Psychiatrists in Alexandria, VA

Photo of Snezana Sonje Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist
Snezana Sonje Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Certified Psychiatrist. Licensed in DC, MD, VA . I have years of experinece in psychiatry and use tools of psychodynamic psychotherapy or sometimes add medication if needed. I worked with all kinds of patients in different settings. I worked in several hospitals, clinics, community centers, goverment military clinics, universities etc.
I am Certified Psychiatrist. Licensed in DC, MD, VA . I have years of experinece in psychiatry and use tools of psychodynamic psychotherapy or sometimes add medication if needed. I worked with all kinds of patients in different settings. I worked in several hospitals, clinics, community centers, goverment military clinics, universities etc.
(571) 999-6864 View (571) 999-6864
Photo of Riddhi Kothari, DO, Psychiatrist
Riddhi Kothari
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Kothari’s treatment approach begins with establishing a good therapeutic rapport with her patients and listening to her patients so that they feel heard. Dr. Kothari likes to spend time providing psychoeducation on medications when discussing treatment plan. Dr. Kothari’s practice focuses on medication management primarily, but may incorporate supportive psychotherapy during medication visits. Dr. Kothari may recommend additional psychotherapy if she feels a patient may benefit from this.
Dr. Kothari’s treatment approach begins with establishing a good therapeutic rapport with her patients and listening to her patients so that they feel heard. Dr. Kothari likes to spend time providing psychoeducation on medications when discussing treatment plan. Dr. Kothari’s practice focuses on medication management primarily, but may incorporate supportive psychotherapy during medication visits. Dr. Kothari may recommend additional psychotherapy if she feels a patient may benefit from this.
(703) 783-3717 View (703) 783-3717
Photo of Luke Romanow, MD, Psychiatrist
Luke Romanow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Romanow is double board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry.He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training and then attended Drexel University College of Medicine. After medical school, he completed his residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Virginia, where he obtained a certificate in additional psychotherapy training.After residency, Dr. Romanow completed a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
Dr. Romanow is double board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry.He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training and then attended Drexel University College of Medicine. After medical school, he completed his residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Virginia, where he obtained a certificate in additional psychotherapy training.After residency, Dr. Romanow completed a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
(571) 946-6305 View (571) 946-6305
Photo of Josephine Bondje, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Josephine Bondje
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m Josephine Bondje, and my personal belief as a healthcare provider is rooted in the understanding that every individual is unique in their own system. To achieve the best possible outcomes in patient care, I believe it’s essential to understand each patient from their own perspective. This philosophy allows me to deliver patient-centered care while being mindful of each patient's culture, environment, and beliefs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I strive to empower my patients by providing them with the information they need about their care, enabling them to make informed decisions about their treatme
I’m Josephine Bondje, and my personal belief as a healthcare provider is rooted in the understanding that every individual is unique in their own system. To achieve the best possible outcomes in patient care, I believe it’s essential to understand each patient from their own perspective. This philosophy allows me to deliver patient-centered care while being mindful of each patient's culture, environment, and beliefs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I strive to empower my patients by providing them with the information they need about their care, enabling them to make informed decisions about their treatme
(571) 496-8235 View (571) 496-8235
Photo of Boyd Cowan, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Boyd Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Prior to training as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I studied existential phenomenological psychotherapy with a focus on psychotherapeutic applications. I worked as a therapist for a period of time applying this model. This has given me an appreciation and respect for the uniqueness of every person. I believe this is blends well with the application of psychiatric science, which is our guiding framework but can also be limiting, stigmatizing, and over-generalizing. My goal is to help patients live their best lives.
Prior to training as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I studied existential phenomenological psychotherapy with a focus on psychotherapeutic applications. I worked as a therapist for a period of time applying this model. This has given me an appreciation and respect for the uniqueness of every person. I believe this is blends well with the application of psychiatric science, which is our guiding framework but can also be limiting, stigmatizing, and over-generalizing. My goal is to help patients live their best lives.
(571) 621-5919 View (571) 621-5919
Photo of Michael Murphy, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Murphy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Michael A. Murphy is Board-certified in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has over 20 years of experience practicing medicine in outpatient, acute, and residential settings. Dr. Murphy provides psychiatric assessments and medication management along with brief supportive psychotherapy. He is a strong advocate of collaboration between psychiatric care and psychotherapeutic interventions and encourages the utilization of therapists and counselors.
Dr. Michael A. Murphy is Board-certified in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has over 20 years of experience practicing medicine in outpatient, acute, and residential settings. Dr. Murphy provides psychiatric assessments and medication management along with brief supportive psychotherapy. He is a strong advocate of collaboration between psychiatric care and psychotherapeutic interventions and encourages the utilization of therapists and counselors.
