Psychiatrists in 22205

Photo of Dr. Alan Peh - LifeStance Health - Arlington, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health - Arlington
Psychiatrist, MD
Arlington, VA 22205
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.
(571) 202-7957 View (571) 202-7957
Photo of Cristina Secarea, Psychiatrist, MD
Cristina Secarea
Psychiatrist, MD
Arlington, VA 22205
I am a Board Certified Adult and Forensic Psychiatrist and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have experience in the treatment of all mental health conditions including psychotic disorders (schizophrenia and delusional disorder), mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, addiction disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and personality disorders and a particular expertise in performing forensic evaluations (e. g. , conservatorship, guardianship, testamentary capacity, fitness for duty, worker's compensation, sexual harassment, medical malpractice).
I am a Board Certified Adult and Forensic Psychiatrist and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have experience in the treatment of all mental health conditions including psychotic disorders (schizophrenia and delusional disorder), mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, addiction disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and personality disorders and a particular expertise in performing forensic evaluations (e. g. , conservatorship, guardianship, testamentary capacity, fitness for duty, worker's compensation, sexual harassment, medical malpractice).
(571) 999-6994 View (571) 999-6994
Photo of Eddie Truelove, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eddie Truelove
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, there, I'm Eddie! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, motivated to assist all clients with their mental health, and life challenges, her goal is to establish a collaborative relationship with the client to promote growth and healing. Eddie's approach to healthcare goes beyond mere medication treatment As she is deeply committed to empowering individuals on their journey to improved mental health. Through her engaging and educational approach, she strives to equip her clients with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their mental well-being.
Hello, there, I'm Eddie! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, motivated to assist all clients with their mental health, and life challenges, her goal is to establish a collaborative relationship with the client to promote growth and healing. Eddie's approach to healthcare goes beyond mere medication treatment As she is deeply committed to empowering individuals on their journey to improved mental health. Through her engaging and educational approach, she strives to equip her clients with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their mental well-being.
(571) 593-5561 View (571) 593-5561
Photo of Victor Nwagwu - Dr. Victor Nwagwu, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Victor Nwagwu, DNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Arlington, VA 22205
Victor is a doctorally prepared psychiatric and mental health provider who concentrates on children and adult with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder, Dementia, and other behavioral health issues. He has over 15 years experience in general and mental health care practice which spans across Canada and the US. He graduated from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at the University of South Alabama. He was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Zeta Gamma Chapter.
Victor is a doctorally prepared psychiatric and mental health provider who concentrates on children and adult with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder, Dementia, and other behavioral health issues. He has over 15 years experience in general and mental health care practice which spans across Canada and the US. He graduated from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at the University of South Alabama. He was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Zeta Gamma Chapter.
(804) 587-8582 View (804) 587-8582
Photo of Alan Peh, Psychiatrist, MD
Alan Peh
Psychiatrist, MD
Arlington, VA 22205
Dr. Alan Peh specializes in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry in Arlington, Virginia. He strives to use a personalized approach when it comes to his patients. When it comes to diagnosis, assessment, evaluation and treatment, Dr. Peh believes that these should vary depending on a person’s needs. His comprehensive approach has always been guided by his respect of individuality and uniqueness.
Dr. Alan Peh specializes in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry in Arlington, Virginia. He strives to use a personalized approach when it comes to his patients. When it comes to diagnosis, assessment, evaluation and treatment, Dr. Peh believes that these should vary depending on a person’s needs. His comprehensive approach has always been guided by his respect of individuality and uniqueness.
(571) 202-6568 View (571) 202-6568
Photo of Jane Sullivan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jane Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Arlington, VA 22205
Jane Sullivan is a Nurse Practitioner in Washington, DC who has been practicing since 1997. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont and a Master's Degree from Rivier University. Jane thoroughly assesses clients for individualized treatment to include medication management to be monitored and continually assessed together with client input to attain stabilization and ability to live their fullest potential. Jane is originally from Boston but has lived throughout the US. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and neighbors, as well as her son's dog FEN (short for Fenway Park).
Jane Sullivan is a Nurse Practitioner in Washington, DC who has been practicing since 1997. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont and a Master's Degree from Rivier University. Jane thoroughly assesses clients for individualized treatment to include medication management to be monitored and continually assessed together with client input to attain stabilization and ability to live their fullest potential. Jane is originally from Boston but has lived throughout the US. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and neighbors, as well as her son's dog FEN (short for Fenway Park).
(571) 497-5030 View (571) 497-5030
Photo of Alexander Kanaan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alexander Kanaan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Arlington, VA 22205
