Psychiatrists in 23228

Photo of Tamika Robinson - Transformation Health Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Transformation Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
My Name is Tamika Robinson and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with clients with depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, bipolar, Dementia, and many other disorders. I believe in taking a client center approach, culture competency, holistic care, backed by evidence base practice. I'm passionate and committed in developing a personalized treatment plan that address clients goals. This collaborative approach fosters a therapeutic alliance along with empowering clients to enjoy advocating for themselves throughout there journey. Remember don't take the "Joy out the Journey".
My Name is Tamika Robinson and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with clients with depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, bipolar, Dementia, and many other disorders. I believe in taking a client center approach, culture competency, holistic care, backed by evidence base practice. I'm passionate and committed in developing a personalized treatment plan that address clients goals. This collaborative approach fosters a therapeutic alliance along with empowering clients to enjoy advocating for themselves throughout there journey. Remember don't take the "Joy out the Journey".
(804) 259-2073 View (804) 259-2073
Photo of Charles Britton Beasley - C. Britt Beasley, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
C. Britt Beasley, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23228
At Richmond Brain and Behavior, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. With a specialized focus on ketamine infusion therapy, my goal is to offer innovative and effective treatment options for those struggling with severe depression and other mental health challenges.
At Richmond Brain and Behavior, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. With a specialized focus on ketamine infusion therapy, my goal is to offer innovative and effective treatment options for those struggling with severe depression and other mental health challenges.
(804) 589-5331 View (804) 589-5331
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 Allison Ernest, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Ernest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23228
I believe in allowing clients to have a safe space to be their authentic self and feel comfortable in doing so. Getting to know you as a person is very important and can greatly assist in many aspects of treatment, and a therapeutic relationship. I stress that a mental health diagnosis is no different than any other medical diagnosis you may receive and should be treated as such. If a mental health diagnosis is made, believe that this is only a piece of you and does not define you as a person, often stressing that diagnostics are not the primary focus.
I believe in allowing clients to have a safe space to be their authentic self and feel comfortable in doing so. Getting to know you as a person is very important and can greatly assist in many aspects of treatment, and a therapeutic relationship. I stress that a mental health diagnosis is no different than any other medical diagnosis you may receive and should be treated as such. If a mental health diagnosis is made, believe that this is only a piece of you and does not define you as a person, often stressing that diagnostics are not the primary focus.
(804) 390-8209 View (804) 390-8209
Photo of Daniel D Kim, MD, Psychiatrist
Daniel D Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my practice! I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, who trained at Georgetown University Hospital where I served as chief educational fellow and at a Jefferson Medical College teaching hospital in Philadelphia, and in 2020, I opened my practice here to provide my expertise and psychiatric services to adults, including emerging adults residing in the DMV area. I currently serve as a psychiatric consultant at Northwestern Medicine in Illinois and other hospitals in Virginia and Pennsylvania. I specialize in treatment, provide consultation for patients struggling with various sleep, mood, anxiety disorders, and ADHD.
Welcome to my practice! I am a Board Certified psychiatrist, who trained at Georgetown University Hospital where I served as chief educational fellow and at a Jefferson Medical College teaching hospital in Philadelphia, and in 2020, I opened my practice here to provide my expertise and psychiatric services to adults, including emerging adults residing in the DMV area. I currently serve as a psychiatric consultant at Northwestern Medicine in Illinois and other hospitals in Virginia and Pennsylvania. I specialize in treatment, provide consultation for patients struggling with various sleep, mood, anxiety disorders, and ADHD.
(703) 991-7067 View (703) 991-7067
Photo of Shehnaz Kamal, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shehnaz Kamal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
My practice ideally focus on my client's mental health needs, their concerns and issues. Goal is to provide them a positive environment, supportive care and identify/treat their mental health conditions through psychotherapy, professional counseling sessions and prescribe medicine.
My practice ideally focus on my client's mental health needs, their concerns and issues. Goal is to provide them a positive environment, supportive care and identify/treat their mental health conditions through psychotherapy, professional counseling sessions and prescribe medicine.
(804) 315-3390 View (804) 315-3390
Photo of Nathacha Cerome, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nathacha Cerome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228
Hello everyone! Thank you for considering me as your mental health partner. I'm Nathacha Cerome, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of clinical nursing in diverse medical settings, both inpatient and outpatient. My passion lies in providing comprehensive and compassionate care to adult patients facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, and bipolar disorders.
