Psychiatrists in Crozet, VA

Photo of P Melissa Moore, MD, Psychiatrist
P Melissa Moore
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crozet, VA 22932
I am a psychiatrist with experience working with both children and adults. My primary focus in outpatient practice is work with children and adolescents as well as some young adults. I provide psychiatric assessments and medication management. I also offer play therapy for younger children. I work with a multidisciplinary team at Aligned Clinical and Educational Services in Crozet, Virginia. My training includes medical school at Mercer University followed by a 4 year general psychiatry residency and a 2 year child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship, both at the University of Virginia.
I am a psychiatrist with experience working with both children and adults. My primary focus in outpatient practice is work with children and adolescents as well as some young adults. I provide psychiatric assessments and medication management. I also offer play therapy for younger children. I work with a multidisciplinary team at Aligned Clinical and Educational Services in Crozet, Virginia. My training includes medical school at Mercer University followed by a 4 year general psychiatry residency and a 2 year child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship, both at the University of Virginia.
(540) 418-3470 View (540) 418-3470
Photo of Robert Johnston - Robert Johnston, MD - Centerspace Psychiatry, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Johnston, MD - Centerspace Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Crozet, VA 22932
My practice focuses on the mental health of children, families, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of presenting issues, with the most common including learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, anxiety, and mood disorders.
My practice focuses on the mental health of children, families, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of presenting issues, with the most common including learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(434) 215-0998 View (434) 215-0998
Photo of Dr. Benjamin Pumphrey, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Benjamin Pumphrey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Deep understanding of the nature and history of symptoms is necessary to guide treatment and generate lasting improvements. Engaging in mental health care requires patience, a curious mind, and an honest desire to make changes. I provide psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy with a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic approach. I received my medical degree from the University of Virginia and completed my psychiatry residency through the University of Pennsylvania.
Deep understanding of the nature and history of symptoms is necessary to guide treatment and generate lasting improvements. Engaging in mental health care requires patience, a curious mind, and an honest desire to make changes. I provide psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy with a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic approach. I received my medical degree from the University of Virginia and completed my psychiatry residency through the University of Pennsylvania.
(540) 416-9800 View (540) 416-9800
Photo of Evan Cordrey, MD , Psychiatrist
Evan Cordrey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Crozet, VA 22932
As both an Adult and Child Psychiatrist I have experience treating psychiatric disorders across the lifespan including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis and Anxiety/Mood disorders. I am a big believer in the benefit and utility of therapy including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral as well as motivational therapy. Additionally, I can provide insight to clients on the utility (and limitations) of medications to assist with management of various mental health issues.
As both an Adult and Child Psychiatrist I have experience treating psychiatric disorders across the lifespan including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis and Anxiety/Mood disorders. I am a big believer in the benefit and utility of therapy including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral as well as motivational therapy. Additionally, I can provide insight to clients on the utility (and limitations) of medications to assist with management of various mental health issues.
(434) 838-4053 View (434) 838-4053