Alexander Kanaan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2017. His graduate studies were done at the University of Tampa where he trained to become a family nurse practitioner, and at Johns Hopkins University where he trained to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Alexander has experience in family medicine, internal medicine, urgent care, addiction medicine, and psychiatry. He is also experienced in inpatient psychiatry, psychiatric emergency fast track, consult liaison services, and pediatric intensive outpatient services.
Alexander Kanaan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2017. His graduate studies were done at the University of Tampa where he trained to become a family nurse practitioner, and at Johns Hopkins University where he trained to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Alexander has experience in family medicine, internal medicine, urgent care, addiction medicine, and psychiatry. He is also experienced in inpatient psychiatry, psychiatric emergency fast track, consult liaison services, and pediatric intensive outpatient services.
(571) 526-0491 View (571) 526-0491
Photo of Flabwell Health Group - Flabwell Health Group LLC (Mental Health), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Flabwell Health Group LLC (Mental Health)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We help individuals navigate mental health challenges, including depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, negative thinking, trauma, and other major life transitions. Using a non-judgemental environment, client-centered approach, we blend medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, trauma-informed therapy, and other modalities to promote emotional healing, resilience, and self-compassion. Whether struggling with any mental health/psychiatric problems, we provide support and tools to help you transform challenges into opportunities for growth and balanced wellbeing.
We help individuals navigate mental health challenges, including depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, negative thinking, trauma, and other major life transitions. Using a non-judgemental environment, client-centered approach, we blend medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, trauma-informed therapy, and other modalities to promote emotional healing, resilience, and self-compassion. Whether struggling with any mental health/psychiatric problems, we provide support and tools to help you transform challenges into opportunities for growth and balanced wellbeing.
(804) 492-8387 View (804) 492-8387
Photo of Thomas J Pillion, Psychiatrist, MD
Thomas J Pillion
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or problems with interpersonal relationships, I would like to help you to restore a sense of balance in your life. Using either medication or psychotherapy, we can work together toward identifying and removing the obstacles that interfere with living a more happy and satisfying life. I trained in general adult psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and received my MD from the University of Texas. I see primarily adults and am not taking new child or adolescent patients at this time.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or problems with interpersonal relationships, I would like to help you to restore a sense of balance in your life. Using either medication or psychotherapy, we can work together toward identifying and removing the obstacles that interfere with living a more happy and satisfying life. I trained in general adult psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and received my MD from the University of Texas. I see primarily adults and am not taking new child or adolescent patients at this time.
(571) 202-7054 View (571) 202-7054
Photo of Madhu Bhatia, Psychiatrist, MD
Madhu Bhatia
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I have more than 20 years of experience in treating Adults ,Adolescents and children.My goal of treatment is to help the patients become well adjusted emotionally and socially and entails a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacology.My special interest is in treating patients with Mood disorders and Trauma
I have more than 20 years of experience in treating Adults ,Adolescents and children.My goal of treatment is to help the patients become well adjusted emotionally and socially and entails a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacology.My special interest is in treating patients with Mood disorders and Trauma
(703) 810-3494 View (703) 810-3494
Photo of Hedy Howard, Psychiatrist, MD
Hedy Howard
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with my patients in an individualized collaborative process to understand the roots of the problem they are having and to design the best treatment plan. The goal is to restore health and alleviate pain but also to achieve the insight and self understanding that provides the freedom to be one's best self, to make the best choices in all aspects of life.
I work with my patients in an individualized collaborative process to understand the roots of the problem they are having and to design the best treatment plan. The goal is to restore health and alleviate pain but also to achieve the insight and self understanding that provides the freedom to be one's best self, to make the best choices in all aspects of life.
(240) 377-0919 View (240) 377-0919
Photo of Minadia Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Minadia Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my passion lies in providing comprehensive and empathetic care to adults navigating the complexities of mental health. With specialized expertise in addressing a spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and psychosis, I am committed to offering personalized support tailored to each individual's unique needs. Drawing from a robust background in psychiatric care, I approach treatment with a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of these conditions.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my passion lies in providing comprehensive and empathetic care to adults navigating the complexities of mental health. With specialized expertise in addressing a spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and psychosis, I am committed to offering personalized support tailored to each individual's unique needs. Drawing from a robust background in psychiatric care, I approach treatment with a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of these conditions.
(301) 701-4828 View (301) 701-4828

