Psychiatrists in 23009

Photo of Latricia Broaddus, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latricia Broaddus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Aylett, VA 23009
Latricia is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. Latricia has been providing services to her community for many years and she is grateful and honored to be able to provide mental health services to her community. Latricia’s goal is to provide patient-centered mental health services to clients six and up with diverse backgrounds and mental health disorders. She aims to incorporate the whole person in treating her clients. Latricia’s mission is to help clients improve their quality of life by providing the tools needed to help increase their mental stability.
Latricia is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. Latricia has been providing services to her community for many years and she is grateful and honored to be able to provide mental health services to her community. Latricia’s goal is to provide patient-centered mental health services to clients six and up with diverse backgrounds and mental health disorders. She aims to incorporate the whole person in treating her clients. Latricia’s mission is to help clients improve their quality of life by providing the tools needed to help increase their mental stability.
(804) 207-4102 View (804) 207-4102
Photo of Wendy Michelle Hunter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy Michelle Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aylett, VA 23009
My major focus areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, suicide prevention, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and neuro-developmental disorders. Additionally, I have worked closely with women and children across the lifespan inclusive of the prenatal, perinatal, postpartum, and menopausal stages of life.
My major focus areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, suicide prevention, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and neuro-developmental disorders. Additionally, I have worked closely with women and children across the lifespan inclusive of the prenatal, perinatal, postpartum, and menopausal stages of life.
(804) 599-3332 View (804) 599-3332
Julie Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aylett, VA 23009
(804) 206-5980 View (804) 206-5980

