Psychiatrists in Alexandria City County, VA

Photo of Mimi Khine, Psychiatrist, MD
Mimi Khine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22311
I am a psychiatrist with a background in family practice medicine. I treat Major Depression, PMDD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizo affective Disorders, Menopausal Depression, ADD, ADHD, PTSD, TBI and Dementia. I treat my patients with understanding and empathy. I have experience in multicultural psychiatry. I have been a psychiatrist since 1989 to present and I have been in Family practice medicine sine 1974.
I am a psychiatrist with a background in family practice medicine. I treat Major Depression, PMDD, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizo affective Disorders, Menopausal Depression, ADD, ADHD, PTSD, TBI and Dementia. I treat my patients with understanding and empathy. I have experience in multicultural psychiatry. I have been a psychiatrist since 1989 to present and I have been in Family practice medicine sine 1974.
(703) 372-9622 View (703) 372-9622
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
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.
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Photo of Rajni Sharma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rajni Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
(571) 503-5978 View (571) 503-5978
Photo of Natalie Desseyn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Natalie Desseyn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Your mental health is nothing to be ashamed of and far too often we feel that stigma and do not seek help. Whether you are in a crisis or just feel that life is getting tough, I am here to help you work through what you are experiencing and to help you feel more like yourself. I am very passionate about healing and helping my clients to find a sustainable support system. I enjoy working with children (8+), adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, post-partum depression and anxiety, and much more.
Your mental health is nothing to be ashamed of and far too often we feel that stigma and do not seek help. Whether you are in a crisis or just feel that life is getting tough, I am here to help you work through what you are experiencing and to help you feel more like yourself. I am very passionate about healing and helping my clients to find a sustainable support system. I enjoy working with children (8+), adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, post-partum depression and anxiety, and much more.
(571) 496-9434 View (571) 496-9434
Photo of Ramia Gupta - Ramia Gupta, MD PC, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Ramia Gupta, MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
An increasing number of people suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Having a mental health disorder can be frightening and overwhelming especially when one doesn’t know where to go to for help. My practice offers that place where I attempt to answer your questions and allay your fears. My work with my patients emphasizes compassion, empathy and support. During the initial assessment, I conduct a detailed Diagnostic evaluation in order to devise an Individualized and Comprehensive Treatment plan unique to the needs of each patient. I am Board Certified in both General and Forensic Psychiatry.
An increasing number of people suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Having a mental health disorder can be frightening and overwhelming especially when one doesn’t know where to go to for help. My practice offers that place where I attempt to answer your questions and allay your fears. My work with my patients emphasizes compassion, empathy and support. During the initial assessment, I conduct a detailed Diagnostic evaluation in order to devise an Individualized and Comprehensive Treatment plan unique to the needs of each patient. I am Board Certified in both General and Forensic Psychiatry.
(571) 536-7421 View (571) 536-7421
Photo of Arnold Kaplin, Psychiatrist, MD
Arnold Kaplin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22311
I offer evaluation & treatment of emotional difficulties (depression, anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive issues,attention-deficit disorder, bipolar disorder)-----problems establishing & maintaining long-term relationships-----difficulties achieving a healthy balance among work, love. & play. In an atmosphere of trust & confidentiality, I help patients enhance self esteem, coping skills, self confidence & assist in removing the obstacles that interfere with reaching one's full potential.
I offer evaluation & treatment of emotional difficulties (depression, anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive issues,attention-deficit disorder, bipolar disorder)-----problems establishing & maintaining long-term relationships-----difficulties achieving a healthy balance among work, love. & play. In an atmosphere of trust & confidentiality, I help patients enhance self esteem, coping skills, self confidence & assist in removing the obstacles that interfere with reaching one's full potential.
(703) 931-5050 View (703) 931-5050
Photo of Dr. Kirk Ramsey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kirk Ramsey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ramsey is board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. His practice primarily focuses on medication management. He sees himself as a collaborator with therapists and counselors in caring for their shared patients and their families. He received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, TN. He completed his residency at West Virginia University Hospitals and WVU School of Medicine and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, and Yale-New Haven Hospital in New Haven and Middletown, CT.
Dr. Ramsey is board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. His practice primarily focuses on medication management. He sees himself as a collaborator with therapists and counselors in caring for their shared patients and their families. He received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, TN. He completed his residency at West Virginia University Hospitals and WVU School of Medicine and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, and Yale-New Haven Hospital in New Haven and Middletown, CT.
(703) 291-8323 View (703) 291-8323
Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Toni Plummer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toni Plummer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Misty Embrey, Psychiatrist, MD
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, and 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, and 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 Christopher Jackson, Psychiatrist, MD
