Psychiatrists in 22556

Photo of Madeleine Eugene, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeleine Eugene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22556
I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, dementia, substance abuse disorders, and other psychiatric disorders. My goal as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to incorporate both psychiatric nursing and primary care. As a result, this effort can improve your life physically and mentally. I teach you the management of your chronic disease. It includes medications and non-pharmaceutical approaches such as motivational interviewing, where to go when in crisis, and how to utilize resources to help with the cost.
I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, dementia, substance abuse disorders, and other psychiatric disorders. My goal as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to incorporate both psychiatric nursing and primary care. As a result, this effort can improve your life physically and mentally. I teach you the management of your chronic disease. It includes medications and non-pharmaceutical approaches such as motivational interviewing, where to go when in crisis, and how to utilize resources to help with the cost.
(530) 420-1944 View (530) 420-1944
Photo of Collette Fanyi Ngante, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Collette Fanyi Ngante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22556
My name is Collette Ngante, I am a psychiatric and mental health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I also have a Masters in Public Health and two Bachelors Degrees in nursing and sociology & anthropology. Working with sociology and anthropology along with my experience in mental health combine in creating a personalized safe space for all clients who may need my help. We Provide an individualistic approach of care with dignity and respect. We also extend our services to Group homes, Foster Care Homes, Assisted Living facilities and other Long-term care facilities .
My name is Collette Ngante, I am a psychiatric and mental health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I also have a Masters in Public Health and two Bachelors Degrees in nursing and sociology & anthropology. Working with sociology and anthropology along with my experience in mental health combine in creating a personalized safe space for all clients who may need my help. We Provide an individualistic approach of care with dignity and respect. We also extend our services to Group homes, Foster Care Homes, Assisted Living facilities and other Long-term care facilities .
(540) 779-1648 View (540) 779-1648
Photo of Elizabeth Onyejekwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22556
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people to treat conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people to treat conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
(540) 274-5245 View (540) 274-5245
Photo of Lydia Kawudha, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lydia Kawudha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22556
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health NP recognized by ANCC with over 6 years of experience in healthcare. I'm deeply committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan. I work with a diverse range of patients, including children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns—from ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more.
Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health NP recognized by ANCC with over 6 years of experience in healthcare. I'm deeply committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan. I work with a diverse range of patients, including children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns—from ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more.
(540) 405-8765 View (540) 405-8765
Photo of Alice Sesay, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alice Sesay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients !... My name is Alice Sesay, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). With over 5 years of experience in healthcare, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health conditions.
Accepting New Patients !... My name is Alice Sesay, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). With over 5 years of experience in healthcare, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health conditions.
(540) 506-4636 View (540) 506-4636

