Psychiatrists in Johnston County, NC
![Photo of Shameka Logan-Johnson - Heart & Mind Behavioral Services, RN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7a9ed04-6426-4641-ad0d-862025eebd6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heart & Mind Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
Embracing Mental Wellness: Your Path to Inner Peace with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to neglect our mental health in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a fulfilling and balanced life. That's where Shameka steps in to guide you on your journey towards inner peace and mental wellness. With years of experience and a passion for helping others, she offers a unique approach to mental health and wellness. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow and schedule your appointment today.
Embracing Mental Wellness: Your Path to Inner Peace with Shameka Johnson, PMHNP In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to neglect our mental health in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But prioritizing your well-being is essential for living a fulfilling and balanced life. That's where Shameka steps in to guide you on your journey towards inner peace and mental wellness. With years of experience and a passion for helping others, she offers a unique approach to mental health and wellness. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow and schedule your appointment today.
![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
3 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 Dr. Mohammad Abu-Salha, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/179710f9-ed5e-46dc-8e50-b460cb5e12eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mohammad Abu-Salha is board-certified and works with patients of all ages. Dr. Abu-Salha obtained U.S. citizenship in 1998 after serving rural communities in North Carolina. He completed his residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School and was awarded the Resident Research Award. In 2006, Dr. Abu-Salha founded Johnston Psychiatric Associates with his wife, running the practice for 14 years.
Dr. Mohammad Abu-Salha is board-certified and works with patients of all ages. Dr. Abu-Salha obtained U.S. citizenship in 1998 after serving rural communities in North Carolina. He completed his residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School and was awarded the Resident Research Award. In 2006, Dr. Abu-Salha founded Johnston Psychiatric Associates with his wife, running the practice for 14 years.
![Photo of Charisse Fullwood, Charisse Fullwood, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eb9847e-1914-4e08-b025-85510761adfb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charisse Fullwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Charisse Fullwood, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27528
I focus on practicing wellness and encourage self care to be our best self. I offer packages personalized wellness packages for your health care needs . Are you suffering for obesity, low self esteem, and would like some tools? Like our name implies , we are here to help you feel better in your Mind and Body . Because of this we offer, Cognitive behavioral therapy services as part of our treatment and services . It’s our goal to help those who need customized , Weight loss & Nutrition plans , psychiatric medication management, and aesthetic services such as botox and hydra facials.
I focus on practicing wellness and encourage self care to be our best self. I offer packages personalized wellness packages for your health care needs . Are you suffering for obesity, low self esteem, and would like some tools? Like our name implies , we are here to help you feel better in your Mind and Body . Because of this we offer, Cognitive behavioral therapy services as part of our treatment and services . It’s our goal to help those who need customized , Weight loss & Nutrition plans , psychiatric medication management, and aesthetic services such as botox and hydra facials.
![Photo of Tara Nate, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a202436-6a8e-44ff-bbb6-23d1f56f5fb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Nate is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to her patients across their lifespan. She prioritizes using a holistic or whole person approach when addressing her patient’s wellness goals. This includes not only focusing on their mental and emotional needs but also on their physical, spiritual, and social needs. She uses a trauma informed approach and aims to empower her patients to lead fulfilling lives.
Tara Nate is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to her patients across their lifespan. She prioritizes using a holistic or whole person approach when addressing her patient’s wellness goals. This includes not only focusing on their mental and emotional needs but also on their physical, spiritual, and social needs. She uses a trauma informed approach and aims to empower her patients to lead fulfilling lives.
WE CARE...... a holistic approach for treatment to create mental and emotional freedom for you and your family.
WE CARE...... a holistic approach for treatment to create mental and emotional freedom for you and your family.
![Photo of Tiirini Hill, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08d89f89-750f-4840-9900-7dc77f29d5f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiirini Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Are you a mother who can't seem to understand why you are having some of the intrusive thoughts you are having? Are you a worrier and constantly checking if you locked the doors , turned off the stove , etc. ? Do you feel like everyone else around you has it together and you're barely making it and struggle to tend to your own basic needs? Well guess what ? You're not alone. 1 in 5 moms will experience some type of perinatal mood and/or anxiety disorder. Black women are more likely to experience these disorders also known as PMADS and less likely to receive treatment.The best way to contact me is sending an email.
