What is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant?

A Psychiatric Physician Assistant (PA) provides comprehensive care for individuals who are experiencing mental health symptoms or conditions. Medication management is oftentimes an effective intervention for treating symptoms and finding relief. Psychiatric PAs are able to diagnose and effectively treat a number of symptoms and concerns. While they are remarkably skilled, it can be difficult to find the right prescriber for you.  

What is a Physician Assistant?

To understand the role of a psychiatric PA, it’s important to first define what a physician assistant is. A physician assistant is a licensed medical professional who is trained to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication under the supervision of a physician. PAs are trained in medical schools or specialized programs, completing extensive education and clinical training, and they are able to prescribe medication, conduct physical exams, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and develop treatment plans to help you function at your best.

Psychiatric PAs are specifically trained to address mental health concerns and conditions. They receive additional training and specialization in this field so that they can be effective and provide you with the best possible care. 

Roles and Responsibilities of a Psychiatric Physician Assistant

A psychiatric PA provides mental health services to patients across a range of setting and can take on a number of roles; 

1. Assessment and Diagnosis:
   A psychiatric PA conducts thorough evaluations of symptoms so that they can find the right interventions for you. It is important to understand what is going on for you specifically so that they can create a treatment approach that is tailored to your unique needs. 
2. Treatment Planning and Management:
   Once a diagnosis is made, a psychiatric PA will develop a treatment plan specifically for you. This often includes prescribing medications as well as recommending non-pharmacological therapies like psychotherapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Your prescriber will adjust your treatment plan based on your progress, feedback, and any side effects experienced from medications.
3. Medication Management:
   Psychiatric PAs are licensed to prescribe, monitor, and adjust psychiatric medications. They work closely with you to monitor the effectiveness of medications and optimize outcomes. Their goal is to help you get to where you want to be and feel better. They also provide education about the importance of medication compliance and provide guidance on lifestyle changes that support mental health.
4. Therapeutic Support:
   While psychiatric PAs do not typically provide therapy (which is usually performed by licensed therapists, counselors, or clinical psychologists), they do provide valuable therapeutic support, such as brief counseling, psychoeducation, and crisis intervention. They may also assist you in understanding your diagnosis, symptoms and coping strategies.
5. Collaboration with Other Healthcare Providers:
   Psychiatric PAs often collaborate with a multidisciplinary team that includes psychiatrists, therapists and other medical professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care. This collaborative approach ensures that your physical and mental health needs are addressed in a holistic manner.
6. Education and Advocacy:
   Psychiatric PAs can educate you and your family about mental health conditions, treatment options, and self-care strategies. They advocate for mental health awareness, reducing stigma surrounding mental illnesses, and ensuring that patients receive the support they need in all aspects of their lives.

Finding a PA That is Right For You

Psychiatric physician assistants play a vital role in the mental health field, helping to bridge the gap in care and improve access to psychiatric services. With their expertise in diagnosis, treatment, and medication management, psychiatric PAs are essential in the treatment of individuals with mental health conditions. They have valuable skills and focus on compassionate care. Finding the provider that is right for you can help you to  improve your mental and emotional well-being.

Carolina Counseling Services contracts with skilled Psychiatric Physician Assistants that can help you. Call CCS in Fayetteville today to schedule your first appointment. Online appointments are available making getting the care you deserve easier than ever before.