Psychiatrists in Macon County, NC
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Rebekah MacNair, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1b5412c-07f4-4d4b-a938-893f588d5252/2/320x400.png)
Rebekah MacNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
![Photo of Jason Fredericks, PA-C, MPH, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cabac00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
![Photo of Tiffany Sauls - Asheville Integrative Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f75768e9-060e-4fda-ba95-cdd36485f63a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Asheville Integrative Psychiatry is an integrative mental health practice offering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, that uses nature connection as a foundation for healing. We offer a comprehensive health assessment with our psychiatrist, Dr Tiffany Sauls, to help determine root causes of existing mental and physical health challenges. We offer recommendations around diet, nutrition, supplements, stress management, exercise/movement, and medications adjustment/reduction to improve your health and well-being. If appropriate, Ketamine Assisted Therapy combined with guided nature connection is offered.
Asheville Integrative Psychiatry is an integrative mental health practice offering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, that uses nature connection as a foundation for healing. We offer a comprehensive health assessment with our psychiatrist, Dr Tiffany Sauls, to help determine root causes of existing mental and physical health challenges. We offer recommendations around diet, nutrition, supplements, stress management, exercise/movement, and medications adjustment/reduction to improve your health and well-being. If appropriate, Ketamine Assisted Therapy combined with guided nature connection is offered.
![Photo of Denise Wilbanks, DNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b933375-459b-4c94-b6d8-d054affe5cd3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Wilbanks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805 (Online Only)
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
![Photo of Michael Alan Finch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5028393f-51ad-4b91-a143-def99d4a6e34/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and Welcome to my practice. I emphasize an individualized and whole person approach to wellness and believe strongly in daily exercise, healthy diet, and mindfulness/meditation. Mindfulness and meditation come in many forms and is rapidly being recognized as essential in all areas of medicine. Although teachings about this have been around for thousands of years, only recently has this been rediscovered and it's importance recognized. If I can't provide the specific therapy that you need, I'm comfortable partnering with other qualified therapists who can.
Hello and Welcome to my practice. I emphasize an individualized and whole person approach to wellness and believe strongly in daily exercise, healthy diet, and mindfulness/meditation. Mindfulness and meditation come in many forms and is rapidly being recognized as essential in all areas of medicine. Although teachings about this have been around for thousands of years, only recently has this been rediscovered and it's importance recognized. If I can't provide the specific therapy that you need, I'm comfortable partnering with other qualified therapists who can.
![Photo of Kathryn Baglini, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df196d03-0a09-47ef-a090-e3b7752b830a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Baglini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Hi! My name is Kathryn, but I go by Kat. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My career began in emergency medicine, where I saw firsthand the challenges patients face when struggling with mental health & substance use. After ten years in the ER, I was ready to change how I could help people, which led me here.
Hi! My name is Kathryn, but I go by Kat. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My career began in emergency medicine, where I saw firsthand the challenges patients face when struggling with mental health & substance use. After ten years in the ER, I was ready to change how I could help people, which led me here.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a87da1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services 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. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services 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. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
![Photo of Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard), CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef09c1ea-43b9-4d7a-83b1-27a767e03fe9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard)
Physician Assistant, CAQ-PSY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Feeling scattered, anxious, or just not like yourself? You’re not alone, even if it feels that way. I offer support through medication management, supportive talk therapy, and integrative recommendations. I specialize in helping women and the elderly, ages 18 and up, blending spiritual guidance with professional care to support your mental health.
Feeling scattered, anxious, or just not like yourself? You’re not alone, even if it feels that way. I offer support through medication management, supportive talk therapy, and integrative recommendations. I specialize in helping women and the elderly, ages 18 and up, blending spiritual guidance with professional care to support your mental health.
![Photo of Tammy Arms, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76c129ad-ecf1-4f4f-aaa6-57c3bc5953ef/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Tammy Arms is a board-certified Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats clients across the lifespan. She has been a nurse practitioner for 16 years and a registered nurse for 26 years. Tammy treats all ages and a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders such as bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, gender identity concerns, sleep/insomnia issues, and trauma.
Dr. Tammy Arms is a board-certified Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats clients across the lifespan. She has been a nurse practitioner for 16 years and a registered nurse for 26 years. Tammy treats all ages and a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders such as bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, gender identity concerns, sleep/insomnia issues, and trauma.
![Photo of Tabatha Jones - Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2401ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Dr. Roy C Dodd - Range Mental Health , DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1dd22c5-501d-41de-93a3-81bc2e9f3698/2/320x400.jpeg)
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
![Photo of Anthony A Frasca - Zen Psychiatric Services, PLLC, MD, MSPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32848d4a-86ca-4f70-a8a4-3fd249c2ef40/1/320x400.png)
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
![Photo of Brittany Vasquez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/767a4e66-5839-4905-b0dc-e478ece34d4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
![Photo of David Ahlberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67cbfbb0-88fe-4164-bfe3-840d2fbaf3b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving all of North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving all of North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
![Photo of Leia McCullough, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfafd331-3ffa-4e1c-919b-46376833dfa7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leia McCullough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (Online Only)
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
![Photo of Ijaz Behavioral Rasul - Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8cff54-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. 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 clients via video across Florida. 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 Dr. Leia McCullough - Ataraxia Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2f9c84a-860d-4ea9-b3f1-3c74a8fca105/1/320x400.png)
Ataraxia Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (Online Only)
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
![Photo of Liz Lemons, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c069111-bae1-45ff-b9a3-b87d244b7020/3/320x400.jpeg)
Liz Lemons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28152 (Online Only)
I am a very compassionate and professional Nurse Practitioner who has managed and treated a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, OCD, Bipolar II, PTSD, substance use, and other areas and have over 11 years of experience treating teens, adults and seniors.
I am a very compassionate and professional Nurse Practitioner who has managed and treated a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, OCD, Bipolar II, PTSD, substance use, and other areas and have over 11 years of experience treating teens, adults and seniors.
![Photo of John Charles Webb, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20b8f4b4-bbe7-4d3e-9f42-b25b3c3ffaf6/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Charles Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems all can interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems all can interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
![Photo of Haley Moon - New Moon Psychiatry, PLLC, BA, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e323b8cb-45ad-424e-8517-3ea53bfc310c/3/320x400.jpeg)
New Moon Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28739
We are now accepting new clients! Please visit our website to schedule a required free phone consult. Our office space is shared and New Moon Psychiatry staff are not always on site. Please do not visit the office location unless you have a confirmed in person appointment. Thank you for your understanding!
We are now accepting new clients! Please visit our website to schedule a required free phone consult. Our office space is shared and New Moon Psychiatry staff are not always on site. Please do not visit the office location unless you have a confirmed in person appointment. Thank you for your understanding!
See more therapy options for Macon County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Macon County, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Macon County, NC who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Macon County, NC see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Macon 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.