Psychiatrists in 23452

Photo of Tannica Ball - Associates at Lynnhaven, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Associates at Lynnhaven
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ms. Ball is a graduate of James Madison University as well as Shenandoah University and is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. As a provider she prefers a multifaceted and individualized based approach to the management of mental health conditions such as Major Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, adjustment disorders and others. If you would like assistance on your path to mental wellness, she looks forward to meeting with you; but in the meantime remember "No one is immune to the stressors of life"
Ms. Ball is a graduate of James Madison University as well as Shenandoah University and is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. As a provider she prefers a multifaceted and individualized based approach to the management of mental health conditions such as Major Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, adjustment disorders and others. If you would like assistance on your path to mental wellness, she looks forward to meeting with you; but in the meantime remember "No one is immune to the stressors of life"
(757) 290-8629 View (757) 290-8629
Photo of Trish Parker, PMHNP, BC, DNP-S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trish Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
As a retired military provider, I firmly believe that every individual deserves to lead a fulfilling life, irrespective of their race, religion, sexuality, nationality, or age. I am drawn to clients who are driven to effect positive changes in their lives and are willing to invest their time and energy in achieving their aspirations. What they all have in common is a desire to plant the seeds of change and growth. As your provider, I help nurture those seeds, providing guidance, support, and accountability. Together, we work to cultivate a life that is fulfilling, purposeful, and meaningful.
As a retired military provider, I firmly believe that every individual deserves to lead a fulfilling life, irrespective of their race, religion, sexuality, nationality, or age. I am drawn to clients who are driven to effect positive changes in their lives and are willing to invest their time and energy in achieving their aspirations. What they all have in common is a desire to plant the seeds of change and growth. As your provider, I help nurture those seeds, providing guidance, support, and accountability. Together, we work to cultivate a life that is fulfilling, purposeful, and meaningful.
(757) 260-3609 View (757) 260-3609
Photo of Meredith Dhillon, PA-C, CAQ, Psych, Physician Assistant
Meredith Dhillon
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ, Psych
Verified Verified
Its about the person, the quality of life, and their loved ones. You are not just a diagnosis, you are an individual. Let me help you streamline your medications, find what works best for your lifestyle and help you meet your treatment goals. I like to listen and I like to help. Keeping my patients safe and healthy is my first priority.
Its about the person, the quality of life, and their loved ones. You are not just a diagnosis, you are an individual. Let me help you streamline your medications, find what works best for your lifestyle and help you meet your treatment goals. I like to listen and I like to help. Keeping my patients safe and healthy is my first priority.
(757) 505-8100 View (757) 505-8100
Photo of Arun Paul, MD, Psychiatrist
Arun Paul
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Arun Paul has completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency from Jamaica Hospital and Child and Adolescent Fellowship from Elmhurst Hospital in New York. Dr. Paul has extensive experience in treating wide variety of mental health conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, Trauma related disorders and many others. He believes in collaborative approach and individualized treatment planning to improve one's overall quality of life and functioning.
Dr. Arun Paul has completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency from Jamaica Hospital and Child and Adolescent Fellowship from Elmhurst Hospital in New York. Dr. Paul has extensive experience in treating wide variety of mental health conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, Trauma related disorders and many others. He believes in collaborative approach and individualized treatment planning to improve one's overall quality of life and functioning.
(757) 835-3778 View (757) 835-3778
Photo of Sheryl Sharrell Arrington, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheryl Sharrell Arrington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Life can be overwhelming and stressful at times, and it may leave you feeling as if you're all alone in the world, but know your are not alone and you are important. Asking for help may be hard, but you are here and that is the first step. I would like to help you, lets collaborate, and come up with a plan to help you feel better about yourself and your life. My name is Sheryl Arrington I am board certified mental health nurse practitioner that is currently accepting new patients. I am dedicated to providing compassionate mental health services. I have 15 years plus of healthcare experience.
Life can be overwhelming and stressful at times, and it may leave you feeling as if you're all alone in the world, but know your are not alone and you are important. Asking for help may be hard, but you are here and that is the first step. I would like to help you, lets collaborate, and come up with a plan to help you feel better about yourself and your life. My name is Sheryl Arrington I am board certified mental health nurse practitioner that is currently accepting new patients. I am dedicated to providing compassionate mental health services. I have 15 years plus of healthcare experience.
(757) 664-9700 View (757) 664-9700
Photo of Javier Way, PMHNP, MSN, DNP-S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Javier Way
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, DNP-S
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
Javier is a highly qualified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University in 2019 and began working as a Charge Nurse at an inpatient substance abuse and mental health unit. Recognizing the need for more advanced knowledge and training, he went on to earn his Master of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University and a Post-Master's certificate to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Shenandoah University.