(703) 775-4958 View (703) 775-4958
Photo of Misty Embrey, MD, Psychiatrist
Misty Embrey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Dr. Embrey is an integrative and holistic child and adult psychiatrist in Alexandria, VA and Washington, DC. She is also seeing patients from Maryland, Wisconsin (virtually) and soon to be Texas. Having trained at Johns Hopkins, she treats psychiatric illnesses with an approach that involves evaluation and treatment via traditional psychiatric methods, medications, and therapy. She also includes an assessment of how complementary interventions may be helpful toward finding mental, emotional, and spiritual balance and vitality.
Dr. Embrey is an integrative and holistic child and adult psychiatrist in Alexandria, VA and Washington, DC. She is also seeing patients from Maryland, Wisconsin (virtually) and soon to be Texas. Having trained at Johns Hopkins, she treats psychiatric illnesses with an approach that involves evaluation and treatment via traditional psychiatric methods, medications, and therapy. She also includes an assessment of how complementary interventions may be helpful toward finding mental, emotional, and spiritual balance and vitality.
(240) 600-1943 View (240) 600-1943
Photo of Marcia Friend, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marcia Friend
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Over the last two decades, Marcia has serviced a multitude of health care environments as a registered nurse in administrative and clinical roles. When caring for clients as a registered nurse, Marcia recognized a common theme that correlates frame of mind with physical health and overall wellness. With this awareness, she pursued and attained board certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Across the Lifespan. She embraces the notion that at the core of each human is a distinct need to thrive in a steady state of wellness in mind, body, and soul.
Over the last two decades, Marcia has serviced a multitude of health care environments as a registered nurse in administrative and clinical roles. When caring for clients as a registered nurse, Marcia recognized a common theme that correlates frame of mind with physical health and overall wellness. With this awareness, she pursued and attained board certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Across the Lifespan. She embraces the notion that at the core of each human is a distinct need to thrive in a steady state of wellness in mind, body, and soul.
(703) 457-1602 View (703) 457-1602
Photo of Nazanin Hagjoo, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nazanin Hagjoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am an experienced board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My approach is top down, looking at every facet of your life, genetics, nutrition, and environment to understand what informs your symptoms. With all the stressors of life, self care and self compassion take a back seat to worry. Eating healthy, getting sunlight, and calming your nervous system can put you back in the driver's seat. Please have compassion for yourself and remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
I am an experienced board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My approach is top down, looking at every facet of your life, genetics, nutrition, and environment to understand what informs your symptoms. With all the stressors of life, self care and self compassion take a back seat to worry. Eating healthy, getting sunlight, and calming your nervous system can put you back in the driver's seat. Please have compassion for yourself and remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
(571) 200-3410 View (571) 200-3410
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Khursheed Khine, MD, Psychiatrist
Khursheed Khine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22311
Not accepting new clients
***Please note that Dr. Khine is currently not accepting new patients in order to serve her existing patients better*** My goal is to combine empathy with excellent clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Your privacy is highly valued, thus treatment is provided in a safe and confidential manner.
***Please note that Dr. Khine is currently not accepting new patients in order to serve her existing patients better*** My goal is to combine empathy with excellent clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Your privacy is highly valued, thus treatment is provided in a safe and confidential manner.
(703) 646-8098 View (703) 646-8098
Photo of Dr. Isaac Wood, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Isaac Wood
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Dr. Wood graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine in 1982. He completed his residency in General Psychiatry at VCU Health, where he served as chief resident, followed by a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children. Over the course of 36 years, he served as a Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at VCU School of Medicine, and during his last decade there, he held the role of Senior Associate Dean of Medical Education and Student Affairs.
Dr. Wood graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine in 1982. He completed his residency in General Psychiatry at VCU Health, where he served as chief resident, followed by a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children. Over the course of 36 years, he served as a Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at VCU School of Medicine, and during his last decade there, he held the role of Senior Associate Dean of Medical Education and Student Affairs.
(571) 630-3316 View (571) 630-3316
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Dr. Weisheng Renee Mao, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Weisheng Renee Mao
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
You don't know exactly how to describe it, but something feels wrong with you. You're withdrawing from friends and family. You can't relax. Sleepless nights are turning into horrible mornings and anxious evenings. You know you need help, but you're instantly overwhelmed by everything you read online. Is it your brain chemistry that's off? Do you need a new job? What exactly is psychotherapy?