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Crystal Hicks, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
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 Molly Yazman, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Molly Yazman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about working with young people who are discovering where they exist in this world, struggling with new or existing mental illness, or questioning their identity. I feel that this population is unique and requires someone who is willing to see the whole picture and to educate, listen, and empathize with them and their experiences.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about working with young people who are discovering where they exist in this world, struggling with new or existing mental illness, or questioning their identity. I feel that this population is unique and requires someone who is willing to see the whole picture and to educate, listen, and empathize with them and their experiences.
(434) 442-2689 x303 View (434) 442-2689 x303
Photo of Jonathan Mills, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Mills
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Jonathan Mills is a board-certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner providing patient-centered care to children, adolescents and young adults. He completed his graduate work at Yale School of Nursing and clinical training in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Yale Child Study Center. He has experience in a range of treatment settings providing medication and therapeutic services to young people, families, and adults.
Jonathan Mills is a board-certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner providing patient-centered care to children, adolescents and young adults. He completed his graduate work at Yale School of Nursing and clinical training in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Yale Child Study Center. He has experience in a range of treatment settings providing medication and therapeutic services to young people, families, and adults.
(434) 252-3848 View (434) 252-3848
Photo of Michael K Heck - Treehouse Child Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Treehouse Child Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
At Treehouse Child Psychiatry we provide comprehensive and personalized mental health care for children, adolescent and young adults in central Virginia. Our multi-disciplinary treatment team can diagnose and treat a variety of mental health concerns including ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits the specific needs of your and your child.
At Treehouse Child Psychiatry we provide comprehensive and personalized mental health care for children, adolescent and young adults in central Virginia. Our multi-disciplinary treatment team can diagnose and treat a variety of mental health concerns including ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits the specific needs of your and your child.
(434) 253-4237 View (434) 253-4237
Photo of Dillon Kayser, MD, Psychiatrist
Dillon Kayser
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I am from Charlottesville originally and moved back to town in 2018 following completion of medical school at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Following medical school I completed four years of psychiatry residency training at UVA. I specialize in treating adult patients with a particular interest in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and mood/substance disorders. My research interests include medical health disparities, with specific focus on social determinants of health
I am from Charlottesville originally and moved back to town in 2018 following completion of medical school at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Following medical school I completed four years of psychiatry residency training at UVA. I specialize in treating adult patients with a particular interest in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and mood/substance disorders. My research interests include medical health disparities, with specific focus on social determinants of health
(434) 425-7536 View (434) 425-7536
Photo of Dr. Lee Moore, DNP, MEd, APRN, PMHNP, CNE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lee Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MEd, APRN, PMHNP, CNE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Welcome to Better Mental Health & Wellness, an integrated mental health practice owned and operated by Dr. Lee Moore, PMHNP-BC. I offer psychiatric services to Virginia residents via telehealth or in-person meetings. While I have focused experience working alongside LGBTQ+-identifying individuals, individuals with trauma histories, and individuals managing substance use concerns, I welcome ALL individuals seeking support and direction. I have experience working within a wide range of settings and with individuals across every spectrum, offering a unique perspective on care.
Welcome to Better Mental Health & Wellness, an integrated mental health practice owned and operated by Dr. Lee Moore, PMHNP-BC. I offer psychiatric services to Virginia residents via telehealth or in-person meetings. While I have focused experience working alongside LGBTQ+-identifying individuals, individuals with trauma histories, and individuals managing substance use concerns, I welcome ALL individuals seeking support and direction. I have experience working within a wide range of settings and with individuals across every spectrum, offering a unique perspective on care.
(804) 294-4811 View (804) 294-4811
Photo of Amy Fehrmann, MD, Psychiatrist
Amy Fehrmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
(434) 425-8423 View (434) 425-8423
Photo of Cynthia Timok, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Timok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Cindy, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner devoted to helping you navigate life's complexities and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Additionally, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management, along with referrals for psychotherapy and other services. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment where you feel heard and empowered. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
I'm Cindy, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner devoted to helping you navigate life's complexities and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Additionally, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management, along with referrals for psychotherapy and other services. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment where you feel heard and empowered. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(804) 258-6054 View (804) 258-6054
Photo of Lynn Wolf - Lynn Wolf | Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynn Wolf | Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Is anxiety taking over your life and making you feel stuck or unfulfilled? Maybe it's highlighting deeper issues like strained relationships, a lack of recognition at work, or a sense of disconnection. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the cause. I’m here to help you uncover what your anxiety is really telling you and to guide you towards finding balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore these feelings and work towards a more satisfying and connected life.
Is anxiety taking over your life and making you feel stuck or unfulfilled? Maybe it's highlighting deeper issues like strained relationships, a lack of recognition at work, or a sense of disconnection. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the cause. I’m here to help you uncover what your anxiety is really telling you and to guide you towards finding balance and peace. Together, we’ll explore these feelings and work towards a more satisfying and connected life.
