Psychiatrists in 24558

Photo of Megan Zamora, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Zamora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME. WEEKEND AVAILABILITY. Whether depression and anxiety are long-term struggles or you are experiencing your first event, or you suffer from psychosis or a personality disorder I am here to manage your medications and provide brief psychotherapy. I understand the struggle of making it through the day when you are having trouble concentrating, connecting with others or just feeling a complete lack of motivation to interact fully with the world around you. Possibly you turn to unhealthy coping skills and maybe you feel you’ve tried it all. I am here to help you live a happier, healthier life.
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME. WEEKEND AVAILABILITY. Whether depression and anxiety are long-term struggles or you are experiencing your first event, or you suffer from psychosis or a personality disorder I am here to manage your medications and provide brief psychotherapy. I understand the struggle of making it through the day when you are having trouble concentrating, connecting with others or just feeling a complete lack of motivation to interact fully with the world around you. Possibly you turn to unhealthy coping skills and maybe you feel you’ve tried it all. I am here to help you live a happier, healthier life.
(434) 885-1257 View (434) 885-1257

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Pamela Shipp, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Shipp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danville, VA 24540
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 265-4330 View (804) 265-4330
Photo of Cheryl R Zupancic, MA, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cheryl R Zupancic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
(434) 278-7963 View (434) 278-7963
Photo of Brittany Chandler, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 409-7965 View (804) 409-7965
Photo of Dr. Temitope Akinladenu, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540
Welcome! I am a nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I have over 10 years 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 am a nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I have over 10 years 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
(571) 202-7477 View (571) 202-7477
Photo of Jennifer Mclean-Russ, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Mclean-Russ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 6 years of Christian-based individual and marital counseling experience before ascertaining my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, spirituality issues, and life stressors. grieve, and marital conflict.
I have over 6 years of Christian-based individual and marital counseling experience before ascertaining my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, spirituality issues, and life stressors. grieve, and marital conflict.
(919) 642-4708 View (919) 642-4708
Photo of Beth Short - Focus Psychiatry and Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Focus Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540
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
(540) 305-3623 View (540) 305-3623

