Psychiatrists in Lincolnton, NC
![Photo of Taquita Milner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26fb8c95-7815-4006-bd89-8093a48efee4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taquita is a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health in the state of North Carolina and Georgia. She graduated from South University in Savannah, GA with her family medicine studies and from Maryville University in St. Louis, MI with her psychiatric study. Taquita has over 12 years of emergency/trauma experience, which has helped with responding to urgent treatment, severe medical conditions, and crisis stabilization. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages. Taquita is an advocate for innovations in healthcare and suicide prevention.
Taquita is a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health in the state of North Carolina and Georgia. She graduated from South University in Savannah, GA with her family medicine studies and from Maryville University in St. Louis, MI with her psychiatric study. Taquita has over 12 years of emergency/trauma experience, which has helped with responding to urgent treatment, severe medical conditions, and crisis stabilization. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages. Taquita is an advocate for innovations in healthcare and suicide prevention.
![Photo of Robert Bauer, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1c6d675-0a7a-41b1-b85c-dad0767db239/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bauer practices General Adult Psychiatry. His undergraduate degree, as well as his medical degree, were completed at Michigan State University. After obtaining his medical degree, he completed a four-year residency in Psychiatry with Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. During his last year of residency he was the Chief Resident of Psychiatry at Henry Ford Health System. After graduating residency, Dr. Bauer began his employment with Henry Ford Health System at their inpatient psychiatric facility, Kingswood Hospital.
Dr. Bauer practices General Adult Psychiatry. His undergraduate degree, as well as his medical degree, were completed at Michigan State University. After obtaining his medical degree, he completed a four-year residency in Psychiatry with Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. During his last year of residency he was the Chief Resident of Psychiatry at Henry Ford Health System. After graduating residency, Dr. Bauer began his employment with Henry Ford Health System at their inpatient psychiatric facility, Kingswood Hospital.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Teah Doles-Johnson, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3365d3-00f4-4320-bdad-6b662e520a35/1/320x400.png)
Teah Doles-Johnson is a double board certified Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners as well as the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for her undergraduate degree as well as her initial master's degree in Adult-Gerontological medicine. After 5 years of medical practice she saw an unfulfilled need within the geriatric population pertaining to psychiatry sparking her interest in obtaining a post-master's certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Teah Doles-Johnson is a double board certified Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners as well as the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for her undergraduate degree as well as her initial master's degree in Adult-Gerontological medicine. After 5 years of medical practice she saw an unfulfilled need within the geriatric population pertaining to psychiatry sparking her interest in obtaining a post-master's certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Jennifer Curlee, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dc2be9b-4180-48e8-a32b-35274b5ba20e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who focuses on discreet, personalized outpatient psychiatric care and medication management for individuals aged 12 and up. I treat an array of psychiatric disorders and other behavioral health concerns. I believe that individual treatment needs are unique, and that many facets are involved in the successful management of psychiatric disorders. I stay up to date with current psychiatric research and trends, and incorporate an evidence-based practice approach to patient care.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who focuses on discreet, personalized outpatient psychiatric care and medication management for individuals aged 12 and up. I treat an array of psychiatric disorders and other behavioral health concerns. I believe that individual treatment needs are unique, and that many facets are involved in the successful management of psychiatric disorders. I stay up to date with current psychiatric research and trends, and incorporate an evidence-based practice approach to patient care.
![Photo of Kelli Gaskill, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/702c69a5-3608-42c8-86cd-9e16b30dbbaf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli firmly believes that someone can create a life worth living for themselves. She helps people through medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Kelli firmly believes that someone can create a life worth living for themselves. She helps people through medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
![Photo of Megan Comer, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31db41b6-7aec-4188-a3b2-a16363bdec7c/1/320x400.png)
Megan provides medication management and supportive therapy for clients dealing with generalized anxiety, depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, post-partum depression, ADHD, and other diagnoses. She earned her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical College of Georgia. She has also previously worked in Pain Management and Radiology. Prior to becoming a Physician Assistant she earned a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Georgia. Megan believes that having a strong relationship with her patients is the most important tool in providing care.
Megan provides medication management and supportive therapy for clients dealing with generalized anxiety, depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, post-partum depression, ADHD, and other diagnoses. She earned her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical College of Georgia. She has also previously worked in Pain Management and Radiology. Prior to becoming a Physician Assistant she earned a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Georgia. Megan believes that having a strong relationship with her patients is the most important tool in providing care.
![Photo of Kristina Mullen, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38143e1c-a914-4623-8c56-d9c215fed446/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina began her interest in medicine at 14, volunteering in adult and children’s hospitals.
Kristina began her interest in medicine at 14, volunteering in adult and children’s hospitals.
![Photo of Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard), CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef09c1ea-43b9-4d7a-83b1-27a767e03fe9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard)
Physician Assistant, CAQ-PSY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
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 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 and the elderly, ages 18 and up, blending spiritual guidance with professional care to support your mental health.
![Photo of lakshmi Ganugapenta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8978b016-6acf-4447-a9a9-b68e6daf2c6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
lakshmi Ganugapenta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28027 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Lakshmi Ganugapenta a dual-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience in different settings. I am a mother to two, a wife, a daughter, and a friend. I understand the struggle of trying to balance it all and falling short. Helping clients to reach wellness is my number one goal. I collaborate with my clients to develop a clear and practical plan to improve every aspect of their lives. I use a holistic model that may or may not include medications.