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Wendla Anna Schwartz, Psychiatrist, MD
Wendla Anna Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Licensed CA & VA YouTube PsychtalkwithDrWendla. Dr Schwartz is a seasoned physician and accomplished adult/child psychiatrist, renowned for her holistic approach to treatment that acknowledges the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. With over 25 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Schwartz specializes in addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Psychosis, Somatic disorders, Trauma/PTSD, DMDD, Autism, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders. She possesses a deep understanding of children, teenagers and adults
Licensed CA & VA YouTube PsychtalkwithDrWendla. Dr Schwartz is a seasoned physician and accomplished adult/child psychiatrist, renowned for her holistic approach to treatment that acknowledges the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. With over 25 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Schwartz specializes in addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Psychosis, Somatic disorders, Trauma/PTSD, DMDD, Autism, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders. She possesses a deep understanding of children, teenagers and adults
(408) 669-4651 View (408) 669-4651
Photo of Olajumoke Rotimi - Better You Healthcare Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Better You Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Serves Area
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
(240) 628-6892 View (240) 628-6892
Photo of Mercy Awokunle - MindTruly Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
MindTruly Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Mind Truly Mental Health Services, we believe mental wellness is essential to a fulfilling life. I work with adults and older adults facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders. Many are looking for clarity, balance, or relief from emotional distress. Whether it’s an evaluation, diagnosis, or medication management, clients come with a desire to feel better, function confidently, and live more peacefully—and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
At Mind Truly Mental Health Services, we believe mental wellness is essential to a fulfilling life. I work with adults and older adults facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders. Many are looking for clarity, balance, or relief from emotional distress. Whether it’s an evaluation, diagnosis, or medication management, clients come with a desire to feel better, function confidently, and live more peacefully—and I’m here to support them every step of the way.
(301) 679-1555 View (301) 679-1555
Photo of Milt Anderson, Psychiatrist, MD
Milt Anderson
Psychiatrist, MD
Reston, VA 20191
Dr. Milt Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 1992. He earned his M.D. at Washington University School of Medicine, completed his Internship and General Psychiatry Residency and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Walter Reed Medical Center. Dr. Anderson is usually quickly able to forge a working alliance with clients and move fairly quickly from "intake mode" to "problem solving mode," even as the extended evaluation of a complex problem progresses.
Dr. Milt Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 1992. He earned his M.D. at Washington University School of Medicine, completed his Internship and General Psychiatry Residency and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Walter Reed Medical Center. Dr. Anderson is usually quickly able to forge a working alliance with clients and move fairly quickly from "intake mode" to "problem solving mode," even as the extended evaluation of a complex problem progresses.
(571) 701-1654 View (571) 701-1654
Photo of Hui Suk Kuk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hui Suk Kuk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Ms. Hui Suk (“Hee-sook”) Kuk is a bilingual (Korean, English) board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. Ms. Kuk obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing at George Washington University and completed a degree in Advanced Nursing Practice at the University of Virginia-Charlottesville. She specializes in Psychiatry by training in Psychiatric-Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing at UVA.
Ms. Hui Suk (“Hee-sook”) Kuk is a bilingual (Korean, English) board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. Ms. Kuk obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing at George Washington University and completed a degree in Advanced Nursing Practice at the University of Virginia-Charlottesville. She specializes in Psychiatry by training in Psychiatric-Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing at UVA.
(571) 556-8138 View (571) 556-8138
Photo of Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Crystal Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Crystal Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Fairfax, VA 22030
Accepting new clients 18 and over. Crystal Lee is a board certified psychiatric NP with experience working in healthcare since 2010. At Essential Health we realize that each person is unique and want to know your story and treat the whole person and not just a diagnosis. We strive to make sure that we treat each patient with kindness and respect in order to maintain a collaborative relationship and to ensure that your personal goals are being met. We accept multiple insurances and are working on credentialing with others so contact us at essentialhealthva.com to confirm if we accept your insurance or to book an appointment.
Accepting new clients 18 and over. Crystal Lee is a board certified psychiatric NP with experience working in healthcare since 2010. At Essential Health we realize that each person is unique and want to know your story and treat the whole person and not just a diagnosis. We strive to make sure that we treat each patient with kindness and respect in order to maintain a collaborative relationship and to ensure that your personal goals are being met. We accept multiple insurances and are working on credentialing with others so contact us at essentialhealthva.com to confirm if we accept your insurance or to book an appointment.
(571) 240-4523 View (571) 240-4523
Photo of Howard Jay Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Howard Jay Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Alexandria, VA 22314
In my experience, I have found it extremely important to listen to a patient's complaints and gather as much information as I can to understand their symptoms, the stressors they are experiencing and their relationships at work and at home. All of this information must be taken into account during the diagnostic evaluation along with a detailed medical and psychiatric history. After a diagnosis is made, I explain what the treatment will be. I will provide information about whatever medication is prescribed and I will discuss medication options. I will also review and discuss any possible drug interactions.
In my experience, I have found it extremely important to listen to a patient's complaints and gather as much information as I can to understand their symptoms, the stressors they are experiencing and their relationships at work and at home. All of this information must be taken into account during the diagnostic evaluation along with a detailed medical and psychiatric history. After a diagnosis is made, I explain what the treatment will be. I will provide information about whatever medication is prescribed and I will discuss medication options. I will also review and discuss any possible drug interactions.
(703) 957-7210 View (703) 957-7210

See more therapy options for 22205

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 22205

10+

Average cost per session

$165

Psychiatrists in 22205 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
92% Depression
92% ADHD
92% Bipolar Disorder
83% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management
58% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
90% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 22205 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Female
45% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 22205?

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.