Psychiatrists in Falls Church, VA

Photo of Eveline Fohtung, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Eveline Fohtung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Falls Church, VA 22043
My ideal client is someone seeking clarity and peace of mind but feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, mood swings, or life transitions. They may be struggling to manage daily responsibilities, relationships, or emotions. They want to feel more balanced, in control, and heard. Their goal is to understand their mental health and find practical, lasting solutions. They’re looking for a provider who listens with empathy and helps them heal and grow with respect and support.
My ideal client is someone seeking clarity and peace of mind but feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, mood swings, or life transitions. They may be struggling to manage daily responsibilities, relationships, or emotions. They want to feel more balanced, in control, and heard. Their goal is to understand their mental health and find practical, lasting solutions. They’re looking for a provider who listens with empathy and helps them heal and grow with respect and support.
(571) 609-5359 View (571) 609-5359
Photo of Alice Greenwood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Alice Greenwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I am passionate about helping people live life as the version of themselves they aspire to be. It is my firm belief that addressing and treating mental health concerns appropriately is an integral step in helping people to achieve this. My approach utilizes empathy, education, and empowerment. Empathy for my clients and their unique life situations. Education for clients regarding pathophysiology, treatment options, and the way the brain works. Client empowerment that they are capable, knowledgeable, and deserving of help. I currently see clients virtually who are located in Virginia or Washington, DC.
I am passionate about helping people live life as the version of themselves they aspire to be. It is my firm belief that addressing and treating mental health concerns appropriately is an integral step in helping people to achieve this. My approach utilizes empathy, education, and empowerment. Empathy for my clients and their unique life situations. Education for clients regarding pathophysiology, treatment options, and the way the brain works. Client empowerment that they are capable, knowledgeable, and deserving of help. I currently see clients virtually who are located in Virginia or Washington, DC.
(571) 946-6302 View (571) 946-6302
Photo of Leah Walker, Psychiatrist, MD
Leah Walker
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am a board certified psychiatrist that treats the general adult population, with a focus on reproductive psychiatry. In addition to treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, I focus on perinatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders as well as symptoms surrounding PMS/PMDD and perimenopause.
I am a board certified psychiatrist that treats the general adult population, with a focus on reproductive psychiatry. In addition to treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, I focus on perinatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders as well as symptoms surrounding PMS/PMDD and perimenopause.
(571) 252-7781 View (571) 252-7781
Photo of Rim Mghir, Psychiatrist, M, D
Rim Mghir
Psychiatrist, M, D
Falls Church, VA 22044
I am an Adult and Geriatric psychiatrist, in private practice since 1997. I specialize in psycho-pharmacological treatment for a wide range of mental disorders. Much of my focus is on treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, and on post-traumatic stress disorder. I emphasize open rapport with my patients. A thorough evaluation of the patient's medical, psychological and social background and history, provides the framework for formulating a treatment plan, which is presented and discussed with the patient. I also work closely with health professionals involved in the care of the patients to coordinate treatment plan.
I am an Adult and Geriatric psychiatrist, in private practice since 1997. I specialize in psycho-pharmacological treatment for a wide range of mental disorders. Much of my focus is on treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, and on post-traumatic stress disorder. I emphasize open rapport with my patients. A thorough evaluation of the patient's medical, psychological and social background and history, provides the framework for formulating a treatment plan, which is presented and discussed with the patient. I also work closely with health professionals involved in the care of the patients to coordinate treatment plan.
(703) 810-7719 View (703) 810-7719
Photo of Mimi Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mimi Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Falls Church, VA 22042
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 Sika Yvette Yeme, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Sika Yvette Yeme
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Sika Yvette Yeme is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With over a decade of experience in both critical care and mental health settings, Sika is committed to helping individuals live better, more fulfilling lives. Her compassionate approach allows her to connect with patients on a personal level, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration. Sika believes in a holistic approach to mental health care, one that considers the full spectrum of a person's well-being.
Sika Yvette Yeme is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With over a decade of experience in both critical care and mental health settings, Sika is committed to helping individuals live better, more fulfilling lives. Her compassionate approach allows her to connect with patients on a personal level, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration. Sika believes in a holistic approach to mental health care, one that considers the full spectrum of a person's well-being.
(571) 517-4244 View (571) 517-4244
Photo of Michael R Sternberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael R Sternberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I now provide video sessions for all of Virginia and Florida. I have over 25 years of experience treating patients of all ages. I work in a collaborative style, have excellent listening skills and work with you to find the right medication, if indicated, for your symptoms. I am compassionate and dedicated to help relieve your suffering. For more information, please visit my web site at michaelrsternbergmd.com
