Psychiatrists in Wendell, NC

Photo of Nicole Brooker, PMHNP, AGPCNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Brooker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Wendell, NC 27591
Journeys in Mental Health & Wellness is an outpatient mental health and addiction clinic. Our mission is to provide high quality mental health services to our patients by using evidence-based treatments combined with compassionate, person-centered care. Our patients and families learn to manage their symptoms, beat their addiction and gain a better quality of life.
Journeys in Mental Health & Wellness is an outpatient mental health and addiction clinic. Our mission is to provide high quality mental health services to our patients by using evidence-based treatments combined with compassionate, person-centered care. Our patients and families learn to manage their symptoms, beat their addiction and gain a better quality of life.
(919) 626-3958 View (919) 626-3958

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michele Kerbow, MD, Psychiatrist
Michele Kerbow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
Dr. Michele Kerbow is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. She completed her undergraduate training at Clemson University before continuing to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC. From there, she completed her General Psychiatry Internship and General Adult Psychiatry Residency through the University of Virginia in Roanoke. Though she has a wide array of experience in psychiatric care and psychological assessment, Dr. Kerbow has a particular interest in the treatment of Veterans' issues and trauma.
Dr. Michele Kerbow is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. She completed her undergraduate training at Clemson University before continuing to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC. From there, she completed her General Psychiatry Internship and General Adult Psychiatry Residency through the University of Virginia in Roanoke. Though she has a wide array of experience in psychiatric care and psychological assessment, Dr. Kerbow has a particular interest in the treatment of Veterans' issues and trauma.
(984) 464-4855 View (984) 464-4855
Photo of Dr. Lindsey Renee Goldberg-Ziles, DNP, MSN-Ed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lindsey Renee Goldberg-Ziles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN-Ed, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I focus on mindfulness, lifestyle, nutrition, spiritual and natural methods, as well as medication management. The foundation matters I take my time, and with that, I get to know my clients and our safe space emerges. I have training in working with all ages, predominantly 14-95, any gender, sexuality, polyamorous or open relationships, sex work/er. pregnancy, birth, postpartum, abuse (sexual, physical, emotional), trauma, body image, PTSD, grief & loss, anxiety, depressive disorders, bipolarity/mood, neurodivergent disorders, personality, and anyone in recovery (or guests to listen).
I focus on mindfulness, lifestyle, nutrition, spiritual and natural methods, as well as medication management. The foundation matters I take my time, and with that, I get to know my clients and our safe space emerges. I have training in working with all ages, predominantly 14-95, any gender, sexuality, polyamorous or open relationships, sex work/er. pregnancy, birth, postpartum, abuse (sexual, physical, emotional), trauma, body image, PTSD, grief & loss, anxiety, depressive disorders, bipolarity/mood, neurodivergent disorders, personality, and anyone in recovery (or guests to listen).
(910) 994-4090 View (910) 994-4090
Photo of Alyssa Williams George, MD, Psychiatrist
Alyssa Williams George
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates since 2015. Treatments offered include both medications and psychotherapy. I treat adult men and women with depression, anxiety disorders (including generalized anxiety and panic disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My sub-specialty is women's reproductive mental health. This includes women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, as well as women struggling with infertility, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or menopause-related mood and anxiety problems.
(919) 289-1842 View (919) 289-1842
Photo of Mariah Mitchell, DNP , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariah Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have 9 years of experience in mental health in a variety of settings. I have extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan and a variety of gender identities and backgrounds. I have treated a range of mental health disorders including but not limited to: schizophrenia, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, personality disorders, and behavioral developmental disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have 9 years of experience in mental health in a variety of settings. I have extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan and a variety of gender identities and backgrounds. I have treated a range of mental health disorders including but not limited to: schizophrenia, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, personality disorders, and behavioral developmental disorders.
(919) 367-1705 View (919) 367-1705
Photo of Dr. Tian Duke-Sui, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tian Duke-Sui
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
Family Psychiatry Practice & Associates has been serving the community in Cary, North Carolina for over 25 years. Our caring and professional board-certified psychiatrists see children, adolescents, and adults for both medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Duke-Sui and Dr. Boyer are board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. They offer both psychotherapy and medication management.
