Psychiatrists in 20146

Photo of Dr. Bridget U Famogun - BridgeStone Mental Wellness & Therapy, LLC, Bridget, Famogun, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BridgeStone Mental Wellness & Therapy, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Bridget, Famogun, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20146
BridgeStone Mental Wellness & Therapy LLC have a team of compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Therapists ready to serve you unjudgementally. The providers are licensed and holds Master's of Science degree as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) PMHNP, Board Certified, and PhD in Nursing with years of Psychiatric experiences working in hospitals and in clinical trial settings. BridgeStone our client are not alone, we are committed to provide our clients with safety and their wellness is our priority.
BridgeStone Mental Wellness & Therapy LLC have a team of compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Therapists ready to serve you unjudgementally. The providers are licensed and holds Master's of Science degree as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) PMHNP, Board Certified, and PhD in Nursing with years of Psychiatric experiences working in hospitals and in clinical trial settings. BridgeStone our client are not alone, we are committed to provide our clients with safety and their wellness is our priority.
(571) 630-3381 x101 View (571) 630-3381 x101
Photo of Katherine Hughes, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been treating mood disorders, such as depression, for the past twelve years. I focus on individualized care with my patients, taking into account their past experiences with medications and their current priorities with treatment. I combine medication management with cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. Please note that I do not prescribe routine/daily benzodiazepines and patients on any controlled substances, such as stimulants, are required to have an in-person appointment with me before December 2024. I am currently treating ages 20 and up.
I have been treating mood disorders, such as depression, for the past twelve years. I focus on individualized care with my patients, taking into account their past experiences with medications and their current priorities with treatment. I combine medication management with cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. Please note that I do not prescribe routine/daily benzodiazepines and patients on any controlled substances, such as stimulants, are required to have an in-person appointment with me before December 2024. I am currently treating ages 20 and up.
(571) 496-9295 View (571) 496-9295
Photo of Shannon Sabanosh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Sabanosh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Shannon specialties include ADHD and issues surrounding pregnancy and postpartum mental health. She is a dual board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare. Shannon is uniquely qualified with a background in medical management as well as psychiatric care. She spent much of her career as an RN working in a busy level one trauma center as a staff nurse, charge nurse, preceptor, trauma nurse, and unit supervisor before deciding to pursue advanced clinical education.
Shannon specialties include ADHD and issues surrounding pregnancy and postpartum mental health. She is a dual board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare. Shannon is uniquely qualified with a background in medical management as well as psychiatric care. She spent much of her career as an RN working in a busy level one trauma center as a staff nurse, charge nurse, preceptor, trauma nurse, and unit supervisor before deciding to pursue advanced clinical education.
(571) 534-3281 View (571) 534-3281
Photo of Angela Sanders - Seaside Wellness & Peace of Mind Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, AGPCNP, ADHDCSP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Seaside Wellness & Peace of Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, AGPCNP, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a integrative family psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I specialize and am certified as an ADHD clinical service provider and mental health integrative practitioner. I am here to help you overcome obstacles, restore balance, and renew mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I am currently accepting new patients in Nevada and Florida.
I am a integrative family psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I specialize and am certified as an ADHD clinical service provider and mental health integrative practitioner. I am here to help you overcome obstacles, restore balance, and renew mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I am currently accepting new patients in Nevada and Florida.
(775) 204-4798 View (775) 204-4798

