Psychiatrists in 28739

Photo of Haley Moon - New Moon Psychiatry, PLLC, BA, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Moon Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We are now accepting new clients! Please visit our website to schedule a required free phone consult. Our office space is shared and New Moon Psychiatry staff are not always on site. Please do not visit the office location unless you have a confirmed in person appointment. Thank you for your understanding!
We are now accepting new clients! Please visit our website to schedule a required free phone consult. Our office space is shared and New Moon Psychiatry staff are not always on site. Please do not visit the office location unless you have a confirmed in person appointment. Thank you for your understanding!
(828) 888-9306 View (828) 888-9306
Photo of Thabit Al-Khateeb, MD, Psychiatrist
Thabit Al-Khateeb
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry is a concierge psychiatric practice offering integrative treatment modalities, Ketamine treatment, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and individualized, private psychiatric care in office or home-based settings. Our outpatient Psychiatry practice has recently added Dr. Al-Khateeb, and we are now accepting new patients for a limited time. Dr. Al-Khateeb is a board certified general adult psychiatrist, providing medication management as well as psychotherapy in office based or telemedicine formats.
Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry is a concierge psychiatric practice offering integrative treatment modalities, Ketamine treatment, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and individualized, private psychiatric care in office or home-based settings. Our outpatient Psychiatry practice has recently added Dr. Al-Khateeb, and we are now accepting new patients for a limited time. Dr. Al-Khateeb is a board certified general adult psychiatrist, providing medication management as well as psychotherapy in office based or telemedicine formats.
(828) 268-3320 View (828) 268-3320
Photo of Jason Fredericks, PA-C, MPH, Physician Assistant
Jason Fredericks
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(828) 274-1415 View (828) 274-1415
Photo of Regina Whisnant-Roper - Lasting Hope Mental Health & Recovery, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lasting Hope Mental Health & Recovery, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe there is hope for everyone. I am a christian psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide Christ centered counseling and medication management. It is my goal that patients heal and experience peace while persuing full and meaningful lives. Proverbs 23:18….. your hope will not be cut off!
I believe there is hope for everyone. I am a christian psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide Christ centered counseling and medication management. It is my goal that patients heal and experience peace while persuing full and meaningful lives. Proverbs 23:18….. your hope will not be cut off!
(828) 656-5148 View (828) 656-5148
Photo of Dr. Bess Matlock, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bess Matlock
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(828) 998-0800 View (828) 998-0800

