Psychiatrists in Craven County, NC
![Photo of Amiee Myatt - Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efdb8818-7b54-4a3d-b238-9ab2c82be9da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562 (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.
![Photo of Kizzy H Petersen - Carolina Behavioral Health and Wellness PLLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13deaa0e-9b43-417e-bae2-a6b35aefb895/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carolina Behavioral Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices. Mental and physical health are equally important components of our overall health. For example, depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particularly long-lasting conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. I believe mental health is a lifestyle and place emphasis on healthy habits, wellness and self-care to optimize the best version of ourselves.
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices. Mental and physical health are equally important components of our overall health. For example, depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particularly long-lasting conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. I believe mental health is a lifestyle and place emphasis on healthy habits, wellness and self-care to optimize the best version of ourselves.
![Photo of Kerstin Mosso, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4551858b-836f-4a98-aa4f-bf22b9459a3c/2/320x400.png)
I have committed my career to the healthcare industry as a board-certified and state-licensed physician assistant since receiving my Master's degree in health sciences from Lock Haven University in 2015. I've developed a wealth of knowledge and experience in delivering all-encompassing medical treatment that takes into account a variety of disciplines and patient demographics throughout the years. This path has given me the chance to consistently hone my abilities and keep up with the most recent developments in medical procedures, ensuring that I provide the best degree of care to every person I have the honor to serve.
I have committed my career to the healthcare industry as a board-certified and state-licensed physician assistant since receiving my Master's degree in health sciences from Lock Haven University in 2015. I've developed a wealth of knowledge and experience in delivering all-encompassing medical treatment that takes into account a variety of disciplines and patient demographics throughout the years. This path has given me the chance to consistently hone my abilities and keep up with the most recent developments in medical procedures, ensuring that I provide the best degree of care to every person I have the honor to serve.
![Photo of Jared Laino, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2267cf6-4452-4395-a6d9-eaf030fde979/2/320x400.png)
My name is Jared Laino. I am a physician assistant working in psychiatry for LeChris in New Bern, NC. We offer medication management as well as various therapeutic services! Feel free to call or check out our website at lechris.com!
My name is Jared Laino. I am a physician assistant working in psychiatry for LeChris in New Bern, NC. We offer medication management as well as various therapeutic services! Feel free to call or check out our website at lechris.com!
![Photo of Mina Boazak, MD, MMCi, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f42127b7-8c81-4e01-ae73-d77482e8b0d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat various behavioral health conditions, specializing in adolescent and adult ADHD care. If you have a long-standing history of ADHD, have been newly diagnosed, or are seeking an evaluation for symptoms you are concerned might represent ADHD, you are welcome to this clinic. I recognize that ADHD often is attached to many other conditions. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, learning disabilities, impulse control problems, internet addiction, or other substance use disorders, I work with you to non-judgmentally identify and develop an achievable treatment strategy that will work for you.
I treat various behavioral health conditions, specializing in adolescent and adult ADHD care. If you have a long-standing history of ADHD, have been newly diagnosed, or are seeking an evaluation for symptoms you are concerned might represent ADHD, you are welcome to this clinic. I recognize that ADHD often is attached to many other conditions. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, learning disabilities, impulse control problems, internet addiction, or other substance use disorders, I work with you to non-judgmentally identify and develop an achievable treatment strategy that will work for you.
![Photo of Michelle Helms, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0ee9b5e-5993-422a-9ff5-7c91a70a2258/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Helms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting patients that are pregnant or postpartum or by direct referral from a therapist or provider. I understand that changes occurring during a woman's life can affect her ability to cope and heal. I provide compassionate care and medication management. I am passionate about helping mothers through changes that occur during and after pregnancy that are so often minimized in health care settings. My goal is to help mothers to feel supported throughout their pregnancy and birth, empowered with the knowledge of their body and respected in their choices of care.
I am currently accepting patients that are pregnant or postpartum or by direct referral from a therapist or provider. I understand that changes occurring during a woman's life can affect her ability to cope and heal. I provide compassionate care and medication management. I am passionate about helping mothers through changes that occur during and after pregnancy that are so often minimized in health care settings. My goal is to help mothers to feel supported throughout their pregnancy and birth, empowered with the knowledge of their body and respected in their choices of care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Karen Cullen, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ee3d004-2c74-4c1c-bb16-368753a6fe7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen is passionate about providing a welcoming and empathetic atmosphere for her patients.
Karen is passionate about providing a welcoming and empathetic atmosphere for her patients.