(804) 465-9687 View (804) 465-9687
Photo of Jenny Furlow, PMHNP, FNP, GS-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Jenny Furlow
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP, GS-C
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Our company offers psychiatric services, led by our psychiatric NP who can diagnose and prescribe medications. We also are excited to offer help for treatment resistant depression. We are proud to offer Spravato at our location and will work with you to see if insurance will cover. Our autonomous psychiatric NP and autonomous family NPs are accepting patients for prescription management as well as other services.
Our company offers psychiatric services, led by our psychiatric NP who can diagnose and prescribe medications. We also are excited to offer help for treatment resistant depression. We are proud to offer Spravato at our location and will work with you to see if insurance will cover. Our autonomous psychiatric NP and autonomous family NPs are accepting patients for prescription management as well as other services.
(434) 813-1939 View (434) 813-1939
Photo of Benjamin Stephens, MD, Psychiatrist
Benjamin Stephens
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22911
As a board certified psychiatrist, I can offer help with clarifying diagnoses and provide recommendations on evidence-based treatment, including medication and therapy approaches.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I can offer help with clarifying diagnoses and provide recommendations on evidence-based treatment, including medication and therapy approaches.
(434) 425-7514 View (434) 425-7514
Photo of Reid Byrne, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reid Byrne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I specialize in offering mental health services to the perinatal population, supporting individuals through life transitions, trauma, and treatment-resistant anxiety or depression. For those highly sensitive or neurodivergent, my goal is a compassionate healing space. Leveraging my diverse background, I provide personalized care, fostering resilience. Together, we navigate challenges, prioritize mental well-being, and create a fulfilling life. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm dedicated to your unique needs, ensuring a holistic approach for your empowerment.
I specialize in offering mental health services to the perinatal population, supporting individuals through life transitions, trauma, and treatment-resistant anxiety or depression. For those highly sensitive or neurodivergent, my goal is a compassionate healing space. Leveraging my diverse background, I provide personalized care, fostering resilience. Together, we navigate challenges, prioritize mental well-being, and create a fulfilling life. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm dedicated to your unique needs, ensuring a holistic approach for your empowerment.
(804) 375-5564 View (804) 375-5564
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across Virginia. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video across Virginia. Our Board-Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment.
(571) 223-6226 View (571) 223-6226
Photo of Debra S Trasati, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Debra S Trasati
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I embrace an integrated, strength-based approach to promoting wellness. I work with adolescents, young adults, and families affected by a variety of behavioral health symptoms. I have worked extensively with children and adolescents struggling with significant mood and behavioral dysregulation related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety and ADHD. My experience extends to college age and young adults who struggle with attention, depression, and generalized and social anxiety symptoms. I have a particular practice interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder, especially those referred to as "High Functioning Autism" or "Asperger's."
I embrace an integrated, strength-based approach to promoting wellness. I work with adolescents, young adults, and families affected by a variety of behavioral health symptoms. I have worked extensively with children and adolescents struggling with significant mood and behavioral dysregulation related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety and ADHD. My experience extends to college age and young adults who struggle with attention, depression, and generalized and social anxiety symptoms. I have a particular practice interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder, especially those referred to as "High Functioning Autism" or "Asperger's."
(703) 489-6700 View (703) 489-6700
Photo of Jessica K Hairston - 360 Degree Health, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
360 Degree Health, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Now Accepting New Patients! Welcome! I am a child and adult psychiatrist who is here to help you figure out if medications would be beneficial for you at this time in your life. I see patients from all over VA via video appointments. I enjoy working with children and adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, trauma survivors and patients with anxiety and depression. I help people reclaim their personal power and sense of self by medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes for greater personal empathy and balance.
Now Accepting New Patients! Welcome! I am a child and adult psychiatrist who is here to help you figure out if medications would be beneficial for you at this time in your life. I see patients from all over VA via video appointments. I enjoy working with children and adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, trauma survivors and patients with anxiety and depression. I help people reclaim their personal power and sense of self by medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes for greater personal empathy and balance.
(757) 568-8782 View (757) 568-8782
Photo of Lauren Alston-Close, CRNP, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Alston-Close
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22904
Lauren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, having completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. With 13 years of diverse nursing experience, she brings a well-rounded perspective to mental health care. She is committed to continuous learning and growth as a practitioner. Her approach to care acknowledges the interconnectedness of body and mind. While medications can be transformative, she also believes in exploring and addressing the biochemical and lifestyle factors that play a critical role in mental health.
Lauren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, having completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. With 13 years of diverse nursing experience, she brings a well-rounded perspective to mental health care. She is committed to continuous learning and growth as a practitioner. Her approach to care acknowledges the interconnectedness of body and mind. While medications can be transformative, she also believes in exploring and addressing the biochemical and lifestyle factors that play a critical role in mental health.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120

See more therapy options for Crozet

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Crozet, VA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Crozet, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
75% Child
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Autism
75% School Issues
75% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Crozet, VA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Crozet?

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.