Psychiatrists in 22202

Photo of Dr. Isaac Wood, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Isaac Wood
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22202
Dr. Wood graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine in 1982. He completed his residency in General Psychiatry at VCU Health, where he served as chief resident, followed by a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children. Over the course of 36 years, he served as a Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at VCU School of Medicine, and during his last decade there, he held the role of Senior Associate Dean of Medical Education and Student Affairs.
Dr. Wood graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine in 1982. He completed his residency in General Psychiatry at VCU Health, where he served as chief resident, followed by a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children. Over the course of 36 years, he served as a Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at VCU School of Medicine, and during his last decade there, he held the role of Senior Associate Dean of Medical Education and Student Affairs.
(571) 517-1731 View (571) 517-1731
Photo of Amy Fehrmann, MD, Psychiatrist
Amy Fehrmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22202
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
(571) 609-4996 View (571) 609-4996
Photo of Angela Carson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
(804) 568-8348 View (804) 568-8348
Photo of Tracy Higgins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tracy Higgins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Tracy (she/her) is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse with her Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University. Tracy began her career as a registered nurse on an Inpatient Adult Acute Psychiatry Unit. As a Nurse Practitioner, she has experience working in a Crisis Stabilization Unit, with the aging population, with adults with mild to severe mental illness and those with complex medical issues.
Tracy (she/her) is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse with her Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University. Tracy began her career as a registered nurse on an Inpatient Adult Acute Psychiatry Unit. As a Nurse Practitioner, she has experience working in a Crisis Stabilization Unit, with the aging population, with adults with mild to severe mental illness and those with complex medical issues.
(571) 771-1947 View (571) 771-1947
Photo of Joyce Nguyen, MD, Psychiatrist
Joyce Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not taking new patients currently! - I am a Brown and Georgetown-trained psychiatrist with a special interest in treating mood & anxiety disorders in adults. As a physician, I believe that treating the whole person & promoting wellness can increase the joy in one's life. I treat women’s mental health throughout the reproductive life cycle, using medications, psychotherapy, & lifestyle modifications. I help women make the best decisions for themselves & their families by giving evidence-based recommendations informed by research. I enjoy working with young adults as they navigate the many life transitions that come with adulthood.
Not taking new patients currently! - I am a Brown and Georgetown-trained psychiatrist with a special interest in treating mood & anxiety disorders in adults. As a physician, I believe that treating the whole person & promoting wellness can increase the joy in one's life. I treat women’s mental health throughout the reproductive life cycle, using medications, psychotherapy, & lifestyle modifications. I help women make the best decisions for themselves & their families by giving evidence-based recommendations informed by research. I enjoy working with young adults as they navigate the many life transitions that come with adulthood.
(410) 261-4283 View (410) 261-4283
Photo of Khursheed Khine, MD, Psychiatrist
Khursheed Khine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
***Please note that Dr. Khine is currently not accepting new patients in order to serve her existing patients better*** My goal is to combine empathy with excellent clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Your privacy is highly valued, thus treatment is provided in a safe and confidential manner.
***Please note that Dr. Khine is currently not accepting new patients in order to serve her existing patients better*** My goal is to combine empathy with excellent clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Your privacy is highly valued, thus treatment is provided in a safe and confidential manner.
(703) 646-8098 View (703) 646-8098
Photo of Mary Fisher, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach to care is to a goal based approach. I partner with my patients, their families and support networks to establish their goals for treatment. From this point, we partner to meet where the patient is and journey together to meet those goals. My philosophy is a patient centered approach that is a true partnership. In treating all ages, from 10 years old through the life span, I use our time together to create a judgement free space.
My approach to care is to a goal based approach. I partner with my patients, their families and support networks to establish their goals for treatment. From this point, we partner to meet where the patient is and journey together to meet those goals. My philosophy is a patient centered approach that is a true partnership. In treating all ages, from 10 years old through the life span, I use our time together to create a judgement free space.
(703) 912-0541 View (703) 912-0541
Photo of Ryan S. Shugarman, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Ryan S. Shugarman
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
In today's hustle and bustle society, it is easy to overlook one's own needs and well-being. Mental health symptoms can impair our capacity to function at maximum potential. As a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and physician, I strive to understand each patient as an individual, with a unique background, set of priorities, and co-occurring psychiatric and medical conditions. I work collaboratively with my patients in designing a personalized treatment plan to effectively target symptoms and reduce suffering. Treatment modalities offered include use of psychotropic medication, psychotherapy, and combined medication and therapy.
