Psychiatrists in Boone, NC
![Photo of Chris Aiken - Mood Treatment Center Clemmons & Boone, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4173a59d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mood Treatment Center Clemmons & Boone
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Psychiatric center with offices in Boone, Clemmons, Winston-Salem, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
Psychiatric center with offices in Boone, Clemmons, Winston-Salem, and Greensboro, NC. We offer counseling, medication, natural treatments, DBT, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and esketamine. When people take medications, we help them build a lifestyle to further their recovery.
![Photo of Dr. Alycia Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4fc873c-ce4b-4d45-ad5a-fff26475d7c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
WELCOME! I have over 20 years of experience in treating mental health issues, and I love it! Let’s meet and see what aspects of therapy, medications, and/or lifestyle strategies we can use to work together toward your goals. Check out my website for more details on my practice: www.abrownmd.com. I have experience in many things, but special areas of interest/additional expertise: ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, high functioning autism (formerly Asperger syndrome), LGBTQ+ populations.
WELCOME! I have over 20 years of experience in treating mental health issues, and I love it! Let’s meet and see what aspects of therapy, medications, and/or lifestyle strategies we can use to work together toward your goals. Check out my website for more details on my practice: www.abrownmd.com. I have experience in many things, but special areas of interest/additional expertise: ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, high functioning autism (formerly Asperger syndrome), LGBTQ+ populations.
![Photo of Leistey Tindall, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418aec05-1454-461e-99ee-db2f12660c5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leistey Tindall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607 (Online Only)
Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
Mind & Body Wellness is a premier Mental Health Practice headquartered in Rockingham, North Carolina. Serving all of North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and surrounding areas. We also offer telemedicine in the state of Florida. All appointments are held virtually and our focus is on your journey in building and managing a healthier you. As a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care I am compassionate about the individual needs of each patient and together we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a87da1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Our clinic provides Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across North Carolina. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
![Photo of Jonathan K Stoudmire - Center for Emotional Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/541155d6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH is conveniently located throughout North Carolina including Asheville, Boone, Concord, Charlotte, Raleigh, Statesville, Winston, and Wilmington; we also have offices in Florida.
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH is conveniently located throughout North Carolina including Asheville, Boone, Concord, Charlotte, Raleigh, Statesville, Winston, and Wilmington; we also have offices in Florida.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. De'Edda Powell, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a88fc966-5ae8-4bbb-a1b0-8570fc021936/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. De'Edda Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Hello, I am so happy you are here. My name is Dr. Powell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving North Carolina. I prided myself in providing comprehensive mental health care with a patient-centered and holistic approach to adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. I am experienced in addressing unique mental health disparities of the underrepresented populations in the African American and LGBTQ+ communities and offer treatment for a variety of mental health disorders, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, and drug, alcohol addiction and more.
Hello, I am so happy you are here. My name is Dr. Powell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving North Carolina. I prided myself in providing comprehensive mental health care with a patient-centered and holistic approach to adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. I am experienced in addressing unique mental health disparities of the underrepresented populations in the African American and LGBTQ+ communities and offer treatment for a variety of mental health disorders, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, and drug, alcohol addiction and more.
![Photo of Shannon Blankenbeckler, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/325e1947-84ec-498d-b1b6-08e6d819f23e/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Blankenbeckler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Shannon Blankenbeckler is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Shannon collaborates with her patients to improve their functioning and quality of life. With active listening, kindness, and compassion, she works with her patients to identify the issues holding them back. She helps them focus on their unique strengths, address their struggles, and set meaningful, achievable goals so they can thrive and find peace. Shannon knows that patients seek help when they’re brave enough to identify that something in their life needs to change.
Shannon Blankenbeckler is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Shannon collaborates with her patients to improve their functioning and quality of life. With active listening, kindness, and compassion, she works with her patients to identify the issues holding them back. She helps them focus on their unique strengths, address their struggles, and set meaningful, achievable goals so they can thrive and find peace. Shannon knows that patients seek help when they’re brave enough to identify that something in their life needs to change.
![Photo of Noel Treglia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2026208-afa6-483d-8651-4a37a5afec19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Noel Treglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
Hello to you! My name is Noel Treglia and I am a family nurse practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry.
Hello to you! My name is Noel Treglia and I am a family nurse practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry.
![Photo of Amanda Ward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b09c0e5-ee52-473f-9591-35de39e16af6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
![Photo of Laura Mary Foster, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/736239e2-9f97-48d6-bc6e-224d82a3bb26/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Mary Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269 (Online Only)
I am licensed in NC and VA and run an all virtual practice so I can see clients who live in these two states. I will very soon take BCBS in NC only, I take United, Aetna, Optum, Oscar, Cigna, Oxford in both states and I also take cash pay and sliding scale patients in both states. I do not take Medicaid or Medicare currently. I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of sole, successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population. I look forward to helping as best I can.
