Psychiatrists in Polk County, NC
![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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Arwen Podesta, MD, ABPN, FASAM, ABIHM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6529e7f9-412a-47fe-bd84-10fb656e5720/1/320x400.jpeg)
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
![Photo of Patricia Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c8a46f2-f224-4ba3-bade-159738dcc6eb/1/320x400.png)
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a mastered prepared advanced nurse with ten plus years of nursing experience. Knowledgeable in caring and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a mastered prepared advanced nurse with ten plus years of nursing experience. Knowledgeable in caring and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
![Photo of Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f08c67f-e24a-4b18-8cbe-c68da190b548/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
![Photo of Linda Marie Banks, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7116077-7c3a-44eb-9c73-72e30d61aa9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda is a board-certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatry and family medicine. She completed her training at Samford University and has undergraduate degrees in both Psychology and Nursing. She is trained to work with all ages, including children. Linda uses her education and experience to provide trauma-informed, inclusive, personalized care for every patient. She uses a holistic and integrative approach to take the whole patient into consideration. Her training helps her to understand both physical and mental health, and how to address the mind-body connection in her care.
Linda is a board-certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatry and family medicine. She completed her training at Samford University and has undergraduate degrees in both Psychology and Nursing. She is trained to work with all ages, including children. Linda uses her education and experience to provide trauma-informed, inclusive, personalized care for every patient. She uses a holistic and integrative approach to take the whole patient into consideration. Her training helps her to understand both physical and mental health, and how to address the mind-body connection in her care.
![Photo of Camellia Douglas, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1b80479-6aea-40e5-a087-b096807af965/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Camellia Douglas, a dedicated and compassionate provider committed to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empathy, understanding, and evidence-based interventions. My mission is to support individuals in their journey toward mental well-being, recognizing the unique challenges each person faces. I earned my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. With years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide range of mental health conditions.
I'm Camellia Douglas, a dedicated and compassionate provider committed to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empathy, understanding, and evidence-based interventions. My mission is to support individuals in their journey toward mental well-being, recognizing the unique challenges each person faces. I earned my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. With years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide range of mental health conditions.
![Photo of Dr. Joshua Werblin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac6545be-16bd-4782-a663-8c9c35d681da/2/320x400.jpeg)
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
I service individuals of all ages who are seeking mental wellness. My patients may face a range of issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction challenges, and other mental health concerns. I provide better understanding, relief from distress, improved coping skills, and overall well-being. My goal is to have them regain control over their lives, enhance their mental health, and find balance and fulfillment. I can help them feel better, understand themselves better, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
![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 Morgan Durand, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97739868-3031-4860-8f52-b485cd10dac0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Durand is originally from Waxhaw, NC and now lives in Charlotte. She obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Gardner-Webb University. Morgan is dedicated to become an integral part of the health and wellness of the community she grew up in and is excited to provide mental health services to adults and pediatric patients. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness and is passionate about always showing respect and understanding to all her patients.
Morgan Durand is originally from Waxhaw, NC and now lives in Charlotte. She obtained her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Gardner-Webb University. Morgan is dedicated to become an integral part of the health and wellness of the community she grew up in and is excited to provide mental health services to adults and pediatric patients. She treats a wide range of psychiatric illness and is passionate about always showing respect and understanding to all her patients.
![Photo of Amanda Alston, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f663616c-448b-4185-a4c5-1f9caa7eee03/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda provides a safe, welcoming space for adults. Her objective is to get her patients “back on their feet” while growing and gaining confidence in themselves and their treatment.
Amanda provides a safe, welcoming space for adults. Her objective is to get her patients “back on their feet” while growing and gaining confidence in themselves and their treatment.
![Photo of Alison Lovkay, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c82d2057-3313-4edb-ae48-1dacdb995810/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alison helps adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and substance use. She also assists with depression with psychosis, depression with suicidality, psychosis with a long-acting injectable, treatment-resistant depression, and women’s health and hormonal imbalances.
Alison helps adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and substance use. She also assists with depression with psychosis, depression with suicidality, psychosis with a long-acting injectable, treatment-resistant depression, and women’s health and hormonal imbalances.
![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 Jennifer Jackson, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b754fc6-5c81-4aa2-b483-fe8395f88148/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Jackson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology, a Master of Science in Nursing Administration, and a Master of Science in Nursing. Jennifer takes a collaborative approach to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, taking her dog for long walks, travel, and exercise.
