Psychiatrists in 20151

Dana Mohl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You carry it all—but who carries you? Your career, your family, and everyone’s expectations demand everything from you, but at what cost? If you’re feeling drained, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode, you don’t have to push through alone. I help professionals, military families, those with chronic illness, multiracial individuals, and first-generation Americans regain energy, clarity, and peace of mind. I specialize in burnout, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the mental health impact of chronic illness, using an integrative approach blending therapy, medication management, and lifestyle interventions.
You carry it all—but who carries you? Your career, your family, and everyone’s expectations demand everything from you, but at what cost? If you’re feeling drained, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode, you don’t have to push through alone. I help professionals, military families, those with chronic illness, multiracial individuals, and first-generation Americans regain energy, clarity, and peace of mind. I specialize in burnout, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the mental health impact of chronic illness, using an integrative approach blending therapy, medication management, and lifestyle interventions.
Psychiatric Associates of Northern Virginia LLC,
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151
Psychiatrist Associates of Northern Virginia (paofnova.com) is comprehensive behavioral health practice geared to meet the psychiatric needs for individuals 18 and over. Our emphasis as clinicians is to build a seamless model, which integrates mind, spirit and body. Empathy, education, and support are extremely helpful while encouraging the person to continue until the best response can be achieved.
Psychiatrist Associates of Northern Virginia (paofnova.com) is comprehensive behavioral health practice geared to meet the psychiatric needs for individuals 18 and over. Our emphasis as clinicians is to build a seamless model, which integrates mind, spirit and body. Empathy, education, and support are extremely helpful while encouraging the person to continue until the best response can be achieved.

Nicole Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CRNA
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
Are you tired of trying medication after medication and still don't feel your best? Or do your medications come with frustrating side effects?
If you're seeking a more holistic path toward mental wellness, you're not alone. Many adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD are looking for something deeper than traditional care—something that addresses not just symptoms, but the root causes. We will look into your history, symptoms and lifestyle to develop a personalized plan including functional lab testing, supplements, prescription medications (when needed), and lifestyle modifications.
Are you tired of trying medication after medication and still don't feel your best? Or do your medications come with frustrating side effects?
If you're seeking a more holistic path toward mental wellness, you're not alone. Many adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD are looking for something deeper than traditional care—something that addresses not just symptoms, but the root causes. We will look into your history, symptoms and lifestyle to develop a personalized plan including functional lab testing, supplements, prescription medications (when needed), and lifestyle modifications.

I am a Board certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist practicing in various clinical settings over the past 13 years. My extensive experience has included practicing in Acute Inpatient hospital settings, Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Programs, Community Mental Health Centers, as well as Outpatient Private Practice.
I am a Board certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist practicing in various clinical settings over the past 13 years. My extensive experience has included practicing in Acute Inpatient hospital settings, Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Programs, Community Mental Health Centers, as well as Outpatient Private Practice.

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).

I founded LouCouPsych to be different from other psychiatrists that you may have encountered in the past. I understand that each person seeking care is different and needs something unique. That is why I place so much emphasis on working with, and getting to know you as an individual so that we can come up with and implement a treatment plan that is tailored for your personalized needs. I do not want this practice and coming to appointments to become the focal part of your life; let me become just a part of yours.
I founded LouCouPsych to be different from other psychiatrists that you may have encountered in the past. I understand that each person seeking care is different and needs something unique. That is why I place so much emphasis on working with, and getting to know you as an individual so that we can come up with and implement a treatment plan that is tailored for your personalized needs. I do not want this practice and coming to appointments to become the focal part of your life; let me become just a part of yours.

As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in compassionate, comprehensive mental health care and nursing I can treat clients that are 12 years of age and older. My clinical focus centers on supporting individuals battling Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Mood Disorders. My practice is rooted in patient-centered care, profound empathy, unwavering professional standards and Individualized treatment approaches. I am deeply committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel respected, understood, supported, and empowered.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in compassionate, comprehensive mental health care and nursing I can treat clients that are 12 years of age and older. My clinical focus centers on supporting individuals battling Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Mood Disorders. My practice is rooted in patient-centered care, profound empathy, unwavering professional standards and Individualized treatment approaches. I am deeply committed to creating a therapeutic environment where patients feel respected, understood, supported, and empowered.

