Psychiatrists in Newland, NC
![Photo of Dr. Alycia Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4fc873c-ce4b-4d45-ad5a-fff26475d7c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
WELCOME! I have over 20 years of experience in treating mental health issues, and I love it! Let’s meet and see what aspects of therapy, medications, and/or lifestyle strategies we can use to work together toward your goals. Check out my website for more details on my practice: www.abrownmd.com. I have experience in many things, but special areas of interest/additional expertise: ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, high functioning autism (formerly Asperger syndrome), LGBTQ+ populations.
WELCOME! I have over 20 years of experience in treating mental health issues, and I love it! Let’s meet and see what aspects of therapy, medications, and/or lifestyle strategies we can use to work together toward your goals. Check out my website for more details on my practice: www.abrownmd.com. I have experience in many things, but special areas of interest/additional expertise: ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, high functioning autism (formerly Asperger syndrome), LGBTQ+ populations.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Amy Main, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38ca3133-657d-4620-bb37-d7c1a525ad3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Main
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101 (Online Only)
I believe that no one should be made to feel guilty about their struggles with mental health, and that everyone deserves to have a safe place to talk about these issues. Just as every person is unique, there is no one right way to treat mental illness. I strive to approach each individual with this in mind, knowing that they may have been through many treatment options already. I know this can be a challenging and frustrating process, but I will listen to your concerns and work with you through the journey.
I believe that no one should be made to feel guilty about their struggles with mental health, and that everyone deserves to have a safe place to talk about these issues. Just as every person is unique, there is no one right way to treat mental illness. I strive to approach each individual with this in mind, knowing that they may have been through many treatment options already. I know this can be a challenging and frustrating process, but I will listen to your concerns and work with you through the journey.
![Photo of Dr. Angela Rasheed, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f37129cf-a83d-4db9-91f6-16dc3238c005/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Rasheed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with experience providing the highest, quality medication management to diverse populations. Licensed in NC and NY. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions including Bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders, & eating disorders. I know it takes so much courage to finally take a step to refresh your mental health, but I hope to be able to develop a trusting relationship with you that will allow you to feel comfortable & willing to allow me to take this journey back to an optimal mental state with you!
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner with experience providing the highest, quality medication management to diverse populations. Licensed in NC and NY. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions including Bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders, & eating disorders. I know it takes so much courage to finally take a step to refresh your mental health, but I hope to be able to develop a trusting relationship with you that will allow you to feel comfortable & willing to allow me to take this journey back to an optimal mental state with you!
![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 Shannon Blankenbeckler, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/325e1947-84ec-498d-b1b6-08e6d819f23e/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Blankenbeckler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Shannon Blankenbeckler is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Shannon collaborates with her patients to improve their functioning and quality of life. With active listening, kindness, and compassion, she works with her patients to identify the issues holding them back. She helps them focus on their unique strengths, address their struggles, and set meaningful, achievable goals so they can thrive and find peace. Shannon knows that patients seek help when they’re brave enough to identify that something in their life needs to change.
Shannon Blankenbeckler is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Shannon collaborates with her patients to improve their functioning and quality of life. With active listening, kindness, and compassion, she works with her patients to identify the issues holding them back. She helps them focus on their unique strengths, address their struggles, and set meaningful, achievable goals so they can thrive and find peace. Shannon knows that patients seek help when they’re brave enough to identify that something in their life needs to change.
![Photo of Lauren Smith, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3abef82-5cfd-4d56-9aee-c373be046a5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My main goal as a physician assistant is to provide personable, patient-oriented care. I chose psychiatry in order to implement my passion for mental health awareness. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and ADHD. I work with both adolescents and adults. I am in person in Charlotte and virtual in Rocky Mount NC.
My main goal as a physician assistant is to provide personable, patient-oriented care. I chose psychiatry in order to implement my passion for mental health awareness. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and ADHD. I work with both adolescents and adults. I am in person in Charlotte and virtual in Rocky Mount NC.
![Photo of Kendra Frazier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12f967ad-94ac-43e1-afc4-efb55871e537/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
![Photo of Esther Adedokun, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aa7fb8b-ca40-4afe-bbb5-2aaae4ccfe9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and mental health Nurse practitioner. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, starting as a patient care coordinator of a mental health clinic. Later as a Psychiatric Registered nurse and proceeded to Vanderbilt University where I earned the MSN degree with a specialization in Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, some years back.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and mental health Nurse practitioner. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, starting as a patient care coordinator of a mental health clinic. Later as a Psychiatric Registered nurse and proceeded to Vanderbilt University where I earned the MSN degree with a specialization in Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, some years back.
![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 Melissa Di Natale, EdD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/698bb202-bfc5-4cf9-af33-3e6ac4442175/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Di Natale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Darlene Ifill-Taylor - Three Strand Wellness LLC, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3425286b-d0b6-4ea1-a8ff-3c6986c460be/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for a Mental Health care that focuses on all of you, using a wholistic approach- Three Strand Wellness is for you. Mind, Body and Spirit is our focus- providing therapy and medication management for Depression and Anxiety; Massage therapy; Yoga; Meditation training and Massage in a beautiful, private setting. Our practice offers TMS those who have not responded to antidepressants. TMS has an 83 percent response rate an is an holistic way to approach your depression treatment. Our Yoga and Meditation, specialists are the best- as is our massage, specialist. Referral for Nutrition and Physical fitness are offered.
