Psychiatrists in Carrboro, NC
![Photo of Susan D Webb - Susan D. Webb, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9e61e2c-18be-409a-b0b4-2c64d1f8a0fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is based on a wellness model rather than the disease model and integrates the benefits of modern psychiatry with more holistic modalities. I bring decades of experience in modalities from psychoanalysis to psychedelics and integrate nutritional psychiatry, exercise physiology, mindfulness and blend the wisdom of many traditions with state-of-the-art medical science to co-create a blueprint for healthy living.
My approach is based on a wellness model rather than the disease model and integrates the benefits of modern psychiatry with more holistic modalities. I bring decades of experience in modalities from psychoanalysis to psychedelics and integrate nutritional psychiatry, exercise physiology, mindfulness and blend the wisdom of many traditions with state-of-the-art medical science to co-create a blueprint for healthy living.
![Photo of Kristen Bagby, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d01b3087-4cf6-433a-a1f7-f895d8d664a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Bagby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting new patients. Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, intrusive thoughts, or difficulty concentrating? These challenges can leave you feeling stuck, but there is hope! My approach to care is trauma-informed and recovery-oriented empowering you to use your strengths and skills to live a life you choose.
I am not currently accepting new patients. Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, intrusive thoughts, or difficulty concentrating? These challenges can leave you feeling stuck, but there is hope! My approach to care is trauma-informed and recovery-oriented empowering you to use your strengths and skills to live a life you choose.
![Photo of Dr. John M. Brion, PhD, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e782da8f-4520-4bf7-b02a-bab75d6ca49f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. John M. Brion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
Thanks for considering Collaborative Mental Health of Carrboro (CMHOC). I'm Dr. John Brion, PhD, PMHNP and I work with people age 12 and up for a wide range of challenges including: ADHD (Adult and Child) ; Addictions (Sex, Food, Hoarding, drugs/alcohol, etc.); Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder) and issues related to gender identity and sexual orientation. I am licensed/certified to prescribe all psychiatric medications and I provide brief, solution focused psychotherapy.
Thanks for considering Collaborative Mental Health of Carrboro (CMHOC). I'm Dr. John Brion, PhD, PMHNP and I work with people age 12 and up for a wide range of challenges including: ADHD (Adult and Child) ; Addictions (Sex, Food, Hoarding, drugs/alcohol, etc.); Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder) and issues related to gender identity and sexual orientation. I am licensed/certified to prescribe all psychiatric medications and I provide brief, solution focused psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jason T. Witmer - Jason T. Witmer, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/652de7c1-e36b-41d1-9642-abbe3cca4a19/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I help people dealing with a range of questions, including deciding who and how to love, how to create family and community, finding meaning and success in work, how to cope with loss, issues related to gender, identity, and race, and how to overcome anxiety and depression.
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I help people dealing with a range of questions, including deciding who and how to love, how to create family and community, finding meaning and success in work, how to cope with loss, issues related to gender, identity, and race, and how to overcome anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Cheryl Hoffman Yanuck - The Yanuck Center For Life And Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bdd4794-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
The Yanuck Center For Life And Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carrboro, NC 27510 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you suffer from depression, anxiety, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem problems, relationship issues, or stress management difficulties, I can help. PLEASE CONTACT ME BY PHONE (NOT E-MAIL) AT (919)493-0406. Offering both psychotherapy and medication management, I can provide all aspects of mental health care for most individuals. I help my patients learn to release shame and self-criticism so they can lead happier lives. I also see some clients of psychotherapists whom I trust for medication management. Together, we pick the approach that fits your needs and your time frame. LGBTQ friendly.
If you suffer from depression, anxiety, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem problems, relationship issues, or stress management difficulties, I can help. PLEASE CONTACT ME BY PHONE (NOT E-MAIL) AT (919)493-0406. Offering both psychotherapy and medication management, I can provide all aspects of mental health care for most individuals. I help my patients learn to release shame and self-criticism so they can lead happier lives. I also see some clients of psychotherapists whom I trust for medication management. Together, we pick the approach that fits your needs and your time frame. LGBTQ friendly.
![Photo of Kelsey Norris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb576293-fdcc-427c-be31-7448287ff561/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer psychotherapy and medication management services to clients in a confidential and therapeutic environment. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to help my clients heal and thrive. I believe mental health care can greatly improve quality of life, making us more self aware, compassionate, at ease, and fulfilled.
I offer psychotherapy and medication management services to clients in a confidential and therapeutic environment. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to help my clients heal and thrive. I believe mental health care can greatly improve quality of life, making us more self aware, compassionate, at ease, and fulfilled.
![Photo of Laurie M. Timberlake, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30b27465-372a-4877-9fbf-5ddb4627020c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie M. Timberlake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
I provide medication management for anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, and so on, ideally as a supplement to an ongoing relationship with a psychotherapist. I work with school-aged children through adults, in a comfortable, informal office in Chapel Hill.