Life is full of challenges, some easy and some tough! We are equipped with some skillsets to handle them. At times the going can get tricky, and this is where my professional experience can help bridge the gap. I am an RN and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Possessing a mental health nursing background and counseling has equipped me to understand the psychosocial aspect and the medical challenges clients face. My Christian faith has assisted me in meeting clients at the crossroads of their spiritual walk. Being exposed to various cultures has been an asset for me, making it more relatable to the clients.
Life is full of challenges, some easy and some tough! We are equipped with some skillsets to handle them. At times the going can get tricky, and this is where my professional experience can help bridge the gap. I am an RN and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Possessing a mental health nursing background and counseling has equipped me to understand the psychosocial aspect and the medical challenges clients face. My Christian faith has assisted me in meeting clients at the crossroads of their spiritual walk. Being exposed to various cultures has been an asset for me, making it more relatable to the clients.

Enyonam Jordan-Brangman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.

I am a Georgetown University trained psychiatrist with an extensive postgraduate training and experience. I practice evidence-based psychopharmacology, psychodynamic psychotherapy and integrative medicine. I specialize in intense short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP) that can lead to rapid and permanent recovery from a wide range of problems including anxiety, depression, loneliness, self-esteem and relationship problems, anger management issues, self-destructive behaviors and psychosomatic conditions. This model of therapy is very efficient and often works, even when previous therapies failed, or were only partially successful.
I am a Georgetown University trained psychiatrist with an extensive postgraduate training and experience. I practice evidence-based psychopharmacology, psychodynamic psychotherapy and integrative medicine. I specialize in intense short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP) that can lead to rapid and permanent recovery from a wide range of problems including anxiety, depression, loneliness, self-esteem and relationship problems, anger management issues, self-destructive behaviors and psychosomatic conditions. This model of therapy is very efficient and often works, even when previous therapies failed, or were only partially successful.

Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome! I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
Welcome! I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand

I am a psychiatrist with a background in family practice medicine. I treat Major Depression, PMDD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizo affective Disorders, Menopausal Depression, ADD, ADHD, PTSD, TBI and Dementia. I treat my patients with understanding and empathy. I have experience in multicultural psychiatry. I have been a psychiatrist since 1989 to present and I have been in Family practice medicine sine 1974.
I am a psychiatrist with a background in family practice medicine. I treat Major Depression, PMDD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizo affective Disorders, Menopausal Depression, ADD, ADHD, PTSD, TBI and Dementia. I treat my patients with understanding and empathy. I have experience in multicultural psychiatry. I have been a psychiatrist since 1989 to present and I have been in Family practice medicine sine 1974.

Hi, My name is Dr. Sherin Moideen and I started Virginia Psychiatry LLC to provide specialized psychiatric care to women. Women face unique challenges during periods of life and reproductive transitions, career, and parenthood. I strive to take into consideration the biological, psychological, social, and cultural experiences that are unique to women. Certain diagnosis are often overlooked in women. I have been practicing in the Richmond area for over 10 years and I am licensed to practice in both Virginia and Washington D.C. I offer telemedicine appointments throughout the state.
Hi, My name is Dr. Sherin Moideen and I started Virginia Psychiatry LLC to provide specialized psychiatric care to women. Women face unique challenges during periods of life and reproductive transitions, career, and parenthood. I strive to take into consideration the biological, psychological, social, and cultural experiences that are unique to women. Certain diagnosis are often overlooked in women. I have been practicing in the Richmond area for over 10 years and I am licensed to practice in both Virginia and Washington D.C. I offer telemedicine appointments throughout the state.