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Elspeth Gunnoe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elspeth Gunnoe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! Whatever brings you here today, I'm here to help. I have experience in treating a wide variety of illnesses, including but not limited to PTSD, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, peripartum disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, depression, adjustment disorders, and anxiety disorders. I also can help with feelings of burnout, overwhelm, and heightened stress.
Hello! Whatever brings you here today, I'm here to help. I have experience in treating a wide variety of illnesses, including but not limited to PTSD, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, peripartum disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, depression, adjustment disorders, and anxiety disorders. I also can help with feelings of burnout, overwhelm, and heightened stress.
(540) 264-3198 View (540) 264-3198
Photo of Dr. Clair Oja, DNP, PMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Clair Oja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
Dr. Clair Oja is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She prescribes Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Spravato, and Ketamine. Dr. Oja completed her doctorate focusing on mental health and the lack of access to mental health care. For the past thirteen years, she has treated a variety of mental health disorders in a family practice setting. Dr. Oja is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to pediatric and adult populations. Dr.
Dr. Clair Oja is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She prescribes Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Spravato, and Ketamine. Dr. Oja completed her doctorate focusing on mental health and the lack of access to mental health care. For the past thirteen years, she has treated a variety of mental health disorders in a family practice setting. Dr. Oja is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to pediatric and adult populations. Dr.
(571) 765-2285 View (571) 765-2285
LifeStance Health - Lansdowne
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lansdowne, VA 20176
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(866) 404-7026 View (866) 404-7026
Photo of Crystal Lee, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Crystal Lee is a board certified nurse practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Medicine serving the greater Northern Virginia community. She received her master's degree from George Washington University and psychiatric post-master's degree from Wilkes University. She has 8+ years working in healthcare and has worked in various settings such as oncology, addiction medicine, a dual diagnosis psychiatric mental health facility , palliative care and hospice. She has experience specializing in substance abuse, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, panic disorders and PTSD.
Crystal Lee is a board certified nurse practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Medicine serving the greater Northern Virginia community. She received her master's degree from George Washington University and psychiatric post-master's degree from Wilkes University. She has 8+ years working in healthcare and has worked in various settings such as oncology, addiction medicine, a dual diagnosis psychiatric mental health facility , palliative care and hospice. She has experience specializing in substance abuse, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, panic disorders and PTSD.
(703) 997-2722 View (703) 997-2722
Photo of Nadine Kakanou, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nadine Kakanou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Nadine Kakanou, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. As a PMHNP, I evaluate patients' mental health by assessing their medical history, conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and identifying any potential issues that may negatively impact their mental well-being.
I am Nadine Kakanou, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. As a PMHNP, I evaluate patients' mental health by assessing their medical history, conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and identifying any potential issues that may negatively impact their mental well-being.
(240) 202-3880 View (240) 202-3880
Photo of Brandie Bustillos, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandie Bustillos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder. You can schedule an appointment with me or my practice at https://practice.kareo.com/alphatelemed.
Anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder. You can schedule an appointment with me or my practice at https://practice.kareo.com/alphatelemed.
(703) 382-5921 View (703) 382-5921
Photo of Jenna Grimm - LifeStance Health - Ashburn, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health - Ashburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(866) 404-7026 View (866) 404-7026
Photo of Svetlana Yakov, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Svetlana Yakov
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Svetlana Yakov, board certified psychiatrist with combined background in medicine and neurology in academics, clinics and research, author of USA/international publications and presentations in neuroscience/neuropsychiatry. I treat a variety of mental disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and I specialize in treatment resistant mental illness that are not responsive to prior medications.
I am Dr. Svetlana Yakov, board certified psychiatrist with combined background in medicine and neurology in academics, clinics and research, author of USA/international publications and presentations in neuroscience/neuropsychiatry. I treat a variety of mental disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and I specialize in treatment resistant mental illness that are not responsive to prior medications.
(877) 806-5285 View (877) 806-5285
Photo of Deborah Schiavone, PhD, PMHCNS-, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Schiavone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHCNS-, RN
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Since 1990, I have offered services as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Before obtaining my advanced degree, I practiced as a registered nurse caring for individuals with varying illnesses. My experience has taught me about the complex relationships between the brain and the body, recognizing that emotional and physical responses are intricately connected. Participation in psychotherapy can begin the process of healing and self-discovery.
