Psychiatrists in Union County, NC
![Photo of Luis Emilio Betancourt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f68873-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric and psychological diagnostic evaluations as well as evidenced and empirically-based psychotherapy & medication management treatment services for children, adolescents, adults and families. I have experience caring for Depressive, Bipolar, Autism spectrum, Anxiety, Substance abuse, Personality, Obsessive Compulsive, Tic, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress and psychotic disorders. I also have experience and interest in the interface between religion-spirituality and psychiatry.
I specialize in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric and psychological diagnostic evaluations as well as evidenced and empirically-based psychotherapy & medication management treatment services for children, adolescents, adults and families. I have experience caring for Depressive, Bipolar, Autism spectrum, Anxiety, Substance abuse, Personality, Obsessive Compulsive, Tic, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress and psychotic disorders. I also have experience and interest in the interface between religion-spirituality and psychiatry.
![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 Lucinda Agbewali - Gateway Charlotte Wellness, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/382a1242-d67f-429e-beb8-416e352f2ba5/1/320x400.png)
Gateway Charlotte Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, NC 28112
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to adults). Highly trained, empathetic, friendly and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancement in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental Health. Currently works at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospital. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime at their convenience. Why wait? call now for help.
Gateway Charlotte Wellness is here for the mental health needs of clients (ages 6 to adults). Highly trained, empathetic, friendly and we take our time to get to know you so we can better help you. We utilize the most recent advancement in medicine. As a provider at Gateway Charlotte Wellness, I have many years of experience in mental Health. Currently works at one of Charlotte, North Carolina's local hospital. We see clients via telehealth anywhere, anytime at their convenience. Why wait? call now for help.
![Photo of Aris Azar, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42e77c71-c737-447a-a2b5-99a41d95c0cf/8/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management to help you achieve your goals. My aim is to deliver expert care that aligns with your values and addresses your concerns by offering flexible scheduling, 7 days a week that includes weekends and evenings for your convenience. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, panic disorder and many others. I also provide a holistic approach that integrates therapy seamlessly into your sessions.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering a blend of psychotherapy and medication management to help you achieve your goals. My aim is to deliver expert care that aligns with your values and addresses your concerns by offering flexible scheduling, 7 days a week that includes weekends and evenings for your convenience. I have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, panic disorder and many others. I also provide a holistic approach that integrates therapy seamlessly into your sessions.
![Photo of David Balis Patton, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91da6f54-4e01-47b5-8380-37b76576ff33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please contact my office for appointments and prescription refills. I am co-founder of Pediatric & Family Behavioral Health, PLLC, (PFBH)- a psychiatry clinic in South Charlotte. PFBH specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. We are an evidence-based clinic that deals primarily in medication management & psychotherapy. We have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder & Psychosis.
Please contact my office for appointments and prescription refills. I am co-founder of Pediatric & Family Behavioral Health, PLLC, (PFBH)- a psychiatry clinic in South Charlotte. PFBH specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. We are an evidence-based clinic that deals primarily in medication management & psychotherapy. We have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder & Psychosis.
![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 Byron Strother, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/861bae4a-9bde-485e-a68c-efc497f8f7db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Strother graduated from Case Western Reserve medical school in Cleveland Ohio, and completed his psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He is a board-certified psychiatrist, and has been proud to practice his specialty in the US Army as an active duty physician. Dr. Strother is also an attorney who previously specialized in corporate tax law. Doc B as he is frequently called by many of his patients, enjoys both outpatient psychiatry and inpatient acute care.
Dr. Strother graduated from Case Western Reserve medical school in Cleveland Ohio, and completed his psychiatry residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He is a board-certified psychiatrist, and has been proud to practice his specialty in the US Army as an active duty physician. Dr. Strother is also an attorney who previously specialized in corporate tax law. Doc B as he is frequently called by many of his patients, enjoys both outpatient psychiatry and inpatient acute care.
![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 Nicholas Cunningham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b76bf64-04fe-4fa8-9e2e-c6d4c6ebb5a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nicholas has 10+ years of experience working in both the intensive care and the psychiatric emergency care settings. Shifting his career to focus more on medication management in the Matthews, NC area, Nicholas brings with him a vast understanding of what is needed to keep his patients active in their lives and helping ensure that the health of the patient matches their perspectives. Nicholas prides himself on the patient-provider connection and wants his patients to understand that he is a partner in their care and that the lines of communication are always open.
A Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nicholas has 10+ years of experience working in both the intensive care and the psychiatric emergency care settings. Shifting his career to focus more on medication management in the Matthews, NC area, Nicholas brings with him a vast understanding of what is needed to keep his patients active in their lives and helping ensure that the health of the patient matches their perspectives. Nicholas prides himself on the patient-provider connection and wants his patients to understand that he is a partner in their care and that the lines of communication are always open.
![Photo of Dr. Sabina Benel, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511e4b97-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sabina Benel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28104
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
![Photo of Lied Metcalf, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c84a102f-395d-47c0-b61b-5af4df5254ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I have been a nurse for 20 years and a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for two years. I received my nursing degree at NYU and my nurse practitioner degree at Frontier Nursing University. Therapy is an important part of my practice and I work to ensure patients are educated on choices and medication. I have worked with all ages but particularly like working with kids and teenagers.
