Psychiatrists in 20121

Photo of Young H Bae, MD, Psychiatrist
Young H Bae
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 35 years of experience in psychiatry. In addition to my career as a psychiatrist, I was ordained as a Christian Minister in 1999. I founded Vine Psychiatric Associates to provide healing based on modern psychiatric practice while integrating a spiritual approach. I provide medication management along with counseling (using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy approaches).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 35 years of experience in psychiatry. In addition to my career as a psychiatrist, I was ordained as a Christian Minister in 1999. I founded Vine Psychiatric Associates to provide healing based on modern psychiatric practice while integrating a spiritual approach. I provide medication management along with counseling (using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy approaches).
(703) 830-1800 View (703) 830-1800
Photo of Clifford Newman, MD, Psychiatrist
Clifford Newman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
I am a psychiatrist who does psychotherapy and will only use medication if necessary. I believe psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment that will minimize the use of medications. Although I work with relationship difficulties, it is only on an individual basis and not as a couples counselor.
I am a psychiatrist who does psychotherapy and will only use medication if necessary. I believe psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment that will minimize the use of medications. Although I work with relationship difficulties, it is only on an individual basis and not as a couples counselor.
(571) 563-9229 View (571) 563-9229
Photo of Dr. Gifty Addai, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared 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 doctoral prepared 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.
(571) 536-7951 View (571) 536-7951
Photo of Ramatu Jalloh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ramatu Jalloh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. My professional experience includes being a highly skilled Clinical Nurse Educator and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Six years of acute care practice has allowed me to specialize in the treatment of various mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. My professional experience includes being a highly skilled Clinical Nurse Educator and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Six years of acute care practice has allowed me to specialize in the treatment of various mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.
(571) 470-6056 View (571) 470-6056