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Temitope Akinladenu, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
(302) 405-2548 View (302) 405-2548
Photo of Deborah Crutchfield, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Crutchfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Deborah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the outpatient mental health sector. She works with individuals across the lifespan from pediatrics to geriatrics. She has over 14 years of experience in emergency medicine, psychiatry, and addiction. She specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, and various other mental health issues.
Deborah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the outpatient mental health sector. She works with individuals across the lifespan from pediatrics to geriatrics. She has over 14 years of experience in emergency medicine, psychiatry, and addiction. She specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, and various other mental health issues.
(804) 626-9077 View (804) 626-9077
Photo of Arlene Quijano, PA, Physician Assistant
Arlene Quijano
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Ashland, VA 23005  (Online Only)
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
(804) 578-7542 View (804) 578-7542
Photo of Sarah Story, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Story
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Accepting NEW clients ( 18 and older). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, , PTSD and bipolar disorder. Call now to schedule an appointment.
Accepting NEW clients ( 18 and older). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, , PTSD and bipolar disorder. Call now to schedule an appointment.
(804) 361-8857 View (804) 361-8857
Photo of Brittany Chandler, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23111  (Online Only)
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 409-7965 View (804) 409-7965
Photo of Ross Yaple, MD, Psychiatrist
Ross Yaple
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Yaple earned his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 2003. He then moved to Richmond, Virginia where he completed his internship and residency in General Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, and then went on to complete his fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in 2008 through VCU at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children.
Dr. Yaple earned his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 2003. He then moved to Richmond, Virginia where he completed his internship and residency in General Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, and then went on to complete his fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in 2008 through VCU at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children.
(804) 589-5506 View (804) 589-5506
Photo of Stephen E Brown, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephen E Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a residency trained psychiatrist, and I run a solo practice on the outskirts of Richmond, Virginia. I prefer to do psychotherapy as well as medication management (when one or both are appropriate for a patient), and I believe this makes me unique. You might perceive a psychiatrist as just being someone who orders medications, and leaves the "talk therapy" to someone else. As my patient, however, you have an "all-in-one" experience, and that will allow you to return to your normal self as quickly as possible.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a residency trained psychiatrist, and I run a solo practice on the outskirts of Richmond, Virginia. I prefer to do psychotherapy as well as medication management (when one or both are appropriate for a patient), and I believe this makes me unique. You might perceive a psychiatrist as just being someone who orders medications, and leaves the "talk therapy" to someone else. As my patient, however, you have an "all-in-one" experience, and that will allow you to return to your normal self as quickly as possible.
(804) 453-0910 View (804) 453-0910
Photo of Brandie Moore, PMHNP, MPA, RN, Psychiatric Nurse
Brandie Moore
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MPA, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
16+/NEW patients welcome! Are you suffering from attention and concentration problems, lack of motivation, experiencing bouts of depression or crying spells, feeling panicked, contemplating self-harm or suicide, or coping with divorce, death of a loved one, or job loss? Consider my practice, where I offer psychiatric medications, supplement /macronutrient recommendations that enhance your overall wellbeing, ADHD assessments, and psychotherapy. We can work together to build your confidence, reduce the impact of trauma, and increase your trust in yourself and others.
16+/NEW patients welcome! Are you suffering from attention and concentration problems, lack of motivation, experiencing bouts of depression or crying spells, feeling panicked, contemplating self-harm or suicide, or coping with divorce, death of a loved one, or job loss? Consider my practice, where I offer psychiatric medications, supplement /macronutrient recommendations that enhance your overall wellbeing, ADHD assessments, and psychotherapy. We can work together to build your confidence, reduce the impact of trauma, and increase your trust in yourself and others.
(804) 876-2404 View (804) 876-2404
Photo of Angela Carson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23111  (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
(804) 568-8348 View (804) 568-8348
Photo of Lesley Grzybowski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lesley Grzybowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, VA 22427
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing. My nursing career started in 2015 and I have over 8 years of experience specializing in behavioral health. Throughout my career, I have been able to advocate for the mental health population in a variety of ways additional to bedside nursing and medication management, such as mental health community education and outreach.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing. My nursing career started in 2015 and I have over 8 years of experience specializing in behavioral health. Throughout my career, I have been able to advocate for the mental health population in a variety of ways additional to bedside nursing and medication management, such as mental health community education and outreach.
(804) 251-4137 View (804) 251-4137
Photo of Victor Nwagwu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victor Nwagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Victor Nwagwu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. Victor utilizes a patient-centered approach to a trauma-informed type of care. He is a certified mindfulness informed practitioner (CMIP) that utilizes mindfulness skills to provide supportive psychotherapy during medication management. Victor is skilled in MI, active listening, and cultural competence. Outside of work, Victor enjoys soccer and traveling.
Victor Nwagwu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. Victor utilizes a patient-centered approach to a trauma-informed type of care. He is a certified mindfulness informed practitioner (CMIP) that utilizes mindfulness skills to provide supportive psychotherapy during medication management. Victor is skilled in MI, active listening, and cultural competence. Outside of work, Victor enjoys soccer and traveling.
(804) 369-9473 View (804) 369-9473
Photo of Rosebelle De Leon, MD, Psychiatrist
Rosebelle De Leon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Rosebelle de Leon is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. She completed her medical school education at Rosalind Franklin University, Chicago Medical School, and completed her general psychiatry residency at Rush University Medical Center. She provides psychiatric medication management for adults ages 27-64. She primarily sees patients who may be struggling with depressive, bipolar, anxiety and psychotic disorders. Dr. de Leon is currently not seeing ADHD consultations. She is not taking new patients who are on stimulants or benzodiazepines.
Dr. Rosebelle de Leon is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. She completed her medical school education at Rosalind Franklin University, Chicago Medical School, and completed her general psychiatry residency at Rush University Medical Center. She provides psychiatric medication management for adults ages 27-64. She primarily sees patients who may be struggling with depressive, bipolar, anxiety and psychotic disorders. Dr. de Leon is currently not seeing ADHD consultations. She is not taking new patients who are on stimulants or benzodiazepines.
(804) 531-6461 View (804) 531-6461
Photo of Brittany Chandler - ALIGN Integrated Care, PLLC, PMHNP, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ALIGN Integrated Care, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23111  (Online Only)
Many have asked me what does ALIGN mean or stand for. ALIGN stands for the steps that one must take when attempting to align themselves back to their "baseline." or better! A vehicle comes out of alignment gradually over time from treading over minor imperfections as do we. One should realize the process for alignment again does not happen overnight nor is it a lifetime guarantee. One may find themselves out of alignment multiple times in their lives due to the wear and tear of life’s imperfections. Alignment is a condition of the present that we hope maintains its position into our future though of the present.
Many have asked me what does ALIGN mean or stand for. ALIGN stands for the steps that one must take when attempting to align themselves back to their "baseline." or better! A vehicle comes out of alignment gradually over time from treading over minor imperfections as do we. One should realize the process for alignment again does not happen overnight nor is it a lifetime guarantee. One may find themselves out of alignment multiple times in their lives due to the wear and tear of life’s imperfections. Alignment is a condition of the present that we hope maintains its position into our future though of the present.
(804) 966-0610 View (804) 966-0610
Photo of Pamela Shipp, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Shipp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 265-4330 View (804) 265-4330
Greenbrook TMS NeuroHealth Centers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenbrook TMS Centers is the Mid-Atlantic's leading rTMS provider. We exclusively practice Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy. Cleared in 2008, this revolutionary treatment is FDA indicated for major depressive disorder, and has potential to provide relief and even remission from depression in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
Greenbrook TMS Centers is the Mid-Atlantic's leading rTMS provider. We exclusively practice Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy. Cleared in 2008, this revolutionary treatment is FDA indicated for major depressive disorder, and has potential to provide relief and even remission from depression in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
(804) 302-5880 View (804) 302-5880
Photo of Nicholas Santalucia, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicholas Santalucia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23228
Nick is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated with his Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2022. He is a clinician who offers psychiatric medication management and supportive counseling. Before beginning his career as a Nurse Practitioner, Nick worked for 8+ years in inpatient Adult Medical and Acute Psychiatry at VCU. His profession as a psychiatric nurse has taught him to see people as they are, and to avoid labeling individuals based on their mental illness. Nick strives to provide a nonjudgmental, safe environment for all.
Nick is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated with his Master of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2022. He is a clinician who offers psychiatric medication management and supportive counseling. Before beginning his career as a Nurse Practitioner, Nick worked for 8+ years in inpatient Adult Medical and Acute Psychiatry at VCU. His profession as a psychiatric nurse has taught him to see people as they are, and to avoid labeling individuals based on their mental illness. Nick strives to provide a nonjudgmental, safe environment for all.
(804) 361-7556 x2 View (804) 361-7556 x2
Photo of Gifty Addai-Pickett - Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
(302) 786-0975 View (302) 786-0975

See more therapy options for 23009

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 23009

< 10

Psychiatrists in 23009 who prioritize treating:

67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Autism
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 23009 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 23009?

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.