Are you a mother who can't seem to understand why you are having some of the intrusive thoughts you are having? Are you a worrier and constantly checking if you locked the doors , turned off the stove , etc. ? Do you feel like everyone else around you has it together and you're barely making it and struggle to tend to your own basic needs? Well guess what ? You're not alone. 1 in 5 moms will experience some type of perinatal mood and/or anxiety disorder. Black women are more likely to experience these disorders also known as PMADS and less likely to receive treatment.The best way to contact me is sending an email.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Michael Adelman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d969b13-b314-4e4f-85b7-7596cdc52751/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Adelman has cared for children and adolescents with behavioral health issues for most of his clinical life. Dr. Adelman was drawn to this field due to the real-world nature of his everyday work. His holistic approach to therapy helps patients and families identify resiliency factors to allow them to move to a place of greater self-respect and self-efficacy. Dr. Adelman is experienced in pediatrics, psychiatry, and child psychiatry. His “triple board” training helps him understand both normal development in children and various developmental challenges.
Dr. Michael Adelman has cared for children and adolescents with behavioral health issues for most of his clinical life. Dr. Adelman was drawn to this field due to the real-world nature of his everyday work. His holistic approach to therapy helps patients and families identify resiliency factors to allow them to move to a place of greater self-respect and self-efficacy. Dr. Adelman is experienced in pediatrics, psychiatry, and child psychiatry. His “triple board” training helps him understand both normal development in children and various developmental challenges.
![Photo of Dr. Bess Matlock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f128573-028b-4c1b-9544-d567d30f3780/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist treating children, adolescents, adults and perinatal clients with a holistic and integrative approach. I provide compassionate patient-centered care, listen deeply, and collaborate with clients to develop personalized treatment plans. As a physician and psychotherapist, I can help address the complex relationship between physical and psychological health. I specialize in teens, psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative medicine, trauma, LGBTQIA+, women's mental health and perinatal psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist treating children, adolescents, adults and perinatal clients with a holistic and integrative approach. I provide compassionate patient-centered care, listen deeply, and collaborate with clients to develop personalized treatment plans. As a physician and psychotherapist, I can help address the complex relationship between physical and psychological health. I specialize in teens, psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative medicine, trauma, LGBTQIA+, women's mental health and perinatal psychiatry.
![Photo of Jessica Thomas, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7456a45f-124a-4a4c-bff0-6342b1323eb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica is passionate about caring for and building rapport with patients and offering them evidence-based interventions that improve their lives.
Jessica is passionate about caring for and building rapport with patients and offering them evidence-based interventions that improve their lives.
![Photo of Dr. Sayanti Bhattacharya - Verve Psychiatry: Dr. Sayanti Bhattacharya, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf34285c-d2f8-4c1e-852b-1f877226be30/2/320x400.jpeg)
Verve Psychiatry: Dr. Sayanti Bhattacharya
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am a board certified psychiatrist and see patients ages 18 and above. I help people struggling with relationship, work and school problems, low motivation, social anxiety, isolation, communication issues and low self-esteem. My goal is to help you lead a full life to the best of your abilities.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and see patients ages 18 and above. I help people struggling with relationship, work and school problems, low motivation, social anxiety, isolation, communication issues and low self-esteem. My goal is to help you lead a full life to the best of your abilities.
![Photo of Alison Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8a1d1e4-6fb1-4f94-99c8-c9f1a1f46fbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615 (Online Only)
Alison Graham is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has worked with a spectrum of patients from adolescence to geriatrics. She has helped these individuals with depression and anxiety, all the way to psychosis and self-harm.
Alison Graham is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has worked with a spectrum of patients from adolescence to geriatrics. She has helped these individuals with depression and anxiety, all the way to psychosis and self-harm.
![Photo of Sasha Bravo - Bravo Mental Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a980065-9730-4251-ad41-a47061306382/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bravo Mental Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Life is HARD. We are not naturally adapted to live the lives we are currently expected to live (think hours in front of the computer, limited time outside, isolation from others). Given this, it isn’t surprising that the CDC estimates that 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in any given year. However, there is help and hope! Research shows that individuals with mental health conditions do best when they receive a combination of medication and therapy. Let us help you with your psychiatric medication needs. You deserve to ENJOY life!
Life is HARD. We are not naturally adapted to live the lives we are currently expected to live (think hours in front of the computer, limited time outside, isolation from others). Given this, it isn’t surprising that the CDC estimates that 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in any given year. However, there is help and hope! Research shows that individuals with mental health conditions do best when they receive a combination of medication and therapy. Let us help you with your psychiatric medication needs. You deserve to ENJOY life!
