Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, VA

Photo of Elisabeth Nkem - Holistic Wellness Group LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Holistic Wellness Group LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
Dr. Nkem serves as the founder of Holistic Wellness Group, a practice dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services. With over 20 years of nursing experience, she specializes in caring for diverse populations, including adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals coping with psychiatric disorders. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Nkem actively champions mental health education and works tirelessly to reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment.An alumna of Indiana Wesleyan University, Dr. Nkem earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees, profoundly
Dr. Nkem serves as the founder of Holistic Wellness Group, a practice dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services. With over 20 years of nursing experience, she specializes in caring for diverse populations, including adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals coping with psychiatric disorders. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Nkem actively champions mental health education and works tirelessly to reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment.An alumna of Indiana Wesleyan University, Dr. Nkem earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees, profoundly
(540) 202-2178 View (540) 202-2178
Photo of Martha Chonchoro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Martha Chonchoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive clinical expertise in providing comprehensive and empathetic care for individuals dealing with acute and chronic mental health conditions, as well as their families. With a solid foundation in nursing spanning over a decade, I prioritize recognizing the intricate connection between physical and mental well-being. My approach is centered on utilizing compassionate communication, active listening, a collaborative treatment method, and evidence-based practice to empower my patients in their mental health journey.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive clinical expertise in providing comprehensive and empathetic care for individuals dealing with acute and chronic mental health conditions, as well as their families. With a solid foundation in nursing spanning over a decade, I prioritize recognizing the intricate connection between physical and mental well-being. My approach is centered on utilizing compassionate communication, active listening, a collaborative treatment method, and evidence-based practice to empower my patients in their mental health journey.
(540) 730-1617 View (540) 730-1617
Photo of Amy Fehrmann, Psychiatrist, MD
Amy Fehrmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
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.
(540) 640-6846 View (540) 640-6846
Photo of Brittany L Jones - Renewing Harmony, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Renewing Harmony
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Are you struggling with finding motivation to be successful? Do you feel constantly overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Do you desire to find more happiness and fulfillment in your life? We can help you conquer these things!
Are you struggling with finding motivation to be successful? Do you feel constantly overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Do you desire to find more happiness and fulfillment in your life? We can help you conquer these things!
(540) 413-0782 View (540) 413-0782
Photo of Monique Osborne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Monique Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Monique Osborne completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice and is a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric (medication management) services to adults ages 18 and up. She works as part of a collaborative, integrated team of behavioral health professionals at WellSpring Child and Family Psychology. Nurse Osborne is happy to collaborate with your psychologist/therapist or other healthcare providers to determine whether medication may be a helpful treatment component for you. If you are looking for a compassionate, skilled, and supportive psychiatry provider, Monique Osborne may be a wonderful fit for you!
Monique Osborne completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice and is a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric (medication management) services to adults ages 18 and up. She works as part of a collaborative, integrated team of behavioral health professionals at WellSpring Child and Family Psychology. Nurse Osborne is happy to collaborate with your psychologist/therapist or other healthcare providers to determine whether medication may be a helpful treatment component for you. If you are looking for a compassionate, skilled, and supportive psychiatry provider, Monique Osborne may be a wonderful fit for you!
(540) 534-4105 x100 View (540) 534-4105 x100
Photo of Ingrid Maria Suazo - Sublimity Care, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC
Sublimity Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, MSN, AAPRN, PMHNPBC
Fredericksburg, VA 22406
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years.
(540) 258-4038 View (540) 258-4038
Photo of Alexis C. Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, FNP-BC
Alexis C. Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, FNP-BC
Online Only
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
(540) 351-9672 View (540) 351-9672
Photo of Glory N Metuge, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Glory N Metuge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of diverse nursing experience, holding a degree from Walden University. As an outgoing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse, I bring excellent people skills, a friendly demeanor, and a strong commitment to caring for individuals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of diverse nursing experience, holding a degree from Walden University. As an outgoing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse, I bring excellent people skills, a friendly demeanor, and a strong commitment to caring for individuals.