I now provide video sessions for all of Virginia and Florida. I have over 25 years of experience treating patients of all ages. I work in a collaborative style, have excellent listening skills and work with you to find the right medication, if indicated, for your symptoms. I am compassionate and dedicated to help relieve your suffering. For more information, please visit my web site at michaelrsternbergmd.com
(571) 901-1068 View (571) 901-1068
Photo of Tatiana Menick - Tatiana Menick, M.D., Psychiatrist
Tatiana Menick, M.D.
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
My practice offers supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy, either alone or together with medications. As a medical doctor, I never prescribe medications until I've made a thorough and detailed assessment of the person under my care. I keep a close watch on how medications affect overall well-being. I am Board-certified in Psychiatry.
My practice offers supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy, either alone or together with medications. As a medical doctor, I never prescribe medications until I've made a thorough and detailed assessment of the person under my care. I keep a close watch on how medications affect overall well-being. I am Board-certified in Psychiatry.
(571) 620-5050 View (571) 620-5050
Photo of Mary Perry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mary Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Falls Church, VA 22046
My ideal client isn’t defined by diagnosis, but by a willingness to engage in healing—even if they don’t know where to start. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, attention issues, or life transitions. They seek clarity, connection, and tools that work. Their goals might include emotional regulation, better relationships, or simply functioning with more ease. They want to feel heard, respected, and guided—not just treated. My role is to partner with them and co-create a plan that fits who they are, not just what they’re facing.
My ideal client isn’t defined by diagnosis, but by a willingness to engage in healing—even if they don’t know where to start. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, attention issues, or life transitions. They seek clarity, connection, and tools that work. Their goals might include emotional regulation, better relationships, or simply functioning with more ease. They want to feel heard, respected, and guided—not just treated. My role is to partner with them and co-create a plan that fits who they are, not just what they’re facing.
(571) 556-8412 View (571) 556-8412
Photo of Sara Geyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sara Geyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22042
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I deliver comprehensive and holistic care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management as part of addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, psychosis, eating disorders, perinatal mood disorders, and more.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I deliver comprehensive and holistic care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management as part of addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, psychosis, eating disorders, perinatal mood disorders, and more.
(571) 603-7850 View (571) 603-7850
Photo of Edward (Ed) Stern - Queer Ear Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Queer Ear Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Waitlist for new clients
Do you want Queer care by queer folx? The LGBTQIA+ (we embrace "Queer") community has the right to seek mental health medication just as we are. Perhaps you or your child are seeking medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, or mood disorders. Maybe you're trans/non-binary/gender-nonconforming or gay/lesbian and are tired of explaining our lifestyle to prescribers. Perhaps you're anxious or depressed about app dating or a recent kink or OnlyFans effort. Maybe you're not out (or fully out) and need medication to help the anxiety. Then, you deserve affirming and competent care.
Do you want Queer care by queer folx? The LGBTQIA+ (we embrace "Queer") community has the right to seek mental health medication just as we are. Perhaps you or your child are seeking medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, or mood disorders. Maybe you're trans/non-binary/gender-nonconforming or gay/lesbian and are tired of explaining our lifestyle to prescribers. Perhaps you're anxious or depressed about app dating or a recent kink or OnlyFans effort. Maybe you're not out (or fully out) and need medication to help the anxiety. Then, you deserve affirming and competent care.
(202) 816-6667 View (202) 816-6667
Photo of Shannon Sabanosh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Sabanosh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Falls Church, VA 22046
Shannon specialties include ADHD and issues surrounding pregnancy and postpartum mental health. She is a dual board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare. Shannon is uniquely qualified with a background in medical management as well as psychiatric care. She spent much of her career as an RN working in a busy level one trauma center as a staff nurse, charge nurse, preceptor, trauma nurse, and unit supervisor before deciding to pursue advanced clinical education.
Shannon specialties include ADHD and issues surrounding pregnancy and postpartum mental health. She is a dual board certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare. Shannon is uniquely qualified with a background in medical management as well as psychiatric care. She spent much of her career as an RN working in a busy level one trauma center as a staff nurse, charge nurse, preceptor, trauma nurse, and unit supervisor before deciding to pursue advanced clinical education.
(571) 534-3281 View (571) 534-3281
Photo of Heidi Cook - My Psychiatrist PLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNP
My Psychiatrist PLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Heidi offers a place for patients to feel welcomed, heard, and supported. She also provides patients with competent treatment plans. Frequent appointments are available for titrating medications quickly and effectively along with mental health check-ins.
Heidi offers a place for patients to feel welcomed, heard, and supported. She also provides patients with competent treatment plans. Frequent appointments are available for titrating medications quickly and effectively along with mental health check-ins.
(571) 556-9185 View (571) 556-9185
Photo of Dr. Awatif Bazzi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMH
Dr. Awatif Bazzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMH
Falls Church, VA 22043
Experienced mental health Professional providing medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder. Accepts commercial insurance and Medicaid for accessible care.
