Psychiatrists in 22310

Photo of Brent Burhite, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brent Burhite
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 24 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances, helping individuals cope with overall life stressors. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to mental health care and emphasize interprofessional collaboration to meet unique client needs. I am a firm believer that medication management is only a portion of treating mental health concerns, and I will help clients utilize all available resources to achieve their treatment objectives.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 24 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances, helping individuals cope with overall life stressors. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to mental health care and emphasize interprofessional collaboration to meet unique client needs. I am a firm believer that medication management is only a portion of treating mental health concerns, and I will help clients utilize all available resources to achieve their treatment objectives.
(757) 255-7459 View (757) 255-7459
Photo of Patricia Obeng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Patricia Obeng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from George Mason University. With over 2 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive assessments and care for mood disorders and various mental health conditions, including depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and more.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from George Mason University. With over 2 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive assessments and care for mood disorders and various mental health conditions, including depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and more.
(703) 952-0180 View (703) 952-0180
Photo of Wykemia Swan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Wykemia Swan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am Wykemia Swan, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience. I have spent most of that time working in behavioral health care, collaborating with patients to improve their mental health by providing education on disease processes, medication use, effectiveness, and support for their overall well-being.
I am Wykemia Swan, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience. I have spent most of that time working in behavioral health care, collaborating with patients to improve their mental health by providing education on disease processes, medication use, effectiveness, and support for their overall well-being.
(571) 620-6891 View (571) 620-6891
Photo of Juanita Burtt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Juanita Burtt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), insomnia, and many other mental health conditions. With over 14 years of experience in various medical settings as a registered nurse, I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient mental health. I have also had the privilege of serving both military and civilian individuals. My previous roles in providing mental healthcare have shaped me into the compassionate, empathetic, patient-centered psychiatric provider I am today.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), insomnia, and many other mental health conditions. With over 14 years of experience in various medical settings as a registered nurse, I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient mental health. I have also had the privilege of serving both military and civilian individuals. My previous roles in providing mental healthcare have shaped me into the compassionate, empathetic, patient-centered psychiatric provider I am today.
(571) 200-0434 View (571) 200-0434
Photo of Lydia Sharp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lydia Sharp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Lydia Sharp, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Virginia, with 5 years of experience assisting children, adolescents, and adults with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, anger problems, and other complex psychiatric conditions.
I am Lydia Sharp, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Virginia, with 5 years of experience assisting children, adolescents, and adults with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, anger problems, and other complex psychiatric conditions.
(703) 997-1699 View (703) 997-1699
Photo of Josephine Dakin-Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Josephine Dakin-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Josephine Dakin-Davis, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHMP) in the state of Virginia. With over 15 years of clinical nursing experience, I came to the realization that a sound mind is the precursor to a sound body, and I have an ardent passion for Mental Health. My vast experience has helped me understand the philosophy of mental health, and my nursing education has exposed me to a variety of healthcare settings.
I am Josephine Dakin-Davis, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHMP) in the state of Virginia. With over 15 years of clinical nursing experience, I came to the realization that a sound mind is the precursor to a sound body, and I have an ardent passion for Mental Health. My vast experience has helped me understand the philosophy of mental health, and my nursing education has exposed me to a variety of healthcare settings.
(703) 546-9885 View (703) 546-9885
Photo of Suzanna Doty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Suzanna Doty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22310
In-person sessions available in NC and virtually in VA. Certifications include medication management, GeneSite testing and QbTesting for ADHD.
In-person sessions available in NC and virtually in VA. Certifications include medication management, GeneSite testing and QbTesting for ADHD.
(571) 556-4167 View (571) 556-4167
Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Chinyere Ugwanyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Alexandria, VA 22310
I am Chinyere, a board-certified Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness. I have expertise in treating adult patients, and lately adolescent patients. I treat patients with disorders such as anxiety, depression, personality disorder, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I am professional, caring, and respectful, and I strive to offer personalized mental health services.
I am Chinyere, a board-certified Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness. I have expertise in treating adult patients, and lately adolescent patients. I treat patients with disorders such as anxiety, depression, personality disorder, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I am professional, caring, and respectful, and I strive to offer personalized mental health services.
(571) 616-9705 View (571) 616-9705
Photo of Shirley Hudson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shirley Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I'm Shirley Hudson, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) dedicated to providing evidence-based, personalized care to adult clients. My health career began in various settings, including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, I understand that mental illness still carries a stigma in many churches, and I'm on a mission to help reduce this by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.
I'm Shirley Hudson, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) dedicated to providing evidence-based, personalized care to adult clients. My health career began in various settings, including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, I understand that mental illness still carries a stigma in many churches, and I'm on a mission to help reduce this by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.
(571) 601-2210 View (571) 601-2210
Photo of Adaku Anike, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Adaku Anike