Hello everyone! Thank you for considering me as your mental health partner. I'm Nathacha Cerome, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of clinical nursing in diverse medical settings, both inpatient and outpatient. My passion lies in providing comprehensive and compassionate care to adult patients facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, and bipolar disorders.
(804) 886-2026 View (804) 886-2026
Photo of Lynn Wolf - Lynn Wolf | Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynn Wolf | Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Is anxiety taking over your life and making you feel stuck or unfulfilled? Maybe it's highlighting deeper issues like strained relationships, a lack of recognition at work, or a sense of disconnection. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the cause. I’m here to help you uncover what your anxiety is really telling you and to guide you towards finding balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore these feelings and work towards a more satisfying and connected life.
Is anxiety taking over your life and making you feel stuck or unfulfilled? Maybe it's highlighting deeper issues like strained relationships, a lack of recognition at work, or a sense of disconnection. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the cause. I’m here to help you uncover what your anxiety is really telling you and to guide you towards finding balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore these feelings and work towards a more satisfying and connected life.
(804) 465-9687 View (804) 465-9687
Photo of Steph Boersman - EAE , FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EAE
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Book an appointment on Grow Therapy. Steph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a medical provider, he is a firm believer in creating a principled safe place; his responsibility is to enhance each person’s experience by engaging in effective, respectful communication. From the moment Steph meets you he provides quality services through an unique individualized approach to enhance one’s understanding. If necessary, in a collaborative manner he is willing to work with each person’s support system.
Book an appointment on Grow Therapy. Steph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a medical provider, he is a firm believer in creating a principled safe place; his responsibility is to enhance each person’s experience by engaging in effective, respectful communication. From the moment Steph meets you he provides quality services through an unique individualized approach to enhance one’s understanding. If necessary, in a collaborative manner he is willing to work with each person’s support system.
(804) 331-6676 View (804) 331-6676
Photo of Ryan Ernest, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Ernest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
(804) 567-8837 View (804) 567-8837
Photo of Sherin Isaac, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherin Isaac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
Sherin Isaac, PMHNP, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, and provides comprehensive mental health care to patients in Virginia. Sherin focuses on understanding each patient's unique medical, psychological, and social factors to create personalized treatment plans. Sherin is adept at administering and overseeing psychiatric medications, ensuring therapeutic effectiveness while monitoring for potential side effects.
Sherin Isaac, PMHNP, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, and provides comprehensive mental health care to patients in Virginia. Sherin focuses on understanding each patient's unique medical, psychological, and social factors to create personalized treatment plans. Sherin is adept at administering and overseeing psychiatric medications, ensuring therapeutic effectiveness while monitoring for potential side effects.
(866) 488-2298 View (866) 488-2298
Photo of Marcelli Pascal-Rodriguez, AAOPM-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marcelli Pascal-Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AAOPM-C
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228
Accepting new clients in-person and telehealth- I understand that clients face a range of challenges, from anxiety and depression to behavioral issues and relationship struggles. They seek a compassionate provider who can help them navigate these difficulties and achieve their personal goals. I see clients across the lifespan that want to experience meaningful change and personal growth in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My results-oriented therapeutic process is designed to foster this growth quickly, ensuring that every interaction is focused on achieving their desired outcomes.
Accepting new clients in-person and telehealth- I understand that clients face a range of challenges, from anxiety and depression to behavioral issues and relationship struggles. They seek a compassionate provider who can help them navigate these difficulties and achieve their personal goals. I see clients across the lifespan that want to experience meaningful change and personal growth in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My results-oriented therapeutic process is designed to foster this growth quickly, ensuring that every interaction is focused on achieving their desired outcomes.
(757) 654-5243 View (757) 654-5243
Photo of Dexter Lett, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dexter Lett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
(804) 589-4607 View (804) 589-4607
Photo of Ogochukwu Obiekwe - Assured Healthcare, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Assured Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
(804) 265-4894 View (804) 265-4894
Photo of Amanda Wray, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23228
Accepting New Patients! If you are in search of a mental health professional to partner with you on your healing journey, I am here for you. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I will work with you to create personalized, realistic treatment goals that are meaningful to YOUR life.