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Barbara Goodman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
My name is Barbara Goodman and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a mother of five, ages 22, 20, 18, and 10 year old twins. All of my children have ADHD and three of them also are autistic.  I  am passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and adults, single moms, mothers of multiples, parents of intellectually advanced children, and parents of children on the spectrum . I earned my BSN in 1997 and my MSN in 2022.  I provide medication management, CBT,  and solution focused therapy .  I see kids ages 5 and up.  I provide fidgets and dye free lollipops for my clients.
(336) 800-1704 View (336) 800-1704
Photo of Brittany Vasquez, MD, Psychiatrist
Brittany Vasquez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
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.
(828) 471-9272 View (828) 471-9272
Photo of Anthony A Frasca - Zen Psychiatric Services, PLLC, MD, MSPH, Psychiatrist
Zen Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MSPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arden, NC 28704
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
(828) 383-8814 View (828) 383-8814
Photo of Kathryn Baglini, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathryn Baglini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Hi! My name is Kathryn, but I go by Kat. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My career began in emergency medicine, where I saw firsthand the challenges patients face when struggling with mental health & substance use. After ten years in the ER, I was ready to change how I could help people, which led me here.
Hi! My name is Kathryn, but I go by Kat. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My career began in emergency medicine, where I saw firsthand the challenges patients face when struggling with mental health & substance use. After ten years in the ER, I was ready to change how I could help people, which led me here.
(828) 475-8336 View (828) 475-8336
Photo of Megan Cavanaugh, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Megan Cavanaugh
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
My name is Megan Cavanaugh, and I am a certified physician assistant. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in public health from UNCW and a master’s degree in physician assistant studies from GWU. Since 2018, I have been a licensed EMT, consistently maintaining my certification and demonstrating a commitment to providing quality care. Before PA school, I gained invaluable experience while working at a substance use and behavioral health center, where I engaged with individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges, further honing my ability to deliver comprehensive care.
My name is Megan Cavanaugh, and I am a certified physician assistant. I obtained a bachelor’s degree in public health from UNCW and a master’s degree in physician assistant studies from GWU. Since 2018, I have been a licensed EMT, consistently maintaining my certification and demonstrating a commitment to providing quality care. Before PA school, I gained invaluable experience while working at a substance use and behavioral health center, where I engaged with individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges, further honing my ability to deliver comprehensive care.
(336) 518-6902 View (336) 518-6902
Photo of Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard), CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant
Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard)
Physician Assistant, CAQ-PSY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Feeling scattered, anxious, or just not like yourself? You’re not alone, even if it feels that way. I offer support through medication management, supportive talk therapy, and integrative recommendations. I specialize in helping women, men, and the elderly, ages 18 and up, blending spiritual guidance with professional care to support your mental health.
Feeling scattered, anxious, or just not like yourself? You’re not alone, even if it feels that way. I offer support through medication management, supportive talk therapy, and integrative recommendations. I specialize in helping women, men, and the elderly, ages 18 and up, blending spiritual guidance with professional care to support your mental health.
(828) 525-9815 View (828) 525-9815
Photo of Rhonda Cartee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhonda Cartee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tryon, NC 28782
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.
(828) 944-8651 View (828) 944-8651
Photo of Ricardo Bierrenbach - Ricardo Bierrenbach Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Ricardo Bierrenbach Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
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.
(828) 372-5744 View (828) 372-5744
Photo of Rachel Wexler, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Wexler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ever feel like you are just barely getting by, drowning in all the to-do's. Feeling like you are just not good enough, will you ever get there? As a society, we have been exceptional at ensuring perfection is the only way to be happy. But who says? Who gets to dictate what perfection is? This is your life. We will all have struggles, loss, grief in our lives, but there are people who care. Depression, anxiety, trauma touches everyone in some way. You deserve to be heard. I strive to listen, hear you, and work together to find your way back to your best life. There is always hope, sometimes you just need help to find it.
Ever feel like you are just barely getting by, drowning in all the to-do's. Feeling like you are just not good enough, will you ever get there? As a society, we have been exceptional at ensuring perfection is the only way to be happy. But who says? Who gets to dictate what perfection is? This is your life. We will all have struggles, loss, grief in our lives, but there are people who care. Depression, anxiety, trauma touches everyone in some way. You deserve to be heard. I strive to listen, hear you, and work together to find your way back to your best life. There is always hope, sometimes you just need help to find it.
(828) 206-6018 View (828) 206-6018
Photo of Lisa J Ryan, MSN, APRN, PMH NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa J Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
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Photo of Tiffany Sauls - Asheville Integrative Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Asheville Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Candler, NC 28715
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.
(828) 332-5688 View (828) 332-5688
Photo of Byeolah Henson, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Byeolah Henson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Byeolah Henson PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from University of South Florida. Prior to PA school, she received a B.S in Biology from the University of Florida. Byeolah is experienced in treating patients with a variety of behavioral health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, substance abuse, and more. She is fluent in English and Korean, both of which play a important role in her day to day clinical work.
Byeolah Henson PA-C, graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from University of South Florida. Prior to PA school, she received a B.S in Biology from the University of Florida. Byeolah is experienced in treating patients with a variety of behavioral health issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, substance abuse, and more. She is fluent in English and Korean, both of which play a important role in her day to day clinical work.
(336) 933-6802 View (336) 933-6802
Photo of Tabatha Jones - Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(828) 412-3330 View (828) 412-3330
Photo of Cristian Skinner, DO, PhD, Psychiatrist
Cristian Skinner
Psychiatrist, DO, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Dr. Cristian Skinner (he/him) is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He was born and raised in Eastern North Carolina, graduated from East Carolina University, and earned his PhD in Neurobiology and Anatomy from Wake Forest University. He obtained his medical degree from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at West Virginia University School of Medicine.
Dr. Cristian Skinner (he/him) is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He was born and raised in Eastern North Carolina, graduated from East Carolina University, and earned his PhD in Neurobiology and Anatomy from Wake Forest University. He obtained his medical degree from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at West Virginia University School of Medicine.
(984) 223-8159 View (984) 223-8159
Photo of Heather Strauss, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients throughout NC & FL! - - - As a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience, I am dedicated to shared decision-making when it comes to medication treatment, empowering you to take control of your mental health journey while I provide guidance based on years of expertise. I am a strong advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
Currently accepting new patients throughout NC & FL! - - - As a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience, I am dedicated to shared decision-making when it comes to medication treatment, empowering you to take control of your mental health journey while I provide guidance based on years of expertise. I am a strong advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs.
(828) 235-4000 View (828) 235-4000

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28739

< 10

Psychiatrists in 28739 who prioritize treating:

60% Depression
60% ADHD
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Women's Issues
40% Anxiety
40% Other
40% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 28739 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28739?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.