In today's hustle and bustle society, it is easy to overlook one's own needs and well-being. Mental health symptoms can impair our capacity to function at maximum potential. As a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and physician, I strive to understand each patient as an individual, with a unique background, set of priorities, and co-occurring psychiatric and medical conditions. I work collaboratively with my patients in designing a personalized treatment plan to effectively target symptoms and reduce suffering. Treatment modalities offered include use of psychotropic medication, psychotherapy, and combined medication and therapy.
(703) 982-7276 View (703) 982-7276
Photo of Margo Pumar, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Margo Pumar
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi! I'm a board-certified adult-trained psychiatrist with a holistic approach to working with patients and collaboratively creating evidence-based treatment. I have worked in a board range of clinical settings across the US and abroad and have been on faculty at UPenn and UCSF. For the last few years I served as the Medical Director for Perinatal Psychiatry in the UCSF Birth Center. Licensed in DC, MD, VA, and CA, I provide evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management and also focus on coping tools, exercise, nutrition, social supports, spirituality and self-care to help patients achieve their goals.
Hi! I'm a board-certified adult-trained psychiatrist with a holistic approach to working with patients and collaboratively creating evidence-based treatment. I have worked in a board range of clinical settings across the US and abroad and have been on faculty at UPenn and UCSF. For the last few years I served as the Medical Director for Perinatal Psychiatry in the UCSF Birth Center. Licensed in DC, MD, VA, and CA, I provide evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management and also focus on coping tools, exercise, nutrition, social supports, spirituality and self-care to help patients achieve their goals.
(202) 946-7552 View (202) 946-7552
Photo of Lauren Grawert, MD, Psychiatrist
Lauren Grawert
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths, harness into your available resources, while getting the symptoms under control. At inspire behavioral health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths, harness into your available resources, while getting the symptoms under control. At inspire behavioral health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
(571) 778-4293 View (571) 778-4293
Photo of Boyd Cowan, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Boyd Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Prior to training as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I studied existential phenomenological psychotherapy with a focus on psychotherapeutic applications. I worked as a therapist for a period of time applying this model. This has given me an appreciation and respect for the uniqueness of every person. I believe this is blends well with the application of psychiatric science, which is our guiding framework but can also be limiting, stigmatizing, and over-generalizing. My goal is to help patients live their best lives.
Prior to training as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I studied existential phenomenological psychotherapy with a focus on psychotherapeutic applications. I worked as a therapist for a period of time applying this model. This has given me an appreciation and respect for the uniqueness of every person. I believe this is blends well with the application of psychiatric science, which is our guiding framework but can also be limiting, stigmatizing, and over-generalizing. My goal is to help patients live their best lives.
(571) 621-5919 View (571) 621-5919
Photo of Dr. Antoinette Stewart, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Antoinette Stewart
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat adults, children and adolescents with a broad range of mental health conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders and ADHD. My focus is on medication management as well as psychoeducational and supportive therapy.
I treat adults, children and adolescents with a broad range of mental health conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders and ADHD. My focus is on medication management as well as psychoeducational and supportive therapy.
(571) 677-5029 View (571) 677-5029
Photo of Todd Rankin, MD, Psychiatrist
Todd Rankin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Rankin is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the care of adults aged 18 and older. He treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. While his primary focus is medication management, Dr. Rankin takes a holistic approach by addressing underlying psychodynamic factors to better understand each patient as a whole person. He frequently collaborates with psychotherapists when appropriate to ensure comprehensive care.
Dr. Rankin is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the care of adults aged 18 and older. He treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. While his primary focus is medication management, Dr. Rankin takes a holistic approach by addressing underlying psychodynamic factors to better understand each patient as a whole person. He frequently collaborates with psychotherapists when appropriate to ensure comprehensive care.
(571) 604-5039 View (571) 604-5039
Photo of Vick Mishra, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vick Mishra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a doctorally prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, licensed in Virginia. I hold both my Master’s and Doctorate degrees from George Mason University, and I am deeply committed to providing comprehensive care to individuals with mental health concerns. My approach to treatment is rooted in collaboration, where I believe patients should lead their own wellness journeys and play an active role in their treatment plans. I understand that each person has unique needs, and I prioritize creating a person-centered environment that reflects those individual experiences.