![Photo of Kerry Mackey, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/def7f87d-1a1d-410c-8714-3a97eb1d9862/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry believes in the transformative power of peace of mind. He sees how stabilizing one’s mental health eases other health issues and life stressors. Kerry collaborates with his patients to create attainable and desirable goals that can be easily maintained through holistic care plans and medication management.
Kerry believes in the transformative power of peace of mind. He sees how stabilizing one’s mental health eases other health issues and life stressors. Kerry collaborates with his patients to create attainable and desirable goals that can be easily maintained through holistic care plans and medication management.
![Photo of Megan J Hitchcock, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90707a9a-2198-44f6-9a7c-2bfda9547610/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified PA who specializes in medication management for a wide array of psychiatric disorders. I graduated from Methodist University in 2020 with a Masters of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies.
I am a board-certified PA who specializes in medication management for a wide array of psychiatric disorders. I graduated from Methodist University in 2020 with a Masters of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies.
![Photo of Jeannette Muamba, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f4a4bb0-f741-46ed-96ff-8a85ee294ba4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience both in inpatient and outpatient settings. I offer compassion and cutting-edge treatments all wrapped up in a message of hope for my patients. I encourage patients to find hope in their situation and understand things can get better. Finding hope is the first and most important step. Helping patients find hope is rooted in staff connecting with patients better. Finding hope is the first and most important step.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience both in inpatient and outpatient settings. I offer compassion and cutting-edge treatments all wrapped up in a message of hope for my patients. I encourage patients to find hope in their situation and understand things can get better. Finding hope is the first and most important step. Helping patients find hope is rooted in staff connecting with patients better. Finding hope is the first and most important step.
![Photo of Launiece Newton, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b793e235-0040-4ffe-8afe-4eaa90cf9320/1/320x400.png)
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, diagnostic studies, and individual treatment recommendations for clients ranging from teens to older adulthood. My prior work in primary care, psychiatric residency training, and current experience at the Cedar Oaks Clinic has allowed me to work with adolescents, young adults, older adults, and veterans to manage a variety of psychiatric conditions.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, diagnostic studies, and individual treatment recommendations for clients ranging from teens to older adulthood. My prior work in primary care, psychiatric residency training, and current experience at the Cedar Oaks Clinic has allowed me to work with adolescents, young adults, older adults, and veterans to manage a variety of psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Lori Jackson-Bogle - Cornerstone Behavioral Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac6bf992-5e37-4026-9794-682b0627cd38/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a partner in your mental health journey. My name is Lori Jackson-Bogle PA-C and I am a dedicated Physician Associate with 11 years experience in psychiatry, committed to providing compassionate, personalized care tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I believe that understanding and empathy are the cornerstones of effective mental health treatment. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported.
Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a partner in your mental health journey. My name is Lori Jackson-Bogle PA-C and I am a dedicated Physician Associate with 11 years experience in psychiatry, committed to providing compassionate, personalized care tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I believe that understanding and empathy are the cornerstones of effective mental health treatment. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported.
![Photo of Dr. Chinwe Ibiam, DNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/746529dd-fa3e-42e6-a182-9d7c12f73a40/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chinwe Ibiam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGACNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate, dual certified, doctorate degree prepared psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with great people skills. Specializes in mental health, and adult gerontology. I see patients with mental health needs across the age span from ages 6 to over 100 years. I see patients from the state of Georgia, North Carolina, Florida, and Washington State.
I am a compassionate, dual certified, doctorate degree prepared psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with great people skills. Specializes in mental health, and adult gerontology. I see patients with mental health needs across the age span from ages 6 to over 100 years. I see patients from the state of Georgia, North Carolina, Florida, and Washington State.
![Photo of Tenishia Santiago - Holsan Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4300298-82b3-489f-b4d7-77fb9dc2c37a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holsan Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting New Patients. Tenishia is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. She offers in person in Raleigh, NC, and telehealth services across the state of North Carolina, ensuring convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer in person services out of our Raleigh, NC office at this time. Other locations to be added soon. We also see BCBS of Massachusetts and Horizon New Jersey BCBS, Washington state, and Oregon for patients with Aetna and Cigna. Other insurances coming soon for WA and OR.
Accepting New Patients. Tenishia is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management with psychotherapy to ages six and older. She offers in person in Raleigh, NC, and telehealth services across the state of North Carolina, ensuring convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer in person services out of our Raleigh, NC office at this time. Other locations to be added soon. We also see BCBS of Massachusetts and Horizon New Jersey BCBS, Washington state, and Oregon for patients with Aetna and Cigna. Other insurances coming soon for WA and OR.
