Psychiatrists in 23322

Photo of Brence Brooks, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(757) 801-2433 View (757) 801-2433
Photo of Kassimier Thompson - Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC , MD, Psychiatrist
Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
(757) 210-5835 View (757) 210-5835
Photo of Alysha Cunningham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alysha Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in holistic medication management and therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing psychiatric distress. I am passionate about treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Further, my extensive bedside nursing experience in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has equipped me with vital skills in empathy, patience, and active listening, allowing me to support families through some of their most challenging times.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in holistic medication management and therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing psychiatric distress. I am passionate about treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Further, my extensive bedside nursing experience in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has equipped me with vital skills in empathy, patience, and active listening, allowing me to support families through some of their most challenging times.
(757) 781-0975 View (757) 781-0975
Photo of Shahauna Mallery, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shahauna Mallery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
(757) 330-2439 View (757) 330-2439
Photo of Abdul Mateen - Peace of Mind Behavioral Health, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Peace of Mind Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
*ACCEPTING NEW TELEPSYCH PATIENTS ACROSS VIRGINIA *CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY* AFTER SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS. It can be very frustrating to see your child suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger issues or school problems. What’s even more frustrating is when you are trying to seek help for your child but can’t find someone who specializes in treating children. Because of a severe shortage of child & adolescent psychiatrists, many children do not get the proper treatment they need.
*ACCEPTING NEW TELEPSYCH PATIENTS ACROSS VIRGINIA *CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY* AFTER SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS. It can be very frustrating to see your child suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger issues or school problems. What’s even more frustrating is when you are trying to seek help for your child but can’t find someone who specializes in treating children. Because of a severe shortage of child & adolescent psychiatrists, many children do not get the proper treatment they need.
(757) 598-2345 View (757) 598-2345
Photo of Justin Ray - South Chesapeake Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
South Chesapeake Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
(757) 210-7245 View (757) 210-7245
Photo of Toni Plummer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toni Plummer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
(804) 207-7215 View (804) 207-7215
Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinyere Ugwanyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
(804) 373-4900 View (804) 373-4900
Photo of Candace Lankford - Candace Lankford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Candace Lankford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare mission is to assist individuals living with mental illness to remain in their communities independently. Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare goal is to provide individualize and compassionate care to individuals living with mental illness and caring for family members with mental illness. Call or emails us to schedule your appointment.
Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare mission is to assist individuals living with mental illness to remain in their communities independently. Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare goal is to provide individualize and compassionate care to individuals living with mental illness and caring for family members with mental illness. Call or emails us to schedule your appointment.
(757) 997-6547 View (757) 997-6547
Photo of Dorothy Adams, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dorothy Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. They want to feel understood, respected, and supported in their journey toward mental well-being. Their goals include finding effective strategies to cope with their challenges, gaining control over their emotions, and building resilience. They value accessible care and a collaborative approach to treatment that empowers them to achieve lasting mental health.
My ideal client struggles with issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek compassionate, personalized care to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. They want to feel understood, respected, and supported in their journey toward mental well-being. Their goals include finding effective strategies to cope with their challenges, gaining control over their emotions, and building resilience. They value accessible care and a collaborative approach to treatment that empowers them to achieve lasting mental health.
(601) 775-2253 View (601) 775-2253
Photo of Elise Gallie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elise Gallie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Elise Gallie is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a graduate from Eastern Kentucky University. While a master's student at EKU, Elise earned the honor of being inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing and graduated with magna cum laude distinction. Before pursuing her career as a nurse practitioner, she has spent seven years working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings as a floor nurse and nurse manager.
Elise Gallie is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a graduate from Eastern Kentucky University. While a master's student at EKU, Elise earned the honor of being inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing and graduated with magna cum laude distinction. Before pursuing her career as a nurse practitioner, she has spent seven years working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings as a floor nurse and nurse manager.
(757) 844-3922 View (757) 844-3922
Photo of Rajni Sharma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rajni Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
(571) 568-5768 View (571) 568-5768
Photo of Rachel Firman - LifeStance Health - Chesapeake, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health - Chesapeake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(757) 666-0664 View (757) 666-0664
Photo of Eric Lange, MPA, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Eric Lange
Physician Assistant, MPA, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Accepting new patients. Evening hours available.
I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Accepting new patients. Evening hours available.
(757) 982-2609 View (757) 982-2609
Chanda Short
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Chanda Short, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate mental health provider at LifeStance Health in Virginia, specializing in medication management and substance use treatment. She focuses on anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and insomnia, using evidence-based practices like CBT and DBT to help clients achieve stability and well-being. Chanda is dedicated to supporting military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and those on the autism spectrum. She offers holistic care for children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in parenting skills to strengthen family dynamics.
Chanda Short, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate mental health provider at LifeStance Health in Virginia, specializing in medication management and substance use treatment. She focuses on anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and insomnia, using evidence-based practices like CBT and DBT to help clients achieve stability and well-being. Chanda is dedicated to supporting military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and those on the autism spectrum. She offers holistic care for children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in parenting skills to strengthen family dynamics.
(757) 834-7734 View (757) 834-7734
Photo of Harpreet Kang, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harpreet Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
(757) 260-3356 View (757) 260-3356
Photo of Fawn O. Workman - Lifesong Health - Fawn Workman, NP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lifesong Health - Fawn Workman, NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I understand that seeking medication help for mental health concerns can be a significant step. That's why I strive to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your unique challenges. You might be wondering, "Am I the right fit for Lifesong Health?" Our ideal client is someone who: Is experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, and seeks a whole person approach to health that addresses mental and physical wellbeing.
I understand that seeking medication help for mental health concerns can be a significant step. That's why I strive to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your unique challenges. You might be wondering, "Am I the right fit for Lifesong Health?" Our ideal client is someone who: Is experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, and seeks a whole person approach to health that addresses mental and physical wellbeing.
(434) 423-4765 View (434) 423-4765
Photo of Olamide Ipeaiyeda, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olamide Ipeaiyeda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My passion lies in helping others, and I work closely with clients to create personalized plans that support meaningful, lasting change. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on the individual's unique needs, strengths, and goals. I integrate evidence-based practices and person-centered therapy to guide treatment.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My passion lies in helping others, and I work closely with clients to create personalized plans that support meaningful, lasting change. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on the individual's unique needs, strengths, and goals. I integrate evidence-based practices and person-centered therapy to guide treatment.
(571) 459-7701 View (571) 459-7701
Photo of Amy Gallardo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Gallardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Amy Gallardo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati and post graduate certification from Liberty University. Amy can help you by really listening and having compassion for what you’re going through. Look, life is tough, Amy is here to make it a little easier with medication management. In her spare time, Amy enjoys reading a historical romance or cozy mystery novel, gardening, and going to thrift stores and yard sales.
Amy Gallardo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati and post graduate certification from Liberty University. Amy can help you by really listening and having compassion for what you’re going through. Look, life is tough, Amy is here to make it a little easier with medication management. In her spare time, Amy enjoys reading a historical romance or cozy mystery novel, gardening, and going to thrift stores and yard sales.
(757) 919-3503 View (757) 919-3503
Photo of Rachel Firman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Firman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I believe that together we can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. I treat adult patients 21-55 years old. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I believe that together we can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. I treat adult patients 21-55 years old. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
(757) 655-3600 View (757) 655-3600
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 23322

40+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in 23322 who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
78% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
68% ADHD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Psychosis

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
97% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
89% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 23322 see their clients

63% Online Only
37% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 23322?

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.