Experienced mental health Professional providing medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder. Accepts commercial insurance and Medicaid for accessible care.
(571) 538-4883 View (571) 538-4883
Photo of Gifty Addai-Pickett - Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Falls Church, VA 22042
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
(540) 269-5252 View (540) 269-5252
Photo of Gifty Pampuru, Psychiatric Nurse, LPC
Gifty Pampuru
Psychiatric Nurse, LPC
Online Only
Life is full of challenges, some easy and some tough! We are equipped with some skillsets to handle them. At times the going can get tricky, and this is where my professional experience can help bridge the gap. I am an RN and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Possessing a mental health nursing background and counseling has equipped me to understand the psychosocial aspect and the medical challenges clients face. My Christian faith has assisted me in meeting clients at the crossroads of their spiritual walk. Being exposed to various cultures has been an asset for me, making it more relatable to the clients.
Life is full of challenges, some easy and some tough! We are equipped with some skillsets to handle them. At times the going can get tricky, and this is where my professional experience can help bridge the gap. I am an RN and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Possessing a mental health nursing background and counseling has equipped me to understand the psychosocial aspect and the medical challenges clients face. My Christian faith has assisted me in meeting clients at the crossroads of their spiritual walk. Being exposed to various cultures has been an asset for me, making it more relatable to the clients.
(540) 781-0110 View (540) 781-0110
Photo of Edward (Ed) Stern, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Edward (Ed) Stern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
6 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a psychiatric prescriber that will listen to your needs? Someone who takes the time to work with you and your goals? Someone who accepts you for who you are and where you want to be? Then we should talk. Ed and his entire team work with patients who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and much more. He integrates modern approaches to the science of mental health and wants you to meet your goals. Ed a member of the LGBTQ community and assures that all folx, no matter their gender, sexuality, or life status, is equally respected.
Are you looking for a psychiatric prescriber that will listen to your needs? Someone who takes the time to work with you and your goals? Someone who accepts you for who you are and where you want to be? Then we should talk. Ed and his entire team work with patients who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and much more. He integrates modern approaches to the science of mental health and wants you to meet your goals. Ed a member of the LGBTQ community and assures that all folx, no matter their gender, sexuality, or life status, is equally respected.
(202) 918-2642 View (202) 918-2642
Photo of Ali Altahir, Psychiatrist, MD
Ali Altahir
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22044
A child and adolescent psychiatrist, conducts full psychiatric evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults. Experienced in the treatment of a variety of clinical concerns, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), intellectual disabilities, Autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and psychosis. After adult psychiatry training in Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Altahir completed his fellowship studies at Penn state University in 2005.
A child and adolescent psychiatrist, conducts full psychiatric evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults. Experienced in the treatment of a variety of clinical concerns, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), intellectual disabilities, Autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and psychosis. After adult psychiatry training in Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Altahir completed his fellowship studies at Penn state University in 2005.
(703) 879-1542 View (703) 879-1542
Photo of Dr. Gifty Addai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Falls Church, VA 22042
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP) 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 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 advocating for patient empowerment, clear communication and education to achieve set goals.
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP) 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 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 advocating for patient empowerment, clear communication and education to achieve set goals.
(571) 548-3215 View (571) 548-3215
Photo of Stephanie Stavish, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Stephanie Stavish
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Sunshine Psychiatry focuses on caring for patients aged 6 to adults through telemedicine for patients’ convenience and to leverage children’s and young adults’ ease with online interactions. We collaborate closely with you and tailor our care based on comprehensive, continual evaluation of your needs – from your stressors, symptoms and medication regimen, to your family and social history, support systems and life goals. We emphasize active discussion and involvement of our patients in care planning and want you to be empowered to make informed treatment decisions, personalized to your unique concerns and wants.
Sunshine Psychiatry focuses on caring for patients aged 6 to adults through telemedicine for patients’ convenience and to leverage children’s and young adults’ ease with online interactions. We collaborate closely with you and tailor our care based on comprehensive, continual evaluation of your needs – from your stressors, symptoms and medication regimen, to your family and social history, support systems and life goals. We emphasize active discussion and involvement of our patients in care planning and want you to be empowered to make informed treatment decisions, personalized to your unique concerns and wants.
(703) 854-9240 View (703) 854-9240

See more therapy options for Falls Church

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Falls Church, VA

40+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Falls Church, VA who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
76% Bipolar Disorder
76% Medication Management
74% ADHD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
61% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
79% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Falls Church, VA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Falls Church?

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.