Since 1990, I have offered services as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Before obtaining my advanced degree, I practiced as a registered nurse caring for individuals with varying illnesses. My experience has taught me about the complex relationships between the brain and the body, recognizing that emotional and physical responses are intricately connected. Participation in psychotherapy can begin the process of healing and self-discovery.
(571) 601-4843 View (571) 601-4843
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22150
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 Lisa Eitches, MD, Psychiatrist
Lisa Eitches
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
When we begin our work together, you may be facing new challenges that come with parenthood, coping with grief or loss or struggling in your closest relationships. You may be living with anxiety, depression or OCD while adapting to new roles at home or at work. You may feel burnt out, overwhelmed or anxious. You may want to nurture your relationships and goals, take better care of yourself and loved ones but feel too exhausted and overwhelmed to know where to begin. When we begin our work together, whether we focus on therapy, medications or both, every meeting is an opportunity for connection and change.
When we begin our work together, you may be facing new challenges that come with parenthood, coping with grief or loss or struggling in your closest relationships. You may be living with anxiety, depression or OCD while adapting to new roles at home or at work. You may feel burnt out, overwhelmed or anxious. You may want to nurture your relationships and goals, take better care of yourself and loved ones but feel too exhausted and overwhelmed to know where to begin. When we begin our work together, whether we focus on therapy, medications or both, every meeting is an opportunity for connection and change.
(571) 444-6942 View (571) 444-6942
Photo of Dr. Tonisha Melvin, CRNP, CRRN, ANP-C, PMHNPBC, RYT-200, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tonisha Melvin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, CRRN, ANP-C, PMHNPBC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Tonisha Melvin is the President and Co-CEO of DMV Medical Group, LLC located in Kensington, MD. She is an advocate for her clients. Her goal is to provide a safe space working with, encouraging, and supporting you so that you reach your optimal mental health goals. She provides healing and hope in a holistic way while utilizing evidence-based strategies along the way.
Dr. Tonisha Melvin is the President and Co-CEO of DMV Medical Group, LLC located in Kensington, MD. She is an advocate for her clients. Her goal is to provide a safe space working with, encouraging, and supporting you so that you reach your optimal mental health goals. She provides healing and hope in a holistic way while utilizing evidence-based strategies along the way.
(240) 929-1578 View (240) 929-1578
Photo of Angela Allen Blaine, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Allen Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Angela Allen-Blaine, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and my Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. I completed my post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and am currently working toward my doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
I am Angela Allen-Blaine, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and my Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. I completed my post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and am currently working toward my doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
(804) 369-9291 View (804) 369-9291
Photo of Ellen Koduah-Agbo - Essence Behavioral Health Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Essence Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109
Is your happiness, social life, academics, and professional life affected by ADHD, Alcohol use disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and looking into improving your quality of life through medications?
Is your happiness, social life, academics, and professional life affected by ADHD, Alcohol use disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and looking into improving your quality of life through medications?
(571) 200-5234 View (571) 200-5234
Photo of Jennifer Garner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Garner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Jennifer Garner is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with Talkiatry. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 2009 and a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University in 2011. Jennifer enjoys working treating all adults and has outpatient experience with community mental health, corrections, and private practice. Besides outpatient care, she has worked in crisis stabilization and ambulatory detox for adults with primary psychiatric and dual diagnosis illnesses.
Jennifer Garner is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with Talkiatry. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 2009 and a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University in 2011. Jennifer enjoys working treating all adults and has outpatient experience with community mental health, corrections, and private practice. Besides outpatient care, she has worked in crisis stabilization and ambulatory detox for adults with primary psychiatric and dual diagnosis illnesses.
(571) 506-6857 View (571) 506-6857
Photo of Mone't Ince-Amara, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mone't Ince-Amara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide comprehensive mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering both therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to help you on your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
I provide comprehensive mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering both therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to help you on your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
(240) 630-4934 View (240) 630-4934

See more therapy options for 20146

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20146

< 10

Psychiatrists in 20146 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Medication Management
75% Stress
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% CareFirst
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 20146 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20146?

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.