Psychiatrists in Bedford, VA

Photo of Beth Short - Focus Psychiatry and Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Focus Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
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
Center for Care and Resiliency, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
(540) 384-4630 View (540) 384-4630

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Sanket R Dhat, MD, FASAM, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sanket R Dhat
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
I am Founder and CEO of the Credence Behavioral Health (CBH). CBH is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health , substance abuse and Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) services to the communities of Lynchburg and surrounding Central Virginia area. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of healthcare to our patients with compassion and respect. We strive to improve the health and well-being of our community through our commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research.
I am Founder and CEO of the Credence Behavioral Health (CBH). CBH is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health , substance abuse and Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) services to the communities of Lynchburg and surrounding Central Virginia area. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of healthcare to our patients with compassion and respect. We strive to improve the health and well-being of our community through our commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research.
(434) 448-4517 View (434) 448-4517
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 Stephanie East, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie East
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Stephanie is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric medication management for ages 10 and up.
Stephanie is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric medication management for ages 10 and up.
View
Photo of Dr. Gifty Addai, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Forest, VA 24551
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
(540) 274-5696 View (540) 274-5696
Photo of Lori L Ball, PMHCNS, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori L Ball
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Forest, VA 24551
Lori Ball is a dually certified Advance Practice Nurse and Nurse Practitioner with Light Counseling. She provides comprehensive bio-psycho-social evaluations, as well as prescribes and manages psychotropics. Her professional history extends back to 1985 when she entered the world of psychiatry as a Registered Nurse. Almost 40 years later, she finds herself collaborating with patients who share their stories and seek out innovative solutions to the demands of life. She believes that medications are only one tool, but there’s so much more! Lori wants to help others embrace genuine, lasting change for a better tomorrow.
Lori Ball is a dually certified Advance Practice Nurse and Nurse Practitioner with Light Counseling. She provides comprehensive bio-psycho-social evaluations, as well as prescribes and manages psychotropics. Her professional history extends back to 1985 when she entered the world of psychiatry as a Registered Nurse. Almost 40 years later, she finds herself collaborating with patients who share their stories and seek out innovative solutions to the demands of life. She believes that medications are only one tool, but there’s so much more! Lori wants to help others embrace genuine, lasting change for a better tomorrow.
(757) 859-0359 View (757) 859-0359
Photo of Fawn O. Workman - Lifesong Health - Fawn Workman, NP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lifesong Health - Fawn Workman, NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
I understand that seeking medication help for mental health concerns can be a significant step. That's why I strive to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your unique challenges. You might be wondering, "Am I the right fit for Lifesong Health?" Our ideal client is someone who: Is experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, and seeks a whole person approach to health that addresses mental and physical wellbeing.
I understand that seeking medication help for mental health concerns can be a significant step. That's why I strive to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your unique challenges. You might be wondering, "Am I the right fit for Lifesong Health?" Our ideal client is someone who: Is experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, and seeks a whole person approach to health that addresses mental and physical wellbeing.
(434) 423-4765 View (434) 423-4765
Photo of Crystal Hicks, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
Accepting New patients! Crystal is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in providing psychiatric treatment and consultative care for very young children, adolescents, teens and adults. She brings over 17 years of nursing experience in the mental health field, including work in both inpatient, outpatient, and residential psychiatric settings. Crystal received her Master's of Nursing from the University of Virginia. She enjoys working with and helping individuals & families with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism, history of trauma, psychosis &mood disorders.
Accepting New patients! Crystal is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in providing psychiatric treatment and consultative care for very young children, adolescents, teens and adults. She brings over 17 years of nursing experience in the mental health field, including work in both inpatient, outpatient, and residential psychiatric settings. Crystal received her Master's of Nursing from the University of Virginia. She enjoys working with and helping individuals & families with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism, history of trauma, psychosis &mood disorders.
(434) 602-5864 View (434) 602-5864
Photo of Luzangela Rojas-Mogollon, MD, Psychiatrist
Luzangela Rojas-Mogollon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24503