If you are looking for a Mental Health care that focuses on all of you, using a wholistic approach- Three Strand Wellness is for you. Mind, Body and Spirit is our focus- providing therapy and medication management for Depression and Anxiety; Massage therapy; Yoga; Meditation training and Massage in a beautiful, private setting. Our practice offers TMS those who have not responded to antidepressants. TMS has an 83 percent response rate an is an holistic way to approach your depression treatment. Our Yoga and Meditation, specialists are the best- as is our massage, specialist. Referral for Nutrition and Physical fitness are offered.
![Photo of Sergio Badel, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef9ccfe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I specialize in medical treatment and psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, anger issues, self-esteem issues, challenges with emotional intimacy, problems coping with stress, and obsessions. These symptoms often present themselves when individuals describe feeling "stuck" in their lives. They may have difficulties avoiding repetitive and unhealthy patterns that cause emotional turmoil and distress. I have found it is most therapeutic and cost-effective to provide psychotherapy combined with medication management (when appropriate).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I specialize in medical treatment and psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, anger issues, self-esteem issues, challenges with emotional intimacy, problems coping with stress, and obsessions. These symptoms often present themselves when individuals describe feeling "stuck" in their lives. They may have difficulties avoiding repetitive and unhealthy patterns that cause emotional turmoil and distress. I have found it is most therapeutic and cost-effective to provide psychotherapy combined with medication management (when appropriate).
![Photo of Mary Beck, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9e7b68c-9d2d-485f-b04f-4889f52f0668/2/320x400.png)
Mary Beck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262 (Online Only)
As a PMHNP I have worked in outpatient, PHP, IOP, inpatient and residential settings across four states and have worked with patients ages 4 to 90 from all walks of life. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and substance use disorders through medication management and supportive therapy techniques.
As a PMHNP I have worked in outpatient, PHP, IOP, inpatient and residential settings across four states and have worked with patients ages 4 to 90 from all walks of life. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and substance use disorders through medication management and supportive therapy techniques.
![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 J W Scott Wallace, MD, LFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f84884cb-004c-456d-b25d-2967a3824cbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
J W Scott Wallace
Psychiatrist, MD, LFAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211 (Online Only)
My practice is open to adults and adolescents in need of psychiatric care. I practice general psychiatry, primarily focused on, but not at all limited to, mood and anxiety disorders, dual diagnosis, and organic issues. My special interest is in eating disorders and am the former Medical Director of a hospital Eating Disorder Program, and I do have experience and skill in other disorders. I no longer do any hospital work, my practice being solely office-based. I am pleased to be part of of a multidisciplinary group of mental health professionals who can provide comprehensive care for you. I gladly collaborate with other providers.
My practice is open to adults and adolescents in need of psychiatric care. I practice general psychiatry, primarily focused on, but not at all limited to, mood and anxiety disorders, dual diagnosis, and organic issues. My special interest is in eating disorders and am the former Medical Director of a hospital Eating Disorder Program, and I do have experience and skill in other disorders. I no longer do any hospital work, my practice being solely office-based. I am pleased to be part of of a multidisciplinary group of mental health professionals who can provide comprehensive care for you. I gladly collaborate with other providers.
![Photo of lakshmi Ganugapenta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8978b016-6acf-4447-a9a9-b68e6daf2c6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
lakshmi Ganugapenta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28027 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Lakshmi Ganugapenta a dual-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience in different settings. I am a mother to two, a wife, a daughter, and a friend. I understand the struggle of trying to balance it all and falling short. Helping clients to reach wellness is my number one goal. I collaborate with my clients to develop a clear and practical plan to improve every aspect of their lives. I use a holistic model that may or may not include medications.
Hi, I'm Lakshmi Ganugapenta a dual-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience in different settings. I am a mother to two, a wife, a daughter, and a friend. I understand the struggle of trying to balance it all and falling short. Helping clients to reach wellness is my number one goal. I collaborate with my clients to develop a clear and practical plan to improve every aspect of their lives. I use a holistic model that may or may not include medications.
![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 Julie Ann Chilton - Dr Julie Chilton, MD, PLLC, MD, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453c1880-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Julie Chilton, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28814 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist in private practice in Asheville, NC and on faculty at the Yale Child Study Center in New Haven, CT. I provide therapy as well as medication management, when necessary. The primary modalities I use with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. One of my biggest passions is providing excellent resources to supplement therapy, so clients feel well-versed in their treatment and realize they are not the only ones going through these struggles. Mental health issues are common and treatable and there should be no shame in getting help!
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist in private practice in Asheville, NC and on faculty at the Yale Child Study Center in New Haven, CT. I provide therapy as well as medication management, when necessary. The primary modalities I use with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. One of my biggest passions is providing excellent resources to supplement therapy, so clients feel well-versed in their treatment and realize they are not the only ones going through these struggles. Mental health issues are common and treatable and there should be no shame in getting help!
![Photo of Janelle Mahoney, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06560aa5-72b1-4275-8f51-186a45516244/10/320x400.jpeg)
Janelle Mahoney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 10 years of nursing experience including child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. At AH Prescribing, I help patients determine how medication may fit into their overall mental health care by developing authentic connections and staying up to date on current therapies.
See more therapy options for Newland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Newland, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Newland, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
21 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Newland, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Newland?
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.