Psychiatrists in East Fayetteville, NC
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Mia W Jones, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2818503-2ca2-4957-a3e1-355dd9848b97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mia W Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28301
Mia Jones is a certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-NP) hailing from Philadelphia, PA but raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. She obtained her Bachelor's degree from East Carolina University and further pursued her Master's degree at Walden University. Mia has garnered over seven years of experience working in various units including inpatient medical-surgical, ICU, behavioral health, and addiction. However, in 2020, she resolved to pursue her long-held ambition of becoming a mental health nurse practitioner.
Over the course of her professional journey, Mia has come to appreciate the strong connection between-
Mia Jones is a certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-NP) hailing from Philadelphia, PA but raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. She obtained her Bachelor's degree from East Carolina University and further pursued her Master's degree at Walden University. Mia has garnered over seven years of experience working in various units including inpatient medical-surgical, ICU, behavioral health, and addiction. However, in 2020, she resolved to pursue her long-held ambition of becoming a mental health nurse practitioner.
Over the course of her professional journey, Mia has come to appreciate the strong connection between-
![Photo of Katasha Jarrin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cb0336b-da07-4b62-91c9-c5152eb816d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
![Photo of Jamie Wiles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f8d30f-b434-46a2-a7e5-1c537c763fd5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Wiles is a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for individualized, patient-centered care. Jamie specializes in working with individuals and families in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and attention/focus issues. Jamie works best in partnering with individuals and families to provide options, education, and an open environment to share individual care needs. Experiencing a tragic loss while in Nursing School at Eastern Michigan University propelled Jamie to realize the only type of nurse she wanted to be was a Psychiatric Nurse.
Jamie Wiles is a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for individualized, patient-centered care. Jamie specializes in working with individuals and families in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and attention/focus issues. Jamie works best in partnering with individuals and families to provide options, education, and an open environment to share individual care needs. Experiencing a tragic loss while in Nursing School at Eastern Michigan University propelled Jamie to realize the only type of nurse she wanted to be was a Psychiatric Nurse.
![Photo of Shirley Carrenard-Mcdowell - EtteillaWellness Services, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92bf58c0-99ae-4771-9b01-930b169367d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
EtteillaWellness Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
Hello everyone. I'm NP, Shirley. Welcome to Etteilla Wellness Services. I am so excited to finally share my dream with you of opening a private practice. Etteilla is my mother's name, spelled backward. Her tragic death inspired me to create a platform to help those who feel trapped and lost. I'm dual certified In psychiatric care and family medicine. I have 26 years of medical experience and provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and a purpose-filled life.
Hello everyone. I'm NP, Shirley. Welcome to Etteilla Wellness Services. I am so excited to finally share my dream with you of opening a private practice. Etteilla is my mother's name, spelled backward. Her tragic death inspired me to create a platform to help those who feel trapped and lost. I'm dual certified In psychiatric care and family medicine. I have 26 years of medical experience and provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and a purpose-filled life.
![Photo of Catina Greene, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ac094eb-c5d4-477d-96bd-4130dd930318/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catina Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28301
Struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. We are happy to explore substance use issues with up-to-date treatment options, as needed. Offering VA compensation assistance, ADHD testing and full psychiatric evaluations.
Struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. We are happy to explore substance use issues with up-to-date treatment options, as needed. Offering VA compensation assistance, ADHD testing and full psychiatric evaluations.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a87dc48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
![Photo of Alina Lis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73f22a2e-de23-4898-ac34-94f6f3a0b22b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Lis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Alina Lis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience working as a nurse, with the majority of that time spent in inpatient medical oncology/hospice and substance abuse treatment. Alina earned her Master of Science degree from Walden University after receiving an undergraduate nursing degree from Rasmussen College.
Alina Lis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience working as a nurse, with the majority of that time spent in inpatient medical oncology/hospice and substance abuse treatment. Alina earned her Master of Science degree from Walden University after receiving an undergraduate nursing degree from Rasmussen College.
![Photo of Dorine Henrietta Martin - Mindology, MSN, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/171670d8-0095-4906-b8ed-ef3822056c6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
![Photo of Denise Michel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ff4143-dcd6-46ce-9050-18f592b0e900/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Michel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic approach to help you to improve your life and achieve the goals that you have set for yourself. During our initial intake evaluation, I will take the time to understand you and your concerns. Together we will formulate a treatment plan.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic approach to help you to improve your life and achieve the goals that you have set for yourself. During our initial intake evaluation, I will take the time to understand you and your concerns. Together we will formulate a treatment plan.
![Photo of Christina Stevenson - Virtuous Total Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3f50605-aa64-4167-a38f-3b906bc20037/2/320x400.jpeg)
Virtuous Total Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results. EMAIL US!
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results. EMAIL US!
![Photo of Stephanie Renfrow Oneal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f95cd93e-1be8-48b5-a2d5-a3115c4bdca7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Renfrow Oneal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Stephanie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. She is very passionate about mental health and its impact on well-being. Stephanie works with individuals in all different stages of life who struggle with behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that prevent them from living the life they want. She can help you experience freedom from the overwhelming hardships making your life difficult to enjoy.