![Photo of Daniel Alan Hill - Greener Hill Psychiatric, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4530efd-e636-4f2d-b2ba-e67e6092d0ba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Greener Hill Psychiatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Our ideal client is any patient (18+) that is suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health concerns that want to improve their mental health care. We enjoy collaborating with patients to focus on patient-centered measurable outcomes that will improve the life of the client.
Our ideal client is any patient (18+) that is suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health concerns that want to improve their mental health care. We enjoy collaborating with patients to focus on patient-centered measurable outcomes that will improve the life of the client.
![Photo of Laurie Dunne, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/befb4b2f-1377-4fd1-ba86-1f8a7d34f0dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients! Are you searching for a psychiatric physician assistant who goes above and beyond to prioritize your well-being? I’d love to work with you! My name is Laurie and I am a dedicated professional committed to providing unparalleled support and guidance on your journey to mental health. With years of experience and a passion for fostering genuine connections, I value the power of collaboration with my patients. I believe that open communication and mutual understanding are essential foundations for successful treatment.
Accepting New Clients! Are you searching for a psychiatric physician assistant who goes above and beyond to prioritize your well-being? I’d love to work with you! My name is Laurie and I am a dedicated professional committed to providing unparalleled support and guidance on your journey to mental health. With years of experience and a passion for fostering genuine connections, I value the power of collaboration with my patients. I believe that open communication and mutual understanding are essential foundations for successful treatment.
![Photo of Winnie Momanyi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0e4542c-b400-4455-9fd2-ad0c821997d3/2/320x400.png)
Winnie Momanyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520 (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like your mind is a prison, filled with worries, intrusive thoughts, and relentless negativity? Perhaps anxiety or panic attacks are holding you hostage, or maybe sleeplessness and depression are draining your energy. You don't have to live this way. Imagine a life free from these burdens, where you can finally experience peace and clarity. Let's work together to break free from the prison of your mind and build a path towards lasting well-being.
Do you ever feel like your mind is a prison, filled with worries, intrusive thoughts, and relentless negativity? Perhaps anxiety or panic attacks are holding you hostage, or maybe sleeplessness and depression are draining your energy. You don't have to live this way. Imagine a life free from these burdens, where you can finally experience peace and clarity. Let's work together to break free from the prison of your mind and build a path towards lasting well-being.
![Photo of Joseph Jordan, MSPA, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/977b3214-788c-4e6b-9487-585c6591e6d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified PA with a certificate of additional qualifications in psychiatry (CAQ-Psychiatry). I have experience working with adults with a myriad of psychiatric illnesses, but I have a vested interest in LGBTQ+ mental healthcare, treatment-resistant depression, personality disorders, and trauma-based disorders.
I am a board-certified PA with a certificate of additional qualifications in psychiatry (CAQ-Psychiatry). I have experience working with adults with a myriad of psychiatric illnesses, but I have a vested interest in LGBTQ+ mental healthcare, treatment-resistant depression, personality disorders, and trauma-based disorders.
![Photo of Brooke Dionne Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da125778-7536-42e2-b9c5-57dcf5f88557/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Dionne Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in correctional and mental health nursing as a Registered Nurse. I am passionate about serving those with mental health needs and reducing the stigma associated with mental health, as mental health affects us all either directly or indirectly. We seek dental care for our teeth, dermatological services for our skin, so why is there shame/embarrassment placed on obtaining routine care and maintenance on the most important and complex organ in our bodies...the brain?
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in correctional and mental health nursing as a Registered Nurse. I am passionate about serving those with mental health needs and reducing the stigma associated with mental health, as mental health affects us all either directly or indirectly. We seek dental care for our teeth, dermatological services for our skin, so why is there shame/embarrassment placed on obtaining routine care and maintenance on the most important and complex organ in our bodies...the brain?
![Photo of Dr. Douglas Finestone, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89ccd333-64de-470f-96fe-57bfe38c0ba2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Douglas Finestone has over 45 years of experience caring for adult patients with psychiatric disorders. He completed a psychoanalytic training program at the University of North Carolina - Duke University Psychoanalytic Institute.
Dr. Douglas Finestone has over 45 years of experience caring for adult patients with psychiatric disorders. He completed a psychoanalytic training program at the University of North Carolina - Duke University Psychoanalytic Institute.
See more therapy options for Craven County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Craven County, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Craven County, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Medication Management |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Medicare |
50% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Craven County, NC see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Craven County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.