Myleme Nyerere Ojinga Harrison is a seasoned psychiatrist based in Raleigh, North Carolina, with nearly three decades of experience in the mental health field. Over the course of his career, Dr. Harrison has become well-versed in a wide variety of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and intellectual disabilities. He has built a reputation for his holistic, patient-centered approach, ensuring that each individual receives care tailored to their unique needs.
Dr. Harrison’s approach to psychiatry is rooted in empathy, expertise, and evidence-based therapeutic practices. He integrates multiple therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychoeducation into his treatment strategies. These modalities, combined with his knowledge of the latest psychiatric medications, allow him to offer personalized and effective treatment plans. Dr. Harrison’s deep understanding of how mental health conditions can overlap, such as ADHD and anxiety or bipolar disorder with substance abuse, enables him to provide well-rounded care that addresses the full complexity of his patients’ struggles.
Leadership at the Carter Clinic: Providing Comprehensive Care
Dr. Myleme Nyerere Ojinga Harrison is president of the Carter Clinic, P.A., a leading mental health and addiction treatment facility in North Carolina. Dr. James H. Carter, Sr. co-founded the clinic, the first Black full professor of psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center, to offer high-quality psychiatric care to a diverse population. Since its founding in 2003, the Carter Clinic has become a cornerstone of mental health services in the region, with twelve locations across the state, including Raleigh, Fayetteville, Smithfield, Dunn, and other cities. The clinic also offers telehealth services, extending its reach to patients in rural or underserved areas.
At the Carter Clinic, Dr. Harrison works alongside a talented team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, and medical professionals, collaborating to care for various mental health conditions. The clinic serves patients dealing with depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, anxiety, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, and more. Dr. Harrison’s leadership ensures that every patient receives individualized care to meet their mental health needs. The clinic’s multidisciplinary approach to treatment fosters collaboration, providing the best outcomes for each patient.
In addition to its clinical services, the Carter Clinic is committed to advancing psychiatric research. The clinic participates in studies that examine the complex relationships between mental, physical, and spiritual health, which are essential components of a holistic approach to care. Dr. Harrison’s advocacy for research ensures that the clinic remains at the forefront of mental health innovation, continually striving to improve patient care and treatment methods.
The James H. Carter, Sr. Community Service Award
Dr. Harrison strongly advocates for the James H. Carter, Sr. Community Service Award, which honors individuals from the Duke Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences program who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community psychiatry. The award highlights the importance of serving underrepresented populations and addressing health disparities, particularly mental health. Through his involvement, Dr. Harrison encourages the next generation of psychiatrists to give back to their communities and work toward equitable access to mental health care.
Educational Background and Specialized Training
Dr. Myleme Nyerere Ojinga Harrison earned his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Medicine in 1997. After completing medical school, Dr. Harrison pursued a combined Internal Medicine and Psychiatry residency at Duke University, a prestigious program that allowed him to gain specialized knowledge in both fields. This comprehensive training prepared him to treat various medical and psychiatric conditions, ensuring his patients receive well-rounded care.
In addition to his residency, Dr. Harrison completed a research fellowship at the Center for Spirituality, Theology, and Health, which gave him a deeper understanding of how mental, physical, and spiritual health intersect. This research has informed his holistic approach to psychiatry, recognizing that patients are not just dealing with mental illness but with an interplay of emotional, physical, and spiritual factors.
Co-author of "A Letter From Tamar"
Outside of his work as a psychiatrist, Dr. Harrison has contributed to family and child education. Along with his wife, Dr. Dionne Harrison, he co-authored the e-book A Letter From Tamar, which aims to raise awareness about sexual abuse prevention. Written from a Biblical perspective, the book offers practical advice for parents and children to address and prevent abuse in a child-friendly, accessible way. The Harrisons’ work reflects their deep commitment to empowering families and helping children grow in safe, supportive environments.
Personal Life
Dr. Myleme Nyerere Ojinga Harrison is married to Dionne and has five children. In addition to his work as a psychiatrist, Dr. Harrison is fluent in English and Spanish, which enables him to connect with a diverse range of patients and communities.
Myleme Nyerere Ojinga Harrison’s dedication to the mental health field is reflected in his leadership at the Carter Clinic, his commitment to patient-centered care, and his active role in advancing psychiatric research and education. His holistic approach to care considers well-being's physical, mental, and spiritual aspects, ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive and personalized treatment. As a leader, educator, and advocate for underrepresented communities, Dr. Harrison continues to shape the future of psychiatry, inspiring those around him with his unwavering dedication to improving lives and making mental health care more accessible to all.
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