Stephanie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. She is very passionate about mental health and its impact on well-being. Stephanie works with individuals in all different stages of life who struggle with behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that prevent them from living the life they want. She can help you experience freedom from the overwhelming hardships making your life difficult to enjoy.
![Photo of Mary Denina, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08914242-d1d7-4e26-8632-d8e02a3b9905/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Denina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Mary Denina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who treats a variety of mental health concerns including, women's issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, grief, and loss. She is a fierce advocate for reducing the stigma of mental health issues in the adult and geriatric populations. Her role as a PMHNP includes education, medication management, advocacy, and counseling. Mary completed her Master's degree at East Carolina University and her studies included psychopharmacology, therapy modalities, and working with populations across the lifespan.
Mary Denina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who treats a variety of mental health concerns including, women's issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, grief, and loss. She is a fierce advocate for reducing the stigma of mental health issues in the adult and geriatric populations. Her role as a PMHNP includes education, medication management, advocacy, and counseling. Mary completed her Master's degree at East Carolina University and her studies included psychopharmacology, therapy modalities, and working with populations across the lifespan.
![Photo of Connie Baxter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7942dbe6-844c-43bc-93ec-4d6e5bfeee7a/2/320x400.png)
Connie Baxter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314 (Online Only)
As a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my goal is to provide you with a safe and caring environment to discuss your thoughts and feelings as well as provide medication management. My focus is to enhance and assist your strengths and coping skills with any challenges you may be facing.
As a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my goal is to provide you with a safe and caring environment to discuss your thoughts and feelings as well as provide medication management. My focus is to enhance and assist your strengths and coping skills with any challenges you may be facing.
![Photo of Casey Scott - Mending Minds Behavioral Health, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8a7c590-2b99-4dfc-8410-d0ed3aeadc97/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mending Minds Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
I offer medication management for a vast array of mental health issues, ages 4 and up, along with supportive therapy during your appointments. When necessary, I will assist with referrals such as psychological testing or specialized therapy tailored to individual needs.
I offer medication management for a vast array of mental health issues, ages 4 and up, along with supportive therapy during your appointments. When necessary, I will assist with referrals such as psychological testing or specialized therapy tailored to individual needs.
Philip Russell Couch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28302
I am a provider who believes in treating the "whole person" which is why I am credentialed as an FNP and a PMHNP. I can help patients with their medical issues as well as their mental health needs. We also have therapists on staff to help those who benefit best from therapy. I believe if the medical side can speak to the mental health side it ensures a more thorough level of care. I enjoy working with elderly, adults, teens who present with a variety of medical and mental health needs.
I am a provider who believes in treating the "whole person" which is why I am credentialed as an FNP and a PMHNP. I can help patients with their medical issues as well as their mental health needs. We also have therapists on staff to help those who benefit best from therapy. I believe if the medical side can speak to the mental health side it ensures a more thorough level of care. I enjoy working with elderly, adults, teens who present with a variety of medical and mental health needs.
![Photo of LaToya Harley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ced7721e-db4f-48e5-8b11-b6ba62ee01c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
LaToya Harley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
LaToya Harley is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. . She received her Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry at the University of South Alabama. She has worked in medical, psychiatric, and community health settings. She has also worked in the field, specifically in ADHD. LaToya has witnessed others struggling with the burden of mental illness and felt compelled to make a difference. She is most passionate about destigmatizing mental illness and helping patients improve their quality of life.
LaToya Harley is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. . She received her Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry at the University of South Alabama. She has worked in medical, psychiatric, and community health settings. She has also worked in the field, specifically in ADHD. LaToya has witnessed others struggling with the burden of mental illness and felt compelled to make a difference. She is most passionate about destigmatizing mental illness and helping patients improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Deana Flynn, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8048d26c-a0cf-4669-8f69-b37182d4c5fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deana has over a decade of experience delivering effective, safe, and compassionate nursing care to people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and life journeys. She has worked in several care settings including inpatient hospital, outpatient clinic, crisis stabilization units and emergency departments.
Deana has over a decade of experience delivering effective, safe, and compassionate nursing care to people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and life journeys. She has worked in several care settings including inpatient hospital, outpatient clinic, crisis stabilization units and emergency departments.
![Photo of Kesha Spaulding, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf04718-9c7f-4ba7-aff3-422b291345ef/1/320x400.png)
Kesha Spaulding
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school issues, bipolar and trauma. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Bryan L Bacon, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac996dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I was an Army Psychiatrist for more than 20 years and treated everyone from privates to general officers. My clinical duties took me from Hawaii to Afghanistan and many places in between. I am best suited to help you with problems related to PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse and relationship problems.
I was an Army Psychiatrist for more than 20 years and treated everyone from privates to general officers. My clinical duties took me from Hawaii to Afghanistan and many places in between. I am best suited to help you with problems related to PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse and relationship problems.
![Photo of Danyelle Simmons, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f79f1d00-41e3-4926-b13a-c215e9d385d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danyelle Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
My interest is in helping any and all who are in psychiatric need, child or adult.
My interest is in helping any and all who are in psychiatric need, child or adult.
Nearby Searches for East Fayetteville
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Number of Psychiatrists in East Fayetteville, NC
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Psychiatrists in East Fayetteville, NC who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in East Fayetteville, NC see their clients
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1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in East Fayetteville?
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.