Psychiatrists in Leesburg, VA

Anita Herrera began her career as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse and went on to attend Walden University in order to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Since 2018, she has gained experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings. She prefers working with adults and performing mental health assessments in order to provide effective care based on appropriate diagnoses of psychiatric conditions. She approaches her medication management with consistency and compassion providing education to patients and families along with supportive therapy.
Anita Herrera began her career as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse and went on to attend Walden University in order to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Since 2018, she has gained experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings. She prefers working with adults and performing mental health assessments in order to provide effective care based on appropriate diagnoses of psychiatric conditions. She approaches her medication management with consistency and compassion providing education to patients and families along with supportive therapy.

Our staff of highly trained professionals is here to help in you through a process of renewal and restored resiliency. Counseling Services: Over 10 mental health providers at this location.
Our staff of highly trained professionals is here to help in you through a process of renewal and restored resiliency. Counseling Services: Over 10 mental health providers at this location.

Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner 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. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust 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 treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner 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. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust 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 treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.

Are you tired of old feelings and patterns getting in the way and preventing you from achieving your goals? Are you ready to work hard and make changes, but you’re not sure where to start? I can help guide you. I work with adolescents and adults who want to take risks and live meaningful lives and are open to looking at past patterns that just aren’t working anymore. I will help you figure out where you want to get to, what is holding you back and how to get there.
Are you tired of old feelings and patterns getting in the way and preventing you from achieving your goals? Are you ready to work hard and make changes, but you’re not sure where to start? I can help guide you. I work with adolescents and adults who want to take risks and live meaningful lives and are open to looking at past patterns that just aren’t working anymore. I will help you figure out where you want to get to, what is holding you back and how to get there.

Connections Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
Welcome! Thank You for considering Connections Health Center. We offer patient centered, holistic care that incorporates evidence based practices to heal both mind and body. Through our mental health team approach the office feels like a family atmosphere and professionals are able to work together to treat complex needs. Communication between provider and patient is direct and not through a 3rd party or portal. Many of our patients have referred their friends and family to us based on their experience within the practice. We realize this can be a frustrating and overwhelming time and want you to know we are here to help!
Welcome! Thank You for considering Connections Health Center. We offer patient centered, holistic care that incorporates evidence based practices to heal both mind and body. Through our mental health team approach the office feels like a family atmosphere and professionals are able to work together to treat complex needs. Communication between provider and patient is direct and not through a 3rd party or portal. Many of our patients have referred their friends and family to us based on their experience within the practice. We realize this can be a frustrating and overwhelming time and want you to know we are here to help!

Hi, I am Flora Wong, PMHNP-BC. I work with patients throughout their entire lifespan and who are struggling with many life challenges or transitions. My passion lies in helping individuals achieve optimal well-being, free from judgment or inequity. I offer medication management and supportive psychotherapy. I specialize in a wide variety of diagnoses such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, stress, family conflict, and many more.
Hi, I am Flora Wong, PMHNP-BC. I work with patients throughout their entire lifespan and who are struggling with many life challenges or transitions. My passion lies in helping individuals achieve optimal well-being, free from judgment or inequity. I offer medication management and supportive psychotherapy. I specialize in a wide variety of diagnoses such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, stress, family conflict, and many more.

I have been treating mood disorders, such as depression, for the past twelve years. I focus on individualized care with my patients, taking into account their past experiences with medications and their current priorities with treatment. I combine medication management with cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. Please note that I do not prescribe routine/daily benzodiazepines and patients on any controlled substances, such as stimulants, are required to have an in-person appointment with me before December 2024. I am currently treating ages 20 and up.
I have been treating mood disorders, such as depression, for the past twelve years. I focus on individualized care with my patients, taking into account their past experiences with medications and their current priorities with treatment. I combine medication management with cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. Please note that I do not prescribe routine/daily benzodiazepines and patients on any controlled substances, such as stimulants, are required to have an in-person appointment with me before December 2024. I am currently treating ages 20 and up.

LifeStance Health - Leesburg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most 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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.

Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.

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.

Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
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Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My passion lies in helping others, and I work closely with clients to create personalized plans that support meaningful, lasting change. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on the individual's unique needs, strengths, and goals. I integrate evidence-based practices and person-centered therapy to guide treatment.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My passion lies in helping others, and I work closely with clients to create personalized plans that support meaningful, lasting change. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on the individual's unique needs, strengths, and goals. I integrate evidence-based practices and person-centered therapy to guide treatment.

Victor Nwagwu is a doctorate-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in general nursing and mental health care practice, which spans across Canada and the US. I prioritize the mental well-being of my clients, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored to meet their unique needs. I am highly skilled, and I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace, healing, and growth.
Victor Nwagwu is a doctorate-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in general nursing and mental health care practice, which spans across Canada and the US. I prioritize the mental well-being of my clients, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored to meet their unique needs. I am highly skilled, and I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace, healing, and growth.

Chinyere is a Board-Certified and 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 12 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 degrees of mental illness.
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and 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 12 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 degrees of mental illness.

Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Welcome! I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have over a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
Welcome! I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have over a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand

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.

Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns. Addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. Amber works with families to create a calming and trusting environment. Amber offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients' individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for.
Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns. Addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. Amber works with families to create a calming and trusting environment. Amber offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients' individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for.

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.

Dr. Stacey Lambour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
I'm a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Master and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Virginia. Ultimately, I like to work with you to create a collaborative treatment plan that meets your needs. I work at two locations. Monday through Thursday, I'm available at Riverside Counseling Center in Leesburg for in-person and telehealth services. Friday, I'm available through Caritas Counseling & Psychiatric Services which is a streamline, fully remote, mental health practice for those wanting more personalized mental health care and guidance.
I'm a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Master and Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Virginia. Ultimately, I like to work with you to create a collaborative treatment plan that meets your needs. I work at two locations. Monday through Thursday, I'm available at Riverside Counseling Center in Leesburg for in-person and telehealth services. Friday, I'm available through Caritas Counseling & Psychiatric Services which is a streamline, fully remote, mental health practice for those wanting more personalized mental health care and guidance.
See more therapy options for Leesburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Leesburg, VA
60+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Leesburg, VA who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | ADHD |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
54% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Leesburg, VA see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Leesburg?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.