I provide medication management for anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, and so on, ideally as a supplement to an ongoing relationship with a psychotherapist. I work with school-aged children through adults, in a comfortable, informal office in Chapel Hill.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kyra Kline Weber, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa8d3269-07be-4f20-9c75-ea1c990d3a03/2/320x400.png)
Kyra Kline Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516 (Online Only)
Whatever has brought you here looking for help, please know you have found someone that thinks you are an irreplaceable human and capable of achieving improved mental health and wellness. I enjoy working with people that want to improve their circumstances using a holistic approach. Patients I work with each have unique obstacles they are facing, talents to employ and goals they want to achieve. I utilize an approach that is tailored to each person and situation; we will work together collaboratively and creatively to achieve your mental health and wellness goals.
Whatever has brought you here looking for help, please know you have found someone that thinks you are an irreplaceable human and capable of achieving improved mental health and wellness. I enjoy working with people that want to improve their circumstances using a holistic approach. Patients I work with each have unique obstacles they are facing, talents to employ and goals they want to achieve. I utilize an approach that is tailored to each person and situation; we will work together collaboratively and creatively to achieve your mental health and wellness goals.
![Photo of Jacqueline Woodcock, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8df3e559-8ed2-4218-ae02-32973f8d3fce/1/320x400.png)
Jacqueline Woodcock
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516 (Online Only)
I work with patients whose goal is to treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. My patients often come to me when they're looking to bring joy back into their lives, whether they're taking their first steps in addressing mental health issues or resuming their mental health care journey. I strive to meet my patients exactly where they need it, and I am dedicated to creating a welcoming and secure space for anyone grappling with their mental health. In my practice, I’m not just about prescriptions; I believe in forming meaningful connections with my patients and see myself as your advocate for positive change.
I work with patients whose goal is to treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. My patients often come to me when they're looking to bring joy back into their lives, whether they're taking their first steps in addressing mental health issues or resuming their mental health care journey. I strive to meet my patients exactly where they need it, and I am dedicated to creating a welcoming and secure space for anyone grappling with their mental health. In my practice, I’m not just about prescriptions; I believe in forming meaningful connections with my patients and see myself as your advocate for positive change.
![Photo of Matthew A Petrilli, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/404d9596-6a4d-473b-91b0-c40d5d61cb1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist with extensive training in psychosomatic medicine allowing me to take into account one’s mental and physical health to provide a whole-body approach to treatment. I treat a wide array of conditions; however focus on issues with depression, anxiety and role transitions. My mission is to collaborate with you, and to come up with an individualized treatment plan. By doing so, I will be able to gain a greater understanding of your life experience and help you achieve your treatment goals.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist with extensive training in psychosomatic medicine allowing me to take into account one’s mental and physical health to provide a whole-body approach to treatment. I treat a wide array of conditions; however focus on issues with depression, anxiety and role transitions. My mission is to collaborate with you, and to come up with an individualized treatment plan. By doing so, I will be able to gain a greater understanding of your life experience and help you achieve your treatment goals.
![Photo of Victoria Payne - Psychiatric Associates of NC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3788ad2-f327-4e22-a364-9200a01304ef/1/320x400.png)
Immediate availability for private therapy & medication management. Seeing adults & children ages 15+. LGBTQ+ welcoming. Spanish-speaking psychiatrist and therapist available. Appointments may be in office in Raleigh or virtually across North Carolina! Evening and weekend hours offered by some providers at request. Most insurance plans are accepted.
Immediate availability for private therapy & medication management. Seeing adults & children ages 15+. LGBTQ+ welcoming. Spanish-speaking psychiatrist and therapist available. Appointments may be in office in Raleigh or virtually across North Carolina! Evening and weekend hours offered by some providers at request. Most insurance plans are accepted.
I practice a collaborative, compassionate, and professional approach to the treatment of mental health disorders, including substance use disorders. I provide a comprehensive treatment approach that combines medications and psychotherapy as necessary. Understanding that each individual is unique, treatment plans are tailored to suit your specific needs.
I practice a collaborative, compassionate, and professional approach to the treatment of mental health disorders, including substance use disorders. I provide a comprehensive treatment approach that combines medications and psychotherapy as necessary. Understanding that each individual is unique, treatment plans are tailored to suit your specific needs.
![Photo of Jennifer Susan Colvin, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e586840-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Susan Colvin
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist and trained in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I also have a PhD in Neuroscience. l provide comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based medication treatment and psychotherapy for a wide variety of conditions.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and trained in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I also have a PhD in Neuroscience. l provide comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based medication treatment and psychotherapy for a wide variety of conditions.
![Photo of Denise Dechow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54bb0c28-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician, I provide medication evaluation and management for for teens, college students, and adults who are struggling with common mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and insomnia. I also manage co-occurring IBS, tension headaches, and migraines. As part of a holistic approach, I often incorporate mind body techniques and lifestyle recommendations into your treatment plan. Together, we will create a comprehensive plan to help you feel better, mentally and physically. Please reach out for free phone consultation to determine if my practice is a good fit for you!
