Psychiatrists in 28804

Photo of Randy Steven Gergel - Randy S. Gergel, MD, P.A., MD, Psychiatrist
Randy S. Gergel, MD, P.A.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
(828) 548-4127 View (828) 548-4127
Photo of Lee Anne Horn, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lee Anne Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
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.
(828) 457-9553 View (828) 457-9553
Photo of Gretchen Danielle Barnes, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Gretchen Danielle Barnes
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
(336) 800-1983 View (336) 800-1983
Photo of Mariah Echevarria, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Mariah Echevarria
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.
Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.
(336) 444-6428 View (336) 444-6428
Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804  (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michael Alan Finch, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Alan Finch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
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.
(828) 536-4530 View (828) 536-4530
Photo of Julie Ann Chilton - Dr Julie Chilton, MD, PLLC, MD, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist
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!
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Photo of Barbara Goodman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28802
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 Josephine W Hazeley, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Josephine W Hazeley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
In the past thirteen years I've primarily focused on providing perinatal and postnatal care. As a mother myself, I can offer a unique perspective and support for each of your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to help you make the best decisions for yourself as an individual as well as your families so you can lead a fulfilling and productive life. I'm a strong advocate of therapy and medication management and provide a holistic, safe, and supportive environment for all of my clients. I offer evidence-based and personalized treatment utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication.
In the past thirteen years I've primarily focused on providing perinatal and postnatal care. As a mother myself, I can offer a unique perspective and support for each of your unique needs. My goal is to empower you to help you make the best decisions for yourself as an individual as well as your families so you can lead a fulfilling and productive life. I'm a strong advocate of therapy and medication management and provide a holistic, safe, and supportive environment for all of my clients. I offer evidence-based and personalized treatment utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication.
(919) 925-6095 View (919) 925-6095
Photo of Dr. Leia McCullough - Ataraxia Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ataraxia Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (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.
(828) 528-3686 View (828) 528-3686
Photo of Kendra Frazier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kendra Frazier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
(828) 662-9317 View (828) 662-9317
Photo of Amiee Myatt - Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
(252) 475-7735 View (252) 475-7735
Photo of Kathryn Baglini, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathryn Baglini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 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 Mackenzie Muldowney (Intake Coordinator) - The Pisgah Institute, PhD, LCMHC, Psychiatrist
The Pisgah Institute
Psychiatrist, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
The Pisgah Institute is the largest, most comprehensive behavioral health practice in Western North Carolina. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician’s assistants, doctoral-level psychologists, licensed clinical mental health counselors who address a full range of mental health conditions. We provide consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We are currently accepting new patients for in-person and virtual appointments.
The Pisgah Institute is the largest, most comprehensive behavioral health practice in Western North Carolina. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician’s assistants, doctoral-level psychologists, licensed clinical mental health counselors who address a full range of mental health conditions. We provide consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We are currently accepting new patients for in-person and virtual appointments.
(828) 414-2399 x2 View (828) 414-2399 x2
Photo of Dr. Mona Venzon Rice, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mona Venzon Rice
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
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.
(828) 600-4919 View (828) 600-4919
Photo of Daniela Marques, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Daniela Marques
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28802
Daniela Marques, a dedicated Physician Assistant, brings four years of experience in Internal Medicine to her transition into psychiatry, driven by a profound passion for prioritizing the mental wellbeing of her patients. Her previous experience has provided a foundation in addressing a broad spectrum of both physical and mental health concerns.
Daniela Marques, a dedicated Physician Assistant, brings four years of experience in Internal Medicine to her transition into psychiatry, driven by a profound passion for prioritizing the mental wellbeing of her patients. Her previous experience has provided a foundation in addressing a broad spectrum of both physical and mental health concerns.
(984) 213-5634 View (984) 213-5634
Photo of Vinny Baglini, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Vinny Baglini
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
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.
(828) 374-1635 View (828) 374-1635
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
Asheville, NC 28801  (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
Asheville, NC 28801
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 Teah Doles-Johnson, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teah Doles-Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28802
Teah Doles-Johnson is a double board certified Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners as well as the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for her undergraduate degree as well as her initial master's degree in Adult-Gerontological medicine. After 5 years of medical practice she saw an unfulfilled need within the geriatric population pertaining to psychiatry sparking her interest in obtaining a post-master's certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Teah Doles-Johnson is a double board certified Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners as well as the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for her undergraduate degree as well as her initial master's degree in Adult-Gerontological medicine. After 5 years of medical practice she saw an unfulfilled need within the geriatric population pertaining to psychiatry sparking her interest in obtaining a post-master's certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(336) 589-6034 View (336) 589-6034

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 28804

< 10

Psychiatrists in 28804 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Medication Management
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

37 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 28804 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 28804?

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.