Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC

Photo of Dr. Ami Pearse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
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.
(828) 977-6046 View (828) 977-6046
Photo of Lisa J Ryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH NP
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 Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard), Physician Assistant, CAQ-PSY
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 Vinny Baglini, Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Vinny Baglini
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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 Denise Wilbanks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA
Denise Wilbanks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA
Verified Verified
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.
(828) 383-9402 View (828) 383-9402
Photo of Dr. Eric Emery, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Eric Emery
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Dr. Eric Emery takes a holistic approach to mental health care, integrating medication management and lifestyle changes to promote lasting well-being. Dr. Emery prioritizes understanding each individual’s unique background, experiences, and goals, tailoring treatment plans to support long-term success. Believing in a collaborative approach, Dr. Emery works closely with his patients to build a safe and trusting environment, empowering them to actively engage in their treatment journey. He stays current with the latest advancements in psychiatric research to ensure the highest standard of care.
Dr. Eric Emery takes a holistic approach to mental health care, integrating medication management and lifestyle changes to promote lasting well-being. Dr. Emery prioritizes understanding each individual’s unique background, experiences, and goals, tailoring treatment plans to support long-term success. Believing in a collaborative approach, Dr. Emery works closely with his patients to build a safe and trusting environment, empowering them to actively engage in their treatment journey. He stays current with the latest advancements in psychiatric research to ensure the highest standard of care.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Thabit Al-Khateeb, Psychiatrist, MD
Thabit Al-Khateeb
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
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.
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Photo of James Brooke Furrh, Psychiatrist, MD
James Brooke Furrh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805
I am an experienced local psychiatrist working with clients anywhere in North Carolina in a small, client-centered telehealth practice. I am seeking to connect with clients who are searching for a higher quality of care than we generally receive in the traditional "medical model". This may a working professional looking for a flexible, high-quality approach to treatment or a long-term patient tired of the limitations of the 10-minute med check. Unique features of this practice: individualized treatment; night/weekend appointments; in-home appointments; and a modern EMR software for convenient communication and telehealth.
I am an experienced local psychiatrist working with clients anywhere in North Carolina in a small, client-centered telehealth practice. I am seeking to connect with clients who are searching for a higher quality of care than we generally receive in the traditional "medical model". This may a working professional looking for a flexible, high-quality approach to treatment or a long-term patient tired of the limitations of the 10-minute med check. Unique features of this practice: individualized treatment; night/weekend appointments; in-home appointments; and a modern EMR software for convenient communication and telehealth.
(828) 799-9526 View (828) 799-9526
Photo of Celeste Lipkes, Psychiatrist, MD
Celeste Lipkes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who provides kind, clear, and evidence-based medication management and psychodynamic psychotherapy for adults under 65 with mood, anxiety, thinking, and memory difficulties. I additionally enjoy working with people navigating chronic or terminal medical illness and grief/bereavement. No matter your needs, we will approach your suffering with non-judgmental curiosity and work towards a fuller and more connected life.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who provides kind, clear, and evidence-based medication management and psychodynamic psychotherapy for adults under 65 with mood, anxiety, thinking, and memory difficulties. I additionally enjoy working with people navigating chronic or terminal medical illness and grief/bereavement. No matter your needs, we will approach your suffering with non-judgmental curiosity and work towards a fuller and more connected life.
(828) 360-8626 View (828) 360-8626
James Bayard Payton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have helped many people of all ages who frequently feel anxious, worry about the future, doubt themselves and react to what people say to them. They have had difficult things happen to them that they might minimize the importance of but that have led to significant levels of stress with frequent and automatic stress responses that are very hard to stop from happening. I also have helped many people who are depressed and have had treatment and yet they still are depressed. I have helped others who have lived for years with treatable stresses but have not had their stress reactions accurately assessed and treated.
I have helped many people of all ages who frequently feel anxious, worry about the future, doubt themselves and react to what people say to them. They have had difficult things happen to them that they might minimize the importance of but that have led to significant levels of stress with frequent and automatic stress responses that are very hard to stop from happening. I also have helped many people who are depressed and have had treatment and yet they still are depressed. I have helped others who have lived for years with treatable stresses but have not had their stress reactions accurately assessed and treated.
(828) 672-6012 View (828) 672-6012
Photo of Jason Fredericks, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Jason Fredericks
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
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 Tabatha Jones - Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
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 Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(828) 575-0687 View (828) 575-0687
Photo of Kendra Frazier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kendra Frazier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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 Rachel Wexler - Rachel Wexler founder of Roots of Hope, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Rachel Wexler founder of Roots of Hope, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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) 826-2318 View (828) 826-2318
Photo of Maria MacDougall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
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.
(828) 332-5291 View (828) 332-5291
Photo of John Charles Webb, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
John Charles Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
Anxiety, depression, and attention problems interfere with our ability to function at home, school, or work, not to mention how they diminish our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Children, teenagers, and adults can struggle with these issues, families experience significant stress trying to cope, and relationships can falter. Do not lose hope - help is available. With the proper combination of medication management and supportive counseling, significant improvements can be achieved in how we feel, think, and behave such as mood regulation, attention/concentration, sleep, behavior, and decreased anxiety.
(828) 540-6015 View (828) 540-6015
Photo of Marisa Anne Isbell - River of Hope Behavioral Health, Physician Assistant
River of Hope Behavioral Health
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center is a mental health clinic for the community that is passionate about providing high quality, evidence based mental health and substance use treatment to people regardless of income, insurance status, race, ethnicity, or gender.
River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center is a mental health clinic for the community that is passionate about providing high quality, evidence based mental health and substance use treatment to people regardless of income, insurance status, race, ethnicity, or gender.
(828) 795-2266 x1 View (828) 795-2266 x1
Photo of Heather Strauss, Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients ages 15 and up throughout NC & FL! - - - Hi, I'm Heather! I’m a psychiatric PA with over a decade of clinical experience, providing virtual psychiatry services and medication management with a collaborative, whole-person approach. I firmly believe mental and physical health are interconnected. While medications can be helpful, we often need more to truly thrive. That’s why I incorporate lifestyle interventions like nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management into treatment plans, while also encouraging therapy as part of comprehensive care.
Currently accepting new patients ages 15 and up throughout NC & FL! - - - Hi, I'm Heather! I’m a psychiatric PA with over a decade of clinical experience, providing virtual psychiatry services and medication management with a collaborative, whole-person approach. I firmly believe mental and physical health are interconnected. While medications can be helpful, we often need more to truly thrive. That’s why I incorporate lifestyle interventions like nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management into treatment plans, while also encouraging therapy as part of comprehensive care.
(828) 235-4000 View (828) 235-4000
Photo of Dr. Bess Matlock, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bess Matlock
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
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
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC

60+

Average cost per session

$185

Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
87% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
82% ADHD
78% Medication Management
73% Bipolar Disorder
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
91% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Asheville, NC see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% 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.

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.