medication management. If you are interested in learning more, you can self-schedule a free phone consultation on my website laurelmindcare.com
![Photo of Julie D. McClure, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/003fbbf9-e1cf-4edd-8790-665a667c4b66/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julie McClure, PA-C is joining Beautiful Mind Behavioral Health Services as a psychiatry physician assistant practitioner. She has previously spent nearly 10 years working with children and adults with rare metabolic disorders. In addition to being certified by the National Committee on Certification of Physician Assistants and licensed by the North Carolina Medical Board, Julie is a registered dietitian. She has a particular interest in treating patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic attacks, depression, bipolar, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance abuse and disordered eating.
Julie McClure, PA-C is joining Beautiful Mind Behavioral Health Services as a psychiatry physician assistant practitioner. She has previously spent nearly 10 years working with children and adults with rare metabolic disorders. In addition to being certified by the National Committee on Certification of Physician Assistants and licensed by the North Carolina Medical Board, Julie is a registered dietitian. She has a particular interest in treating patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic attacks, depression, bipolar, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance abuse and disordered eating.
![Photo of Sherri Wilson Osborne - Hope, Health and Recovery, PLLC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df07c51c-8e74-4e79-b1a8-f675e7bfb5fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hope, Health and Recovery, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Burlington, NC 27215
Through active listening and engaged questioning I am able to work with each client to develop an individual medication management plan that targets one's symptoms of disease. Since graduating from the University of South Alabama my interests have been in treating adults with mental health conditions as well as those experiencing problems with addiction. I have worked in: inpatient, outpatient, crisis care, behavioral health urgent care as well as long-term care facilities, memory care units and assisted living facilities. My goal is never to dumb and numb a person to where one can't cry at a sad movie or when someone passes away.
Through active listening and engaged questioning I am able to work with each client to develop an individual medication management plan that targets one's symptoms of disease. Since graduating from the University of South Alabama my interests have been in treating adults with mental health conditions as well as those experiencing problems with addiction. I have worked in: inpatient, outpatient, crisis care, behavioral health urgent care as well as long-term care facilities, memory care units and assisted living facilities. My goal is never to dumb and numb a person to where one can't cry at a sad movie or when someone passes away.
![Photo of Mina Boazak - Animo Sano Psychiatry, MD, PA-C, LCSW, LCMHC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4089c663-1872-4dd0-b0c6-f60a178a63a9/1/320x400.png)
Animo Sano Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, LCSW, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burlington, NC 27217
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
Animo Sano Psychiatry treats a wide range of behavioral health conditions, including Depression and Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and sleep disorders, among others. In addition to the treatment of these noted conditions, Animo Sano Psychiatry also operates an ADHD Specialty Clinic.
![Photo of Sydney Johnston, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f813b893-6ad7-43d7-bd86-be0e40b37270/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Johnston
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, NC 27215 (Online Only)
I am wholeheartedly committed to building a trusting relationship with you on our journey towards a life brimming with happiness and fulfillment. Leveraging my extensive expertise in mental health, including but not limited to addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, drug abuse, eating disorders, loss, grief, and bereavement, life transitions, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sleep or insomnia, stress, substance abuse, women's issues, adjustment difficulties and disorders, phobias and fears, burnout, panic attacks/panic disorder, and many more—I prioritize transparent communication and honesty.
I am wholeheartedly committed to building a trusting relationship with you on our journey towards a life brimming with happiness and fulfillment. Leveraging my extensive expertise in mental health, including but not limited to addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, drug abuse, eating disorders, loss, grief, and bereavement, life transitions, school issues, self-esteem, self-harming, sleep or insomnia, stress, substance abuse, women's issues, adjustment difficulties and disorders, phobias and fears, burnout, panic attacks/panic disorder, and many more—I prioritize transparent communication and honesty.
![Photo of Dr. Tina A Okonkwo, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/249ad973-50cb-4add-a5a5-a6e93c1c0a44/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tina A Okonkwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Burlington, NC 27217
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
Dr. Tina is a highly experienced and compassionate provider who leaves no stone untouched when it comes to healthcare delivery. She utilizes her years of experience as a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family medicine and Psychiatric/Behavioral medicine to take care of her clients. Dr. Okonkwo has exceptional listening skills, and she engages her clients in a relaxing way. She understands that there is no "one size fits all" in healthcare; hence, she approaches each client as a person and not a patient, and she treats the conditions and not the symptoms.