You don't know exactly how to describe it, but something feels wrong with you. You're withdrawing from friends and family. You can't relax. Sleepless nights are turning into horrible mornings and anxious evenings. You know you need help, but you're instantly overwhelmed by everything you read online. Is it your brain chemistry that's off? Do you need a new job? What exactly is psychotherapy?
(703) 952-3058 View (703) 952-3058
Photo of Christopher Wall - Christopher Wall–Psychiatric Medication Management, NP, PMHNP-B, RN, BSN, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Wall–Psychiatric Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP-B, RN, BSN, MA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Do you need help getting the psychiatric medications that you need? Do you need support to adjust and fine-tune your medication for the best results? Has your therapist suggested that you consider or get assessed for psychotropic medications? Contact me via phone, text, or email. I graduated from Vanderbilt University with a master's degree in Nursing, substantial experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and an additional master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I am looking forward to helping! Reach out today.
Do you need help getting the psychiatric medications that you need? Do you need support to adjust and fine-tune your medication for the best results? Has your therapist suggested that you consider or get assessed for psychotropic medications? Contact me via phone, text, or email. I graduated from Vanderbilt University with a master's degree in Nursing, substantial experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and an additional master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I am looking forward to helping! Reach out today.
(703) 936-2574 View (703) 936-2574
Photo of Anyikia Forteh - Access Health Services, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Access Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22303
Anyinkia Forteh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN, MSN, PMHNP – BC) licensed in the states of Maryland, DC, and Virginia with experience in mental health. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. She utilizes evidence-based treatment guidelines in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health disorders not limited to Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar, PTSD, Psychosis, OCD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.
Anyinkia Forteh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN, MSN, PMHNP – BC) licensed in the states of Maryland, DC, and Virginia with experience in mental health. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. She utilizes evidence-based treatment guidelines in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health disorders not limited to Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar, PTSD, Psychosis, OCD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.
(301) 720-0771 View (301) 720-0771
Photo of Erika Kappes Zavyalov, DO, Psychiatrist
Erika Kappes Zavyalov
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Board Certified Psychiatrist dedicated to helping patients function more optimally in their lives. I am accepting new patients.
Board Certified Psychiatrist dedicated to helping patients function more optimally in their lives. I am accepting new patients.
(404) 882-1711 View (404) 882-1711
Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinyere Ugwanyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
(571) 534-5807 View (571) 534-5807
Photo of Lucas Hansen, DO, Psychiatrist
Lucas Hansen
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Lucas Hansen is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from Rocky Vista University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he developed his interest in the mind-body connection integral to holistic psychiatric care. Dr. Hansen completed his General Psychiatry residency and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at the University of Nevada, Reno. As Chief Fellow he enjoyed training medical students, residents, and fellows with a firm foundation of psychiatric principles to best serve their patients.
Dr. Lucas Hansen is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from Rocky Vista University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he developed his interest in the mind-body connection integral to holistic psychiatric care. Dr. Hansen completed his General Psychiatry residency and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at the University of Nevada, Reno. As Chief Fellow he enjoyed training medical students, residents, and fellows with a firm foundation of psychiatric principles to best serve their patients.
(571) 576-3501 View (571) 576-3501
Photo of Ryan S. Shugarman, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Ryan S. Shugarman
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
In today's hustle and bustle society, it is easy to overlook one's own needs and well-being. Mental health symptoms can impair our capacity to function at maximum potential. As a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and physician, I strive to understand each patient as an individual, with a unique background, set of priorities, and co-occurring psychiatric and medical conditions. I work collaboratively with my patients in designing a personalized treatment plan to effectively target symptoms and reduce suffering. Treatment modalities offered include use of psychotropic medication, psychotherapy, and combined medication and therapy.
In today's hustle and bustle society, it is easy to overlook one's own needs and well-being. Mental health symptoms can impair our capacity to function at maximum potential. As a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and physician, I strive to understand each patient as an individual, with a unique background, set of priorities, and co-occurring psychiatric and medical conditions. I work collaboratively with my patients in designing a personalized treatment plan to effectively target symptoms and reduce suffering. Treatment modalities offered include use of psychotropic medication, psychotherapy, and combined medication and therapy.
(703) 982-7276 View (703) 982-7276

See more therapy options for Alexandria

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Alexandria, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$222

Psychiatrists in Alexandria, VA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
96% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% ADHD
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
84% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Alexandria, VA see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Alexandria?

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.