About Myleme Nyerere Ojinga Harrison
In the vibrant community of Raleigh, North Carolina, Mylene Nyerere Ojinga Harrison is a beacon of expertise and compassion in psychiatry. With nearly three decades of experience, Dr. Harrison has established himself as a leader in treating various psychiatric conditions. His extensive knowledge spans anxiety, attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders, among others.
Clinical Expertise and Approach
Dr. Harrison’s approach to psychiatric care is deeply rooted in his exceptional clinical expertise, empathy, adaptability, and strong communication skills. He is highly skilled in evidence-based treatments and therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychoeducation. His profound knowledge of the latest medications, their mechanisms, and potential side effects allows him to offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of his patients.
Moreover, Dr. Harrison’s deep understanding of overlapping conditions, such as ADHD and anxiety or bipolar disorder and substance use, enables him to deliver nuanced and compelling care. His expertise in intellectual and developmental disabilities further allows him to customize treatments to serve each individual’s needs better.
Leadership at the Carter Clinic
Dr. Harrison serves as the Carter Clinic, P.A. president, a legacy founded by Dr. James H. Carter, Sr., the first Black full professor of psychiatry at Duke University Medical Center, and his wife in 2003. The Carter Clinic is a pivotal institution that provides mental health and addiction services across North Carolina, with twelve locations and via telehealth.
Under Dr. Harrison’s leadership, the clinic has flourished, providing a wide range of services, including treatment for depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opiate dependence, alcohol and drug abuse, anxiety and panic disorders, PTSD, marital conflicts, autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, and childhood behavioral problems.
A Commitment to Community and Research
The Carter Clinic is also active in clinical research, focusing on the complex interplay between mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. This commitment to research underscores Dr. Harrison’s holistic approach to healthcare, which is also reflected in the primary care medical services available at the clinic’s select locations.
Patient testimonials frequently highlight Dr. Harrison and his team’s exceptional care, praising their compassion, attentiveness, and professionalism, significantly contributing to patients’ journeys toward better mental health.
The James H. Carter, Sr. Community Service Award
Dr. Harrison honors Dr. Carter’s legacy through the James H. Carter, Sr. Community Service Award. This award is given annually to Duke Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences trainees who demonstrate outstanding commitment to community psychiatry, focusing on underrepresented minorities and addressing health disparities.
Educational Background
Dr. Harrison’s medical journey began at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, where he graduated in 1997. He then completed a combined five-year residency in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry at Duke University, a program renowned for appreciating its residents’ unique perspectives and expertise. He also completed a research fellowship at Duke’s Center for Spirituality, Theology, and Health.
Literary Contributions
Alongside his medical practice, Dr. Harrison has co-authored an e-book with his wife, Dr. Dionne Harrison, titled “A Letter From Tamar.” This book serves as a child-friendly, Biblically-based counseling tool that educates families about sexual abuse and the importance of breaking the silence on such critical issues.
Personal Life
Dr. Harrison is happily married to Dionne, whom he met at the Duke University Center for Spirituality, Theology, and Health. Together, they have five children and are committed to integrating their faith with their professional expertise in behavioral health. Dr. Harrison is fluent in English and Spanish, enabling him to reach and impact a diverse patient population.
Dr. Myleme Nyerere Ojinga Harrison’s career is a testament to his dedication to excellence in psychiatry and his profound impact on the lives of those he serves. Through his leadership at the Carter Clinic and his commitment to his patients, he remains a pivotal figure in advancing mental health care.