![Photo of Jamilah Aisha Broderick, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57735b5b-37e0-44a8-87a2-e5cbabc921b9/2/320x400.png)
Jamilah Aisha Broderick
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burlington, NC 27217 (Online Only)
I am a physician assistant with both the passion and experience treating patients who feel unseen or unsupported. I received my master’s degree in physician assistant studies from South University in Savannah, GA. I am the child of immigrant parents that worked hard to provide for my sibling and I, therefore it’s important to me to advocate for our underserved, minority, and more vulnerable populations. With experience in addiction medicine, treating adolescents/adults with depression, anxiety, mood and neurodevelopmental disorders, I am dedicated to continuing to learn/educate patients on how to best treat their Mental Health!
I am a physician assistant with both the passion and experience treating patients who feel unseen or unsupported. I received my master’s degree in physician assistant studies from South University in Savannah, GA. I am the child of immigrant parents that worked hard to provide for my sibling and I, therefore it’s important to me to advocate for our underserved, minority, and more vulnerable populations. With experience in addiction medicine, treating adolescents/adults with depression, anxiety, mood and neurodevelopmental disorders, I am dedicated to continuing to learn/educate patients on how to best treat their Mental Health!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Corbin Burns, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d963673e-53ea-427d-b9f4-89942d6bae12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corbin Burns
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alamance, NC 27201 (Online Only)
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
![Photo of Lolade Ogunleye - Cana Psychiatric Health, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88925616-3790-450b-8e46-65b8d704a060/1/320x400.png)
Cana Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Mebane, NC 27302
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT! The brain is an organ where specialized treatment and medications may be needed to help restore physiological balance and correct functioning. Keeping all aspects of each individual in mind, I prescribe medications and supportive therapy when needed so together, we can address the whole person. Therapy can be an effective tool in restoring the soul, which has a direct impact on the well-being of our mind, will, and emotional state.
Dr Lola is a Family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner:NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT! The brain is an organ where specialized treatment and medications may be needed to help restore physiological balance and correct functioning. Keeping all aspects of each individual in mind, I prescribe medications and supportive therapy when needed so together, we can address the whole person. Therapy can be an effective tool in restoring the soul, which has a direct impact on the well-being of our mind, will, and emotional state.
![Photo of Natashia Broadnax, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bf3aeaf-c443-4fbd-b0d2-a107b29bc7f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natashia Broadnax
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitsett, NC 27377 (Online Only)
My treatment philosophy centers on a holistic approach focusing on overall wellness. It is important to have a collaborative approach making sure not to dismiss any areas of concern, but to provide the most efficient comprehensive care.
My treatment philosophy centers on a holistic approach focusing on overall wellness. It is important to have a collaborative approach making sure not to dismiss any areas of concern, but to provide the most efficient comprehensive care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Lydia Ramos, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c662ecf-92e4-4fef-98a0-c0f9a65e4969/1/320x400.jpeg)
As your dedicated healthcare provider, I firmly believe in a holistic approach to your well-being, encompassing all aspects of life that contribute to your physical, mental, and spiritual health. I recognize that the mind and body are intricately connected, and we prioritize an integrated perspective on your wellness. In our practice, we take the time to understand you and consider how various factors, including nutrition, physical activity, career, hobbies, community involvement, identity, values, and other life components, impact your mental health.
As your dedicated healthcare provider, I firmly believe in a holistic approach to your well-being, encompassing all aspects of life that contribute to your physical, mental, and spiritual health. I recognize that the mind and body are intricately connected, and we prioritize an integrated perspective on your wellness. In our practice, we take the time to understand you and consider how various factors, including nutrition, physical activity, career, hobbies, community involvement, identity, values, and other life components, impact your mental health.
![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 Matthew Guanzon, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72aef241-50fa-40d9-90ef-dccb80fad329/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew Guanzon chose Psychiatry because it is the culture of his family which is to serve Humanity for giving us a life worth living. His family has ingrained in him that giving back to the community is extremely rewarding when one sees the fruits of his/her labor. Both of his parents are physicians. Psychiatry is Matthew’s passion. He enjoys meeting clients for the first time and understands that this field requires tenderness/sensitivity to begin to unmask the underlying conscious or subconscious psychiatric/psychological issue. Matthew is most passionate about meeting all of his clients’ needs and helping them help themselves.