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care. I listen actively to my clients’ needs, offer empathy, and create personalized care plans because I believe each person’s journey and needs are unique.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care. I listen actively to my clients’ needs, offer empathy, and create personalized care plans because I believe each person’s journey and needs are unique.
(571) 253-7623 View (571) 253-7623
Photo of Meghan Rise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Meghan Rise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Clients working with me can expect a warm, client-centered relationship developed through a foundation of acceptance, trust, and authenticity. I am LGBTQ+ affirming as well as neurodivergent affirming, and I enjoy working with a variety of adult clients. I have extensive experience in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, perinatal/postpartum mental health, OCD, life transitions, trauma, and ADHD.
Clients working with me can expect a warm, client-centered relationship developed through a foundation of acceptance, trust, and authenticity. I am LGBTQ+ affirming as well as neurodivergent affirming, and I enjoy working with a variety of adult clients. I have extensive experience in medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, perinatal/postpartum mental health, OCD, life transitions, trauma, and ADHD.
(804) 376-9752 View (804) 376-9752
Photo of Wooni Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wooni Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, among others. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, hospice, and home health. I am devoted to evidence-based, holistic care through a compassionate, patient-centered approach.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, among others. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, hospice, and home health. I am devoted to evidence-based, holistic care through a compassionate, patient-centered approach.
(571) 240-2736 View (571) 240-2736
Photo of Lakeia Henry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Lakeia Henry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
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.
(571) 648-4617 View (571) 648-4617
Photo of Camille Brenke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Camille Brenke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience working with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and dementia. I have a special interest in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, as well as alternative and complementary medicines.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience working with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and dementia. I have a special interest in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, as well as alternative and complementary medicines.
(804) 575-7191 View (804) 575-7191
Photo of Bridget Famogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bridget Famogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Bridget U. Famogun, a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science degree as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) PMHNP, and I am Board Certified. Before becoming a PMHNP, I was a Psychiatric Registered Nurse for eight years, with a history of working in the hospital and clinical trial care settings. I completed my Master's in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Walden University and graduated with honors.
I am Bridget U. Famogun, a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science degree as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) PMHNP, and I am Board Certified. Before becoming a PMHNP, I was a Psychiatric Registered Nurse for eight years, with a history of working in the hospital and clinical trial care settings. I completed my Master's in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Walden University and graduated with honors.
(970) 762-2048 View (970) 762-2048
Photo of Tonya Walston - Walston Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Walston Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Alexandria, VA 22310
Psychiatric Services for Adults, Pediatrics, Adolescence and Geriatric patient populations
Psychiatric Services for Adults, Pediatrics, Adolescence and Geriatric patient populations
(703) 457-1508 View (703) 457-1508
Photo of Debra Robbins Morton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Debra Robbins Morton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 23 years of experience providing mental health therapy and medication management. As a nurse, I have delivered babies, taught childbirth and parenting, and cared for various medical issues. Since 2008, I have focused exclusively on providing mental health care by diagnosing and prescribing medications for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 23 years of experience providing mental health therapy and medication management. As a nurse, I have delivered babies, taught childbirth and parenting, and cared for various medical issues. Since 2008, I have focused exclusively on providing mental health care by diagnosing and prescribing medications for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia.
(703) 940-9841 View (703) 940-9841
Photo of Georgina Coca - NJB Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
NJB Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alexandria, VA 22310
I provide comprehensive medication management and therapeutic support that addresses both the psychological and biological dimensions of mental health challenges. My goal is to nurture profound, meaningful connections with my clients, prioritizing empathy and compassion throughout our journey. Together, we will develop a tailored treatment plan specifically aimed at achieving your mental health goals. You are an individual of great value, deserving of all the best life has to offer. I invite you to reach out and schedule an appointment today. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work together.
I provide comprehensive medication management and therapeutic support that addresses both the psychological and biological dimensions of mental health challenges. My goal is to nurture profound, meaningful connections with my clients, prioritizing empathy and compassion throughout our journey. Together, we will develop a tailored treatment plan specifically aimed at achieving your mental health goals. You are an individual of great value, deserving of all the best life has to offer. I invite you to reach out and schedule an appointment today. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work together.
(571) 624-0791 View (571) 624-0791
Photo of Ehsan Habibpour - McLean Counseling Center TMS Services, Psychiatrist, MD
McLean Counseling Center TMS Services
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are a team of providers offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Therapy, Medication Management, Psychological testing under one umbrella. TMS is drug free, non aggressive treatment for depression for ages 15 and up. It is covered by most of insurances. TMS can treat Depression anxiety and OCD and has some indications for Fibromyalgia and Trigeminal Neural;Gia as well.
We are a team of providers offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Therapy, Medication Management, Psychological testing under one umbrella. TMS is drug free, non aggressive treatment for depression for ages 15 and up. It is covered by most of insurances. TMS can treat Depression anxiety and OCD and has some indications for Fibromyalgia and Trigeminal Neural;Gia as well.
(703) 594-4308 View (703) 594-4308
Photo of Sana Kamal, Psychiatrist, MD
Sana Kamal
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
(703) 215-9723 View (703) 215-9723

See more therapy options for 22310

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 22310

20+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 22310 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Stress
75% Coping Skills
70% Grief
70% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
90% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 22310 see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 22310?

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.