Psychiatrists in Henrico, VA

Photo of Ryan Ernest, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Ernest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
(804) 567-8837 View (804) 567-8837
Photo of Pamela Shipp, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Shipp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23294
Accepting New Patients. Our 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 we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
Accepting New Patients. Our 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 we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
(804) 265-4330 View (804) 265-4330
Photo of Steph Boersman - EAE , FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EAE
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228  (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 Robert 'Trip' Young, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robert 'Trip' Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
Overcoming difficult emotions is challenging and can seem insurmountable. With daily practice and self-understanding, a calmer more fulfilling life is possible. While medication management is my primary focus, I view medication as a means to achieve the stability needed to attain your goals. Each appointment is structured to help you find the evidence based combination of medication and/or coping skills to make long term improvements. I work with adolescents and adults on issues from anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar/mood specturm, and ADHD
Overcoming difficult emotions is challenging and can seem insurmountable. With daily practice and self-understanding, a calmer more fulfilling life is possible. While medication management is my primary focus, I view medication as a means to achieve the stability needed to attain your goals. Each appointment is structured to help you find the evidence based combination of medication and/or coping skills to make long term improvements. I work with adolescents and adults on issues from anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar/mood specturm, and ADHD
(804) 977-2824 View (804) 977-2824
Photo of Sherin Isaac, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherin Isaac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
Sherin Isaac, PMHNP, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, and provides comprehensive mental health care to patients in Virginia. Sherin focuses on understanding each patient's unique medical, psychological, and social factors to create personalized treatment plans. Sherin is adept at administering and overseeing psychiatric medications, ensuring therapeutic effectiveness while monitoring for potential side effects.
Sherin Isaac, PMHNP, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, and provides comprehensive mental health care to patients in Virginia. Sherin focuses on understanding each patient's unique medical, psychological, and social factors to create personalized treatment plans. Sherin is adept at administering and overseeing psychiatric medications, ensuring therapeutic effectiveness while monitoring for potential side effects.
(866) 488-2298 View (866) 488-2298
Photo of Ogochukwu Obiekwe - Assured Healthcare, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Assured Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
(804) 265-4894 View (804) 265-4894
Photo of Thaddeus Garland - Thaddeus M Garland MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Thaddeus M Garland MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
Through Telemedicine, I enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them discover how to lead better lives from the comfort of home. I treat clients of all ages and issues and have special interests in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizoprenia.
Through Telemedicine, I enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them discover how to lead better lives from the comfort of home. I treat clients of all ages and issues and have special interests in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder and Schizoprenia.
(833) 211-4745 View (833) 211-4745
Photo of Peter Breslin, MD, Psychiatrist
Peter Breslin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
I'm a Psychiatrist with a passion for getting you to your better self. Utilizing an eclectic and teamwork driven approach, our focus will be to optimize your well being. In order to do this, a thorough understanding of who you are is necessary. Together, we will delve in to your genetic, developmental, physiologic and personal background to achieve our goal.
I'm a Psychiatrist with a passion for getting you to your better self. Utilizing an eclectic and teamwork driven approach, our focus will be to optimize your well being. In order to do this, a thorough understanding of who you are is necessary. Together, we will delve in to your genetic, developmental, physiologic and personal background to achieve our goal.
(804) 587-7969 View (804) 587-7969
Photo of Dexter Lett, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dexter Lett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23231
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
(804) 589-4607 View (804) 589-4607
Photo of Allison Ernest, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Ernest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23228
I believe in allowing clients to have a safe space to be their authentic self and feel comfortable in doing so. Getting to know you as a person is very important and can greatly assist in many aspects of treatment, and a therapeutic relationship. I stress that a mental health diagnosis is no different than any other medical diagnosis you may receive and should be treated as such. If a mental health diagnosis is made, believe that this is only a piece of you and does not define you as a person, often stressing that diagnostics are not the primary focus.
I believe in allowing clients to have a safe space to be their authentic self and feel comfortable in doing so. Getting to know you as a person is very important and can greatly assist in many aspects of treatment, and a therapeutic relationship. I stress that a mental health diagnosis is no different than any other medical diagnosis you may receive and should be treated as such. If a mental health diagnosis is made, believe that this is only a piece of you and does not define you as a person, often stressing that diagnostics are not the primary focus.
(804) 390-8209 View (804) 390-8209
Photo of Ashley Hoover Rhoades, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Hoover Rhoades
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
I have a passion for mental health and make a commitment to my clients that I will care for them as I would a family member. I’ve been a nurse since 2002 and worked in the Neuroscience Unit and Surgical Trauma ICU at VCU. In 2012, I graduated from VCU with a degree in Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I worked with inmates at the Henrico Jail for several years, practiced telemedicine (before it was cool) from home for 1 year working with clients in Appalachia, and then I worked with Diamond Healthcare in nursing homes and inpatient for crisis and substance abuse. Most recently, I worked for Zoe Therapy Services.
I have a passion for mental health and make a commitment to my clients that I will care for them as I would a family member. I’ve been a nurse since 2002 and worked in the Neuroscience Unit and Surgical Trauma ICU at VCU. In 2012, I graduated from VCU with a degree in Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I worked with inmates at the Henrico Jail for several years, practiced telemedicine (before it was cool) from home for 1 year working with clients in Appalachia, and then I worked with Diamond Healthcare in nursing homes and inpatient for crisis and substance abuse. Most recently, I worked for Zoe Therapy Services.
(804) 913-3151 View (804) 913-3151
Photo of LaToya Yvette Bragg - Brighter Days Mental Health Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brighter Days Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23231
