Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC
Denise Wilbanks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805 (Online Only)
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
Great to meet you! I am Denise. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in creating safe containers for patients to discover their own power and ability to heal. Working together, leveraging therapeutic exploration, empowerment, and inspiring you to understand the mind, body and spirit connection for whole health. You will discover your own truth and learn to expand yourself and your life to be the medicine and become your own hero.
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
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.
Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
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.
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia Spectrum, ADHD, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Autism, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Addiction, and Personality disorders. If you are in the Asheville area, please see me in person at Psychiatric Associates and Addiction Medicine!
Hello and Welcome to my practice. I emphasize an individualized and whole person approach to wellness and believe strongly in daily exercise, healthy diet, and mindfulness/meditation. Mindfulness and meditation come in many forms and is rapidly being recognized as essential in all areas of medicine. Although teachings about this have been around for thousands of years, only recently has this been rediscovered and it's importance recognized. If I can't provide the specific therapy that you need, I'm comfortable partnering with other qualified therapists who can.
Hello and Welcome to my practice. I emphasize an individualized and whole person approach to wellness and believe strongly in daily exercise, healthy diet, and mindfulness/meditation. Mindfulness and meditation come in many forms and is rapidly being recognized as essential in all areas of medicine. Although teachings about this have been around for thousands of years, only recently has this been rediscovered and it's importance recognized. If I can't provide the specific therapy that you need, I'm comfortable partnering with other qualified therapists who can.
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!
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.
Dr. Ami Pearse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
“As the influence behind Peace of Mind Center, PLLC, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise honed over a diverse career in healthcare. From a solid foundation built on 20 years of critical care nursing, I’ve more than 30 years of dedicated service allowing me to possess a unique perspective that informs my approach to psychiatry. My journey as a psychiatric provider has been shaped by profound understandings of the human experience, from the ICU and ER settings to complexities of mental health. This background equips me with invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of physical and mental wellness to offer holistic care.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist treating children, adolescents, adults and perinatal clients with a holistic and integrative approach. I provide compassionate patient-centered care, listen deeply, and collaborate with clients to develop personalized treatment plans. As a physician and psychotherapist, I help address the complex relationship between physical and psychological health. I specialize in teens, psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative medicine, trauma, LGBTQIA+, women's mental health and perinatal psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist treating children, adolescents, adults and perinatal clients with a holistic and integrative approach. I provide compassionate patient-centered care, listen deeply, and collaborate with clients to develop personalized treatment plans. As a physician and psychotherapist, I help address the complex relationship between physical and psychological health. I specialize in teens, psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative medicine, trauma, LGBTQIA+, women's mental health and perinatal psychiatry.
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Alexis B Ressler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the privilege of practicing for a decade in Vermont. I relocated to Western North Carolina in 2019. I have devoted myself to outpatient psychiatric and neurological practice specializing in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders in a cognitive behavioral therapy setting as well as dementia care for patients and their families. My role is primarily medication management. Also, I am a veteran Army officer who has experience providing psychiatric care to active duty serice members. My practice is 100% telehealth.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the privilege of practicing for a decade in Vermont. I relocated to Western North Carolina in 2019. I have devoted myself to outpatient psychiatric and neurological practice specializing in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders in a cognitive behavioral therapy setting as well as dementia care for patients and their families. My role is primarily medication management. Also, I am a veteran Army officer who has experience providing psychiatric care to active duty serice members. My practice is 100% telehealth.
I spent the first portion of my career in emergency medicine. I met a lot of incredible people and learned many valuable lessons. However, over the last several years, I have had significant experience with mental illness in that setting and have become very passionate about the importance of mental health care. Seeing people transition past their struggles into a life that is full is inspiring because it is not an easy path. My goal is to help each patient reach this path and stay accountable and aware.
I spent the first portion of my career in emergency medicine. I met a lot of incredible people and learned many valuable lessons. However, over the last several years, I have had significant experience with mental illness in that setting and have become very passionate about the importance of mental health care. Seeing people transition past their struggles into a life that is full is inspiring because it is not an easy path. My goal is to help each patient reach this path and stay accountable and aware.
Anne Fulbright
Physician Assistant, MA, MMS, PA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Not accepting new clients
If you would like to approach problems without dependency/victemhood and can imagine that you can find a new helpful perspective in each disappointment , & that you are powerful enough to find optimism through challenges with support, guidance & insight, contact me. If you have a smartphone you can do teletherapy. People do best when they are curious about furthering their own understanding of themselves, and are interested in being challenged about their perceptions. The foundations of treatment success are compassion, trust and support, which allow for the development of skills and insights as well as improved self care/health.
If you would like to approach problems without dependency/victemhood and can imagine that you can find a new helpful perspective in each disappointment , & that you are powerful enough to find optimism through challenges with support, guidance & insight, contact me. If you have a smartphone you can do teletherapy. People do best when they are curious about furthering their own understanding of themselves, and are interested in being challenged about their perceptions. The foundations of treatment success are compassion, trust and support, which allow for the development of skills and insights as well as improved self care/health.
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
Mountain Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Not accepting new clients
I'm a nurse practitioner, psychiatric specialist with more than 20 years of experience, providing compassionate mental health care for residents of NC. At your first appointment we will explore your life's journey and evaluate any previous treatment response, then medication is prescribed or adjusted, and a plan of action is made through collaboration. My philosophy for prescribing medication incorporates evidence-based science and wellness. We keep in touch in between appointments with a medical app giving you the best opportunity for successful and sustained wellness.
I'm a nurse practitioner, psychiatric specialist with more than 20 years of experience, providing compassionate mental health care for residents of NC. At your first appointment we will explore your life's journey and evaluate any previous treatment response, then medication is prescribed or adjusted, and a plan of action is made through collaboration. My philosophy for prescribing medication incorporates evidence-based science and wellness. We keep in touch in between appointments with a medical app giving you the best opportunity for successful and sustained wellness.
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina, Florida, and Washington! Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs. She provides trauma informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming care.
Now accepting new patients throughout North Carolina, Florida, and Washington! Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs. She provides trauma informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming care.
Life can be difficult for everyone, don't suffer alone. I am dedicated to helping people overcome suffering, experience healing and achieve lasting change through compassionate, individualized care. Dr Bierrenbach is a board certified Psychiatrist and has been practicing Psychiatry for over 20 years.
Life can be difficult for everyone, don't suffer alone. I am dedicated to helping people overcome suffering, experience healing and achieve lasting change through compassionate, individualized care. Dr Bierrenbach is a board certified Psychiatrist and has been practicing Psychiatry for over 20 years.
Lisa J Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
Maria MacDougall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
See more therapy options for Asheville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC
40+
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
82% | ADHD |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Medication Management |
63% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Asheville?
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.