Psychiatrists in 20147

Photo of Sumit Anand - Ashburn Psychological Services, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashburn Psychological Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Ashburn, VA 20147
Ashburn Psychological and Psychiatric Services has some of Loudoun County's leading child, adolescent, adult and forensic psychiatrists to treat and diagnose clients for improved mental well being. Over the past few decades, one of the bona fide revolutions in mental health treatment has involved the use of modern, FDA-approved medications for certain mental disorders.
Ashburn Psychological and Psychiatric Services has some of Loudoun County's leading child, adolescent, adult and forensic psychiatrists to treat and diagnose clients for improved mental well being. Over the past few decades, one of the bona fide revolutions in mental health treatment has involved the use of modern, FDA-approved medications for certain mental disorders.
(703) 957-7963 View (703) 957-7963
All Hope Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Ashburn, VA 20147
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and provide comprehensive healthcare to children and their families. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder and other mental disorders. My approach is focused on the whole patient and their families and follow evidence-based treatment guidelines and bring about positive change.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and provide comprehensive healthcare to children and their families. I treat patients with ADHD, depression, Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder and other mental disorders. My approach is focused on the whole patient and their families and follow evidence-based treatment guidelines and bring about positive change.
(703) 542-3737 View (703) 542-3737
Photo of Eden Shumbulo - Eden Shumbulo—Psychiatric Medication Management, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Eden Shumbulo—Psychiatric Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Ashburn, VA 20147
Do you struggle with depression, insomnia, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges? Do you need a new prescription, adjustments to your current medication, or a thorough evaluation to determine if medication might be beneficial? As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I can develop a personalized medication management plan tailored to your needs and your goals. Together, we can maximize well-being while minimizing side effects. You deserve peace, balance, focus, and relief from difficult symptoms. I'm here to support your journey to wellness. I look forward to helping!
Do you struggle with depression, insomnia, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges? Do you need a new prescription, adjustments to your current medication, or a thorough evaluation to determine if medication might be beneficial? As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I can develop a personalized medication management plan tailored to your needs and your goals. Together, we can maximize well-being while minimizing side effects. You deserve peace, balance, focus, and relief from difficult symptoms. I'm here to support your journey to wellness. I look forward to helping!
(571) 583-3641 View (571) 583-3641
Photo of Dr. Sheetal Joshi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sheetal Joshi
Psychiatrist, MD
6 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are your mental health struggles disrupting your life, not letting you enjoy life’s pleasures? Does every day feel like a chore? Do you feel like you are on autopilot? Don’t let your struggles become your identity. Let us help you find your optimal potential so YOU can find the balance and the happiness that you deserve!
Are your mental health struggles disrupting your life, not letting you enjoy life’s pleasures? Does every day feel like a chore? Do you feel like you are on autopilot? Don’t let your struggles become your identity. Let us help you find your optimal potential so YOU can find the balance and the happiness that you deserve!
(571) 267-3188 View (571) 267-3188
Photo of Rajni Sharma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rajni Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
(571) 568-5768 View (571) 568-5768
Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chinyere Ugwanyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
(804) 373-4900 View (804) 373-4900
Photo of Enyonam Jordan-Brangman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, AGPCNP
Enyonam Jordan-Brangman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, AGPCNP
Ashburn, VA 20147
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually, by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. In addition to medication management, I incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing and person-centered techniques into treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually, by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. In addition to medication management, I incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing and person-centered techniques into treatment.
(571) 946-5181 View (571) 946-5181
Photo of Yvette Zebaze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Yvette Zebaze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Ashburn, VA 20147
Dr. Yvette Zebaze is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing for more than a decade. In 2013, she received her associate degree in nursing from Standard College of Nursing. Following that, in 2015, she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governor University. Further advancing her education, she completed her Doctoral of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry at George Mason University. Dr. Zebaze's approach to care is centered around evidence-based practices, aiming to support her clients as they pursue healthier lives.
Dr. Yvette Zebaze is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing for more than a decade. In 2013, she received her associate degree in nursing from Standard College of Nursing. Following that, in 2015, she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governor University. Further advancing her education, she completed her Doctoral of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry at George Mason University. Dr. Zebaze's approach to care is centered around evidence-based practices, aiming to support her clients as they pursue healthier lives.
(540) 417-9072 View (540) 417-9072
Photo of Patricia Obeng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, DNP
Patricia Obeng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, DNP
Ashburn, VA 20147
Dr. Patricia Obeng is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from George Mason University, Virginia, and has over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. Her expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in family medicine.
Dr. Patricia Obeng is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from George Mason University, Virginia, and has over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. Her expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in family medicine.
(804) 315-3219 View (804) 315-3219
Photo of Victor Nwagwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Victor Nwagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Victor Nwagwu is a doctorate-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in general nursing and mental health care practice, which spans across Canada and the US. I prioritize the mental well-being of my clients, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored to meet their unique needs. I am highly skilled, and I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace, healing, and growth.