As a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician, I provide medication evaluation and management for for teens, college students, and adults who are struggling with common mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and insomnia. I also manage co-occurring IBS, tension headaches, and migraines. As part of a holistic approach, I often incorporate mind body techniques and lifestyle recommendations into your treatment plan. Together, we will create a comprehensive plan to help you feel better, mentally and physically. Please reach out for free phone consultation to determine if my practice is a good fit for you!
![Photo of Susan Slocum O'Connor, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a61d175-5862-4dfe-805a-ae33372bdfc5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Slocum O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
LGBTQ+ friendly provider. Works with Adults and Teenagers. In-office or telehealth med management. - Our brains sometimes do things that don't make sense or feel fair. I work primarily in medication management, but I also really enjoy talking about how brains work and how to work with them to help people feel more satisfied with life. I have particular interest working with individuals around issues of ADHD, addiction, disordered eating, chronic psychosis, depression, generalized and social anxiety.
LGBTQ+ friendly provider. Works with Adults and Teenagers. In-office or telehealth med management. - Our brains sometimes do things that don't make sense or feel fair. I work primarily in medication management, but I also really enjoy talking about how brains work and how to work with them to help people feel more satisfied with life. I have particular interest working with individuals around issues of ADHD, addiction, disordered eating, chronic psychosis, depression, generalized and social anxiety.
![Photo of Matthew A Clemons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5023eaa-f73b-4011-9ead-c9672db1da89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings, future client, My name is Matthew Clemons. I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who cares with compassion for individuals throughout their lifespan (children and adults). My goal is to provide holistic, collaborative, and client-centered care with the most up-to-date, evidence-based practice in behavioral healthcare. My treatment approaches include medication management, mental health education, solution-focused therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
Greetings, future client, My name is Matthew Clemons. I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who cares with compassion for individuals throughout their lifespan (children and adults). My goal is to provide holistic, collaborative, and client-centered care with the most up-to-date, evidence-based practice in behavioral healthcare. My treatment approaches include medication management, mental health education, solution-focused therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
![Photo of Christopher N Riggan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e960d115-cc57-4c74-a200-4d36942786cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher N Riggan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
My passion for entering the mental health profession originated from the idea of breaking down the negative stigma historically placed upon individuals who struggle with mental health related issues. I want to use the skills and education that I have gained as a resource to those in need of assistance. I want each person that seeks mental health related care from me to feel comforted that we together are a team with a common goal of assisting you to become the most effective version of yourself.
My passion for entering the mental health profession originated from the idea of breaking down the negative stigma historically placed upon individuals who struggle with mental health related issues. I want to use the skills and education that I have gained as a resource to those in need of assistance. I want each person that seeks mental health related care from me to feel comforted that we together are a team with a common goal of assisting you to become the most effective version of yourself.
![Photo of Daniel Pogash, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26ac09a1-8e33-462e-8625-7af90f0fcfc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm an Adult, Adolescent and Child Psychiatrists currently accepting new patients between the ages of 6 and 60. My goal is to help you or your child with a wide range of mental health issues including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Anxiety Disorders, peripartum mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
Hi! I'm an Adult, Adolescent and Child Psychiatrists currently accepting new patients between the ages of 6 and 60. My goal is to help you or your child with a wide range of mental health issues including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Anxiety Disorders, peripartum mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
![Photo of Rachel C Poliquin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/510fd543-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist who works primarily by psychotherapy, listening carefully to understand your experience. Feeling understood and accepted can be liberating, which helps us as we work together to understand problems in daily life, such as work, relationships, or school. Our exploration might include talking about your thoughts, feelings, dreams, fears, and fantasies. This process opens up more happiness, well-being, and freedom to make the choices you want.
I am a psychiatrist who works primarily by psychotherapy, listening carefully to understand your experience. Feeling understood and accepted can be liberating, which helps us as we work together to understand problems in daily life, such as work, relationships, or school. Our exploration might include talking about your thoughts, feelings, dreams, fears, and fantasies. This process opens up more happiness, well-being, and freedom to make the choices you want.
![Photo of Daniel Greene, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/187fec36-8695-43d1-9144-2d626da7da1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard-trained, Board-certified psychiatrist, with expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults. My patients tell me I'm a warm and caring guy, dedicated to helping them in any way I can. I treat a wide spectrum of psychiatric problems, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and eating disorders. I also help people deal with challenging life circumstances, such as loss and grief, relationship troubles, difficulties with work or school, illness, divorce, or other life transitions.
I am a Harvard-trained, Board-certified psychiatrist, with expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults. My patients tell me I'm a warm and caring guy, dedicated to helping them in any way I can. I treat a wide spectrum of psychiatric problems, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and eating disorders. I also help people deal with challenging life circumstances, such as loss and grief, relationship troubles, difficulties with work or school, illness, divorce, or other life transitions.
See more therapy options for Carrboro
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Carrboro, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Carrboro, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Grief |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
60% | Aetna |
40% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Carrboro, NC see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Carrboro?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.