Psychiatrists in Sylva, NC
![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
Sylva, NC 28779 (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.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a87da1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
![Photo of 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 Sierra Roybal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f9647b8-336f-4883-a745-586434c7c4e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sierra is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Sierra is committed to offering holistic care to the community via medication management and psychotherapy.
Sierra is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Sierra is committed to offering holistic care to the community via medication management and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Heather Strauss, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93bfec1b-704f-4fe4-8586-87932dcfc7df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina, Florida, and Washington! Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs. She provides trauma informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming care.
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina, Florida, and Washington! Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs. She provides trauma informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming care.
![Photo of Dr. Nzelle Mayeba, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96a76114-3889-455e-b03e-dd9659713f6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nzelle Mayeba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
Are you in need of a compassionate, reliable and responsible mental health provider? A mental health provider who is a good listener, with thorough and detailed assessment and treatment skills. Then I may be that provider you need. Your Mental health is a vital component of good health and wellness. Take control of your mental health today to bring out and enjoy the real you. Recovery is a process, a journey, encouraging you on that journey to recovery and getting better is my focus. I will work with you regardless of whether you have health insurance or you are private pay.
Are you in need of a compassionate, reliable and responsible mental health provider? A mental health provider who is a good listener, with thorough and detailed assessment and treatment skills. Then I may be that provider you need. Your Mental health is a vital component of good health and wellness. Take control of your mental health today to bring out and enjoy the real you. Recovery is a process, a journey, encouraging you on that journey to recovery and getting better is my focus. I will work with you regardless of whether you have health insurance or you are private pay.
![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 Haley Moon - New Moon Psychiatry, PLLC, BA, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e323b8cb-45ad-424e-8517-3ea53bfc310c/3/320x400.jpeg)
New Moon Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28739
We are now accepting new clients! Please visit our website to schedule a required free phone consult. Our office space is shared and New Moon Psychiatry staff are not always on site. Please do not visit the office location unless you have a confirmed in person appointment. Thank you for your understanding!
We are now accepting new clients! Please visit our website to schedule a required free phone consult. Our office space is shared and New Moon Psychiatry staff are not always on site. Please do not visit the office location unless you have a confirmed in person appointment. Thank you for your understanding!
![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 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 Anthony A Frasca - Zen Psychiatric Services, PLLC, MD, MSPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32848d4a-86ca-4f70-a8a4-3fd249c2ef40/1/320x400.png)
Zen Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MSPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
![Photo of 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 Brittany Vasquez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/767a4e66-5839-4905-b0dc-e478ece34d4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
![Photo of Ellen Minier - Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/974c6a63-cc24-4e63-a51f-091f4730efd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
![Photo of Vinny Baglini, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ceb8034-e5f3-4746-b72a-e77a5bb46a11/1/320x400.jpeg)
I spent the first portion of my career in emergency medicine. I met a lot of incredible people and learned many valuable lessons. However, over the last several years, I have had significant experience with mental illness in that setting and have become very passionate about the importance of mental health care. Seeing people transition past their struggles into a life that is full is inspiring because it is not an easy path. My goal is to help each patient reach this path and stay accountable and aware.
I spent the first portion of my career in emergency medicine. I met a lot of incredible people and learned many valuable lessons. However, over the last several years, I have had significant experience with mental illness in that setting and have become very passionate about the importance of mental health care. Seeing people transition past their struggles into a life that is full is inspiring because it is not an easy path. My goal is to help each patient reach this path and stay accountable and aware.
![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 Lee Anne Horn, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50386460-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
See website for client application form. . . . . . . . . . I approach every interaction as a privilege and honor to be invited to a vulnerable moment in your life. I respect each individual for the life story you bring to our work together and I view my role as a partner in your care. Together we determine goals of treatment and problem solve a pathway to improved health. Please note that I do not accept insurance and fees are due at the time of service.
See website for client application form. . . . . . . . . . I approach every interaction as a privilege and honor to be invited to a vulnerable moment in your life. I respect each individual for the life story you bring to our work together and I view my role as a partner in your care. Together we determine goals of treatment and problem solve a pathway to improved health. Please note that I do not accept insurance and fees are due at the time of service.
![Photo of Tiffany Sauls - Asheville Integrative Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f75768e9-060e-4fda-ba95-cdd36485f63a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Asheville Integrative Psychiatry is an integrative mental health practice offering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, that uses nature connection as a foundation for healing. We offer a comprehensive health assessment with our psychiatrist, Dr Tiffany Sauls, to help determine root causes of existing mental and physical health challenges. We offer recommendations around diet, nutrition, supplements, stress management, exercise/movement, and medications adjustment/reduction to improve your health and well-being. If appropriate, Ketamine Assisted Therapy combined with guided nature connection is offered.
Asheville Integrative Psychiatry is an integrative mental health practice offering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, that uses nature connection as a foundation for healing. We offer a comprehensive health assessment with our psychiatrist, Dr Tiffany Sauls, to help determine root causes of existing mental and physical health challenges. We offer recommendations around diet, nutrition, supplements, stress management, exercise/movement, and medications adjustment/reduction to improve your health and well-being. If appropriate, Ketamine Assisted Therapy combined with guided nature connection is offered.
![Photo of 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.
See more therapy options for Sylva
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sylva, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sylva, 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 Sylva, NC see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sylva?
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.