Accepting New Patients! If you are in search of a mental health professional to partner with you on your healing journey, I am here for you. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I will work with you to create personalized, realistic treatment goals that are meaningful to YOUR life.
(804) 361-6986 View (804) 361-6986
Photo of Ashley Hoover Rhoades, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Hoover Rhoades
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
I have a passion for mental health and make a commitment to my clients that I will care for them as I would a family member. I’ve been a nurse since 2002 and worked in the Neuroscience Unit and Surgical Trauma ICU at VCU. In 2012, I graduated from VCU with a degree in Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I worked with inmates at the Henrico Jail for several years, practiced telemedicine (before it was cool) from home for 1 year working with clients in Appalachia, and then I worked with Diamond Healthcare in nursing homes and inpatient for crisis and substance abuse. Most recently, I worked for Zoe Therapy Services.
I have a passion for mental health and make a commitment to my clients that I will care for them as I would a family member. I’ve been a nurse since 2002 and worked in the Neuroscience Unit and Surgical Trauma ICU at VCU. In 2012, I graduated from VCU with a degree in Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I worked with inmates at the Henrico Jail for several years, practiced telemedicine (before it was cool) from home for 1 year working with clients in Appalachia, and then I worked with Diamond Healthcare in nursing homes and inpatient for crisis and substance abuse. Most recently, I worked for Zoe Therapy Services.
(804) 913-3151 View (804) 913-3151
Photo of Samantha Moussari, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Moussari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Samantha Moussari, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha’s goal is to provide patient-centered holistic mental health care. She believes each patient is unique and understands the importance of tailoring treatment. Samantha’s approach creates a healing process that ensures you and your family's preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are respected. Patients are an important part of the care team and play a pivotal role in their treatment plans.
Samantha Moussari, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha’s goal is to provide patient-centered holistic mental health care. She believes each patient is unique and understands the importance of tailoring treatment. Samantha’s approach creates a healing process that ensures you and your family's preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are respected. Patients are an important part of the care team and play a pivotal role in their treatment plans.
(804) 608-9951 View (804) 608-9951
Photo of Jessica Roberts, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
Jessica (she/her) specializes in the Psychiatric assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She has over 20 years of experience treating PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD- among other mental health concerns. She knows that medication doesn't solve every problem, but can be a necessary tool that aids in supporting therapeutic goals for long term healing. Having worked in a children's psychiatric hospital for much of her career, she is very eager to prevent higher levels of care when possible.
Jessica (she/her) specializes in the Psychiatric assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She has over 20 years of experience treating PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD- among other mental health concerns. She knows that medication doesn't solve every problem, but can be a necessary tool that aids in supporting therapeutic goals for long term healing. Having worked in a children's psychiatric hospital for much of her career, she is very eager to prevent higher levels of care when possible.
(804) 589-5001 View (804) 589-5001
Photo of Golda Trompeta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Golda Trompeta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), dedicated to managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, insomnia, and challenges related to life transitions. With 24 years of acute care experience, I bring strong critical care skills to my practice, focusing on providing quality, evidence-based care through a compassionate approach. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia and my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), dedicated to managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, insomnia, and challenges related to life transitions. With 24 years of acute care experience, I bring strong critical care skills to my practice, focusing on providing quality, evidence-based care through a compassionate approach. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia and my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
(804) 635-3153 View (804) 635-3153
Photo of Robert 'Trip' Young, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robert 'Trip' Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23228
Overcoming difficult emotions is challenging and can seem insurmountable. With daily practice and self-understanding, a calmer more fulfilling life is possible. While medication management is my primary focus, I view medication as a means to achieve the stability needed to attain your goals. Each appointment is structured to help you find the evidence based combination of medication and/or coping skills to make long term improvements. I work with adolescents and adults on issues from anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar/mood specturm, and ADHD
Overcoming difficult emotions is challenging and can seem insurmountable. With daily practice and self-understanding, a calmer more fulfilling life is possible. While medication management is my primary focus, I view medication as a means to achieve the stability needed to attain your goals. Each appointment is structured to help you find the evidence based combination of medication and/or coping skills to make long term improvements. I work with adolescents and adults on issues from anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar/mood specturm, and ADHD
(804) 977-2824 View (804) 977-2824

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 23228

20+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 23228 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% Trauma and PTSD
85% ADHD
85% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 23228 see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 23228?

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.