Psychiatrists in Waynesville, NC
![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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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 Dr. Leia McCullough - Ataraxia Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2f9c84a-860d-4ea9-b3f1-3c74a8fca105/1/320x400.png)
Ataraxia Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (Online Only)
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle. I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with personalized care and responsible use of medication.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Leandra Davidson, MBA, MSN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/160ce4af-1c09-46ec-90af-8cf2f81a7730/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leandra Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655 (Online Only)
Text or call 919-535-9342 or go to the website and click on Request Services. Appointments are Available! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of North Carolina and DC. I have been a part of the military community for over 20 years. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Is your child struggling with sadness, anxiety, or poor concentration? Has your mood and behavior affected your personal or professional relationships? Has a traumatic event changed your life, and now you don't even know who you are?
Text or call 919-535-9342 or go to the website and click on Request Services. Appointments are Available! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of North Carolina and DC. I have been a part of the military community for over 20 years. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Is your child struggling with sadness, anxiety, or poor concentration? Has your mood and behavior affected your personal or professional relationships? Has a traumatic event changed your life, and now you don't even know who you are?
![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 Phyllis Armstead Baez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d03bbbe-69fc-4442-b8cf-3d13614b75a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I am originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where I completed both medical school and a psychiatric residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. I am adept at treating patients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings, including those with the most severe and persistent mental illnesses. I am committed to making quality mental health treatment convenient and accessible to all, especially to those in the rural and underserved areas and therefore focus on virtual med management. I do offer in-person visits when clinically indicated.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I am originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where I completed both medical school and a psychiatric residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. I am adept at treating patients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings, including those with the most severe and persistent mental illnesses. I am committed to making quality mental health treatment convenient and accessible to all, especially to those in the rural and underserved areas and therefore focus on virtual med management. I do offer in-person visits when clinically indicated.
![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 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 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: Contact us for same day or next day appointments! - - - 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.
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina, Florida, and Washington: Contact us for same day or next day appointments! - - - 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.
![Photo of Tabatha Jones - Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2401ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of 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 Rhonda Cartee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5d9cd11-9128-4000-8cee-fb7d2a62c435/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.
![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 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 John Charles Webb, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20b8f4b4-bbe7-4d3e-9f42-b25b3c3ffaf6/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Charles Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems all can interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems all can interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
![Photo of Kimberly Floyd, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57dc6d8c-fb1d-4063-9371-d17a0a22c901/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791 (Online Only)
Kimberly Floyd is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who utilizes evidence-based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in a compassionate and whole-person approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health concerns. Kimberly has worked with adults and older adult clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Kimberly Floyd is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who utilizes evidence-based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in a compassionate and whole-person approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health concerns. Kimberly has worked with adults and older adult clients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
![Photo of June Smith-Hartness, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5f8399-c6bc-4e71-83eb-c60d4c3220f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been practicing as a physician assistant in mental health for nearly 10 years. I treat all ages. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other disorders. We have a great therapy staff here at CTS and I collaborate with the therapists often to see that all patients' mental health issues can be addressed.
I have been practicing as a physician assistant in mental health for nearly 10 years. I treat all ages. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other disorders. We have a great therapy staff here at CTS and I collaborate with the therapists often to see that all patients' mental health issues can be addressed.
![Photo of Barbara Goodman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/081c939f-d7ee-4af4-8f02-11128a579d83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC. She has 26 years of psychiatric nursing experience working in various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric facilities. She earned her MSN at Walden University Minneapolis, MN. She has experience working with patients with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, autism, and ADHD. Barbara is passionate about providing compassionate care and support for sexual and gender minorities.
Barbara graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC. She has 26 years of psychiatric nursing experience working in various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric facilities. She earned her MSN at Walden University Minneapolis, MN. She has experience working with patients with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, autism, and ADHD. Barbara is passionate about providing compassionate care and support for sexual and gender minorities.
![Photo of Rebekah MacNair, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1b5412c-07f4-4d4b-a938-893f588d5252/2/320x400.png)
Rebekah MacNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
I'm excited to announce that I am currently welcoming new clients aged 18 and over! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatry, I am passionate about supporting mental health in all its forms. My specialized training in perinatal mental health and eating disorders, along with comprehensive psychotherapy and pharmacology training through PSI, equips me to provide the best care possible. Your well-being is my priority, and I want you to feel supported and understood.
![Photo of Leistey Tindall, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418aec05-1454-461e-99ee-db2f12660c5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leistey Tindall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607 (Online Only)
Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
See more therapy options for Waynesville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Waynesville, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Waynesville, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Autism |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Waynesville, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Waynesville?
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.