Find a licensed psychiatrist or psychiatric NP in Knoxville, TN

The scientist Marie Curie once stated, “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” Sometimes we avoid seeing a doctor because we’re afraid of what they might tell us. You don’t see the autoimmune specialist about your inflammation. You don’t see a dermatologist about your oddly-shaped mole. Fear prevents you from getting the answers you need. People often behave the same way about their mental health. They don’t want to be diagnosed with a mental health condition. But you know what? It’s often a huge relief to put a name to your distress at last. And once you have a diagnosis, you can get the treatment that will help you meet your life goals. 

The board-certified psychiatrists at Thriveworks in Knoxville, TN are compassionate experts on a number of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. They treat the person, not the diagnosis. And they’re available now. Untreated mental disorders can lead to broad impairment in work, school, and relationships. But with individualized attention, you can get back to being the person you want to be. 

What Is the Difference Between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?

Psychiatry is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders as they’re classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). The qualified psychiatrists at Thriveworks in Knoxville, TN treat mental health conditions with medication treatment as well as psychotherapy (talk therapy) and holistic approaches. Psychologists, on the other hand, cannot prescribe medication because they attended graduate school, not medical school. They use psychotherapy in their treatment of mental conditions and behavioral issues. 

You may encounter these additional mental health providers at Thriveworks in Knoxville, TN:

• Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are specially licensed advanced practice nurses (APRNs) who can prescribe medications and treat psychiatric disorders. 
• Therapist is an umbrella term for any provider licensed to do psychotherapy like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). 
• Licensed professional counselors (LPCs) offer solution-focused counseling.
• Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) have masters degrees in social work and offer counseling and guidance. 
• Licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) are providers who treat couples and families.

What Does a Psychiatrist Treat?

People can schedule a psychiatry appointment for a variety of reasons. Some common emotional and/or behavioral symptoms include the following: 

• Radical mood swings, which could indicate bipolar disorder (manic depression)
• Sadness or despair that lasts longer than two weeks, which could indicate major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Extreme fears and worries, which could indicate an anxiety disorder
• Focus or attention difficulties, which could indicate attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Disordered eating behaviors, which could indicate anorexia or bulimia
• Mania or hypomania, which could indicate type 1 or type 2 bipolar disorder
• Hallucinations, which could indicate a number of conditions
• Insomnia, which could indicate a number of conditions
• Lethargy, which could indicate a number of conditions
• Repetitive behaviors, which could indicate obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Obsessive thoughts, which could indicate OCD

Psychiatric treatment can be short-term or long-term. Some conditions, like bipolar disorder, are chronic, but can be effectively managed over the lifespan with medication and therapy. 

What Is It Like to See a Psychiatrist?

Seeing a psychiatrist is somewhat like seeing any medical doctor, but a doctor who’s interested in both the body and the mind. At an initial appointment at Thriveworks in Knoxville, TN, the psychiatrist will want to take your and your family’s medical history, for some mental health conditions have a genetic component. The psychiatrist will also want to get a full picture of your symptoms, your lifestyle, and your psychosocial environment. They may conduct psychological tests or even refer you for blood testing or a patient physical to rule out certain medical conditions that can cause emotional side effects. 

Do Psychiatrists Just Prescribe Medication?

Psychiatrists at Thriveworks in Knoxville, TN provide prescription medication and medication management services, but they may also do so much more, including the following:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Exposure therapy, especially for specific phobias
• Systematic desensitization therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Psychoeducation
• Person-centered therapy
• Motivational interviewing
• Strength-based therapy
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR)

Manage Your Mental Health with an Exceptional Psychiatrist at Thriveworks in Knoxville, TN

The exceptional psychiatrists at Thriveworks in Knoxville, TN are available to meet with new clients as early as tomorrow. New clients can usually see a provider within 24-48 hours. In addition, Thriveworks members can email or call their provider between sessions. Thriveworks providers accept most major forms of health insurance, helping to make their mental health care affordable. 

You deserve to talk to someone about your concerns and issues. Reach out to Thriveworks today to get started with a dedicated doctor.