Hi, I'm Lakshmi Ganugapenta a dual-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience in different settings. I am a mother to two, a wife, a daughter, and a friend. I understand the struggle of trying to balance it all and falling short. Helping clients to reach wellness is my number one goal. I collaborate with my clients to develop a clear and practical plan to improve every aspect of their lives. I use a holistic model that may or may not include medications.
![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 Tamara Starr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5993116a-c01b-46b2-8d26-27d8e86a7a37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269 (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Tamara Starr. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and lifestyle enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for the mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan. Working together to create life-long strategies to help the Client be the best version of themselves. I use compassionate assertive communication, direct and straightforward without being condescending or domineering.
Hello. My name is Tamara Starr. I would like to share that I have dual national certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health NP as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy and lifestyle enhancement strategies, using an integrative treatment plan model for the mental and behavioral health management of clients across the lifespan. Working together to create life-long strategies to help the Client be the best version of themselves. I use compassionate assertive communication, direct and straightforward without being condescending or domineering.
![Photo of Ken Dunham, MD, MAEd, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c77d4e73-9aad-4ae5-8328-81522b0f1155/2/320x400.jpeg)
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
You can find out more information about Dr. Dunham and schedule an appointment online at: https://provider.kareo.com/ken-dunham. Also, you can get an introduction to Dr. Dunham and his approach to clients from Dr. Dunham's nationally broadcasted interview on Business Talk Radio online at: https://businesstalkradio1.com/dr-ken-charles-dunham-08-20-20-psychiatry-and-internal-medicine/
![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 Ivy de Leon, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/760f9a7e-6180-49fe-9796-a05d6c3c9240/1/320x400.png)
Ivy de Leon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care to children and adults. Everyone comes with their own story and from unique circumstances. You deserve personalized care for every step along your path to healing.
Dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care to children and adults. Everyone comes with their own story and from unique circumstances. You deserve personalized care for every step along your path to healing.
![Photo of Erin Elizabeth Klender - Common Ground Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb9d8189-66b7-4504-a54a-6f23d63c694a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Common Ground Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Common Ground Psychiatry is here to help North Carolina adults and teens get back to feeling happy again! We prescribe medication that makes sense for you and your unique situation, taking the time to listen, truly understand your goals, and educate you on all available options. Experience 100% confidential care in-person in our Davidson, or Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill location. The goal at Common Ground is to help you feel less anxious, more rested, and ready to crush your goals in relationships, business, parenthood, or whatever YOU want.
Common Ground Psychiatry is here to help North Carolina adults and teens get back to feeling happy again! We prescribe medication that makes sense for you and your unique situation, taking the time to listen, truly understand your goals, and educate you on all available options. Experience 100% confidential care in-person in our Davidson, or Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill location. The goal at Common Ground is to help you feel less anxious, more rested, and ready to crush your goals in relationships, business, parenthood, or whatever YOU want.
![Photo of Kristina Borus, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73679951-e777-4a6f-bf9d-07f2e0c2f755/1/320x400.png)
Kristina provides medication management combined with a therapeutic approach that is practical, evidence based, and holistic. To maximize quality of life, Kristina works with each client to help achieve their wellness goals through education, lifestyle modification, supplementation, medication, and therapies that help integrate and heal the mind-body connection. With every client, Kristina builds a therapeutic partnership based on safety, empathy, non-judgement, and empowerment.
Kristina provides medication management combined with a therapeutic approach that is practical, evidence based, and holistic. To maximize quality of life, Kristina works with each client to help achieve their wellness goals through education, lifestyle modification, supplementation, medication, and therapies that help integrate and heal the mind-body connection. With every client, Kristina builds a therapeutic partnership based on safety, empathy, non-judgement, and empowerment.
![Photo of Ijaz Behavioral Rasul - Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8cff54-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. 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.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. 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.
![Photo of Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f08c67f-e24a-4b18-8cbe-c68da190b548/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
![Photo of Timothy Alan Balisky - Excel Psychiatric Associates, PA, MSN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/839d48ed-6ac9-4fc8-9123-23fa6ac620bf/1/320x400.png)
Excel Psychiatric Associates, PA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Hello and welcome. My name is Timothy Balisky and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner. This means that I am a nurse practitioner with specialty training and board certification focused on psychiatric mental healthcare. Three particular areas that I focus on within this specialty of mental health are treatment resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I have a real passion for understanding the details that make up every person’s history, particularly as it relates to their struggle with mental illness.
Hello and welcome. My name is Timothy Balisky and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner. This means that I am a nurse practitioner with specialty training and board certification focused on psychiatric mental healthcare. Three particular areas that I focus on within this specialty of mental health are treatment resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I have a real passion for understanding the details that make up every person’s history, particularly as it relates to their struggle with mental illness.
![Photo of Lauren Blankenship, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29e9987e-f0b9-4ed6-8486-8316e3bb7c00/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Blankenship
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
Lauren is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps the underserved feel cared for, understood, and encouraged to reach their full potential. She works with adults using medication management, dialectical behavioral therapy, diet, exercise, and mindfulness. Lauren has a holistic approach to care and believes a suitable treatment plan is one the patient can agree to and follow.
Lauren is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps the underserved feel cared for, understood, and encouraged to reach their full potential. She works with adults using medication management, dialectical behavioral therapy, diet, exercise, and mindfulness. Lauren has a holistic approach to care and believes a suitable treatment plan is one the patient can agree to and follow.
See more therapy options for Lincolnton
Nearby Searches for Lincolnton
- Charlotte
- Cornelius
- Davidson
- Denver
- Gastonia
- Hickory
- Huntersville
- Mooresville
- Morganton
- Newell
- Pineville
- Statesville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lincolnton, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lincolnton, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lincolnton, NC see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lincolnton?
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.