I am a doctorally prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, licensed in Virginia. I hold both my Master’s and Doctorate degrees from George Mason University, and I am deeply committed to providing comprehensive care to individuals with mental health concerns. My approach to treatment is rooted in collaboration, where I believe patients should lead their own wellness journeys and play an active role in their treatment plans. I understand that each person has unique needs, and I prioritize creating a person-centered environment that reflects those individual experiences.
(571) 771-2358 View (571) 771-2358
Photo of Imran Akram, MD, Psychiatrist
Imran Akram
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach is to focus on the whole patient and follow evidence-based treatment guidelines and bring about a positive change. I treat patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) & complex PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep problems, insomnia, Autism spectrum disorder, Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and women's mental health such as post partum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) . I also discuss treatment options like Ketamine for severe depression.
My approach is to focus on the whole patient and follow evidence-based treatment guidelines and bring about a positive change. I treat patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) & complex PTSD, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep problems, insomnia, Autism spectrum disorder, Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and women's mental health such as post partum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) . I also discuss treatment options like Ketamine for severe depression.
(703) 962-1442 View (703) 962-1442
Photo of Alexander Beard, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexander Beard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, and seeking relief and understanding. They are looking to make a change in their lives but feeling stuck. They want to gain better emotional regulation, improve coping skills, and build healthier relationships. Ultimately, they desire long-term mental well-being, personal growth, and a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment in their everyday experiences.
My ideal client is someone struggling with emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, and seeking relief and understanding. They are looking to make a change in their lives but feeling stuck. They want to gain better emotional regulation, improve coping skills, and build healthier relationships. Ultimately, they desire long-term mental well-being, personal growth, and a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment in their everyday experiences.
(855) 748-1690 View (855) 748-1690
Photo of Christian Linton, MD, Psychiatrist
Christian Linton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I believe listening - and being truly heard - is one of the most powerful therapeutic experiences. We are social beings, and if we have become isolated, or feel misunderstood, even ignored, we suffer deeply. I bring a high level of attentiveness to my work as a psychiatrist that provides the crucial foundation on which true growth and change can occur. I want to hear your story, to understand how your suffering, whatever its form, has come to be in the present day.
I believe listening - and being truly heard - is one of the most powerful therapeutic experiences. We are social beings, and if we have become isolated, or feel misunderstood, even ignored, we suffer deeply. I bring a high level of attentiveness to my work as a psychiatrist that provides the crucial foundation on which true growth and change can occur. I want to hear your story, to understand how your suffering, whatever its form, has come to be in the present day.
(202) 999-3811 View (202) 999-3811
Photo of Jiyeon Jen Lim, Psychiatrist
Jiyeon Jen Lim
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist who welcomes adult patients from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Patients present with a range of mental health challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress, and history of trauma. I aim to help my patients navigate these challenges to ultimately feel more connected and find greater fulfillment in daily life.
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist who welcomes adult patients from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Patients present with a range of mental health challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress, and history of trauma. I aim to help my patients navigate these challenges to ultimately feel more connected and find greater fulfillment in daily life.
(202) 670-7842 View (202) 670-7842
Photo of Enyonam Jordan-Brangman, AGNP-C, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Enyonam Jordan-Brangman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNP, NP
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. My role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager. In addition to medication management I also incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and person-centered techniques to 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. My role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager. In addition to medication management I also incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and person-centered techniques to treatment.
(571) 771-2713 View (571) 771-2713
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 22202

20+

Average cost per session

$350

Psychiatrists in 22202 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
95% Anxiety
91% Trauma and PTSD
77% Bipolar Disorder
77% Medication Management
73% ADHD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 22202 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
37% Male
5% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 22202?

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.