![Photo of Gisela E Knebl Kohl - Certus Psychiatry and Integrated Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46efb397-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
Certus is Latin for determined. At Certus Psychiatric & Integrated Care in Winston-Salem, we are determined to help our patients emotionally and physically to achieve balance by being active participants in their own care. At Certus, we are a "stigma-free zone." You can come to us with peace of mind in knowing no one will stand in judgment of you. Our primary objectives are to evaluate your symptoms and develop strategies to help put you on a path to recovery and wellness. Believe in WE, and together we will work to help you realize a better quality of life and improved mental wellness.
![Photo of Augusta Williams - Corehealthpsych, PMHNP_B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a72b7f8c-e6a7-4aa8-a9f7-5ca1533ee182/1/320x400.png)
We are a virtual psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient telehealth and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
We are a virtual psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient telehealth and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Alyssa Williams George, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfca4b3c-f089-4acd-a9fe-4ecaa419c43a/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
![Photo of Leandra Davidson, MBA, MSN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/160ce4af-1c09-46ec-90af-8cf2f81a7730/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leandra Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28306 (Online Only)
Text or call 919-535-9342 or go to the website and click on Request Services. Appointments are Available! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of North Carolina and DC. I have been a part of the military community for over 20 years. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Is your child struggling with sadness, anxiety, or poor concentration? Has your mood and behavior affected your personal or professional relationships? Has a traumatic event changed your life, and now you don't even know who you are?
Text or call 919-535-9342 or go to the website and click on Request Services. Appointments are Available! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of North Carolina and DC. I have been a part of the military community for over 20 years. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Is your child struggling with sadness, anxiety, or poor concentration? Has your mood and behavior affected your personal or professional relationships? Has a traumatic event changed your life, and now you don't even know who you are?
![Photo of Sharyn Comeau, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a08e6f6b-c4d0-40f4-8a29-b77a9b6db69b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sharyn Comeau has been practicing as a board certified Adult, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, for over 29 years. She completed her Undergraduate Degree at Pace University, and her Graduate Degree at New York University and received her medical degree from Ross University in Dominica West Indies. She completed her General Psychiatry Residency at the University of Connecticut Hartford and Pediatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Dr. Sharyn Comeau has been practicing as a board certified Adult, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, for over 29 years. She completed her Undergraduate Degree at Pace University, and her Graduate Degree at New York University and received her medical degree from Ross University in Dominica West Indies. She completed her General Psychiatry Residency at the University of Connecticut Hartford and Pediatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital.
![Photo of Joshua Dittmer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f58f3a7-3a4f-479d-94ce-989728cd61ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat most all mental health problems. My focus is on opiate use disorder and benzodiazepine dependence. I prescribe buprenorphine products (Suboxone and Subutex). If you or someone you love is in need of help NOW I will do my best to get back to you promptly and get you seen within days, if not sooner. Leave me a message or a text, I will get back to you shortly to talk about your needs and how I can help.
I treat most all mental health problems. My focus is on opiate use disorder and benzodiazepine dependence. I prescribe buprenorphine products (Suboxone and Subutex). If you or someone you love is in need of help NOW I will do my best to get back to you promptly and get you seen within days, if not sooner. Leave me a message or a text, I will get back to you shortly to talk about your needs and how I can help.
![Photo of Dan Meyring, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2954466b-6fae-4a59-8c94-d752d6d8a719/1/320x400.jpeg)
In the practice of Psychiatry, Dan combines an integrative approach with conventional medicine. He incorporates an understanding of the neuropsychology, physical health, lifestyle, spiritual and sociologic dynamics into the care of his patients. Something unique about Dan is that rather than treating symptoms, he focuses on discovering the underlying issues a person has which ultimately brings healing. His objective for patients is to avoid negative influences and encourage healthy lifestyles. Dan uses medicine judiciously depending on each individuals need, so that they can become the best version of themselves.
In the practice of Psychiatry, Dan combines an integrative approach with conventional medicine. He incorporates an understanding of the neuropsychology, physical health, lifestyle, spiritual and sociologic dynamics into the care of his patients. Something unique about Dan is that rather than treating symptoms, he focuses on discovering the underlying issues a person has which ultimately brings healing. His objective for patients is to avoid negative influences and encourage healthy lifestyles. Dan uses medicine judiciously depending on each individuals need, so that they can become the best version of themselves.
See more therapy options for Johnston County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Johnston County, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Johnston County, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
86% | ADHD |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
57% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Johnston County, NC see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Johnston 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.