Luzángela Rojas-Mogollón, MD is a fully licensed physician who is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Rojas has 15 years of experience treating patients with psychiatric problems. She completed psychiatry residency training at the Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA.
Luzángela Rojas-Mogollón, MD is a fully licensed physician who is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Rojas has 15 years of experience treating patients with psychiatric problems. She completed psychiatry residency training at the Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA.
(434) 216-6922 View (434) 216-6922
Photo of Dr. Temitope Akinladenu, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
(703) 291-6422 View (703) 291-6422
Photo of Jennifer Sims, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(571) 410-3655 View (571) 410-3655
Photo of Tracy Ann Reid-Saunders - Mending Minds Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mending Minds Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
At Mending Minds, we believe in providing individualized, holistic care. Tracy Ann Reid-Saunders is a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes in knowing each client on a personal level and working harmoniously to achieve optimal outcomes. I believe in providing care to each individual, how I would want myself or my family to be cared for.
At Mending Minds, we believe in providing individualized, holistic care. Tracy Ann Reid-Saunders is a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who believes in knowing each client on a personal level and working harmoniously to achieve optimal outcomes. I believe in providing care to each individual, how I would want myself or my family to be cared for.
(757) 260-5745 View (757) 260-5745
Photo of Connor Matas, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Connor Matas
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who seeks growth. Regardless of your walk of life there is something that brought you to seek help, improve your life and mind. Want to get out of your slump? Need to feel less anxious but just can't shake it? Want to have fewer mood swings or a more balanced lifestyle? These are all starting points for the ideal client and ones that I work together with every day.
My ideal client is someone who seeks growth. Regardless of your walk of life there is something that brought you to seek help, improve your life and mind. Want to get out of your slump? Need to feel less anxious but just can't shake it? Want to have fewer mood swings or a more balanced lifestyle? These are all starting points for the ideal client and ones that I work together with every day.
(434) 595-3956 View (434) 595-3956
Photo of Phil O Johns Jr - Apex Psychiatry, PLLC, Physician Assistant
Apex Psychiatry, PLLC
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Phil Johns DMSC, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psych, CHES. I am a native of Virginia and began my career as a psychiatric physician assistant in 2009. My goal is help you transform your mental health with ease. Together, we can overcome challenges and achieve wellness.
My name is Phil Johns DMSC, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psych, CHES. I am a native of Virginia and began my career as a psychiatric physician assistant in 2009. My goal is help you transform your mental health with ease. Together, we can overcome challenges and achieve wellness.
(540) 698-4179 View (540) 698-4179
Photo of Ryan M White, DO, Psychiatrist
Ryan M White
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Hello! I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist that works with youth aged 6 - 18. I help youth that are struggling with trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, mood disorders, substance use, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. My approach to treatment is a family-focused approach that includes the caregivers as much as possible. Clients can count on me to use trauma-informed, adoption-informed, and evidence-based care in every session. Individuals in foster care or post-adoption face unique challenges, and I focus on helping families recognize and respond to their needs with a trauma-informed approach.
Hello! I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist that works with youth aged 6 - 18. I help youth that are struggling with trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, mood disorders, substance use, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. My approach to treatment is a family-focused approach that includes the caregivers as much as possible. Clients can count on me to use trauma-informed, adoption-informed, and evidence-based care in every session. Individuals in foster care or post-adoption face unique challenges, and I focus on helping families recognize and respond to their needs with a trauma-informed approach.
(540) 584-8548 View (540) 584-8548
Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(757) 654-5093 View (757) 654-5093
Photo of Mimi Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mimi Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We are accepting New Clients. We see patients Mondays through Fridays. We offer Medication Management and Counseling/Psychotherapy Face to face or via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Virginia and Maryland. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
We are accepting New Clients. We see patients Mondays through Fridays. We offer Medication Management and Counseling/Psychotherapy Face to face or via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Virginia and Maryland. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
View
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

See more therapy options for Bedford

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bedford, VA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Bedford, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Alcohol Use
100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Anthem
100% Blue Cross

How Psychiatrists in Bedford, VA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bedford?

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.