(540) 592-4384 View (540) 592-4384
Photo of Jonathan Yoder - Redbud Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Redbud Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22408
We help people with treatment resistant or difficult to treat depression recover and get back to life. Together you and your clinician will review your experience with depression, your past treatments and create a careful diagnostic assessment. With that information you be able to consider tailored, evidence based treatment recommendations. We carefully disclose and discuss the pros and cons of options based on actual evidence.
We help people with treatment resistant or difficult to treat depression recover and get back to life. Together you and your clinician will review your experience with depression, your past treatments and create a careful diagnostic assessment. With that information you be able to consider tailored, evidence based treatment recommendations. We carefully disclose and discuss the pros and cons of options based on actual evidence.
(540) 501-5268 View (540) 501-5268
Photo of Terry Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BSN
Terry Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BSN
Online Only
Mental health treatment can be overwhelming and scary, congratulations on taking the first step! I am a compassionate and empathetic provider who understands the importance of building long term trusting relationships with patients, to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns, and work together towards achieving their goals. I will take the time to listen to each individual's unique needs, and to develop comprehensive treatment plans. I will also be available to help and answer questions outside of our appointments.
Mental health treatment can be overwhelming and scary, congratulations on taking the first step! I am a compassionate and empathetic provider who understands the importance of building long term trusting relationships with patients, to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns, and work together towards achieving their goals. I will take the time to listen to each individual's unique needs, and to develop comprehensive treatment plans. I will also be available to help and answer questions outside of our appointments.
(804) 315-0483 View (804) 315-0483
Photo of Ching Hon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ching Hon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Finding the right provider and entrusting your health in someone else’s hands can be a daunting task. So, let us take a moment to applaud your strength while you look for a provider who fits your needs! If you've been having low energy or motivation to get out of bed to get your daily tasks completed or feeling overwhelmed to even get anything started, I'm here to help! Psychiatric illnesses presents in many different ways. If you're not feeling like your best self, we can figure it out together!
Finding the right provider and entrusting your health in someone else’s hands can be a daunting task. So, let us take a moment to applaud your strength while you look for a provider who fits your needs! If you've been having low energy or motivation to get out of bed to get your daily tasks completed or feeling overwhelmed to even get anything started, I'm here to help! Psychiatric illnesses presents in many different ways. If you're not feeling like your best self, we can figure it out together!
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Henna Habib - VivacityPsych Inc., Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
VivacityPsych Inc.
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
15 Endorsed
Serves Area
Henna Habib, a Psychiatric Physician Assistant, earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Temple University in 2015 and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University in 2017. Her diverse clinical background spans psychiatry, pediatrics, internal medicine, emergency medicine, and surgery, reflecting her commitment to well-rounded patient care.
Henna Habib, a Psychiatric Physician Assistant, earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Temple University in 2015 and her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University in 2017. Her diverse clinical background spans psychiatry, pediatrics, internal medicine, emergency medicine, and surgery, reflecting her commitment to well-rounded patient care.
(540) 709-8709 View (540) 709-8709
Photo of Brittany Chandler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Brittany Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 409-7965 View (804) 409-7965
Photo of Ruby Anumah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP-BC
Ruby Anumah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP-BC
Serves Area
As a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is on providing comprehensive and holistic care to individuals and families. My unique skill set allows me to address both physical and mental health concerns, providing a well-rounded approach to treatment. I am trained to perform physical exams, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders. I also have expertise in medication management, and can prescribe and monitor psychiatric medications as part of a treatment plan.
As a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is on providing comprehensive and holistic care to individuals and families. My unique skill set allows me to address both physical and mental health concerns, providing a well-rounded approach to treatment. I am trained to perform physical exams, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders. I also have expertise in medication management, and can prescribe and monitor psychiatric medications as part of a treatment plan.
(571) 701-2695 View (571) 701-2695
Photo of Abigail Taah Asumadu-Mensah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Abigail Taah Asumadu-Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. My approach is patient-centered, offering medication management and tailored treatment plans to support your well-being. As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) licensed in Virginia and Washington, DC, I bring 15 years of healthcare experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. I strive to create a supportive, collaborative environment where you feel heard and empowered.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. My approach is patient-centered, offering medication management and tailored treatment plans to support your well-being. As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) licensed in Virginia and Washington, DC, I bring 15 years of healthcare experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. I strive to create a supportive, collaborative environment where you feel heard and empowered.
