Psychiatrists in Hatteras, NC
![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
Hatteras, NC 27943 (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 Jan W West, RN, MSN, PMHCNS, /PMHNP, -BC, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41f2f855-3785-403b-b0fd-9a812270ef92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jan W West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHCNS, /PMHNP, -BC, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Grandy, NC 27939
If you need appointments on off hours or appointments on the weekend, I will be able to see you. I have opened my private practice to provide respectful psychiatric services for people who want to work on improving their lives. If you have found it difficult to see progress, I may be the person that can help you make a difference. If you have felt that you do not matter, that the provider is just writing the prescription and moving you on, let me see if I can help you feel heard. If you do not leave a message, I can not call you back.
If you need appointments on off hours or appointments on the weekend, I will be able to see you. I have opened my private practice to provide respectful psychiatric services for people who want to work on improving their lives. If you have found it difficult to see progress, I may be the person that can help you make a difference. If you have felt that you do not matter, that the provider is just writing the prescription and moving you on, let me see if I can help you feel heard. If you do not leave a message, I can not call you back.
![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 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.
![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 Jon Garfin, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae54495-f4de-4f96-9537-f288ac825f16/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe our society and technology are evolving far faster than we are as humans. We are attempting to adapt to these demands and changes but unequipped with the guidance and tools necessary to adjust which causes anxiety and stress. The growing crisis in mental health is directly linked to maladaptive behavior and negative thought patterns as we try to adapt to an ever changing world. Changing our thoughts, changes our actions, and the results of our lives. We can live meaningfully when our values align with our thoughts and actions.
I believe our society and technology are evolving far faster than we are as humans. We are attempting to adapt to these demands and changes but unequipped with the guidance and tools necessary to adjust which causes anxiety and stress. The growing crisis in mental health is directly linked to maladaptive behavior and negative thought patterns as we try to adapt to an ever changing world. Changing our thoughts, changes our actions, and the results of our lives. We can live meaningfully when our values align with our thoughts and actions.
![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 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.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hatteras, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hatteras, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Parenting |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
4 Years
How Psychiatrists in Hatteras, NC see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hatteras?
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.