Psychiatrists in 20110

Photo of Melanie Parks, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melanie Parks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
I have been practicing since 2003, treating patients of all ages in various settings. My therapeutic treatment goals are to provide the best mental health care possible through a holistic approach.
I have been practicing since 2003, treating patients of all ages in various settings. My therapeutic treatment goals are to provide the best mental health care possible through a holistic approach.
(804) 332-6061 View (804) 332-6061
Photo of Gifty Awenanya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gifty Awenanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I am known for my patient-centered approach, prioritizing the needs and preferences of patients. With my extensive experience and commitment to excellence, I continue to positively impact the lives of those I provide services to. In addition to the treatment of a variety of clinical concerns, including Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, psychosis, mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia, I also provide psychotherapy ( CBT, DBT, Grief counseling and more).
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I am known for my patient-centered approach, prioritizing the needs and preferences of patients. With my extensive experience and commitment to excellence, I continue to positively impact the lives of those I provide services to. In addition to the treatment of a variety of clinical concerns, including Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, psychosis, mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia, I also provide psychotherapy ( CBT, DBT, Grief counseling and more).
(571) 609-5628 View (571) 609-5628
Photo of Dena Wampler, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dena Wampler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
In a series of happy coincidences, my life took an unexpected turn in the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Master’s program where I was able to secure a spot in the psychiatric/mental health specialty. Much of my practice has been in community mental health which has been fulfilling, enlightening and educational. I’m comfortable with diagnosing and providing medication for depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and sleep issues and providing education about the medication.
In a series of happy coincidences, my life took an unexpected turn in the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Master’s program where I was able to secure a spot in the psychiatric/mental health specialty. Much of my practice has been in community mental health which has been fulfilling, enlightening and educational. I’m comfortable with diagnosing and providing medication for depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and sleep issues and providing education about the medication.
(804) 332-6061 View (804) 332-6061
Photo of Lartoniah Hassan - Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
(571) 751-2029 View (571) 751-2029
Photo of Dana Mohl - Paragon Integrative Psychiatry, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paragon Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Dana Mohl, and I’m a Nurse Practitioner, double board-certified in Family Practice & Psychiatry, and trained in Integrative Psychiatry. Since 2006, I’ve been dedicated to helping people improve their quality of life. Do you struggle with a psychiatric disorder or symptoms that affect your relationships, career, or daily functioning? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or anxious just getting through the day or interacting with others? Do you wish your mental and physical health could be better? Now more than ever, adults are feeling hopeless and overwhelmed, seeking the support they need.
Welcome! My name is Dana Mohl, and I’m a Nurse Practitioner, double board-certified in Family Practice & Psychiatry, and trained in Integrative Psychiatry. Since 2006, I’ve been dedicated to helping people improve their quality of life. Do you struggle with a psychiatric disorder or symptoms that affect your relationships, career, or daily functioning? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or anxious just getting through the day or interacting with others? Do you wish your mental and physical health could be better? Now more than ever, adults are feeling hopeless and overwhelmed, seeking the support they need.
(571) 901-1333 View (571) 901-1333
Photo of Amy Fehrmann, MD, Psychiatrist
Amy Fehrmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
(571) 609-4200 View (571) 609-4200
Photo of Adomale Elba - Urgent Behavioral Health Services, DNP, MS, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Urgent Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives. I believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality behavioral healthcare, and I am committed to making that a reality through evidence-based practices and compassionate support.
My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives. I believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality behavioral healthcare, and I am committed to making that a reality through evidence-based practices and compassionate support.
(571) 946-5710 View (571) 946-5710
Photo of Adomale Elba, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adomale Elba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
Hello there, I'm Dr. Elba, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be daunting and overwhelming! I am here to support you every step of the way! My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives.
Hello there, I'm Dr. Elba, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be daunting and overwhelming! I am here to support you every step of the way! My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives.
(571) 556-8383 View (571) 556-8383
Photo of Stephanie Foster, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with many years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in a wide range of treatment areas including depression, anxiety, autism, oppositional defiant disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I have worked in several settings and enjoy providing care through telehealth which offers access to quality care when it is needed.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with many years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in a wide range of treatment areas including depression, anxiety, autism, oppositional defiant disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I have worked in several settings and enjoy providing care through telehealth which offers access to quality care when it is needed.