(540) 602-4655 View (540) 602-4655
Photo of Doris Owusu - Holistic Psychiatry & Medical Center, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Holistic Psychiatry & Medical Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients! We deliver compassionate and respectable care to all patients. Moreover, while managing your symptoms with medications, we also take into consideration your overall well-being. Our providers are specialized and licensed as Family and/or Psychiatric Nurse practitioners with experience working with pediatrics, young adult, and geriatric populations.
Accepting New Patients! We deliver compassionate and respectable care to all patients. Moreover, while managing your symptoms with medications, we also take into consideration your overall well-being. Our providers are specialized and licensed as Family and/or Psychiatric Nurse practitioners with experience working with pediatrics, young adult, and geriatric populations.
(571) 462-6330 View (571) 462-6330
Photo of Collette Fanyi Ngante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-B
Collette Fanyi Ngante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-B
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Collette Ngante, I am a psychiatric and mental health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I also have a Masters in Public Health and two Bachelors Degrees in nursing and sociology & anthropology. Working with sociology and anthropology along with my experience in mental health combine in creating a personalized safe space for all clients who may need my help. We Provide an individualistic approach of care with dignity and respect. We also extend our services to Group homes, Foster Care Homes, Assisted Living facilities and other Long-term care facilities .
My name is Collette Ngante, I am a psychiatric and mental health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I also have a Masters in Public Health and two Bachelors Degrees in nursing and sociology & anthropology. Working with sociology and anthropology along with my experience in mental health combine in creating a personalized safe space for all clients who may need my help. We Provide an individualistic approach of care with dignity and respect. We also extend our services to Group homes, Foster Care Homes, Assisted Living facilities and other Long-term care facilities .
(540) 779-1648 View (540) 779-1648
Photo of Patricia Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Patricia Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Online Only
My ideal client is the client who is coming to me ready to get to work to optimize their mental health. Everyone has health and everyone has mental health, therefore we can all experience mental illness. Whether you are coping with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder or other mental health concerns, my goal will be to help you understand your diagnosis and investigate the most effective means to help you reach wellness. My approach is highly collaborative, focused on client input as well as input from other members of the client’s care team.
My ideal client is the client who is coming to me ready to get to work to optimize their mental health. Everyone has health and everyone has mental health, therefore we can all experience mental illness. Whether you are coping with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder or other mental health concerns, my goal will be to help you understand your diagnosis and investigate the most effective means to help you reach wellness. My approach is highly collaborative, focused on client input as well as input from other members of the client’s care team.
(505) 421-4435 View (505) 421-4435
Photo of Leigh Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Leigh Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
A dedicated and highly accomplished professional with an extensive background spanning eleven years across diverse healthcare settings, including emergency, procedural, and psychiatric care. Originally hailing from Roanoke, Virginia, my journey began with a six year tour in the Marine Corps immediately after high school, traveling across multiple continents, and obtaining invaluable experiences that inevitably led me to pursue my passion within the field of mental health.
A dedicated and highly accomplished professional with an extensive background spanning eleven years across diverse healthcare settings, including emergency, procedural, and psychiatric care. Originally hailing from Roanoke, Virginia, my journey began with a six year tour in the Marine Corps immediately after high school, traveling across multiple continents, and obtaining invaluable experiences that inevitably led me to pursue my passion within the field of mental health.
(804) 552-3873 View (804) 552-3873
Photo of Petitecha Wimbush, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Petitecha Wimbush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe mental wellness can be achieved through medication management, therapy and complementary/alternative treatment to improve the health of the mind-body connection. I am here to assist you in taking back control of your mental health and well-being.
I believe mental wellness can be achieved through medication management, therapy and complementary/alternative treatment to improve the health of the mind-body connection. I am here to assist you in taking back control of your mental health and well-being.
(804) 376-9536 View (804) 376-9536

See more therapy options for Fredericksburg

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, VA

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
94% Anxiety
87% Medication Management
83% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
83% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Fredericksburg, VA see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fredericksburg?

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.