Javier is a highly qualified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University in 2019 and began working as a Charge Nurse at an inpatient substance abuse and mental health unit. Recognizing the need for more advanced knowledge and training, he went on to earn his Master of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University and a Post-Master's certificate to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Shenandoah University.
(757) 781-0120 View (757) 781-0120
Photo of Chiquita Collins, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chiquita Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
The weight of the world, life, work, marriage and family can be difficult to navigate. Np Collins leads with nonjudgment, grace and genuine intentions. Every client receives undivided attention, thoughtfulness and proper research to develop a person centered treatment plan. We work in a setting combined practice performing person centered treatment with a staff of Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who specialize in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating individuals with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and therapists who provide individual therapy using an array of treatment modalties.
The weight of the world, life, work, marriage and family can be difficult to navigate. Np Collins leads with nonjudgment, grace and genuine intentions. Every client receives undivided attention, thoughtfulness and proper research to develop a person centered treatment plan. We work in a setting combined practice performing person centered treatment with a staff of Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners who specialize in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing and treating individuals with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and therapists who provide individual therapy using an array of treatment modalties.
(757) 720-2996 View (757) 720-2996
Photo of Natalia Cameron, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalia Cameron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Natalia Cameron is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2017. Natalia believes mental wellness should be addressed in a holistic and supportive manner. She is a fluent Spanish speaker and is proud to provide culturally competent care to all. Natalia's idea of self-care consists of hanging out with her dogs and drinking coffee at a bookstore.
Natalia Cameron is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2017. Natalia believes mental wellness should be addressed in a holistic and supportive manner. She is a fluent Spanish speaker and is proud to provide culturally competent care to all. Natalia's idea of self-care consists of hanging out with her dogs and drinking coffee at a bookstore.
(757) 992-8817 View (757) 992-8817
Photo of Frinette Checo, MD, Psychiatrist
Frinette Checo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Checo is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry. She completed her psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Boston, MA and a fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. Dr. Checo completed a fellowship in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.
Dr. Checo is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry. She completed her psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Boston, MA and a fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. Dr. Checo completed a fellowship in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.
(757) 586-4776 View (757) 586-4776
Photo of Katharine W Heatwole - Ocean Psychiatric Group, P.C., MD, Psychiatrist
Ocean Psychiatric Group, P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
(757) 799-4575 View (757) 799-4575
Photo of Amanda Johnson - A New Day Healthcare, LLC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A New Day Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy alone is not always enough to improve mental health. Medication alone or medication in conjunction with therapy can help to stabilize many mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. Amanda sees clients 16 years of age and above and is proud to create an inclusive experience to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and backgrounds.
Therapy alone is not always enough to improve mental health. Medication alone or medication in conjunction with therapy can help to stabilize many mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. Amanda sees clients 16 years of age and above and is proud to create an inclusive experience to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and backgrounds.
(757) 210-6562 View (757) 210-6562
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
View
Photo of Khaleelah Ishmael Pope, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khaleelah Ishmael Pope
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
Khaleelah provides services for psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan (ages 18-64). Khaleelah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive years of service in the mental health field. Identifying the need for additional providers in the mental health field, Khaleelah paired her passion of psychology and physical sciences to further support the need for mental health providers. During her career path, Khaleelah has worked in various capacities as a mental health provider, to include, adolescent group home counselor, behavior specialist, psychiatric nurse, medication mngmt.
Khaleelah provides services for psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan (ages 18-64). Khaleelah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive years of service in the mental health field. Identifying the need for additional providers in the mental health field, Khaleelah paired her passion of psychology and physical sciences to further support the need for mental health providers. During her career path, Khaleelah has worked in various capacities as a mental health provider, to include, adolescent group home counselor, behavior specialist, psychiatric nurse, medication mngmt.
Photo of Loyette Wong - Loyette Wong, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Loyette Wong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Loyette Wong is a military veteran and board-certified nurse practitioner. As a nurse practitioner, she has treated patients with a wide range of diagnoses in the fields of sleep medicine, neurology and family medicine. She went on to receive her post-master's certification in psychiatric-mental health in order to better serve the demand of her patients. She specializes in providing compassionate and culturally competent care.
