Psychiatrists in Haymarket, VA

Photo of Dr. Gifty Addai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Haymarket, VA 20169
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.
(540) 274-5696 View (540) 274-5696
Photo of Maura Constance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Serves Area
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Gurjot Toor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Gurjot Toor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my approach is centered on deeply understanding the distinct needs of each individual I work with. With a focus on empathy and evidence-based practice, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their mental health concerns. My holistic approach integrates medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions to promote healing and overall well-being.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my approach is centered on deeply understanding the distinct needs of each individual I work with. With a focus on empathy and evidence-based practice, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their mental health concerns. My holistic approach integrates medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions to promote healing and overall well-being.
(540) 253-4929 View (540) 253-4929
Photo of Brittany Peebles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittany Peebles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Brittany Peebles is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brittany has more than 10 years experience working in the health care field. Brittany specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. Brittany has a holistic approach when treating her patients. Brittany feels one of the most important things is viewing the individual as a whole person, not just looking at the diagnosis given to the person. She enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dog Tarzan.
Brittany Peebles is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brittany has more than 10 years experience working in the health care field. Brittany specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. Brittany has a holistic approach when treating her patients. Brittany feels one of the most important things is viewing the individual as a whole person, not just looking at the diagnosis given to the person. She enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dog Tarzan.
(571) 279-8488 View (571) 279-8488
Photo of Erica Bindrim - Mind and Body Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind and Body Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
(540) 712-8949 View (540) 712-8949
Photo of Ashraf Sefain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Ashraf Sefain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Serves Area
Ashraf Sefain, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNPBC) serving patients at LifeStance Health in Virginia. With a deep commitment to enhancing the mental wellbeing of his clients, Ashraf provides comprehensive mental health assessments and personalized treatment plans that may include therapy and medication management. He offers a supportive and educational approach to care, helping clients understand their mental health conditions and access additional resources and services.
Ashraf Sefain, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNPBC) serving patients at LifeStance Health in Virginia. With a deep commitment to enhancing the mental wellbeing of his clients, Ashraf provides comprehensive mental health assessments and personalized treatment plans that may include therapy and medication management. He offers a supportive and educational approach to care, helping clients understand their mental health conditions and access additional resources and services.
(571) 604-6527 View (571) 604-6527
Photo of Esi Yeboah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Esi Yeboah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Esi Yeboah, PMHNP, serves patients across Virginia, offering compassionate and expert mental health care tailored to individual needs. With a focus on medication management, Esi empowers clients to take an active role in their treatment journey, fostering autonomy and encouraging meaningful change. Her approach combines clinical expertise with a deep sense of empathy, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can work toward optimal mental health.
Esi Yeboah, PMHNP, serves patients across Virginia, offering compassionate and expert mental health care tailored to individual needs. With a focus on medication management, Esi empowers clients to take an active role in their treatment journey, fostering autonomy and encouraging meaningful change. Her approach combines clinical expertise with a deep sense of empathy, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can work toward optimal mental health.
(571) 427-0347 View (571) 427-0347
Photo of Lisa Poirier - Rooted Willow Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Rooted Willow Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Rooted Willow, I specialize in the medication management of mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; and post-traumatic stress disorder. My practice fosters a collaborative environment where clients' input is valued, and treatment is adjusted to align with their personal goals and progress. Rooted Willow is LGBTQIA+ friendly and an advocate of neurodiversity.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Rooted Willow, I specialize in the medication management of mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; and post-traumatic stress disorder. My practice fosters a collaborative environment where clients' input is valued, and treatment is adjusted to align with their personal goals and progress. Rooted Willow is LGBTQIA+ friendly and an advocate of neurodiversity.
(571) 506-0373 View (571) 506-0373
Photo of Ashraf Sefain - LifeStance Health - Gainesville, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
LifeStance Health - Gainesville
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(571) 601-4798 View (571) 601-4798
Photo of Sana Kamal, Psychiatrist, MD
Sana Kamal
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
(703) 215-9723 View (703) 215-9723