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Esther Shadare, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esther Shadare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Esther Shadare, commonly addressed as Dr. S, Dr. E, or Dr. Shadare (Sha-Dah-Ray). I obtained my certification and licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2015 shortly after graduating from Bowie State University, Bowie, MD followed by my DNP with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Brandman University, Irvine, California in 2017. I have devoted my career to advancing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about serving diverse populations and committed to a holistic approach to ensure individualized, patient-centered care.
I am Dr. Esther Shadare, commonly addressed as Dr. S, Dr. E, or Dr. Shadare (Sha-Dah-Ray). I obtained my certification and licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2015 shortly after graduating from Bowie State University, Bowie, MD followed by my DNP with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Brandman University, Irvine, California in 2017. I have devoted my career to advancing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about serving diverse populations and committed to a holistic approach to ensure individualized, patient-centered care.
(571) 605-1319 View (571) 605-1319
Photo of Brittany Piccicacco, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Piccicacco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting new patients and utilizing telehealth via Zoom and Doxy. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. My professional focus is to understand each patient’s unique story in order to make appropriate diagnoses and incorporate psychopharmacology into an integrative treatment plan. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and their families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, thought disorders, autism spectrum disorder, academic and social difficulties. I work to transform their challenges into opportunities for growth.
I am accepting new patients and utilizing telehealth via Zoom and Doxy. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. My professional focus is to understand each patient’s unique story in order to make appropriate diagnoses and incorporate psychopharmacology into an integrative treatment plan. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and their families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, thought disorders, autism spectrum disorder, academic and social difficulties. I work to transform their challenges into opportunities for growth.
(571) 777-0116 View (571) 777-0116
Photo of Georgina Rose Chidaushe, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Georgina Rose Chidaushe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Rose! I’m currently accepting new patients! I am board-certified and licensed in Virginia and Washington DC. Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, children and adolescents to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD. Prior to graduating as a nurse practitioner, I had 12 years nursing experience working in neurology, psychiatry, hospice and pain management.
Hello, I'm Rose! I’m currently accepting new patients! I am board-certified and licensed in Virginia and Washington DC. Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, children and adolescents to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD. Prior to graduating as a nurse practitioner, I had 12 years nursing experience working in neurology, psychiatry, hospice and pain management.
(571) 470-5823 View (571) 470-5823
Photo of Swati Divakarla, MD, Psychiatrist
Swati Divakarla
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Swati Divakarla is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. She has experience working in a variety of clinical settings. She uses evidence based medicine as a guide in medication management of a variety of psychiatric symptoms. She has also had experience in multiple modalities of psychotherapy. She has had experience with working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and presenting with a variety of symptoms and problems.
Dr. Swati Divakarla is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. She has experience working in a variety of clinical settings. She uses evidence based medicine as a guide in medication management of a variety of psychiatric symptoms. She has also had experience in multiple modalities of psychotherapy. She has had experience with working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and presenting with a variety of symptoms and problems.
(202) 915-6420 View (202) 915-6420
Photo of Adeline Mangwa, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adeline Mangwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
(571) 563-9136 View (571) 563-9136
Photo of Olajumoke Rotimi - Better You Healthcare Services, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Better You Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
(240) 628-6892 View (240) 628-6892
Photo of Gifty Addai-Pickett - Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
(540) 269-5252 View (540) 269-5252
Photo of Marina Nesterenko, MD, Psychiatrist
Marina Nesterenko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, General Adult Psychiatrist NJ, NY, VA, FL ​ Dr. Marina Nesterenko finished Medical school in Kyiv, Ukraine, in 1997 and worked as a child psychiatrist in Ukraine. After relocation to the USA, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program at SUNY Upstate, followed by Child Fellowship in Syracuse, NY. Dr. Nesterenko is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Area of Interest: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, mood disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, and PTSD.
Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, General Adult Psychiatrist NJ, NY, VA, FL ​ Dr. Marina Nesterenko finished Medical school in Kyiv, Ukraine, in 1997 and worked as a child psychiatrist in Ukraine. After relocation to the USA, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program at SUNY Upstate, followed by Child Fellowship in Syracuse, NY. Dr. Nesterenko is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Area of Interest: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, mood disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, and PTSD.
(941) 795-5922 View (941) 795-5922
Photo of Binta Bojang - We Walk Together LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
We Walk Together LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
We Walk Together Behavioral/Mental Health Clinic has supported many individuals on their journey toward mental, physical, and emotional growth through specialized psychiatric mental health care for the past 10 years. Our main focus is on adult treatment, offering comprehensive medication management across a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD. Medication plans are customized to meet each client’s needs. For the best support, please reach out via email or text at 240-607-5319. Currently, we accept many commercial insurance and the following Virginia Medicaid plans: Anthem Keepers, Molina Health, and United Health.