Hi. I have been a nurse for 20 years and a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for two years. I received my nursing degree at NYU and my nurse practitioner degree at Frontier Nursing University. Therapy is an important part of my practice and I work to ensure patients are educated on choices and medication. I have worked with all ages but particularly like working with kids and teenagers.
15 Second Videos
Aris Azar
Lauren Smith
Lied Metcalf
Tamara A. Neely
![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
Stallings, NC 28104 (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 Dr. Tamara A. Neely, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2952eb54-a2b8-4361-8de0-f894963d0b4a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tamara A. Neely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, NC 28110 (Online Only)
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
As a medical provider, I am here to assist you by providing quality services with a unique emphasis on the mental health and well-being of the whole person with easy access to care from the comfort of your home. Our clinic focuses on health promotion, health education, mental health and counseling. We provide care in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment by taking time to listen. We are ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jamie Wiles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f8d30f-b434-46a2-a7e5-1c537c763fd5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Wiles is a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for individualized, patient-centered care. Jamie specializes in working with individuals and families in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and attention/focus issues. Jamie works best in partnering with individuals and families to provide options, education, and an open environment to share individual care needs. Experiencing a tragic loss while in Nursing School at Eastern Michigan University propelled Jamie to realize the only type of nurse she wanted to be was a Psychiatric Nurse.
Jamie Wiles is a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for individualized, patient-centered care. Jamie specializes in working with individuals and families in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and attention/focus issues. Jamie works best in partnering with individuals and families to provide options, education, and an open environment to share individual care needs. Experiencing a tragic loss while in Nursing School at Eastern Michigan University propelled Jamie to realize the only type of nurse she wanted to be was a Psychiatric Nurse.
![Photo of Your Best Life- Medication And Counseling Valerie Starr, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5db7fca5-936e-4452-9395-4a9f181e4e29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your Best Life- Medication And Counseling Valerie Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Granite Falls, NC 28630 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. I am have a non-judgemental and patient lead approach to treatments. I have worked with many patients with many different experiences. I am familiar with working with children to older adults. I work with patients that have anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, depression, autism, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, dementias. I offer online video appointments and can see anyone living in NC from their phone.
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. I am have a non-judgemental and patient lead approach to treatments. I have worked with many patients with many different experiences. I am familiar with working with children to older adults. I work with patients that have anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, depression, autism, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, dementias. I offer online video appointments and can see anyone living in NC from their phone.
![Photo of Karen Nicholson, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99b775da-2e6b-4691-8523-01fdd168169e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
Waitlist for new clients
Special interests and research lie in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, psychiatric management of women during the preconception, prenatal, and postpartum stages with an emphasis on the management of postpartum mood disorders as well as helping patients cope with infertility. I also provide gender-affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community. With my advanced certification in functional psychiatry, I am able to utilize a combination of nutraceuticals and psychopharmacology to help patients reach optimum wellness. I focus on a collaborative therapeutic environment.
Special interests and research lie in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, psychiatric management of women during the preconception, prenatal, and postpartum stages with an emphasis on the management of postpartum mood disorders as well as helping patients cope with infertility. I also provide gender-affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community. With my advanced certification in functional psychiatry, I am able to utilize a combination of nutraceuticals and psychopharmacology to help patients reach optimum wellness. I focus on a collaborative therapeutic environment.
![Photo of Carrie Hill, RN, MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a10f839d-59b7-4c25-900c-b10db55d0aad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012 (Online Only)
Hi! I am Carrie Hill, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (Advance Practice) with 8 years experience as an advanced practice provider and 16 years experience working in psychiatry. I provide assessment, diagnosis, medication management, therapy, and addiction treatment services. I work with you, on your team, and listen closely to your needs to develop an individualized treatment plan for those who need help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, binge eating disorder, and substance use disorders.
Hi! I am Carrie Hill, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (Advance Practice) with 8 years experience as an advanced practice provider and 16 years experience working in psychiatry. I provide assessment, diagnosis, medication management, therapy, and addiction treatment services. I work with you, on your team, and listen closely to your needs to develop an individualized treatment plan for those who need help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, binge eating disorder, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Jennifer Curlee, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dc2be9b-4180-48e8-a32b-35274b5ba20e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who focuses on discreet, personalized outpatient psychiatric care and medication management for individuals aged 12 and up. I treat an array of psychiatric disorders and other behavioral health concerns. I believe that individual treatment needs are unique, and that many facets are involved in the successful management of psychiatric disorders. I stay up to date with current psychiatric research and trends, and incorporate an evidence-based practice approach to patient care.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who focuses on discreet, personalized outpatient psychiatric care and medication management for individuals aged 12 and up. I treat an array of psychiatric disorders and other behavioral health concerns. I believe that individual treatment needs are unique, and that many facets are involved in the successful management of psychiatric disorders. I stay up to date with current psychiatric research and trends, and incorporate an evidence-based practice approach to patient care.
See more therapy options for Union County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Union County, NC
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Union County, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
87% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Union County, NC see their clients
87% | In Person and Online | |
13% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Union 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.