I am licensed in NC and VA and run an all virtual practice so I can see clients who live in these two states. I will very soon take BCBS in NC only, I take United, Aetna, Optum, Oscar, Cigna, Oxford in both states and I also take cash pay and sliding scale patients in both states. I do not take Medicaid or Medicare currently. I enjoy helping clients improve their day-to-day functioning with medications, brief counseling, psycho-education and holistic solutions. I have 20 years of sole, successful, clinical experience treating a diverse patient population. I look forward to helping as best I can.
![Photo of Katherine Rahenkamp, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/352cf06d-90e8-4f30-8204-3fd75865b74b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Rahenkamp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103 (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of extensive experience in healthcare, I have honed my skills across a spectrum of clinical settings, encompassing acute and maternal inpatient care, as well as outpatient care. My commitment lies in delivering comprehensive and compassionate mental health services to patients spanning all age groups, addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of extensive experience in healthcare, I have honed my skills across a spectrum of clinical settings, encompassing acute and maternal inpatient care, as well as outpatient care. My commitment lies in delivering comprehensive and compassionate mental health services to patients spanning all age groups, addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD.
![Photo of Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/020147ac-65c6-4470-82c6-46aea6824210/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Muyonga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204 (Online Only)
My name is Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
My name is Diana Muyonga, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
![Photo of Anne S. Richardson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e16afddc-1584-4311-9666-26cec9e26ed4/4/320x400.jpeg)
Most things in life are multifactorial and hence we must target our wellbeing in a variety of ways. To truly target symptoms and suffering one should explore not only medication but psychological, behavioral, and holistic approaches as well. In this small, private psychiatric practice I offer the space for intense assessment, treatment and growth. The treatment isn't hindered by modern healthcare's limitations. With easier access to your provider and extended appointment times allows for a different psychiatric experience. To be heard.
Most things in life are multifactorial and hence we must target our wellbeing in a variety of ways. To truly target symptoms and suffering one should explore not only medication but psychological, behavioral, and holistic approaches as well. In this small, private psychiatric practice I offer the space for intense assessment, treatment and growth. The treatment isn't hindered by modern healthcare's limitations. With easier access to your provider and extended appointment times allows for a different psychiatric experience. To be heard.
![Photo of Dr. Anita Jothy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/610c0e8c-4018-4cec-83a8-88ede392cd32/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
Dr. Anita Jothy has had an interest in the brain and behavior since studying psychology in college. Dr. Jothy is most passionate about teamwork. She strives for her and her patients to explore a treatment plan and set goals together.
![Photo of Rohan Matthews - Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cddb7951-5b15-4486-bde9-d7323fa0c970/2/320x400.jpeg)
Solari Mental & Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA, CRRN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
Consistent and reliable evidenced based care within the framework of strict confidentiality, commitment to solutions, empowerment, psychoeducation, and understanding. Practice approach utilizes the best combination of medication management and psychotherapy if/as indicated.
![Photo of Mariah Echevarria, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09263c41-1ebd-44b5-a582-c77fd30b91d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Urvashi Goswami, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec1f624a-b812-4030-9be0-f4b476b34534/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Urvashi Goswami chose psychiatry when she realized “whole of the body is in the mind, but the whole of the mind is not in the body.”
Dr. Urvashi Goswami chose psychiatry when she realized “whole of the body is in the mind, but the whole of the mind is not in the body.”
![Photo of Keith Logan - Mid Carolina Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c76f2fb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
We are a full service after-hours self pay adult psychiatric private practice. Our motto is that we are "the heart of psychiatry" because we strive to provide personalized care. Services include medication management and individual/group therapy modalities.
We are a full service after-hours self pay adult psychiatric private practice. Our motto is that we are "the heart of psychiatry" because we strive to provide personalized care. Services include medication management and individual/group therapy modalities.
![Photo of David Ahlberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67cbfbb0-88fe-4164-bfe3-840d2fbaf3b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving all of North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving all of North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
![Photo of Katasha Jarrin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cb0336b-da07-4b62-91c9-c5152eb816d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
Hello, I am Katasha, a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for a Mental Health Provider that is culturally understanding, and convenient to meet with? I have a profound passion for mental health care, and I have devoted my career to helping individuals regain control of their lives through personalized medication management solutions. I bring extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and tailoring treatment plans to suit each client's unique needs.
See more therapy options for Boone
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boone, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Boone, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Veterans |
80% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
21 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Boone, NC see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boone?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.