Psychiatrists in Herndon, VA

Photo of Seliat Dosunmu - Tinka Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C,
Tinka Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C,
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client experiences a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. These conditions may stem from specific life transitions or traumas that have significantly impacted their mental well-being. My ideal client values comprehensive and empathetic care, recognizing the importance of mental health in achieving overall well-being. They are motivated to engage in their treatment process, actively working towards their goals and striving for a better quality of life.
My ideal client experiences a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. These conditions may stem from specific life transitions or traumas that have significantly impacted their mental well-being. My ideal client values comprehensive and empathetic care, recognizing the importance of mental health in achieving overall well-being. They are motivated to engage in their treatment process, actively working towards their goals and striving for a better quality of life.
(571) 520-7044 View (571) 520-7044
Photo of Gifty Addai - Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20171
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
(540) 472-7728 View (540) 472-7728
Photo of Anita Durnen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP
Anita Durnen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Same week appts available. Hi! I'm Anita. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the power of listening with acceptance and compassion, and most importantly, without judgement. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. I integrate a personalized treatment plan that may include med management, therapy, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. I actively collaborate with other care providers, including therapists, specialists, and primary care doctors to ensure best treatment outcomes.
Same week appts available. Hi! I'm Anita. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the power of listening with acceptance and compassion, and most importantly, without judgement. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. I integrate a personalized treatment plan that may include med management, therapy, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. I actively collaborate with other care providers, including therapists, specialists, and primary care doctors to ensure best treatment outcomes.
(571) 789-1304 View (571) 789-1304
Photo of Milt Anderson, Psychiatrist, MD
Milt Anderson
Psychiatrist, MD
Herndon, VA 20170
Dr. Milt Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 1992. He earned his M.D. at Washington University School of Medicine, completed his Internship and General Psychiatry Residency and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Walter Reed Medical Center. Dr. Anderson is usually quickly able to forge a working alliance with clients and move fairly quickly from "intake mode" to "problem solving mode," even as the extended evaluation of a complex problem progresses.
Dr. Milt Anderson is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 1992. He earned his M.D. at Washington University School of Medicine, completed his Internship and General Psychiatry Residency and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Walter Reed Medical Center. Dr. Anderson is usually quickly able to forge a working alliance with clients and move fairly quickly from "intake mode" to "problem solving mode," even as the extended evaluation of a complex problem progresses.
(571) 701-1654 View (571) 701-1654
Photo of Cynthia Awadzi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cynthia Awadzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Herndon, VA 20171
As a doctorate prepared nurse practitioner with five years of diverse experience in acute care, community, and outpatient settings, I bring a wealth of expertise in providing comprehensive healthcare.
As a doctorate prepared nurse practitioner with five years of diverse experience in acute care, community, and outpatient settings, I bring a wealth of expertise in providing comprehensive healthcare.
(703) 260-9498 View (703) 260-9498
Photo of Gagandeep Khurana - Holisticare Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatrist, MD
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than 10 yrs of experience, licensed in VA and MD. I accept all major insurances including Kaiser and offer both virtual and in person appointments. I have extensive experience and special interest in treating mood disorders including treatment resistant depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia and addiction including Suboxone for opioid dependence.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than 10 yrs of experience, licensed in VA and MD. I accept all major insurances including Kaiser and offer both virtual and in person appointments. I have extensive experience and special interest in treating mood disorders including treatment resistant depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia and addiction including Suboxone for opioid dependence.
(703) 468-4801 View (703) 468-4801
Photo of Becki McAlister, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Becki McAlister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
(225) 350-4083 View (225) 350-4083
Photo of Natasha Olliver, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MS
Natasha Olliver
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MS
Online Only
My goal is to help my patients navigate the complicated process of getting help for mental health concerns. There are so many mental health professionals and we all do different things. While I focus on medication management, I am happy to discuss all reasonable alternatives. I strive to offer unbiased, non-judgmental, culturally competent psychiatric healthcare. I want to support you in managing your conditions in a way that allows you the best quality of life with the lowest amount of medication necessary. I also want to increase access to mental health services for those in more rural areas.
