Psychiatrists in Weaverville, NC

Photo of Jason Fredericks, PA-C, MPH, Physician Assistant
Jason Fredericks
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Weaverville, NC 28787
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy for the past 6 years in WNC. My promise to you is to remain dedicated to your health and helping you achieve lasting change as we work together. I feel strongly that an individualized approach is key in the management of all clients. While many people may present with similar symptoms, the causes and context of these can vary greatly from person to person. The decision to prescribe medications, develop a therapy plan, or an amalgamation of both is made with careful consideration of the situation and your needs and wishes. I enjoy working together to find a plan that works for you.
(828) 274-1415 View (828) 274-1415
Photo of Ellen Minier - Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
(828) 332-5641 View (828) 332-5641

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Mona Venzon Rice, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mona Venzon Rice
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
Your child is having a hard time learning or has significant behavioral issues. Perhaps excessive worry, obsessive fixations, past trauma or deep sadness prevent her from making friends, going to school or enjoying life. Or his moods & thoughts can be strange & disruptive. Or their social & emotional development appear off. You're very concerned but not sure where to start or what to do. You have tried to understand & adjust your parenting to attempt to help. Or you may have taken him to therapist/s or doctor/s & tried various treatments, but he continues to struggle & something is still missing.
(828) 600-4919 View (828) 600-4919
Photo of Corbin Burns, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Corbin Burns
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexander, NC 28701  (Online Only)
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
Patients I work with are usually seeking help for their mental health concerns and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. They may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders. Their needs include finding effective treatment strategies, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal goals related to their mental well-being. They want to improve their overall quality of life, find healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a sense of stability and fulfillment.
(984) 733-1716 View (984) 733-1716
Photo of Tabatha Jones - Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daya Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
Accepting New Clients! Please fill out our new patient forms on our website at www.dayamentlahealth.com to become a client. Our practice contains Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who provide comprehensive treatment plans for individuals age 18+ for a wide range of mental health needs. Our specialties include substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar, self esteem concerns, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders and post traumatic stress. We are providers of MAT: Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol and we also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
(828) 412-3330 View (828) 412-3330
Photo of Dr. Tyler Dodds, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tyler Dodds
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexander, NC 28701  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Yale School of Medicine and Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency, with over 10 years of experience. I treat adults in North Carolina with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. I am currently accepting new patients, with no waitlist.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Yale School of Medicine and Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency, with over 10 years of experience. I treat adults in North Carolina with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorders. I am currently accepting new patients, with no waitlist.
(980) 983-0688 View (980) 983-0688
Photo of Rosemary Shanahan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rosemary Shanahan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28815  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Caring for others is my passion and life work. It feels natural to me. However, in my 30-plus years in the medical and mental health fields, traditional medical treatments don’t always feel natural. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to meet my clients needs by providing integrative care which focuses on treating the mind, body and spirit.
Caring for others is my passion and life work. It feels natural to me. However, in my 30-plus years in the medical and mental health fields, traditional medical treatments don’t always feel natural. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to meet my clients needs by providing integrative care which focuses on treating the mind, body and spirit.
(585) 380-3634 View (585) 380-3634
Photo of Lisa J Ryan, MSN, APRN, PMH NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa J Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my primary focus is to provide you with my full presence and deep care. This goal, along with the provision of state-of-the-art psycho-pharmacology offered in an atmosphere of acceptance and compassion, are best achieved, I believe, by working as a team. As we get to know each other, my desire is to hear you deeply–your past experience, your concerns, worries…and your joys and successes. It is within this alliance that, together, we will discover the best paths forward for you, be they a change in medication, lifestyle, the addition of psychotherapy, meditation or whatever else may be beneficial.
View
Photo of Maria MacDougall, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria MacDougall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
(828) 332-5291 View (828) 332-5291
Photo of Katherine Palmgren, PHMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Palmgren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMHP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
My plan is to deliver individualized care that is caring, collaborative, and evidenced-based to improve individuals mental health and quality of life. My lifelong passion is to reduce the stigma of mental illness in the community through education. I want to be your partner and advocate because your mental health is as important as your physical health.
(704) 610-4757 View (704) 610-4757