(804) 332-6061 View (804) 332-6061
Photo of Kerniba Ghoneim, DNP, PMHNP, CMHIMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kerniba Ghoneim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
As a licensed practitioner in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia, I am a board-certified Doctorate Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized, incorporating complementary therapies such as nutrition, vitamins, and supplementation into conventional psychiatric methods. I strive to identify and address the root causes of your personal and professional challenges, prescribing medications conservatively, safely, and effectively when needed.
As a licensed practitioner in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia, I am a board-certified Doctorate Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized, incorporating complementary therapies such as nutrition, vitamins, and supplementation into conventional psychiatric methods. I strive to identify and address the root causes of your personal and professional challenges, prescribing medications conservatively, safely, and effectively when needed.
(571) 548-4066 View (571) 548-4066
Photo of Cash McGregor, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Cash McGregor
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Accepting New Patients! - www.conquesthealth.org - I am available for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and especially substance use disorders. I prioritize availability for appointments, with both in-person and online scheduling available with some mornings, evenings, and weekends.
Accepting New Patients! - www.conquesthealth.org - I am available for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and especially substance use disorders. I prioritize availability for appointments, with both in-person and online scheduling available with some mornings, evenings, and weekends.
(571) 604-6860 View (571) 604-6860
Photo of Dr. Gifty Addai, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Greetings! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
Greetings! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
(240) 290-4816 View (240) 290-4816
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
We provide Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment in our Virginia location in Lansdowne/Ashburn in addition to video appointment across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment in our Virginia location in Lansdowne/Ashburn in addition to video appointment across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(540) 306-5124 View (540) 306-5124
Photo of Kelsey Skiljan, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kelsey Skiljan
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
We all have solutions within us - it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is to focus on your strengths and harness into your available resources while getting the symptoms under control. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
We all have solutions within us - it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is to focus on your strengths and harness into your available resources while getting the symptoms under control. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
(571) 556-7484 View (571) 556-7484
Photo of David Phelps - David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
(571) 470-6370 View (571) 470-6370
Photo of Jacquetta “Jay” Garris, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacquetta “Jay” Garris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of specific conditions and symptoms. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, provide medication management, and when appropriate provide psychotherapeutic interventions. My approach to mental health care is holistic and patient-centered in nature. *NOW OFFERING CBD/THC-A Oil evaluations*
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of specific conditions and symptoms. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, provide medication management, and when appropriate provide psychotherapeutic interventions. My approach to mental health care is holistic and patient-centered in nature. *NOW OFFERING CBD/THC-A Oil evaluations*
(757) 982-8258 View (757) 982-8258
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Cassie Behseta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassie Behseta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For me, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing me to work with families across the lifespan and collaborate closely with people. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I manage and treat conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and women's health issues.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For me, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing me to work with families across the lifespan and collaborate closely with people. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I manage and treat conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and women's health issues.
(571) 771-1864 View (571) 771-1864
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Mimi Jimenez, MSN, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mimi Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
Mimi Jiménez es Enfermera Practicante en Psiquiatría que utiliza varios tratamientos, incluyendo evaluaciones psiquiátricas, intervenciones psicosociales y manejo de medicamentos. Su especialidad se dedica a diagnosticar, prevenir y tratar trastornos mentales. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes.
Mimi Jiménez es Enfermera Practicante en Psiquiatría que utiliza varios tratamientos, incluyendo evaluaciones psiquiátricas, intervenciones psicosociales y manejo de medicamentos. Su especialidad se dedica a diagnosticar, prevenir y tratar trastornos mentales. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20110

20+

Average cost per session

$149

Psychiatrists in 20110 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
90% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
81% ADHD
81% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
94% BlueCross and BlueShield
94% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 20110 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

93% Female
7% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20110?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs 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 psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, 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 and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.