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gagandeep Khurana - Holisticare Behavioral Health Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Holisticare Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22306
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than 10 yrs of experience, licensed in VA and MD. I accept all major insurances including Kaiser and offer both virtual and in person appointments. I have extensive experience and special interest in treating mood disorders including treatment resistant depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia and addiction including Suboxone for opioid dependence.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than 10 yrs of experience, licensed in VA and MD. I accept all major insurances including Kaiser and offer both virtual and in person appointments. I have extensive experience and special interest in treating mood disorders including treatment resistant depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia and addiction including Suboxone for opioid dependence.
(703) 468-4801 View (703) 468-4801
Photo of Barbara Byers, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Barbara Byers
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am an adult psychiatrist who also specializes in reproductive psychiatry. I work with women who have mood and anxiey issues related to reproductive changes including pregnancy, posptpartum, and infertility, as well as PMS and menopause. I also treat general patients who have mood and axiety symptoms as well.
I am an adult psychiatrist who also specializes in reproductive psychiatry. I work with women who have mood and anxiey issues related to reproductive changes including pregnancy, posptpartum, and infertility, as well as PMS and menopause. I also treat general patients who have mood and axiety symptoms as well.
(240) 366-2528 View (240) 366-2528
Photo of Cynthia Awadzi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Awadzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with a doctoral degree, my professional journey spans comprehensive experiences in inpatient, community, and outpatient settings, affording me a deep understanding of diverse patient needs. Supportive therapy is included in all sessions, ensuring a holistic approach to care that addresses emotional well-being alongside other therapeutic modalities. Supportive therapy dives into fostering a safe environment for open dialogue, validating emotions, and providing guidance and coping strategies tailored to individual needs.
I'm a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with a doctoral degree, my professional journey spans comprehensive experiences in inpatient, community, and outpatient settings, affording me a deep understanding of diverse patient needs. Supportive therapy is included in all sessions, ensuring a holistic approach to care that addresses emotional well-being alongside other therapeutic modalities. Supportive therapy dives into fostering a safe environment for open dialogue, validating emotions, and providing guidance and coping strategies tailored to individual needs.
(757) 996-5414 View (757) 996-5414
Photo of Binta Bojang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Binta Bojang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m Dr. Binta Bojang, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered care, helping adults manage mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, personality disorders, and ADHD through personalized medication management. My goal is to work closely with you to find the most effective treatment and support your journey toward mental wellness. My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance that respects the individual’s preferences, promoting shared decision-making in their mental health journey.
I’m Dr. Binta Bojang, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered care, helping adults manage mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, personality disorders, and ADHD through personalized medication management. My goal is to work closely with you to find the most effective treatment and support your journey toward mental wellness. My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance that respects the individual’s preferences, promoting shared decision-making in their mental health journey.
(804) 207-4757 View (804) 207-4757
Photo of Erica Bindrim - Mind and Body Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind and Body Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
(540) 712-8949 View (540) 712-8949
Photo of Dr. Nonye Rosemary Eneje, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Nonye Rosemary Eneje
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Eneje is a doctoral prepared, licensed, and dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California. She received a Masters of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Tennessee State University, Nashville TN. Dr. Eneje is part of the Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She provides virtual/telehealth services through a secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform.
Dr. Eneje is a doctoral prepared, licensed, and dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California. She received a Masters of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Tennessee State University, Nashville TN. Dr. Eneje is part of the Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She provides virtual/telehealth services through a secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform.
(206) 737-1142 View (206) 737-1142
Photo of Elizabeth Onyejekwe, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD and others. I also treat mood disorders during pregnancy and post-natal.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD and others. I also treat mood disorders during pregnancy and post-natal.
(571) 701-1362 View (571) 701-1362
Photo of Trish Clark, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trish Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Thrishanna Clark. I am a nurse practitioner in Virginia. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I specialize in psychotherapy, medication management and holistic interventions. I treat various mental health conditions. My clients describe me as warm, knowledgeable and extremely approachable. My goal as a mental health professional is to simply help make you the best that you can be!
Hello, my name is Thrishanna Clark. I am a nurse practitioner in Virginia. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I specialize in psychotherapy, medication management and holistic interventions. I treat various mental health conditions. My clients describe me as warm, knowledgeable and extremely approachable. My goal as a mental health professional is to simply help make you the best that you can be!
(804) 465-7587 View (804) 465-7587
Photo of Dr. Isaac Wood, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Isaac Wood
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
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) 630-3316 View (571) 630-3316
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22150
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
Photo of Rupa Karki, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rupa Karki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC). I attended the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Chamberlain University where I received my Master of Science in Nursing degree. I believe in high-quality care that prioritizes patient-centeredness, empathy, and evidence-based practice. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for patients to share their stories and work toward mental health goals. I value the therapeutic relationship with my patients by taking time to actively listen, empathize, and build trust.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC). I attended the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Chamberlain University where I received my Master of Science in Nursing degree. I believe in high-quality care that prioritizes patient-centeredness, empathy, and evidence-based practice. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for patients to share their stories and work toward mental health goals. I value the therapeutic relationship with my patients by taking time to actively listen, empathize, and build trust.
(571) 454-5494 View (571) 454-5494
Photo of Monet Ince-Amara, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Monet Ince-Amara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide compassionate mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health concerns, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to support your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. My patient-centered approach prioritizes your voice, respects your concerns, and ensures your care plan is as unique as you are.
I provide compassionate mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health concerns, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to support your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. My patient-centered approach prioritizes your voice, respects your concerns, and ensures your care plan is as unique as you are.
(571) 651-8443 View (571) 651-8443
Photo of Swapna Dev, MD, Psychiatrist
Swapna Dev
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Dr. Dev is a board-certified psychiatrist providing care to adults ages 18 and older. She is a compassionate provider, committed to delivering high-quality care. Dr. Dev received her psychiatric training in adult psychiatry from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) and completed her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at UPMC and Johns Hopkins Hospital. She spent 15 years working with active-duty service members, their families, and children at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, both inpatient and outpatient. Later, She worked briefly for Mid Atlantic Permanente Medical Group before joining Inspire BH.
Dr. Dev is a board-certified psychiatrist providing care to adults ages 18 and older. She is a compassionate provider, committed to delivering high-quality care. Dr. Dev received her psychiatric training in adult psychiatry from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) and completed her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at UPMC and Johns Hopkins Hospital. She spent 15 years working with active-duty service members, their families, and children at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, both inpatient and outpatient. Later, She worked briefly for Mid Atlantic Permanente Medical Group before joining Inspire BH.
(571) 946-4673 View (571) 946-4673
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 Dr. Nasr Basir Balla, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Nasr Basir Balla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
(804) 589-5165 View (804) 589-5165

See more therapy options for 22556

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 22556

< 10

Psychiatrists in 22556 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
80% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicaid

How Psychiatrists in 22556 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 22556?

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.