We Walk Together Behavioral/Mental Health Clinic has supported many individuals on their journey toward mental, physical, and emotional growth through specialized psychiatric mental health care for the past 10 years. Our main focus is on adult treatment, offering comprehensive medication management across a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD. Medication plans are customized to meet each client’s needs. For the best support, please reach out via email or text at 240-607-5319. Currently, we accept many commercial insurance and the following Virginia Medicaid plans: Anthem Keepers, Molina Health, and United Health.
(240) 301-3116 View (240) 301-3116
Photo of Lauren Alston-Close, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Alston-Close
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m here to support those navigating anxiety, depression, or complex mood disorders. If you’ve tried traditional treatments and are looking for a more comprehensive approach that considers the whole person—not just the symptoms—I can help. You might be dealing with ongoing stress, fatigue, or physical symptoms that feel connected to your mental health but haven’t been fully addressed.
I’m here to support those navigating anxiety, depression, or complex mood disorders. If you’ve tried traditional treatments and are looking for a more comprehensive approach that considers the whole person—not just the symptoms—I can help. You might be dealing with ongoing stress, fatigue, or physical symptoms that feel connected to your mental health but haven’t been fully addressed.
(571) 605-6628 View (571) 605-6628
Photo of Emelia Korkor, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emelia Korkor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
My specialties include Depression, Bipolar, Substance Abuse, Anxiety, and Geriatric Psychiatry.
My specialties include Depression, Bipolar, Substance Abuse, Anxiety, and Geriatric Psychiatry.
(571) 497-4201 View (571) 497-4201
Photo of Katarina (Kat) Mijic-Barisic, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katarina (Kat) Mijic-Barisic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22180
Hi! I’m Kat, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential and live a happier, more fulfilling life through medication management and supportive therapy. I believe that every person has the capacity for growth and resilience. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to understanding each individual's unique journey, and my mission is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Hi! I’m Kat, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential and live a happier, more fulfilling life through medication management and supportive therapy. I believe that every person has the capacity for growth and resilience. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to understanding each individual's unique journey, and my mission is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(540) 418-3867 View (540) 418-3867
Photo of Michael R Sternberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael R Sternberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I now provide video sessions for all of Virginia and Florida. I have over 25 years of experience treating patients of all ages. I work in a collaborative style, have excellent listening skills and work with you to find the right medication, if indicated, for your symptoms. I am compassionate and dedicated to help relieve your suffering. For more information, please visit my web site at michaelrsternbergmd.com
I now provide video sessions for all of Virginia and Florida. I have over 25 years of experience treating patients of all ages. I work in a collaborative style, have excellent listening skills and work with you to find the right medication, if indicated, for your symptoms. I am compassionate and dedicated to help relieve your suffering. For more information, please visit my web site at michaelrsternbergmd.com
(571) 901-1068 View (571) 901-1068
Photo of Solomon Okwueze, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solomon Okwueze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Solomon Okwueze is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare field. He has had the opportunity to work in a different healthcare setting. He has worked in a teaching Hospital, as well as NGOs such as Doctors without Border. He has provided mental health services both here in the USA and in Canada.
Solomon Okwueze is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare field. He has had the opportunity to work in a different healthcare setting. He has worked in a teaching Hospital, as well as NGOs such as Doctors without Border. He has provided mental health services both here in the USA and in Canada.
(804) 825-2038 View (804) 825-2038
Photo of Yuelei Dong, MD, Psychiatrist
Yuelei Dong
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22182
Dr. Dong practices general adult psychiatry. She graduated from Tianjin Medical University, China and completed her psychiatric residency at University of Maryland and Sheppard Pratt Hospital. Dr. Dong served as a staff psychiatrist at Sheppard Pratt Hospital for two years. She specializes in depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, trauma and relationship difficulties. Dr. Dong believes that medication management is most helpful when utilized in combination with psychotherapy.
Dr. Dong practices general adult psychiatry. She graduated from Tianjin Medical University, China and completed her psychiatric residency at University of Maryland and Sheppard Pratt Hospital. Dr. Dong served as a staff psychiatrist at Sheppard Pratt Hospital for two years. She specializes in depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, trauma and relationship difficulties. Dr. Dong believes that medication management is most helpful when utilized in combination with psychotherapy.
(571) 402-4966 View (571) 402-4966
Photo of Mohammed Basith, MD, Psychiatrist
Mohammed Basith
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mo Basith is a board-certified psychiatrist in the field of general adult psychiatry. He offers a mix of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with psychotherapy. Dr. Basith’s approach to clinical practice is rooted in fostering a safe atmosphere in which to explore biological and psychosocial factors that affect mental health. He views medication as a tool that patients can use while also engaging in psychotherapy and making lifestyle changes to optimize their mental health. Dr. Basith may occasionally believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Mo Basith is a board-certified psychiatrist in the field of general adult psychiatry. He offers a mix of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with psychotherapy. Dr. Basith’s approach to clinical practice is rooted in fostering a safe atmosphere in which to explore biological and psychosocial factors that affect mental health. He views medication as a tool that patients can use while also engaging in psychotherapy and making lifestyle changes to optimize their mental health. Dr. Basith may occasionally believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
(202) 750-4512 View (202) 750-4512

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20121

< 10

Psychiatrists in 20121 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
75% Eating Disorders
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Stress

Average years in practice

25 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 20121 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20121?

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.