Family Psychiatry Practice & Associates has been serving the community in Cary, North Carolina for over 25 years. Our caring and professional board-certified psychiatrists see children, adolescents, and adults for both medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Duke-Sui and Dr. Boyer are board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. They offer both psychotherapy and medication management.
(919) 233-4131 View (919) 233-4131
Photo of Robert K. Matlack - Best Day Psychiatry & Counseling, MD, Psychiatrist
Best Day Psychiatry & Counseling
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
At Best Day Psychiatry, we pride ourselves in providing the time necessary to render excellent care to all age groups, assist our clients in navigating a complex system, finding the best supporting specialists and enabling excellent communication to ensure the highest quality services. Our collaborative approach includes specialized and creative interventions based on your specific needs, whether it is psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. We are passionate about helping our clients live happier lives and approach each client’s challenges with a caring optimism.
At Best Day Psychiatry, we pride ourselves in providing the time necessary to render excellent care to all age groups, assist our clients in navigating a complex system, finding the best supporting specialists and enabling excellent communication to ensure the highest quality services. Our collaborative approach includes specialized and creative interventions based on your specific needs, whether it is psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. We are passionate about helping our clients live happier lives and approach each client’s challenges with a caring optimism.
(919) 364-6492 View (919) 364-6492
Photo of Megan Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
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.
(828) 860-2523 View (828) 860-2523
Photo of Mariah Echevarria, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Mariah Echevarria
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27602
Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.
Mariah earned a B.S in Human Nutrition from the University of Florida and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She has experience working with substance use, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, and other mental health concerns. She strives to deliver quality and compassionate care to all her patients. She has a passion working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her care approach is empathetic, compassionate, trustworthy, and attentive to clients concerns and feelings.
(336) 444-6428 View (336) 444-6428
Photo of Dr. Erikka D. Taylor, MD,  MPH, Psychiatrist
Dr. Erikka D. Taylor
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
Not accepting new clients
I am a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with experience in treating psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders, and psychotic disorders. I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that incorporates supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychopharmacology. I also provide workshops on a number of topics such as eating disorders, body image, school/work/life balance, stress management, faith & mental health, and mental health among diverse populations.
I am a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with experience in treating psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders, and psychotic disorders. I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that incorporates supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychopharmacology. I also provide workshops on a number of topics such as eating disorders, body image, school/work/life balance, stress management, faith & mental health, and mental health among diverse populations.
(984) 205-8811 View (984) 205-8811
Photo of Dorine Henrietta Martin - Mindology, MSN, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Mindology
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
MIndology is currently accepting NEW PATIENTS that value their mental health and desire personal and attentive attention as they make their journey to a more complete and healthy life.
(919) 823-2847 View (919) 823-2847
Photo of Christina Stevenson - Virtuous Total Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Virtuous Total Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, ANP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results.
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work! I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach! I perform ADHD/Cognitive testing (for different age groups), Psychotherapeutic genetic testing (to see which meds work best for you), psychotherapy for chronic pain management, (all done from the comfort of your home) get detailed, analyzed personal results.
(919) 289-8422 View (919) 289-8422
Photo of Makeba Matthews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Makeba Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27610
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate care, personalized treatment, and tools to manage their mental health. Their goal is to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling, balanced life through tailored support.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate care, personalized treatment, and tools to manage their mental health. Their goal is to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling, balanced life through tailored support.
(704) 626-7380 View (704) 626-7380