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Shahnoor Khan - Eastern Panhandle Psychiatry Inc, Psychiatrist, MD
Eastern Panhandle Psychiatry Inc
Psychiatrist, MD
Ashburn, VA 20147
We treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including (but not limited to) psychiatric emergencies and urgent consults for depression, anxiety, psychosis, panic attacks, drug detox, and Medication Assisted Treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. We see patient 6 yrs old and up.
We treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including (but not limited to) psychiatric emergencies and urgent consults for depression, anxiety, psychosis, panic attacks, drug detox, and Medication Assisted Treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. We see patient 6 yrs old and up.
(888) 237-5426 View (888) 237-5426
Photo of David Phelps - David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Gainesville, VA 20155
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
(571) 470-6370 View (571) 470-6370
Photo of Harpreet Kang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Harpreet Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
(571) 604-5449 View (571) 604-5449
Photo of Maura Constance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Springfield, VA 22150
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Steph Boersman - EAE , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
EAE
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Online Only
Book an appointment on Grow Therapy. Steph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a medical provider, he is a firm believer in creating a principled safe place; his responsibility is to enhance each person’s experience by engaging in effective, respectful communication. From the moment Steph meets you he provides quality services through an unique individualized approach to enhance one’s understanding. If necessary, in a collaborative manner he is willing to work with each person’s support system.
Book an appointment on Grow Therapy. Steph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a medical provider, he is a firm believer in creating a principled safe place; his responsibility is to enhance each person’s experience by engaging in effective, respectful communication. From the moment Steph meets you he provides quality services through an unique individualized approach to enhance one’s understanding. If necessary, in a collaborative manner he is willing to work with each person’s support system.
(804) 331-6676 View (804) 331-6676
Photo of Shannon Sabanosh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shannon Sabanosh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashburn, VA 20147
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 Amy Tashman, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHSc, MS
Amy Tashman
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHSc, MS
Online Only
I specialize in women's mental health. I treat a range of psychiatric issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, bipolar, pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety. The overlap between mental health and hormones is often ignored. I specializes in mental health issues during fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, pregnancy planning, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. In partnership with Dr. Julie Brownley, I provide an evidence-based, holistic approach, focusing on utilizing the fewest medications possible, and optimizing all facets of wellness.
I specialize in women's mental health. I treat a range of psychiatric issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, bipolar, pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety. The overlap between mental health and hormones is often ignored. I specializes in mental health issues during fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, pregnancy planning, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. In partnership with Dr. Julie Brownley, I provide an evidence-based, holistic approach, focusing on utilizing the fewest medications possible, and optimizing all facets of wellness.
(646) 397-7210 View (646) 397-7210
Photo of Nola Moira Ayoola-Yussuf - Potomac Shores Mental Health & Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Potomac Shores Mental Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22191
I understand that navigating mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can feel overwhelming. My goal is to help you regain control of your life by offering comprehensive care that addresses both your mental and physical health. I provide IV infusion therapy, weight loss management, hormone replacement, and nutraceuticals to support your journey. Together, we can create a personalized plan to achieve balance, well-being, and lasting results. When you're ready to start healing, I’ll be here to guide you forward.
I understand that navigating mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can feel overwhelming. My goal is to help you regain control of your life by offering comprehensive care that addresses both your mental and physical health. I provide IV infusion therapy, weight loss management, hormone replacement, and nutraceuticals to support your journey. Together, we can create a personalized plan to achieve balance, well-being, and lasting results. When you're ready to start healing, I’ll be here to guide you forward.
(703) 936-2713 View (703) 936-2713
Photo of Jason Wexler, Psychiatrist, MD
Jason Wexler
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Life is far from perfect. Everyone experiences loss, unforeseen change, and anxiety provoking stress. When these stresses become so powerful that they interfere with our work, self-care, or relationships, it is important to remember that we are not alone and help is available. With bravery, you can seek help and begin to heal. My goal is to help those who are facing these difficulties. I received my psychiatric training at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Adult Psychiatry. With this experience, I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric illnesses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Life is far from perfect. Everyone experiences loss, unforeseen change, and anxiety provoking stress. When these stresses become so powerful that they interfere with our work, self-care, or relationships, it is important to remember that we are not alone and help is available. With bravery, you can seek help and begin to heal. My goal is to help those who are facing these difficulties. I received my psychiatric training at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Adult Psychiatry. With this experience, I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric illnesses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
(443) 247-0385 View (443) 247-0385
Photo of Suvi S Hyytiainen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Suvi S Hyytiainen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have psychiatric provider experience in long term care and as an attending at the inpatient psychiatric unit. I also worked as A-GNP with geriatric consult service at the hospital setting. Geriatric patients are always close to my heart. I have experience in helping patients from 17 years old and up.
I have psychiatric provider experience in long term care and as an attending at the inpatient psychiatric unit. I also worked as A-GNP with geriatric consult service at the hospital setting. Geriatric patients are always close to my heart. I have experience in helping patients from 17 years old and up.
(571) 454-5595 View (571) 454-5595

See more therapy options for Haymarket

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Haymarket, VA

10+

Psychiatrists in Haymarket, VA who prioritize treating:

70% Anxiety
70% ADHD
70% Bipolar Disorder
60% Depression
60% Trauma and PTSD
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Haymarket, VA see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Haymarket?

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.