Lakeia Henry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with their mental health—whether it’s anxiety, depression, stress, or another challenge affecting their well-being. Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck, unsure of how to move forward. Maybe you're seeking clarity, relief, or just someone who truly listens and understands. You need a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself openly and be met with compassion. I want to help you regain a sense of balance, confidence, and hope. To not just survive, but truly thrive and break free from stigma and know that seeking help is not a weakness but a strength.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with their mental health—whether it’s anxiety, depression, stress, or another challenge affecting their well-being. Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck, unsure of how to move forward. Maybe you're seeking clarity, relief, or just someone who truly listens and understands. You need a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself openly and be met with compassion. I want to help you regain a sense of balance, confidence, and hope. To not just survive, but truly thrive and break free from stigma and know that seeking help is not a weakness but a strength.

I treat a wide array of psychiatric disorders including (but not only) Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Substance Use Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders and Sleep Disorders. I strive to treat all my patients with kindness, empathy and the patience that they deserve. Please use the link to my website on my profile to schedule an appointment. Available Tuesdays and Fridays! https://drdurranipsychiatry.com/
I treat a wide array of psychiatric disorders including (but not only) Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Substance Use Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders and Sleep Disorders. I strive to treat all my patients with kindness, empathy and the patience that they deserve. Please use the link to my website on my profile to schedule an appointment. Available Tuesdays and Fridays! https://drdurranipsychiatry.com/

NestCalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP, PMH-C, IBCLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Empowering Women to Flourish with Holistic Mental Health Care. Hi, I'm Nicole, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, midwife, reproductive specialist, fertility coach, women's mental health provider, , wife to the OG hubs; love of my life, and blessed momma of 3 sweet boys, owner of NestCalm, a psychiatry/women's health clinic. I am also an infertility conqueror, miscarriage survivor, preterm momma, postpartum anxiety defeater, pelvic floor dysfunction ass kicker, breastfeeding issues victor and ADHD overcomer! WomenWellLife / MomLife is no joke!
Empowering Women to Flourish with Holistic Mental Health Care. Hi, I'm Nicole, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, midwife, reproductive specialist, fertility coach, women's mental health provider, , wife to the OG hubs; love of my life, and blessed momma of 3 sweet boys, owner of NestCalm, a psychiatry/women's health clinic. I am also an infertility conqueror, miscarriage survivor, preterm momma, postpartum anxiety defeater, pelvic floor dysfunction ass kicker, breastfeeding issues victor and ADHD overcomer! WomenWellLife / MomLife is no joke!

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.

Kadija Conteh-Barrat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Barrat Behavioral Health & Consulting. I'm glad you are here! As a board-certified PMHNP and FNP, I believe in using a holistic, biopsychosocial, and collaborative approach to meet your behavioral health needs. I have over 8 years of experience in a variety of areas including primary care and diverse psychiatric and mental health care including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment disorders, and other psychiatric concerns. I help individuals struggling with mental health issues become the best version of themselves.
Welcome to Barrat Behavioral Health & Consulting. I'm glad you are here! As a board-certified PMHNP and FNP, I believe in using a holistic, biopsychosocial, and collaborative approach to meet your behavioral health needs. I have over 8 years of experience in a variety of areas including primary care and diverse psychiatric and mental health care including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment disorders, and other psychiatric concerns. I help individuals struggling with mental health issues become the best version of themselves.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Thank you for taking the time to explore your mental health journey and for considering me as part of your support team. Reaching out for help is often one of the hardest yet most powerful steps you can take, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you are here for the first time or returning to mental health care, I’m truly honored to walk alongside you on this path. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, holistic, and personalized care to each of my clients.
Thank you for taking the time to explore your mental health journey and for considering me as part of your support team. Reaching out for help is often one of the hardest yet most powerful steps you can take, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you are here for the first time or returning to mental health care, I’m truly honored to walk alongside you on this path. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, holistic, and personalized care to each of my clients.

Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
See more therapy options for 20151
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 20151
10+
Average cost per session
$190
Psychiatrists in 20151 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
94% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
83% | Aetna |
83% | Anthem |
How Psychiatrists in 20151 see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 20151?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.