Psychiatrists in Maggie Valley, NC
![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 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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Haley Moon - New Moon Psychiatry, BA, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e323b8cb-45ad-424e-8517-3ea53bfc310c/3/320x400.jpeg)
New Moon Psychiatry
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!
![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 Gina Varalli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a541b73-dc9f-4498-b438-19d51cf04e6f/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on elevating mental well-being. My dedication to healing propels my practice and includes over 15 years’ experience in healthcare with 7 years’ experience in mental health exclusively. I have worked with patients from ages 6 and up, with a wide range of psychiatric needs. My approach is patient-centered and inclusive of individuals, reflecting my belief in addressing mental health comprehensively.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on elevating mental well-being. My dedication to healing propels my practice and includes over 15 years’ experience in healthcare with 7 years’ experience in mental health exclusively. I have worked with patients from ages 6 and up, with a wide range of psychiatric needs. My approach is patient-centered and inclusive of individuals, reflecting my belief in addressing mental health comprehensively.
![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 Kimberly Floyd, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57dc6d8c-fb1d-4063-9371-d17a0a22c901/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791 (Online Only)
Kimberly Floyd is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who utilizes evidence-based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in a compassionate and whole-person approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health concerns. Kimberly has worked with adults and older adult clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Kimberly Floyd is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who utilizes evidence-based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in a compassionate and whole-person approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health concerns. Kimberly has worked with adults and older adult clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
![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 Rhonda Cartee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5d9cd11-9128-4000-8cee-fb7d2a62c435/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.
![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 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 Thabit Al-Khateeb, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb058a66-b8ed-44ab-b948-db0d7a673f8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry is a concierge psychiatric practice offering integrative treatment modalities, Ketamine treatment, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and individualized, private psychiatric care in office or home-based settings. Our outpatient Psychiatry practice has recently added Dr. Al-Khateeb, and we are now accepting new patients for a limited time. Dr. Al-Khateeb is a board certified general adult psychiatrist, providing medication management as well as psychotherapy in office based or telemedicine formats.
Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry is a concierge psychiatric practice offering integrative treatment modalities, Ketamine treatment, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and individualized, private psychiatric care in office or home-based settings. Our outpatient Psychiatry practice has recently added Dr. Al-Khateeb, and we are now accepting new patients for a limited time. Dr. Al-Khateeb is a board certified general adult psychiatrist, providing medication management as well as psychotherapy in office based or telemedicine formats.
![Photo of Shane Brown, RN, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79d3a6b0-8da2-4f8d-a7c4-9c21f7da75c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 8 years of psychiatric experience. I have worked with patients of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, and I believe in working collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 8 years of psychiatric experience. I have worked with patients of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric illnesses. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, and I believe in working collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Leistey Tindall, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418aec05-1454-461e-99ee-db2f12660c5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leistey Tindall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607 (Online Only)
Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
![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 Dr. Ami Pearse, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67600a21-4586-4bd0-815a-d11ce3763b23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ami Pearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
![Photo of Davette Patterson-Yount, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08f68283-b8dd-4be0-a15a-efa1b3c674a5/1/320x400.png)
Davette is a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of NC. She graduated from Winston Salem State University in Winston Salem NC with her family medicine studies and from Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston SC with her psychiatric study. Davette has over 18 years of nursing experience in cardiology, psychiatry, and family practice. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages.
Davette is a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of NC. She graduated from Winston Salem State University in Winston Salem NC with her family medicine studies and from Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston SC with her psychiatric study. Davette has over 18 years of nursing experience in cardiology, psychiatry, and family practice. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages.
![Photo of Maria MacDougall, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ef795a-0806-4d54-9f2d-82770fa15e3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria MacDougall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
![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.
See more therapy options for Maggie Valley
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Maggie Valley, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Maggie Valley, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Coventry |
How Psychiatrists in Maggie Valley, NC see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Maggie Valley?
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.