Photo of Caedora M Benton, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caedora M Benton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Currently accepting mental health patients. My specialty is medication management and individual psychotherapy. I graduated from the University of North Carolina in Wilmington with my family nurse practitioner degree. I then attended Liberty University in Virginia to obtain my psychiatric certification a few years later. I am currently in my doctoral program at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro. As a mental health practitioner, I have over 12 years of experience working with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, depression, ect.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Currently accepting mental health patients. My specialty is medication management and individual psychotherapy. I graduated from the University of North Carolina in Wilmington with my family nurse practitioner degree. I then attended Liberty University in Virginia to obtain my psychiatric certification a few years later. I am currently in my doctoral program at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro. As a mental health practitioner, I have over 12 years of experience working with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, depression, ect.
(984) 230-3670 x101 View (984) 230-3670 x101
Photo of Komal Patel, MD, Psychiatrist
Komal Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
I enjoy working with adults in all phases of life. I want my patient's to feel supported in their individual treatment goals, and to know that I will work diligently to help each person find healing and growth. As a NC native, I am honored to care for patient's in my home state. I am experienced in medication management and psychotherapy. Currently, I am accepting new referrals. Please don't hesitate to contact our front office, I look forward to meeting you!
I enjoy working with adults in all phases of life. I want my patient's to feel supported in their individual treatment goals, and to know that I will work diligently to help each person find healing and growth. As a NC native, I am honored to care for patient's in my home state. I am experienced in medication management and psychotherapy. Currently, I am accepting new referrals. Please don't hesitate to contact our front office, I look forward to meeting you!
(984) 370-5384 View (984) 370-5384
Photo of Jacqueline Wait, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Wait
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
(336) 948-8918 View (336) 948-8918
Photo of Jacqueline N Wenzel - Magnolia Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magnolia Psychiatry and Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
A genuine place where evidence-based research informs the best patient care. We use a knowledgeable and caring approach to give you the tools to improve your quality of life. We offer pharmacologic and therapeutic treatments for healing. Treating a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, eating disorders, phobias, and more.
A genuine place where evidence-based research informs the best patient care. We use a knowledgeable and caring approach to give you the tools to improve your quality of life. We offer pharmacologic and therapeutic treatments for healing. Treating a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, eating disorders, phobias, and more.
(984) 254-3568 View (984) 254-3568
Photo of Heather Strauss, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Heather Strauss
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs. She provides trauma informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming care.
Heather is a physician associate (PA) with over a decade of clinical experience. In her practice, she is dedicated to practicing shared decision-making, putting you in control of your mental health journey while providing guidance based on years of expertise. She is an advocate for evidence-based medicine, ensuring that your treatment plan is rooted in the latest research and tailored to your unique needs. She provides trauma informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming care.
(828) 235-4000 View (828) 235-4000
Photo of Jayson Varughese, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Jayson Varughese
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
I am an adult psychiatrist with interests in mood disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders as well as geriatrics.
I am an adult psychiatrist with interests in mood disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders as well as geriatrics.
(919) 785-0384 View (919) 785-0384
Photo of Duncan McEwen, MD, Psychiatrist
Duncan McEwen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. I am dual board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction medicine. I have extensive experience in treating psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety and related mood disorders. I offer Ketamine treatment for patients experiencing treatment resistant depression. Patients integrate their experience with Ketamine with the psychological issues that are important to them thus enhancing their counseling experience. Treatment should lead patients towards growth, independence, and resilience. Learn more about my work at www.wfpanc.com and facebook.com/wellnessfirstpsychiatric.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. I am dual board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction medicine. I have extensive experience in treating psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety and related mood disorders. I offer Ketamine treatment for patients experiencing treatment resistant depression. Patients integrate their experience with Ketamine with the psychological issues that are important to them thus enhancing their counseling experience. Treatment should lead patients towards growth, independence, and resilience. Learn more about my work at www.wfpanc.com and facebook.com/wellnessfirstpsychiatric.
(919) 429-7458 View (919) 429-7458

See more therapy options for Wendell

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wendell, NC

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wendell, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% The Alliance
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Wendell, NC see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wendell?

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.