Psychiatrists in Lynchburg City County, VA

Photo of Luzangela Rojas-Mogollon, MD, Psychiatrist
Luzangela Rojas-Mogollon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24503
Luzángela Rojas-Mogollón, MD is a fully licensed physician who is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Rojas has 15 years of experience treating patients with psychiatric problems. She completed psychiatry residency training at the Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA.
Luzángela Rojas-Mogollón, MD is a fully licensed physician who is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Rojas has 15 years of experience treating patients with psychiatric problems. She completed psychiatry residency training at the Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA.
(434) 216-6922 View (434) 216-6922
Photo of Lisa Clement-DeFalco, MA,  MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Clement-DeFalco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
Many years of providing mental health care to families, children and adults in community health centers, outpatient clinics and inpatient mental health units have given me vast experience with various mental health diagnoses and treatment modalities. I have appreciated working with clients with depression, anxiety/trauma, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. I also appreciate the struggles that people diagnosed with personality disorders (truly a relational experience) especially Borderline and Antisocial Personality Disorders. Further, the influences of mind-altering substances on mental health must always be considered and address
Many years of providing mental health care to families, children and adults in community health centers, outpatient clinics and inpatient mental health units have given me vast experience with various mental health diagnoses and treatment modalities. I have appreciated working with clients with depression, anxiety/trauma, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. I also appreciate the struggles that people diagnosed with personality disorders (truly a relational experience) especially Borderline and Antisocial Personality Disorders. Further, the influences of mind-altering substances on mental health must always be considered and address
(434) 830-5306 View (434) 830-5306
Photo of Ileana Asanache, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ileana Asanache
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
Ileana is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and other mental health issues that may be interfering with normal daily functioning. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Ileana's view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where she takes things at your pace. She prioritizes patient-focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs.
Ileana is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and other mental health issues that may be interfering with normal daily functioning. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Ileana's view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where she takes things at your pace. She prioritizes patient-focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs.
(434) 505-4924 View (434) 505-4924
Photo of Helen Lancy, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(703) 775-4077 View (703) 775-4077
Photo of Dr. Sanket R Dhat, MD, FASAM, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sanket R Dhat
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
I am Founder and CEO of the Credence Behavioral Health (CBH). CBH is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health , substance abuse and Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) services to the communities of Lynchburg and surrounding Central Virginia area. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of healthcare to our patients with compassion and respect. We strive to improve the health and well-being of our community through our commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research.
I am Founder and CEO of the Credence Behavioral Health (CBH). CBH is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health , substance abuse and Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) services to the communities of Lynchburg and surrounding Central Virginia area. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of healthcare to our patients with compassion and respect. We strive to improve the health and well-being of our community through our commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research.
(434) 448-4517 View (434) 448-4517
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Arlene Quijano, PA, Physician Assistant
Arlene Quijano
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
(804) 578-7542 View (804) 578-7542
Photo of Lauren Alston-Close, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Alston-Close
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Lauren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Walden University. With 13 years of clinical experience, she brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to mental health care. Dedicated to ongoing professional growth, Lauren is currently participating in a fellowship with Psychiatry Redefined, where she is focused on functional psychiatry to uncover and address the root causes of psychiatric symptoms.
Lauren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Walden University. With 13 years of clinical experience, she brings a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to mental health care. Dedicated to ongoing professional growth, Lauren is currently participating in a fellowship with Psychiatry Redefined, where she is focused on functional psychiatry to uncover and address the root causes of psychiatric symptoms.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Center for Care and Resiliency, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
(540) 384-4630 View (540) 384-4630
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Arlene Quijano, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Arlene Quijano
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
(804) 206-5986 View (804) 206-5986
Photo of Lori L Ball, PMHCNS, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori L Ball
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501  (Online Only)
Hello. I'm Lori Ball with Williamsburg Counseling. As a dually certified Advance Practice Nurse(Nurse Practitioner), I provide comprehensive bio-psycho-social evaluations, prescribe and manage psychotropics. My professional history extends back to 1985 when I entered the world of psychiatry as a young registered nurse. 39 years later I find myself collaborating with patients across the lifespan who graciously share their stories and seek out new solutions to the demands of life. Medications are only one tool. There's so much more, so together lets discover and embrace genuine lasting change for a better tomorrow!
Hello. I'm Lori Ball with Williamsburg Counseling. As a dually certified Advance Practice Nurse(Nurse Practitioner), I provide comprehensive bio-psycho-social evaluations, prescribe and manage psychotropics. My professional history extends back to 1985 when I entered the world of psychiatry as a young registered nurse. 39 years later I find myself collaborating with patients across the lifespan who graciously share their stories and seek out new solutions to the demands of life. Medications are only one tool. There's so much more, so together lets discover and embrace genuine lasting change for a better tomorrow!