My goal is to help my patients navigate the complicated process of getting help for mental health concerns. There are so many mental health professionals and we all do different things. While I focus on medication management, I am happy to discuss all reasonable alternatives. I strive to offer unbiased, non-judgmental, culturally competent psychiatric healthcare. I want to support you in managing your conditions in a way that allows you the best quality of life with the lowest amount of medication necessary. I also want to increase access to mental health services for those in more rural areas.
(571) 556-3805 View (571) 556-3805
Photo of Mariah Eze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Mariah Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Mariah. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings or labile moods? I am a very compassionate board-certified mental health provider that utilizes holistic and psychopharmacological evidence-based approaches in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders.
Hi there, I'm Mariah. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings or labile moods? I am a very compassionate board-certified mental health provider that utilizes holistic and psychopharmacological evidence-based approaches in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders.
(571) 368-6828 View (571) 368-6828
Photo of Anjali Shankar, Psychiatrist, MD
Anjali Shankar
Psychiatrist, MD
Herndon, VA 20170
Dr. Anjali Shankar is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor’s Degree from Johns Hopkins University and a Doctorate of Medicine from Florida International University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at The University of Virginia Medical Center. Dr. Shankar uses medication management to help patients. She strongly believes that therapy alongside medications is the most effective and durable form of treatment. Dr. Shankar has experience treating patients of a wide variety of ages and diagnoses.
Dr. Anjali Shankar is a Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor’s Degree from Johns Hopkins University and a Doctorate of Medicine from Florida International University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at The University of Virginia Medical Center. Dr. Shankar uses medication management to help patients. She strongly believes that therapy alongside medications is the most effective and durable form of treatment. Dr. Shankar has experience treating patients of a wide variety of ages and diagnoses.
(571) 609-3628 View (571) 609-3628
Photo of Rajni Sharma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rajni Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma. I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner PMHNP.
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma. I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner PMHNP.
(804) 599-4678 View (804) 599-4678
Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi - Newlife Aspiration Behavioural Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, DNP
Newlife Aspiration Behavioural Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, DNP
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20171
Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 14 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degree of mental illness. She has expertise in treating adolescent and adult patients.
Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 14 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degree of mental illness. She has expertise in treating adolescent and adult patients.
(240) 313-8631 View (240) 313-8631
Photo of Saghi Tehran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Saghi Tehran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Nice to meet you! I'm a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, based in Virginia. I received my master's from the University of Virginia in addition I completed a one-year child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of California at San Diego. I find enjoyment in helping and providing resources so that children, adolescents, and adults may reach their full potential and be able to manage the demands of daily life.
Nice to meet you! I'm a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, based in Virginia. I received my master's from the University of Virginia in addition I completed a one-year child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of California at San Diego. I find enjoyment in helping and providing resources so that children, adolescents, and adults may reach their full potential and be able to manage the demands of daily life.
(804) 596-4758 View (804) 596-4758
Photo of Dr. Milt Anderson - LifeStance Health - Reston, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health - Reston
Psychiatrist, MD
Herndon, VA 20170
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) 548-3976 View (571) 548-3976
Photo of Sabah Hadi, Psychiatrist, MD
Sabah Hadi
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Congratulation to Dr. Sabah Hadi for the esteemed recognition by the Washingtonian Magazine, as a "Top Psychiatrist". Dr. Hadi is one of few Adult and Child Psychiatrist in the area to receive this recognition and honor. Dr. Hadi is a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist, trained, experienced and certified to treat all age groups. Dr. Hadi have more than 10 years experience and interest treating clients with ADD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating disorder, Trauma, Obsessive and Autistic spectrum disorders. Dr. Hadi also has extensive training and experience treating addiction disorders. He is credentialed to treat opiate addiction with Suboxone.
Congratulation to Dr. Sabah Hadi for the esteemed recognition by the Washingtonian Magazine, as a "Top Psychiatrist". Dr. Hadi is one of few Adult and Child Psychiatrist in the area to receive this recognition and honor. Dr. Hadi is a Board Certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist, trained, experienced and certified to treat all age groups. Dr. Hadi have more than 10 years experience and interest treating clients with ADD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating disorder, Trauma, Obsessive and Autistic spectrum disorders. Dr. Hadi also has extensive training and experience treating addiction disorders. He is credentialed to treat opiate addiction with Suboxone.