Jennifer Jackson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology, a Master of Science in Nursing Administration, and a Master of Science in Nursing. Jennifer takes a collaborative approach to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, taking her dog for long walks, travel, and exercise.
![Photo of Rohan Matthews - Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cddb7951-5b15-4486-bde9-d7323fa0c970/2/320x400.jpeg)
Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
![Photo of Tonya Farmer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d75e07c-f59c-483d-a2b1-2c8c282a4179/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tonya is a dually Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience providing care to individuals from ages 10 and above. She has always been passionate about helping others achieve optimal levels of functioning; both physically and mentally despite health or sociological barriers. She believes in person-centered and holistic healthcare.
Tonya is a dually Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience providing care to individuals from ages 10 and above. She has always been passionate about helping others achieve optimal levels of functioning; both physically and mentally despite health or sociological barriers. She believes in person-centered and holistic healthcare.
![Photo of Katherine Palmgren, PHMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/833e35a9-92d2-403f-acdc-bc13b559f60e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
![Photo of Laura Mary Foster, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/736239e2-9f97-48d6-bc6e-224d82a3bb26/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Mary Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269 (Online Only)
I am licensed in NC and VA and run an all virtual practice so I can see clients who live in these two states. I will very soon take BCBS in NC only, I take United, Aetna, Optum, Oscar, Cigna, Oxford in both states and I also take cash pay and sliding scale patients in both states. I do not take Medicaid or Medicare currently. I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of sole, successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population. I look forward to helping as best I can.
I am licensed in NC and VA and run an all virtual practice so I can see clients who live in these two states. I will very soon take BCBS in NC only, I take United, Aetna, Optum, Oscar, Cigna, Oxford in both states and I also take cash pay and sliding scale patients in both states. I do not take Medicaid or Medicare currently. I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of sole, successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population. I look forward to helping as best I can.
![Photo of Hannah Shay, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/196f8215-37ba-4dd1-bbde-b7fec54dca95/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a provider at Stella who is passionate about providing exceptional care. My expertise include trauma-focused care for childhood, domestic violence, sexual abuse survivors, and military personnel. At Stella Center, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a provider at Stella who is passionate about providing exceptional care. My expertise include trauma-focused care for childhood, domestic violence, sexual abuse survivors, and military personnel. At Stella Center, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
![Photo of Kashea Moser, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c49a021-6c95-4920-8d17-c5aafec28efc/2/320x400.png)
KaShea, PMHNP-BC graduated with a master’s from Maryville University in Saint Louis Missouri. Prior to Nurse Practitioner school, she received her BSN from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Kashea has experience in assisting individuals with serious and persistent mental illnesses in the outpatient and community setting. She believes in meeting people where they are to provide hope, support, and compassion. Kashea also lives by the golden rule and treats everyone with respect. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and attending sporting events.
KaShea, PMHNP-BC graduated with a master’s from Maryville University in Saint Louis Missouri. Prior to Nurse Practitioner school, she received her BSN from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Kashea has experience in assisting individuals with serious and persistent mental illnesses in the outpatient and community setting. She believes in meeting people where they are to provide hope, support, and compassion. Kashea also lives by the golden rule and treats everyone with respect. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and attending sporting events.
![Photo of Kim English, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33edfede-d770-4025-b079-a1235dfec80d/1/320x400.png)
Kim English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269 (Online Only)
Kim English FNP, PMHNP-BC; as a Family and Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to render comprehensive and compassionate care. I focus on the following treatments but not limited to; ADHD, Bipolar type 1 & 2, anxiety disorders such as (panic disorders & social phobia), Eating Disorders, Mood Dysregulation, PTSD, Depression, OCD, and autism spectrum disorder. I strive to provide the highest quality of mental health care to all patients; while providing knowledge and resources, to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Kim English FNP, PMHNP-BC; as a Family and Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to render comprehensive and compassionate care. I focus on the following treatments but not limited to; ADHD, Bipolar type 1 & 2, anxiety disorders such as (panic disorders & social phobia), Eating Disorders, Mood Dysregulation, PTSD, Depression, OCD, and autism spectrum disorder. I strive to provide the highest quality of mental health care to all patients; while providing knowledge and resources, to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Polk County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Polk County, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Polk County, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Polk County, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Polk 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.