We are currently accepting clients ages 6 and older. We specialize in treating clients with Depression, ADHD, and Mood disorders across the lifespan. We understand that it can be overwhelming and quite stressful when seeking a provider to assist with your behaviorial health needs. Are goal is to provide a therapeutic and supportive environment so that our clients can feel safe and comfortable. We strive to provide an optimal level of care to help our clients meet their behavioral health needs. We offer Medical Marijuana Evaluations and Spravato Treatment.
We are currently accepting clients ages 6 and older. We specialize in treating clients with Depression, ADHD, and Mood disorders across the lifespan. We understand that it can be overwhelming and quite stressful when seeking a provider to assist with your behaviorial health needs. Are goal is to provide a therapeutic and supportive environment so that our clients can feel safe and comfortable. We strive to provide an optimal level of care to help our clients meet their behavioral health needs. We offer Medical Marijuana Evaluations and Spravato Treatment.
(804) 659-7581 View (804) 659-7581
Photo of Samantha Moussari, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Moussari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23228  (Online Only)
Samantha Moussari, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha’s goal is to provide patient-centered holistic mental health care. She believes each patient is unique and understands the importance of tailoring treatment. Samantha’s approach creates a healing process that ensures you and your family's preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are respected. Patients are an important part of the care team and play a pivotal role in their treatment plans.
Samantha Moussari, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha’s goal is to provide patient-centered holistic mental health care. She believes each patient is unique and understands the importance of tailoring treatment. Samantha’s approach creates a healing process that ensures you and your family's preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are respected. Patients are an important part of the care team and play a pivotal role in their treatment plans.
(804) 608-9951 View (804) 608-9951
Photo of Amanda Wray, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23228
Accepting New Patients! If you are in search of a mental health professional to partner with you on your healing journey, I am here for you. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I will work with you to create personalized, realistic treatment goals that are meaningful to YOUR life.
Accepting New Patients! If you are in search of a mental health professional to partner with you on your healing journey, I am here for you. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I will work with you to create personalized, realistic treatment goals that are meaningful to YOUR life.
(804) 361-6986 View (804) 361-6986
Photo of Brianna Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brianna Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23075  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I focus my practice on providing quality, evidence-based care to my clients while utilizing a compassionate approach. In my multifaceted role as a PMHNP, I act as an educator and mental health advocate, providing both medication management and therapy services. I completed my Master's in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in Psychiatric and Mental Health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I focus my practice on providing quality, evidence-based care to my clients while utilizing a compassionate approach. In my multifaceted role as a PMHNP, I act as an educator and mental health advocate, providing both medication management and therapy services. I completed my Master's in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in Psychiatric and Mental Health.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Kristen Hayes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristen Hayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23229
Currently Accepting New Patients & Immediate Availability for psychiatric medication management. I am privileged to provide care to patients across the lifespan and intersections of identity with a primary focus on those 14 years of age and up. Through in-person and virtual appointments in an outpatient setting, I treat various mental health conditions and emotional challenges with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and other mood disorders.
Currently Accepting New Patients & Immediate Availability for psychiatric medication management. I am privileged to provide care to patients across the lifespan and intersections of identity with a primary focus on those 14 years of age and up. Through in-person and virtual appointments in an outpatient setting, I treat various mental health conditions and emotional challenges with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and other mood disorders.
(804) 538-3128 View (804) 538-3128
Photo of Toni Plummer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toni Plummer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23231  (Online Only)
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
(804) 207-7215 View (804) 207-7215
Photo of Angela Allen Blaine, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Allen Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23075  (Online Only)
I am Angela Allen-Blaine, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and my Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. I completed my post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and am currently working toward my doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
I am Angela Allen-Blaine, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I completed my Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received my Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and my Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. I completed my post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and am currently working toward my doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
(804) 369-9291 View (804) 369-9291
Photo of Sridhar Yaratha, MD, Psychiatrist
Sridhar Yaratha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23229
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in attention to the individual and their needs when they are struggling to navigate difficulties in maintaining mental health.
I believe in attention to the individual and their needs when they are struggling to navigate difficulties in maintaining mental health.
(804) 361-6912 View (804) 361-6912
Photo of Tika Northington, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tika Northington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23229
Tika brings to Lifestance years of experience working with children and teenagers both in and out of the medical field. These experiences have resulted in being able to relate to and enjoy working with this patient population. Her nursing career started in Washington, D. C. working with adults, and she loved it. It was here that she grew in her skills as a nurse and she began to see a common need of mental health in each and every one of her patients. Being able to walk with patients through some of the hardest moments of their life really increased her love for the field of mental health for both pediatrics and adults.
Tika brings to Lifestance years of experience working with children and teenagers both in and out of the medical field. These experiences have resulted in being able to relate to and enjoy working with this patient population. Her nursing career started in Washington, D. C. working with adults, and she loved it. It was here that she grew in her skills as a nurse and she began to see a common need of mental health in each and every one of her patients. Being able to walk with patients through some of the hardest moments of their life really increased her love for the field of mental health for both pediatrics and adults.
(804) 676-6509 View (804) 676-6509
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Henrico, VA

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Henrico, VA who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
94% Anxiety
86% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
83% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Henrico, VA see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Henrico?

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.