Loyette Wong is a military veteran and board-certified nurse practitioner. As a nurse practitioner, she has treated patients with a wide range of diagnoses in the fields of sleep medicine, neurology and family medicine. She went on to receive her post-master's certification in psychiatric-mental health in order to better serve the demand of her patients. She specializes in providing compassionate and culturally competent care.
(757) 210-3458 View (757) 210-3458
Photo of Robert F Busch, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert F Busch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Robert F. Busch, MD Dr. Robert F. Busch is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2014. Dr. Busch has a whole health perspective, addressing mental and physical pain in a compassionate way. This is because it is imperative to understanding a person through their mental, physical, emotional, interpersonal, and spiritual health. Dr. Busch utilizes up to date science and combines it with psychiatric techniques to offer plans tailored to the individual to optimize wellbeing. Dr. Busch will be a coach in your corner to help you.
Dr. Robert F. Busch, MD Dr. Robert F. Busch is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2014. Dr. Busch has a whole health perspective, addressing mental and physical pain in a compassionate way. This is because it is imperative to understanding a person through their mental, physical, emotional, interpersonal, and spiritual health. Dr. Busch utilizes up to date science and combines it with psychiatric techniques to offer plans tailored to the individual to optimize wellbeing. Dr. Busch will be a coach in your corner to help you.
(757) 909-7474 View (757) 909-7474
Photo of Olivia Reichenbacker - Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
(757) 997-2442 x1002 View (757) 997-2442 x1002
Photo of Natasha Hill, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Natasha Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has an MSN, APRN, and PMHNP-BC from Walden University. Natasha's treatment style is unique in that she takes the time to get to know the client holistically upon initial interview and devises the least restrictive treatment plan with the patient. Natasha is very down to earth and outgoing and has several professional and personal experiences from which she bases her treatment upon.
Natasha Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has an MSN, APRN, and PMHNP-BC from Walden University. Natasha's treatment style is unique in that she takes the time to get to know the client holistically upon initial interview and devises the least restrictive treatment plan with the patient. Natasha is very down to earth and outgoing and has several professional and personal experiences from which she bases her treatment upon.
(757) 600-0272 View (757) 600-0272
Photo of Brent Burhite, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brent Burhite
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brent Burhite is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of healthcare experience. He specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances and helps individuals cope with overall life stressors. He strongly believes in a holistic approach to mental health care and stresses interprofessional collaboration to meet unique client needs. He is a firm believer that medication management is only a portion of treating mental health concerns and will help clients utilize all resources available to meet their treatment objectives.
Brent Burhite is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of healthcare experience. He specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances and helps individuals cope with overall life stressors. He strongly believes in a holistic approach to mental health care and stresses interprofessional collaboration to meet unique client needs. He is a firm believer that medication management is only a portion of treating mental health concerns and will help clients utilize all resources available to meet their treatment objectives.
(757) 530-4934 View (757) 530-4934
Photo of Shirley Hudson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shirley Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
I'm Shirley Hudson, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) dedicated to providing evidence-based, personalized care to adult clients. My health career began in various settings, including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, I understand that mental illness still carries a stigma in many churches, and I'm on a mission to help reduce this by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.
I'm Shirley Hudson, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) dedicated to providing evidence-based, personalized care to adult clients. My health career began in various settings, including spinal cord injury, intensive care, hematology, oncology, and medical-surgical units. As a Christian, I understand that mental illness still carries a stigma in many churches, and I'm on a mission to help reduce this by educating clients, families, and the community about mental health disorders.
(571) 601-2210 View (571) 601-2210
Photo of Patricia Obeng, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Obeng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from George Mason University. With over 2 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive assessments and care for mood disorders and various mental health conditions, including depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and more.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from George Mason University. With over 2 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive assessments and care for mood disorders and various mental health conditions, including depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, insomnia, and more.
(703) 952-0180 View (703) 952-0180
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 23452

40+

Average cost per session

$167

Psychiatrists in 23452 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
93% Anxiety
90% Trauma and PTSD
76% ADHD
71% Stress
69% Bipolar Disorder
64% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
92% Anthem
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 23452 see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 23452?

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.