Matthew Guanzon chose Psychiatry because it is the culture of his family which is to serve Humanity for giving us a life worth living. His family has ingrained in him that giving back to the community is extremely rewarding when one sees the fruits of his/her labor. Both of his parents are physicians. Psychiatry is Matthew’s passion. He enjoys meeting clients for the first time and understands that this field requires tenderness/sensitivity to begin to unmask the underlying conscious or subconscious psychiatric/psychological issue. Matthew is most passionate about meeting all of his clients’ needs and helping them help themselves.
![Photo of Jacqueline Wait, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c41c981b-badf-4360-bed4-02c13998c801/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Wait
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Jackson Springs, NC 27281 (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 Lane Thompson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee297c5a-617b-4f7f-9808-de85dc20385d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
![Photo of Jamal Daher - Cana Psychiatric Health, PA-BC, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b1ac214-c861-4285-ac29-2a1c03e1620a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cana Psychiatric Health
Physician Assistant, PA-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Now Accepting New Patient-Are you overwhelmed in these troubled times? Is your anxiety or depression uncontrollable? I believe that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Are you living with bipolar, PTSD and ADHD? Let us end the shame, guilt, doubt, hopelessness, helplessness, and lack of self-worth which often come with this. I am a physician assistant and board certified .
Now Accepting New Patient-Are you overwhelmed in these troubled times? Is your anxiety or depression uncontrollable? I believe that it is vital to have a holistic and expansive knowledge on mental health while maintaining patient rapport with the use of effective interpersonal skills. Are you living with bipolar, PTSD and ADHD? Let us end the shame, guilt, doubt, hopelessness, helplessness, and lack of self-worth which often come with this. I am a physician assistant and board certified .
![Photo of Melody Moore, LCSW, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c24965be-5eac-489e-96e3-a3312e30c3e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dually licensed Christian Clinical Social Worker and Physician Assistant ready to serve and care for persons in need of psychiatric evaluation and medication management. I encourage natural/holistic/common sense approaches to wellness as much as I prescribe western medicine. I will provide excellent care to persons of all backgrounds and faith traditions.
Dually licensed Christian Clinical Social Worker and Physician Assistant ready to serve and care for persons in need of psychiatric evaluation and medication management. I encourage natural/holistic/common sense approaches to wellness as much as I prescribe western medicine. I will provide excellent care to persons of all backgrounds and faith traditions.
![Photo of Shanika Bostic Smith, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d429a737-13ef-4c5d-b754-08a6cc3d5b9c/4/320x400.jpeg)
Shanika Bostic Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
Living with mental health challenges can be exhausting. Is your life driven by fear, uncertainties, sadness, and worry? Are you fighting a daily battle to stay afloat? I understand the complexities of mental health and the significant impact it can have on your life and overall well-being. Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting experience, but it can also be the first step towards a better life. The right diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference. You don't have to face this journey alone. Reach out today and take the first step towards a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow.
Living with mental health challenges can be exhausting. Is your life driven by fear, uncertainties, sadness, and worry? Are you fighting a daily battle to stay afloat? I understand the complexities of mental health and the significant impact it can have on your life and overall well-being. Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting experience, but it can also be the first step towards a better life. The right diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference. You don't have to face this journey alone. Reach out today and take the first step towards a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow.
![Photo of Clearis Anujeh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c08df35-96c3-4d8c-a7ea-e39b84f7ee1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clearis Anujeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Hope For All LLC is a general adult psychiatry practice. Currently, all services are provided via telehealth. Accepting clients ages 18-65 for psychiatric consultation and evaluation, individual psychotherapy, and/or medication management. our goal is to advocate for patients who struggle with mental illness to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, a non-judgemental approach, and focus on holistic care.
Accepting New Clients. Hope For All LLC is a general adult psychiatry practice. Currently, all services are provided via telehealth. Accepting clients ages 18-65 for psychiatric consultation and evaluation, individual psychotherapy, and/or medication management. our goal is to advocate for patients who struggle with mental illness to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, a non-judgemental approach, and focus on holistic care.
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Nearby Searches for Burlington
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Burlington, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Burlington, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Burlington, NC see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Burlington?
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.