Christopher Jackson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Now Accepting New Patients! Hello, I'm Dr. Christopher Jackson, a dedicated psychiatrist who founded Empathy Wellness to help individuals achieve optimal well-being, free from judgment or inequity. Specializing in mood, anxiety, thought and psychotic disorders, I offer comprehensive services centering around medication management. My expertise also encompasses a wide range of specialties, including ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, dual diagnosis, OCD, self-harming, sleep issues, stress, suicidal ideation, as well as trauma and PTSD.
Now Accepting New Patients! Hello, I'm Dr. Christopher Jackson, a dedicated psychiatrist who founded Empathy Wellness to help individuals achieve optimal well-being, free from judgment or inequity. Specializing in mood, anxiety, thought and psychotic disorders, I offer comprehensive services centering around medication management. My expertise also encompasses a wide range of specialties, including ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, dual diagnosis, OCD, self-harming, sleep issues, stress, suicidal ideation, as well as trauma and PTSD.
(301) 494-8435 View (301) 494-8435
Photo of Dr. Mahsa Mousavi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Mahsa Mousavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mousavi holds the position of attending psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is Board certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 6 years. Dr. Mousavi's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow up visits. Dr. Mousavi may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Mousavi holds the position of attending psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is Board certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 6 years. Dr. Mousavi's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow up visits. Dr. Mousavi may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
(571) 639-4483 View (571) 639-4483
Photo of Dr. Riddhi Kothari, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. 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 Harpreet Kang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Harpreet Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
(571) 604-5449 View (571) 604-5449
Photo of Dr. Mohammed Basith, Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Dr. Mohammed Basith
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Mo Basith is a board-certified psychiatrist in the field of general adult psychiatry. He offers a mix of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with psychotherapy. Dr. Basith’s approach to clinical practice is rooted in fostering a safe atmosphere in which to explore biological and psychosocial factors that affect mental health. He views medication as a tool that patients can use while also engaging in psychotherapy and making lifestyle changes to optimize their mental health. Dr. Basith may occasionally believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Mo Basith is a board-certified psychiatrist in the field of general adult psychiatry. He offers a mix of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with psychotherapy. Dr. Basith’s approach to clinical practice is rooted in fostering a safe atmosphere in which to explore biological and psychosocial factors that affect mental health. He views medication as a tool that patients can use while also engaging in psychotherapy and making lifestyle changes to optimize their mental health. Dr. Basith may occasionally believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
(571) 202-7254 View (571) 202-7254
Photo of Maura Constance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC
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. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301
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.
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Photo of Seth Eiland - Eiland Behavioral Medicine, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Eiland Behavioral Medicine
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Online Only
Eiland Behavioral Medicine, PLLC is a trusted provider of adult psychiatric care in ​Virginia. We have a highly trained team of medical professionals with an unwavering ​commitment to the welfare of our patients.
Eiland Behavioral Medicine, PLLC is a trusted provider of adult psychiatric care in ​Virginia. We have a highly trained team of medical professionals with an unwavering ​commitment to the welfare of our patients.
(571) 605-6668 View (571) 605-6668
Photo of Marcia Friend, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
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 David L. Charney, Psychiatrist, MD
David L. Charney
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
You're a successful, accomplished, busy person encountering more stresses lately. Now you're feeling strained, anxious, distracted, angry or moody. While normally you push through your difficulties all by yourself, this time it's different. You realize you could actually benefit from some professional help but your personal pride and self-reliance make this a big step to take. You also wonder: "How could anyone possibly understand everything that's on my plate?" I'm an experienced psychiatrist from the so-called Golden Age of Psychiatry, where we learned to bridge two seemingly different approaches, the psychological and biological.
You're a successful, accomplished, busy person encountering more stresses lately. Now you're feeling strained, anxious, distracted, angry or moody. While normally you push through your difficulties all by yourself, this time it's different. You realize you could actually benefit from some professional help but your personal pride and self-reliance make this a big step to take. You also wonder: "How could anyone possibly understand everything that's on my plate?" I'm an experienced psychiatrist from the so-called Golden Age of Psychiatry, where we learned to bridge two seemingly different approaches, the psychological and biological.
(703) 836-7130 View (703) 836-7130

See more therapy options for Alexandria City County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Alexandria City County, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Alexandria City County, VA who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
97% Depression
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
78% Trauma and PTSD
75% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Cigna and Evernorth
82% Aetna
81% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Alexandria City County, VA see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Alexandria City County?

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.