Victor Nwagwu is a doctorate-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in general nursing and mental health care practice, which spans across Canada and the US. I prioritize the mental well-being of my clients, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored to meet their unique needs. I am highly skilled, and I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace, healing, and growth.
(703) 972-1895 View (703) 972-1895
Photo of Gurjot Toor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Gurjot Toor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my approach is centered on deeply understanding the distinct needs of each individual I work with. With a focus on empathy and evidence-based practice, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their mental health concerns. My holistic approach integrates medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions to promote healing and overall well-being.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my approach is centered on deeply understanding the distinct needs of each individual I work with. With a focus on empathy and evidence-based practice, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their mental health concerns. My holistic approach integrates medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions to promote healing and overall well-being.
(540) 253-4929 View (540) 253-4929
Photo of Patricia Obeng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Patricia Obeng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Ashburn, VA 20147
Dr. Patricia Obeng, a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from George Mason University, specializes in evidence-based interventions for diverse mental health challenges in Virginia and Maryland. She uses a comprehensive and personalized approach to address each client's needs and tailor interventions aimed at improving their life's quality.
Dr. Patricia Obeng, a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from George Mason University, specializes in evidence-based interventions for diverse mental health challenges in Virginia and Maryland. She uses a comprehensive and personalized approach to address each client's needs and tailor interventions aimed at improving their life's quality.
(540) 384-4336 View (540) 384-4336
Photo of Oluwaseyi Soetan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Oluwaseyi Soetan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
(804) 494-4266 View (804) 494-4266
Photo of Toni Plummer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toni Plummer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
(804) 207-7215 View (804) 207-7215
Photo of Monet Ince-Amara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Monet Ince-Amara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now welcoming women, men, and youth (ages 10–60) with summer availability. Do you feel like you’re carrying too much—and still expected to hold it all together? Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, burnout, or a shift in identity or relationships, you deserve care that honors your full story. At Mendem, I provide personalized, trauma-informed mental health care through an integrative lens. This means I consider the whole picture—emotional, biological, and lifestyle factors—to support you in healing from the inside out. I work with individuals of all backgrounds and family structures, offeri
Now welcoming women, men, and youth (ages 10–60) with summer availability. Do you feel like you’re carrying too much—and still expected to hold it all together? Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, burnout, or a shift in identity or relationships, you deserve care that honors your full story. At Mendem, I provide personalized, trauma-informed mental health care through an integrative lens. This means I consider the whole picture—emotional, biological, and lifestyle factors—to support you in healing from the inside out. I work with individuals of all backgrounds and family structures, offeri
(571) 651-8443 View (571) 651-8443
Photo of Jenna Grimm - LifeStance Health - Ashburn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
LifeStance Health - Ashburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
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.
(540) 712-6963 View (540) 712-6963
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(571) 554-4719 View (571) 554-4719
Photo of Crystal Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Crystal Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
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 Sabah Hadi, Psychiatrist, MD
Sabah Hadi
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Congratulation to Dr. Sabah Hadi for the esteemed recognition by the Washingtonian Magazine, as a "Top Psychiatrist". Dr. Hadi is one of few Adult and Child Psychiatrist in the area to receive this recognition and honor. Dr. Hadi is a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist, trained, experienced and certified to treat all age groups. Dr. Hadi have more than 10 years experience and interest treating clients with ADD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating disorder, Trauma, Obsessive and Autistic spectrum disorders. Dr. Hadi also has extensive training and experience treating addiction disorders. He is credentialed to treat opiate addiction with Suboxone.
Congratulation to Dr. Sabah Hadi for the esteemed recognition by the Washingtonian Magazine, as a "Top Psychiatrist". Dr. Hadi is one of few Adult and Child Psychiatrist in the area to receive this recognition and honor. Dr. Hadi is a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist, trained, experienced and certified to treat all age groups. Dr. Hadi have more than 10 years experience and interest treating clients with ADD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating disorder, Trauma, Obsessive and Autistic spectrum disorders. Dr. Hadi also has extensive training and experience treating addiction disorders. He is credentialed to treat opiate addiction with Suboxone.
(703) 831-6767 View (703) 831-6767
Photo of Cinthia Lyvers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Cinthia Lyvers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
I'm really glad you're here. As a nurse practitioner board-certified in both family medicine and psychiatric mental health, I bring over 14 years of diverse nursing experience to our work together. My time in family practice taught me to look at the whole person—not just symptoms—and that approach now guides how I support mental and emotional wellness.
I'm really glad you're here. As a nurse practitioner board-certified in both family medicine and psychiatric mental health, I bring over 14 years of diverse nursing experience to our work together. My time in family practice taught me to look at the whole person—not just symptoms—and that approach now guides how I support mental and emotional wellness.
(571) 596-7419 View (571) 596-7419

See more therapy options for 20147

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20147

70+

Average cost per session

$187

Psychiatrists in 20147 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
93% Anxiety
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
81% Bipolar Disorder
71% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD
64% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 20147 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20147?

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.