Psychiatrists in Wadesboro, NC
![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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Sergio Badel, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef9ccfe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I specialize in medical treatment and psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, anger issues, self-esteem issues, challenges with emotional intimacy, problems coping with stress, and obsessions. These symptoms often present themselves when individuals describe feeling "stuck" in their lives. They may have difficulties avoiding repetitive and unhealthy patterns that cause emotional turmoil and distress. I have found it is most therapeutic and cost-effective to provide psychotherapy combined with medication management (when appropriate).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I specialize in medical treatment and psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, anger issues, self-esteem issues, challenges with emotional intimacy, problems coping with stress, and obsessions. These symptoms often present themselves when individuals describe feeling "stuck" in their lives. They may have difficulties avoiding repetitive and unhealthy patterns that cause emotional turmoil and distress. I have found it is most therapeutic and cost-effective to provide psychotherapy combined with medication management (when appropriate).
![Photo of Stephanie Lastra - Eclipse Mental Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d316057-a063-45f1-9de5-5d2fc237b90f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eclipse Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (Online Only)
My goal is to bring personalized and understanding mental health care to those struggling with issues related to stress, depression, adhd, and more.
My goal is to bring personalized and understanding mental health care to those struggling with issues related to stress, depression, adhd, and more.
![Photo of Katherine Rahenkamp, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/352cf06d-90e8-4f30-8204-3fd75865b74b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Rahenkamp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103 (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of extensive experience in healthcare, I have honed my skills across a spectrum of clinical settings, encompassing acute and maternal inpatient care, as well as outpatient care. My commitment lies in delivering comprehensive and compassionate mental health services to patients spanning all age groups, addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of extensive experience in healthcare, I have honed my skills across a spectrum of clinical settings, encompassing acute and maternal inpatient care, as well as outpatient care. My commitment lies in delivering comprehensive and compassionate mental health services to patients spanning all age groups, addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD.
![Photo of Novlett Campbell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4986f0e-0244-40f0-b5bc-11528ed777d2/1/320x400.png)
Novlett Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205 (Online Only)
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
My name is Novlett Campbell. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2014. I meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their difficulties. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I will meet the patients where they are as I try to assist them through their mental health issues. Listen and find out what their goals are. Allow the person to be involved in the process.
![Photo of Erin Mahoney, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9afb571-df2e-49db-beaf-ff07f105c056/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin is a Cary/Raleigh native and is passionate about giving back to her local health care community. She treats patients 5-years-old to 64-years-old suffering from anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and ODD.
Erin is a Cary/Raleigh native and is passionate about giving back to her local health care community. She treats patients 5-years-old to 64-years-old suffering from anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and ODD.
![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 Angela Carter, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df3b67c-7ea3-4a74-bc11-bce6dbed1e58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Carter
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Angela Carter, your dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and the proud owner of Covenant Family Care. My passion for nurturing health and well-being has driven me to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that caters to individuals and families at every stage of life.
Hello! I'm Angela Carter, your dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and the proud owner of Covenant Family Care. My passion for nurturing health and well-being has driven me to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that caters to individuals and families at every stage of life.
![Photo of Jacqueline Wait, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c41c981b-badf-4360-bed4-02c13998c801/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Wait
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Jackson Springs, NC 27281 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
![Photo of Shanna Mago, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e431883-42a8-4435-9c1c-0840db8eee37/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shanna Mago
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Shanna Mago is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a total of ten years of experience including four years in an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she was the lead medical provider. This experience led her to pursue her post-master's psychiatric mental health education from Maryville University of St. Louis. She works with children and adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and various other mental health concerns. She is committed to providing compassionate care that focuses on therapeutic rapport while following evidence-base guidelines.
Shanna Mago is dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a total of ten years of experience including four years in an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she was the lead medical provider. This experience led her to pursue her post-master's psychiatric mental health education from Maryville University of St. Louis. She works with children and adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and various other mental health concerns. She is committed to providing compassionate care that focuses on therapeutic rapport while following evidence-base guidelines.
![Photo of Ana Carla Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7db6ff93-8434-4b04-88e4-dff2efde5abf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a friendly, open-minded and nurturing psychiatrist, who has been board certified in General Psychiatry, Child Psychiatry and Adolescent Psychiatry for 10+ years. I enjoy learning about my patients and believe that the doctor/patient relationship is a partnership—you are an integral member of your treatment team.
I am a friendly, open-minded and nurturing psychiatrist, who has been board certified in General Psychiatry, Child Psychiatry and Adolescent Psychiatry for 10+ years. I enjoy learning about my patients and believe that the doctor/patient relationship is a partnership—you are an integral member of your treatment team.