Photo of Michael Alan Finch, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Alan Finch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Hello and Welcome to my practice. I emphasize an individualized and whole person approach to wellness and believe strongly in daily exercise, healthy diet, and mindfulness/meditation. Mindfulness and meditation come in many forms and is rapidly being recognized as essential in all areas of medicine. Although teachings about this have been around for thousands of years, only recently has this been rediscovered and it's importance recognized. If I can't provide the specific therapy that you need, I'm comfortable partnering with other qualified therapists who can.
Hello and Welcome to my practice. I emphasize an individualized and whole person approach to wellness and believe strongly in daily exercise, healthy diet, and mindfulness/meditation. Mindfulness and meditation come in many forms and is rapidly being recognized as essential in all areas of medicine. Although teachings about this have been around for thousands of years, only recently has this been rediscovered and it's importance recognized. If I can't provide the specific therapy that you need, I'm comfortable partnering with other qualified therapists who can.
(828) 536-4530 View (828) 536-4530
Photo of Gretchen Danielle Barnes, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Gretchen Danielle Barnes
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Gretchen Barnes and I'm a board-certified psychiatric PA. I provide medication management for teens and adults dealing with common mental health problems. I am eager to help my patients gain insight into the science surrounding various treatment options. I pride myself on being detailed and compassionate in my approach. I believe that shared decision-making can help patients improve their mental wellbeing.
(336) 800-1983 View (336) 800-1983
Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804  (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Randy Steven Gergel - Randy S. Gergel, MD, P.A., MD, Psychiatrist
Randy S. Gergel, MD, P.A.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
Key elements of good mental health care include (1) a solid bond between patient and psychiatrist, strengthened by open communication, mutual respect, and mutual trust; (2) involvement of spouse, or other close family member or close friend, in the treatment process; (3) coordination of care involving communication of psychiatrist with patient's primary care provider, and with other professionals, who provide care for the patient's emotional and physical needs.
(828) 548-4127 View (828) 548-4127
Photo of Ijaz Behavioral Rasul - Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
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.
(828) 575-5095 View (828) 575-5095
Photo of Kendra Frazier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kendra Frazier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
Kendra is a native of the western North Carolina area. She is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University.
(828) 662-9317 View (828) 662-9317
Photo of Tammy Arms, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tammy Arms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Tammy Arms, a board-certified Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 16 years of experience as a nurse practitioner and 26 years as a registered nurse. I am dedicated to treating clients across the lifespan, addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, gender identity concerns, sleep/insomnia issues, and trauma.
I'm Dr. Tammy Arms, a board-certified Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 16 years of experience as a nurse practitioner and 26 years as a registered nurse. I am dedicated to treating clients across the lifespan, addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, gender identity concerns, sleep/insomnia issues, and trauma.
(704) 769-2079 View (704) 769-2079
Photo of Dr. Leia McCullough - Ataraxia Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ataraxia Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle.  I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with  personalized care and responsible use of medication.
Recovery is not one size fits all and we are all more than a diagnosis. For many people medication can be an important piece of the wellness puzzle.  I look forward to being able to help my patients improve their quality of life with  personalized care and responsible use of medication.
(828) 528-3686 View (828) 528-3686
Photo of Sandy Howard - Mountain Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, NP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mountain Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I'm a nurse practitioner, psychiatric specialist with more than 20 years of experience, providing compassionate mental health care for residents of NC. At your first appointment we will explore your life's journey and evaluate any previous treatment response, then medication is prescribed or adjusted, and a plan of action is made through collaboration. My philosophy for prescribing medication incorporates evidence-based science and wellness. We keep in touch in between appointments with a medical app giving you the best opportunity for successful and sustained wellness.
I'm a nurse practitioner, psychiatric specialist with more than 20 years of experience, providing compassionate mental health care for residents of NC. At your first appointment we will explore your life's journey and evaluate any previous treatment response, then medication is prescribed or adjusted, and a plan of action is made through collaboration. My philosophy for prescribing medication incorporates evidence-based science and wellness. We keep in touch in between appointments with a medical app giving you the best opportunity for successful and sustained wellness.
(828) 759-5470 View (828) 759-5470
Photo of Malia Scott, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Malia Scott
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Malia enjoys helping the psychiatric needs of patients of all ages but has a particular affinity for treating pediatric patients.
Malia enjoys helping the psychiatric needs of patients of all ages but has a particular affinity for treating pediatric patients.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551

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Nearby Searches for Weaverville

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Weaverville, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Weaverville, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Weaverville, NC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Weaverville?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.