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Marlene Adams, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marlene Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, VA 24151
Welcome, glad to see you’re reaching out for support; a sign of positive mental health! I have over 30 years’ experience in mental, physical and spiritual health care. I am certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice philosophy is holistic, embracing body, mind and spirit to allow for maximum well-being.
Welcome, glad to see you’re reaching out for support; a sign of positive mental health! I have over 30 years’ experience in mental, physical and spiritual health care. I am certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice philosophy is holistic, embracing body, mind and spirit to allow for maximum well-being.
(540) 402-1719 View (540) 402-1719
Photo of Karen Ann Overmeyer, APRN-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Ann Overmeyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am so glad you are honoring yourself by seeking some help for the journey! You didn't come this far to only come this far! Now that you recognize that some new coping skills or behavioral changes might be helpful to improve your life, let's consider working together! Got a busy schedule? I can get you in quickly and have flexible hours. I'm offering telehealth daily and have evening sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to fit into your busy day! I am open to hours by request. I am currently credentialed with GrowTherapy.com for telehealth-only visits.
Welcome! I am so glad you are honoring yourself by seeking some help for the journey! You didn't come this far to only come this far! Now that you recognize that some new coping skills or behavioral changes might be helpful to improve your life, let's consider working together! Got a busy schedule? I can get you in quickly and have flexible hours. I'm offering telehealth daily and have evening sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to fit into your busy day! I am open to hours by request. I am currently credentialed with GrowTherapy.com for telehealth-only visits.
(804) 902-2136 View (804) 902-2136
Photo of Thaddeus Garland - Thaddeus M Garland MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Thaddeus M Garland MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
Through Telemedicine, I enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them discover how to lead better lives from the comfort of home. I treat clients of all ages and issues and have special interests in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizoprenia.
Through Telemedicine, I enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them discover how to lead better lives from the comfort of home. I treat clients of all ages and issues and have special interests in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizoprenia.
(833) 211-4745 View (833) 211-4745
Photo of Dr. J. Todd Holland, DO, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr. J. Todd Holland
Psychiatrist, DO, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
You are an adult experiencing symptoms of untreated ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, PTSD, addictive behaviors? I am accepting new patients. I offer assessment and treatment plans for adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep issues and general psychiatric conditions. I accept most private insurance, and offer telehealth and in person. Visit my site at Blacksburgpsychiatry.com
You are an adult experiencing symptoms of untreated ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, PTSD, addictive behaviors? I am accepting new patients. I offer assessment and treatment plans for adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep issues and general psychiatric conditions. I accept most private insurance, and offer telehealth and in person. Visit my site at Blacksburgpsychiatry.com
(540) 501-6533 View (540) 501-6533
Photo of Augustina Nyeche, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Augustina Nyeche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome. I'm Augustina Nyeche
Welcome. I'm Augustina Nyeche
(571) 596-7716 View (571) 596-7716
Photo of Emmanuella Edekobi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emmanuella Edekobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
(804) 552-5350 View (804) 552-5350
Photo of Kelly F. Cook, MS, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly F. Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
You deserve to live an inspired, fulfilling, purposeful life. I treat adults with mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and others. Utilizing a multi-dimensional wellness model to holistically address mental illnesses, I offer individualized treatment plans that encompass mindfulness-based practices and psychopharmacology.
You deserve to live an inspired, fulfilling, purposeful life. I treat adults with mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and others. Utilizing a multi-dimensional wellness model to holistically address mental illnesses, I offer individualized treatment plans that encompass mindfulness-based practices and psychopharmacology.
(929) 348-2856 View (929) 348-2856
Photo of Goochland Behavioral Health (Teena Nunn), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Goochland Behavioral Health (Teena Nunn)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or insomnia? We want to help. At GBH, we take the time to listen to our patients and work collaboratively with them to develop a treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. We strive to provide a space where you can feel comfortable discussing your mental health concerns without fear of judgement. Our goal is to form a long-lasting professional relationship with you!
Are you seeking treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or insomnia? We want to help. At GBH, we take the time to listen to our patients and work collaboratively with them to develop a treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. We strive to provide a space where you can feel comfortable discussing your mental health concerns without fear of judgement. Our goal is to form a long-lasting professional relationship with you!
(804) 568-9835 View (804) 568-9835
Photo of Shawlawn Freeman Hicks, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawlawn Freeman Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Do you often feel that “you just can’t win?” Come talk to me. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received a master’s degree from Walden University and have been practicing over the past two years with a specialization in mood & thought disorders such as major depression, anxiety, dysthymic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and personality disorders. I am also a certified Reiki Master. My first approach is building a rapport with clients. The key component of the therapeutic alliance is trust.
Do you often feel that “you just can’t win?” Come talk to me. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received a master’s degree from Walden University and have been practicing over the past two years with a specialization in mood & thought disorders such as major depression, anxiety, dysthymic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and personality disorders. I am also a certified Reiki Master. My first approach is building a rapport with clients. The key component of the therapeutic alliance is trust.
(804) 609-3835 View (804) 609-3835
Photo of Amanda Felix, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Felix
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Amanda Felix, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals. I am BIPOC and LGBTQ+ affirming and have vast experience in working with transgender individuals. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere, while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals.
I am Dr. Amanda Felix, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals. I am BIPOC and LGBTQ+ affirming and have vast experience in working with transgender individuals. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere, while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Binta Bojang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Binta Bojang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m Dr. Binta Bojang, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered care, helping adults manage mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, personality disorders, and ADHD through personalized medication management. My goal is to work closely with you to find the most effective treatment and support your journey toward mental wellness. My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance that respects the individual’s preferences, promoting shared decision-making in their mental health journey.
I’m Dr. Binta Bojang, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered care, helping adults manage mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, personality disorders, and ADHD through personalized medication management. My goal is to work closely with you to find the most effective treatment and support your journey toward mental wellness. My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance that respects the individual’s preferences, promoting shared decision-making in their mental health journey.
(804) 207-4757 View (804) 207-4757
Photo of Adekunbi Akins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adekunbi Akins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Description Hi, I am an experienced psychiatric and mental health provider and a professional talk therapist serving clients from Virginia and DC. I graduated with my Masters degree from George Washington University with Cum laude. I have strong expertise in conducting a thorough assessment and diagnosis of clients across lifespan.
Description Hi, I am an experienced psychiatric and mental health provider and a professional talk therapist serving clients from Virginia and DC. I graduated with my Masters degree from George Washington University with Cum laude. I have strong expertise in conducting a thorough assessment and diagnosis of clients across lifespan.
(571) 556-9648 View (571) 556-9648
Photo of Chelsea Snyder, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Snyder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Chelsea Snyder, PMHNP-BC, MSN, RN, graduated from Shenandoah University with a BSN and Bachelor's of Biology. She attained her MSN from Virginia Commonwealth University. Prior to her time at Zoe, Mrs. Snyder worked in inpatient psychiatry at VCU. At Zoe, Chelsea is passionate about caring for patients across the lifespan. She works with patients experiencing OCD, ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders. Mrs. Snyder is also excited to work with peri and postnatal women. She is dedicated to building a therapeutic relationship to advocate for the mental health needs of the community.
Chelsea Snyder, PMHNP-BC, MSN, RN, graduated from Shenandoah University with a BSN and Bachelor's of Biology. She attained her MSN from Virginia Commonwealth University. Prior to her time at Zoe, Mrs. Snyder worked in inpatient psychiatry at VCU. At Zoe, Chelsea is passionate about caring for patients across the lifespan. She works with patients experiencing OCD, ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders. Mrs. Snyder is also excited to work with peri and postnatal women. She is dedicated to building a therapeutic relationship to advocate for the mental health needs of the community.
(804) 265-4174 View (804) 265-4174

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 24558

< 10

Psychiatrists in 24558 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 24558 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 24558?

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.