Psychiatrists in 24016

Jennifer Campbell Grant was born and raised in South Florida. She obtained her undergraduate degree of Biology at University of Florida and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University. Jennifer comes to us from a community health center in NC where she gained experience in treating a variety of mental and psychiatric illnesses. Her current role also includes being the Director of Clinical Education at Wingate University Physician Assistant Program. She is fluent in both English and Spanish and is wholeheartedly determined to provide her patients with a safe space to navigate their journey.
Jennifer Campbell Grant was born and raised in South Florida. She obtained her undergraduate degree of Biology at University of Florida and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University. Jennifer comes to us from a community health center in NC where she gained experience in treating a variety of mental and psychiatric illnesses. Her current role also includes being the Director of Clinical Education at Wingate University Physician Assistant Program. She is fluent in both English and Spanish and is wholeheartedly determined to provide her patients with a safe space to navigate their journey.

My name is Phil Johns DMSC, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psych, CHES. I am a native of Virginia and began my career as a psychiatric physician assistant in 2009. My goal is help you transform your mental health with ease. Together, we can overcome challenges and achieve wellness.
My name is Phil Johns DMSC, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psych, CHES. I am a native of Virginia and began my career as a psychiatric physician assistant in 2009. My goal is help you transform your mental health with ease. Together, we can overcome challenges and achieve wellness.

Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.
Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.

Mental health treatment can be overwhelming and scary, congratulations on taking the first step! I am a compassionate and empathetic provider who understands the importance of building long term trusting relationships with patients, to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns, and work together towards achieving their goals. I will take the time to listen to each individual's unique needs, and to develop comprehensive treatment plans. I will also be available to help and answer questions outside of our appointments.
Mental health treatment can be overwhelming and scary, congratulations on taking the first step! I am a compassionate and empathetic provider who understands the importance of building long term trusting relationships with patients, to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns, and work together towards achieving their goals. I will take the time to listen to each individual's unique needs, and to develop comprehensive treatment plans. I will also be available to help and answer questions outside of our appointments.

Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.

Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Mental Health issues can make life difficult. At Focus Psychiatry, we want to help you get your life back on track and feeling better as soon as possible. You don't have to leave your home to see your mental health provider. Beth will come to you, virtually. All you need is an internet connection and a device with a camera and speaker. It can be as simple as your smartphone! No sitter - no transportation? No problem! See your provider on your lunch break? YES! Simply just don't want to fight traffic or leave home? It's easy! You can schedule online anytime at www.focuspsychiatryandwellness.com
Mental Health issues can make life difficult. At Focus Psychiatry, we want to help you get your life back on track and feeling better as soon as possible. You don't have to leave your home to see your mental health provider. Beth will come to you, virtually. All you need is an internet connection and a device with a camera and speaker. It can be as simple as your smartphone! No sitter - no transportation? No problem! See your provider on your lunch break? YES! Simply just don't want to fight traffic or leave home? It's easy! You can schedule online anytime at www.focuspsychiatryandwellness.com

Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.

Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.

Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.

Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.

Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salem, VA 24153
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.

Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.

We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across Virginia. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across Virginia. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment.

February is a time for renewal, self-care, and fresh starts.
If you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, or Depression, now is the perfect time to prioritize your mental health and regain control of your life. Whether you’re a student feeling overwhelmed with deadlines, a professional struggling to focus, or simply exhausted from the daily battle with anxiety or low energy, you don’t have to go through it alone.
February is a time for renewal, self-care, and fresh starts.
If you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, or Depression, now is the perfect time to prioritize your mental health and regain control of your life. Whether you’re a student feeling overwhelmed with deadlines, a professional struggling to focus, or simply exhausted from the daily battle with anxiety or low energy, you don’t have to go through it alone.

Accepting new clients with most clients being seen within one week!
Hello! My name is Kevin Conley and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience helping people with their mental heath. I'm passionate about helping improve their mental health and I use a compassionate and engaging approach that will allow you to feel heard, understood, and cared for after our first session. In most cases, we can have an appointment within five days.
Accepting new clients with most clients being seen within one week!
Hello! My name is Kevin Conley and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience helping people with their mental heath. I'm passionate about helping improve their mental health and I use a compassionate and engaging approach that will allow you to feel heard, understood, and cared for after our first session. In most cases, we can have an appointment within five days.

Life is full of challenges, some easy and some tough! We are equipped with some skillsets to handle them. At times the going can get tricky, and this is where my professional experience can help bridge the gap. I am an RN and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Possessing a mental health nursing background and counseling has equipped me to understand the psychosocial aspect and the medical challenges clients face. My Christian faith has assisted me in meeting clients at the crossroads of their spiritual walk. Being exposed to various cultures has been an asset for me, making it more relatable to the clients.
Life is full of challenges, some easy and some tough! We are equipped with some skillsets to handle them. At times the going can get tricky, and this is where my professional experience can help bridge the gap. I am an RN and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Possessing a mental health nursing background and counseling has equipped me to understand the psychosocial aspect and the medical challenges clients face. My Christian faith has assisted me in meeting clients at the crossroads of their spiritual walk. Being exposed to various cultures has been an asset for me, making it more relatable to the clients.

Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have over a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
Welcome! I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have over a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand

Hello! I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist that works with youth aged 6 - 18. I help youth that are struggling with trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, mood disorders, substance use, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. My approach to treatment is a family-focused approach that includes the caregivers as much as possible. Clients can count on me to use trauma-informed, adoption-informed, and evidence-based care in every session. Individuals in foster care or post-adoption face unique challenges, and I focus on helping families recognize and respond to their needs with a trauma-informed approach.
Hello! I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist that works with youth aged 6 - 18. I help youth that are struggling with trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, mood disorders, substance use, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. My approach to treatment is a family-focused approach that includes the caregivers as much as possible. Clients can count on me to use trauma-informed, adoption-informed, and evidence-based care in every session. Individuals in foster care or post-adoption face unique challenges, and I focus on helping families recognize and respond to their needs with a trauma-informed approach.

Have you been feeling anxious lately? Maybe you are Depressed? Tired and can’t concentrate? Or maybe you’re on a bunch of different medications that aren’t working? Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help. My goal is to help you feel better. I do this by listening to what you have to say, what you like and don’t like. With that in mind, we work together as partners, and I develop a treatment plan that combines simple and practical changes to your lifestyle for the betterment of your mental wellbeing.
Have you been feeling anxious lately? Maybe you are Depressed? Tired and can’t concentrate? Or maybe you’re on a bunch of different medications that aren’t working? Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help. My goal is to help you feel better. I do this by listening to what you have to say, what you like and don’t like. With that in mind, we work together as partners, and I develop a treatment plan that combines simple and practical changes to your lifestyle for the betterment of your mental wellbeing.
See more therapy options for 24016
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 24016
< 10
Psychiatrists in 24016 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Medication Management |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 24016 see their clients
83% | Online Only | |
17% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 24016?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.