Psychiatrists in Haywood County, NC

You deserve more than symptom management — you deserve to heal and thrive.
I provide personalized, integrative care that connects the dots between your physical and mental health. Through root-cause assessment, thoughtful medication management, and therapy, I help you move beyond just “getting by” and into feeling your best. You deserve a provider who listens, takes their time, and offers real solutions — and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. I work with adults 18 and older and have additional training to serve new and expectant parents.
You deserve more than symptom management — you deserve to heal and thrive.
I provide personalized, integrative care that connects the dots between your physical and mental health. Through root-cause assessment, thoughtful medication management, and therapy, I help you move beyond just “getting by” and into feeling your best. You deserve a provider who listens, takes their time, and offers real solutions — and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. I work with adults 18 and older and have additional training to serve new and expectant parents.

Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am a dual board certified adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (less than 22 years old), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am a dual board certified adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (less than 22 years old), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.

I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
Online Psychiatrists

Melissa Di Natale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, EdD, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. She holds a BSN and MSN from Keuka College in Penn Yan, New York; a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University; an EdD from St. John Fisher College in Rochester, New York, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Lenoir-Rhyne University. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored, expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. She holds a BSN and MSN from Keuka College in Penn Yan, New York; a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University; an EdD from St. John Fisher College in Rochester, New York, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Lenoir-Rhyne University. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored, expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.

Megan Jones, MSN, PMHNP-BC earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Working as a registered nurse in the emergency department, she developed a strong interest in mental health, leading her to pursue advanced practice training in psychiatry. She received her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care through a holistic and patient-centered approach.
Megan Jones, MSN, PMHNP-BC earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Working as a registered nurse in the emergency department, she developed a strong interest in mental health, leading her to pursue advanced practice training in psychiatry. She received her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care through a holistic and patient-centered approach.

Dr. Al-Khateeb serves all of North Carolina via telemedicine through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry, a concierge psychiatric practice offering integrative treatment modalities and individualized, private psychiatric care. Dr. Al-Khateeb is currently accepting new patients for a limited time. He is a board certified general adult psychiatrist, providing medication management as well as psychotherapy in telemedicine format.
Dr. Al-Khateeb serves all of North Carolina via telemedicine through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry, a concierge psychiatric practice offering integrative treatment modalities and individualized, private psychiatric care. Dr. Al-Khateeb is currently accepting new patients for a limited time. He is a board certified general adult psychiatrist, providing medication management as well as psychotherapy in telemedicine format.

Taylor Ellis, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated mental health professional based at the Apogee Behavioral Medicine office in Greensboro, NC. With a robust background in psychiatric care and an unwavering commitment to his patients, Taylor brings experience and compassion to his role. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing with honors from UNC Chapel Hill, where he was distinguished as a Behavioral Health Integration Scholar. Before pursuing advanced practice, Taylor gained extensive experience working in a variety of psychiatric and intensive care units, honing his skills in managing complex medical and mental health conditions.
Taylor Ellis, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated mental health professional based at the Apogee Behavioral Medicine office in Greensboro, NC. With a robust background in psychiatric care and an unwavering commitment to his patients, Taylor brings experience and compassion to his role. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing with honors from UNC Chapel Hill, where he was distinguished as a Behavioral Health Integration Scholar. Before pursuing advanced practice, Taylor gained extensive experience working in a variety of psychiatric and intensive care units, honing his skills in managing complex medical and mental health conditions.

Now accepting new patients! I am a double board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Hickory, North Carolina. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School and child/adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Duke University. I typically see ages 5-35 years (I will sometimes make exceptions to this, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions). Call our office and leave a message - our staff will return your call ASAP. You are also welcome to email me. Please see my website for additional details.
Now accepting new patients! I am a double board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Hickory, North Carolina. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School and child/adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Duke University. I typically see ages 5-35 years (I will sometimes make exceptions to this, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions). Call our office and leave a message - our staff will return your call ASAP. You are also welcome to email me. Please see my website for additional details.

Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.

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.

As a dedicated mental health professional, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate and overcome the challenges that life presents. I work with clients who are dealing with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, family concerns, ADHD and more.
As a dedicated mental health professional, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate and overcome the challenges that life presents. I work with clients who are dealing with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, family concerns, ADHD and more.

Hi there and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am Beth, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes in a holistic treatment approach emphasizing the intricate connection between the mind and body. I graduated with a Master's Degree from East Tennesee State University and have worked as a psychiatric nurse and Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years. I'm from Western North Carolina, where our community experienced significant loss due to Hurricane Helene. I'm hopeful that I can offer support to those affected during this challenging time and extend help to anyone in need of additional care.
Hi there and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am Beth, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes in a holistic treatment approach emphasizing the intricate connection between the mind and body. I graduated with a Master's Degree from East Tennesee State University and have worked as a psychiatric nurse and Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years. I'm from Western North Carolina, where our community experienced significant loss due to Hurricane Helene. I'm hopeful that I can offer support to those affected during this challenging time and extend help to anyone in need of additional care.

We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
We offer Spravato intranasal esketamine and intramuscular ketamine treatment therapy to patients in western North Carolina. Our mission is to help treat major depression, PTSD, and related anxiety conditions through newly approved medications and methods in psychiatry. Spravato (esketamine) CIII Nasal Spray is indicated, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of: Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) in adults, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.

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.

“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.

Lasting Hope Mental Health & Recovery, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe there is hope for everyone. I am a christian psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide Christ centered counseling and medication management. It is my goal that patients heal and experience peace while persuing full and meaningful lives. Proverbs 23:18….. your hope will not be cut off!
I believe there is hope for everyone. I am a christian psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide Christ centered counseling and medication management. It is my goal that patients heal and experience peace while persuing full and meaningful lives. Proverbs 23:18….. your hope will not be cut off!

Accepting new clients.
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.
Accepting new clients.
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.

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.

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.

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.
See more therapy options for Haywood County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Haywood County, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Haywood County, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Haywood County, NC see their clients
67% | Online Only | |
33% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Haywood County?
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.