(757) 859-0359 View (757) 859-0359
Photo of Crystal Hicks, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Accepting New patients! Crystal is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in providing psychiatric treatment and consultative care for very young children, adolescents, teens and adults. She brings over 17 years of nursing experience in the mental health field, including work in both inpatient, outpatient, and residential psychiatric settings. Crystal received her Master's of Nursing from the University of Virginia. She enjoys working with and helping individuals & families with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism, history of trauma, psychosis &mood disorders.
Accepting New patients! Crystal is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in providing psychiatric treatment and consultative care for very young children, adolescents, teens and adults. She brings over 17 years of nursing experience in the mental health field, including work in both inpatient, outpatient, and residential psychiatric settings. Crystal received her Master's of Nursing from the University of Virginia. She enjoys working with and helping individuals & families with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism, history of trauma, psychosis &mood disorders.
(434) 602-5864 View (434) 602-5864
Photo of Dr. Temitope Akinladenu, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Welcome! I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a 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 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
(240) 905-5656 View (240) 905-5656
Photo of Fawn O. Workman - Lifesong Health - Fawn Workman, NP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lifesong Health - Fawn Workman, NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
I understand that seeking medication help for mental health concerns can be a significant step. That's why I strive to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your unique challenges. You might be wondering, "Am I the right fit for Lifesong Health?" Our ideal client is someone who: Is experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, and seeks a whole person approach to health that addresses mental and physical wellbeing.
I understand that seeking medication help for mental health concerns can be a significant step. That's why I strive to create a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your unique challenges. You might be wondering, "Am I the right fit for Lifesong Health?" Our ideal client is someone who: Is experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, and seeks a whole person approach to health that addresses mental and physical wellbeing.
(434) 423-4765 View (434) 423-4765
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(833) 338-0567 View (833) 338-0567
Photo of Olivia Reichenbacker - Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
(757) 997-2442 View (757) 997-2442
Photo of Beth Short - Focus Psychiatry and Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Focus Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
Mental Health issues can make life difficult. At Focus Psychiatry, we want to help you get your life back on track and feeling better as soon as possible. You don't have to leave your home to see your mental health provider. Beth will come to you, virtually. All you need is an internet connection and a device with a camera and speaker. It can be as simple as your smartphone! ​ No sitter - no transportation? No problem! See your provider on your lunch break? YES! ​ Simply just don't want to fight traffic or leave home? It's easy! You can schedule online anytime at www.focuspsychiatryandwellness.com
Mental Health issues can make life difficult. At Focus Psychiatry, we want to help you get your life back on track and feeling better as soon as possible. You don't have to leave your home to see your mental health provider. Beth will come to you, virtually. All you need is an internet connection and a device with a camera and speaker. It can be as simple as your smartphone! ​ No sitter - no transportation? No problem! See your provider on your lunch break? YES! ​ Simply just don't want to fight traffic or leave home? It's easy! You can schedule online anytime at www.focuspsychiatryandwellness.com
(540) 305-3623 View (540) 305-3623
Photo of Megan Zamora, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Zamora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24501  (Online Only)
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME. WEEKEND AVAILABILITY. Whether depression and anxiety are long-term struggles or you are experiencing your first event, or you suffer from psychosis or a personality disorder I am here to manage your medications and provide brief psychotherapy. I understand the struggle of making it through the day when you are having trouble concentrating, connecting with others or just feeling a complete lack of motivation to interact fully with the world around you. Possibly you turn to unhealthy coping skills and maybe you feel you’ve tried it all. I am here to help you live a happier, healthier life.
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME. WEEKEND AVAILABILITY. Whether depression and anxiety are long-term struggles or you are experiencing your first event, or you suffer from psychosis or a personality disorder I am here to manage your medications and provide brief psychotherapy. I understand the struggle of making it through the day when you are having trouble concentrating, connecting with others or just feeling a complete lack of motivation to interact fully with the world around you. Possibly you turn to unhealthy coping skills and maybe you feel you’ve tried it all. I am here to help you live a happier, healthier life.
(434) 885-1257 View (434) 885-1257
Photo of Mimi Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mimi Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
We are accepting New Clients. We see patients Mondays through Fridays. We offer Medication Management and Counseling/Psychotherapy Face to face or via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Virginia and Maryland. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
We are accepting New Clients. We see patients Mondays through Fridays. We offer Medication Management and Counseling/Psychotherapy Face to face or via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Virginia and Maryland. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
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See more therapy options for Lynchburg City County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lynchburg City County, VA

20+

Psychiatrists in Lynchburg City County, VA who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
82% Bipolar Disorder
82% Medication Management
73% Trauma and PTSD
64% Sleep or Insomnia
59% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
88% Anthem
81% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Lynchburg City County, VA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

95% Female
5% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lynchburg City County?

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.