(703) 831-6767 View (703) 831-6767
Photo of Grace Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Grace Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Herndon, VA 20170
Grace is a certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia. She received her Master's degree in Nursing from the University of Virginia. Grace envisions to provide mental health services to adolescents and adults in managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. Her care goal especially focuses on the vulnerable population such as women and minority. She is culturally-sensitive and can provide bilingual care in English and Korean. Grace emphasizes the importance of holistic approach in working with her clients.
Grace is a certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Virginia. She received her Master's degree in Nursing from the University of Virginia. Grace envisions to provide mental health services to adolescents and adults in managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. Her care goal especially focuses on the vulnerable population such as women and minority. She is culturally-sensitive and can provide bilingual care in English and Korean. Grace emphasizes the importance of holistic approach in working with her clients.
(571) 497-5318 View (571) 497-5318
Photo of Angela Baker Howard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, LLC
Angela Baker Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, LLC
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of experience. I received my degree and training from Columbia University School of Nursing.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of experience. I received my degree and training from Columbia University School of Nursing.
(571) 605-7503 View (571) 605-7503
Photo of Stephanie Porter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome and Congratulations! Sometimes the hardest part of getting the help we all need is finding the strength to ask for it. If you or a loved one struggles with a mental health issue, Stephanie would love to help you work through this difficult situation. Stephanie is a mother to five children and has personally experienced the distress that mental health issues can cause in close relationships. She takes joy in helping others find ways to successfully manage and even overcome their mental health issues. It would be an honor to help you find peace of mind in your mental health.
Welcome and Congratulations! Sometimes the hardest part of getting the help we all need is finding the strength to ask for it. If you or a loved one struggles with a mental health issue, Stephanie would love to help you work through this difficult situation. Stephanie is a mother to five children and has personally experienced the distress that mental health issues can cause in close relationships. She takes joy in helping others find ways to successfully manage and even overcome their mental health issues. It would be an honor to help you find peace of mind in your mental health.
(434) 478-4703 View (434) 478-4703
Photo of Esther Shadare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Shadare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Dr. Esther Shadare, commonly addressed as Dr. S, Dr. E, or Dr. Shadare (Sha-Dah-Ray). I obtained my certification and licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2015 shortly after graduating from Bowie State University, Bowie, MD followed by my DNP with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Brandman University, Irvine, California in 2017. I have devoted my career to advancing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about serving diverse populations and committed to a holistic approach to ensure individualized, patient-centered care.
I am Dr. Esther Shadare, commonly addressed as Dr. S, Dr. E, or Dr. Shadare (Sha-Dah-Ray). I obtained my certification and licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2015 shortly after graduating from Bowie State University, Bowie, MD followed by my DNP with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Brandman University, Irvine, California in 2017. I have devoted my career to advancing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about serving diverse populations and committed to a holistic approach to ensure individualized, patient-centered care.
(571) 605-1319 View (571) 605-1319
Photo of Sadya G Bouraima, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Sadya G Bouraima
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am committed to offering comprehensive, high-quality care via telemedicine and in-person consultations. I treat people with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions with both pharmaceutical treatment and psychotherapy. My dedication to providing compassionate treatment that is adapted to each patient's unique needs and cultural background stems from my expertise in dealing with patients in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. I speak French and English
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am committed to offering comprehensive, high-quality care via telemedicine and in-person consultations. I treat people with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions with both pharmaceutical treatment and psychotherapy. My dedication to providing compassionate treatment that is adapted to each patient's unique needs and cultural background stems from my expertise in dealing with patients in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. I speak French and English
(571) 600-6670 View (571) 600-6670

See more therapy options for Herndon

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Herndon, VA

50+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Herndon, VA who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Bipolar Disorder
62% ADHD
62% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
49% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
84% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Herndon, VA see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Herndon?

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.