![Photo of Tifane Chambers - Fresh Start Family Behavioral Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e715985-1c0e-42eb-b28a-baff5ed7afe1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fresh Start Family Behavioral Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326 (Online Only)
She aims to aid people in embracing their complete selves by utilizing the cognitive-behavioral, biopsychosocial, and wellness models and Christian principles upon request to accomplish the mission.
She aims to aid people in embracing their complete selves by utilizing the cognitive-behavioral, biopsychosocial, and wellness models and Christian principles upon request to accomplish the mission.
![Photo of Victoria Hills, PAC, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2d9f939-7159-4cf8-8386-f2e1cfa846b0/1/320x400.png)
Victoria believes that mental health is the utmost priority in a patient’s overall wellbeing. She recognizes that therapeutic plans require patience and, at times, trial-and-error until the best treatment for the patient is achieved. Victoria is prepared to work and guide patients through the process of attaining the therapeutic regimen they find the best fit for themselves.
Victoria believes that mental health is the utmost priority in a patient’s overall wellbeing. She recognizes that therapeutic plans require patience and, at times, trial-and-error until the best treatment for the patient is achieved. Victoria is prepared to work and guide patients through the process of attaining the therapeutic regimen they find the best fit for themselves.
![Photo of Rex Moody, MD, DLFAPA, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c794d9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work to understand with you your experience - in the here and now. Through your self-observations, I work to understand with you how your experience affects your current life- your work, your relationships and your play. I work to understand with you how what you go through has developed. Through greater self-understanding, we work to change what you want to change.
I work to understand with you your experience - in the here and now. Through your self-observations, I work to understand with you how your experience affects your current life- your work, your relationships and your play. I work to understand with you how what you go through has developed. Through greater self-understanding, we work to change what you want to change.
![Photo of Alina Lis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73f22a2e-de23-4898-ac34-94f6f3a0b22b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Lis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301 (Online Only)
Alina Lis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience working as a nurse, with the majority of that time spent in inpatient medical oncology/hospice and substance abuse treatment. Alina earned her Master of Science degree from Walden University after receiving an undergraduate nursing degree from Rasmussen College.
Alina Lis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience working as a nurse, with the majority of that time spent in inpatient medical oncology/hospice and substance abuse treatment. Alina earned her Master of Science degree from Walden University after receiving an undergraduate nursing degree from Rasmussen College.
![Photo of Maddison Olinger Henley, MMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c3998db-60a5-4283-ae91-5aadecbc773a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maddison Olinger Henley
Physician Assistant, MMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
I remain committed to promoting mental health awareness and combating the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. Through community outreach and education, I aspire to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of mental health. With a blend of compassion and expertise, I am eager to facilitate meaningful improvements in the lives of my patients, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.
I remain committed to promoting mental health awareness and combating the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. Through community outreach and education, I aspire to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of mental health. With a blend of compassion and expertise, I am eager to facilitate meaningful improvements in the lives of my patients, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all.
![Photo of Jennifer Carner, PHHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38f75f06-ddd8-4af0-80cd-cecf5ca99cd3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
![Photo of Craig Chepke, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/351ea6a5-edda-42f5-bee2-306adfc7db5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults and the aging population in all diagnostic categories, but have special interests in movement disorders (Tardive Dyskinesia, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, etc.), neuropsychiatric conditions, and treatment-resistant/severe-persistent mental illness.
I work with adults and the aging population in all diagnostic categories, but have special interests in movement disorders (Tardive Dyskinesia, Parkinson’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, etc.), neuropsychiatric conditions, and treatment-resistant/severe-persistent mental illness.
![Photo of Jill Overman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ab60955-6319-4f67-a57f-b4926073b53a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill believes true progress lies in the well-being of the patient.
Jill believes true progress lies in the well-being of the patient.
![Photo of Jean Jubert, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c9c7a4-642d-47ed-be88-95d3f4e6a713/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jubert is a board-certified staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He has been practicing for 5 years. Dr. Jubert's practice focuses predominately on medication management, often in conjunction with supportive therapy, during 30-minute follow-up visits. He approaches medicine holistically with an emphasis on understanding how a patient’s socioeconomic status, spirituality, social connection and physical health affect their overall mental health and well-being. Dr. Jubert received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA.
Dr. Jubert is a board-certified staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He has been practicing for 5 years. Dr. Jubert's practice focuses predominately on medication management, often in conjunction with supportive therapy, during 30-minute follow-up visits. He approaches medicine holistically with an emphasis on understanding how a patient’s socioeconomic status, spirituality, social connection and physical health affect their overall mental health and well-being. Dr. Jubert received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Wadesboro, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Wadesboro, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Autism |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Dementia |
100% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Wadesboro, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Wadesboro?
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.