Psychiatrists in McLean, VA

Photo of Alexandru Serghi, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Alexandru Serghi
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Dr Serghi’s approach to the medical act is built around the central concept of biological, psychological and social determinants to human illness. The core principle of his practice is based on the application of the scientific method to the most current medical evidence for both the diagnosis and the treatment of brain disorders. In addition to expertise in neuropsychiatric diagnoses, Dr Serghi offers both brief psychotherapeutic interventions as well as long term psychodynamic psychotherapy, in combination with medication treatment only if indicated, within the absolute privacy and comfort of the patient-doctor therapeutic space.
Dr Serghi’s approach to the medical act is built around the central concept of biological, psychological and social determinants to human illness. The core principle of his practice is based on the application of the scientific method to the most current medical evidence for both the diagnosis and the treatment of brain disorders. In addition to expertise in neuropsychiatric diagnoses, Dr Serghi offers both brief psychotherapeutic interventions as well as long term psychodynamic psychotherapy, in combination with medication treatment only if indicated, within the absolute privacy and comfort of the patient-doctor therapeutic space.
(571) 620-6743 View (571) 620-6743
Photo of Madhu Bhatia, MD, Psychiatrist
Madhu Bhatia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
I have more than 20 years of experience in treating Adults ,Adolescents and children.My goal of treatment is to help the patients become well adjusted emotionally and socially and entails a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacology.My special interest is in treating patients with Mood disorders and Trauma
I have more than 20 years of experience in treating Adults ,Adolescents and children.My goal of treatment is to help the patients become well adjusted emotionally and socially and entails a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacology.My special interest is in treating patients with Mood disorders and Trauma
(703) 810-3494 View (703) 810-3494
Photo of Binta Bojang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Binta Bojang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m Dr. Binta Bojang, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered care, helping adults manage mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, personality disorders, and ADHD through personalized medication management. My goal is to work closely with you to find the most effective treatment and support your journey toward mental wellness. My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance that respects the individual’s preferences, promoting shared decision-making in their mental health journey.
I’m Dr. Binta Bojang, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I specialize in providing compassionate, patient-centered care, helping adults manage mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar, personality disorders, and ADHD through personalized medication management. My goal is to work closely with you to find the most effective treatment and support your journey toward mental wellness. My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance that respects the individual’s preferences, promoting shared decision-making in their mental health journey.
(804) 207-4757 View (804) 207-4757
Photo of Aazaz Ul Haq - McLean Neuropsychiatric Treatment Center, MD, Psychiatrist
McLean Neuropsychiatric Treatment Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
More than thirty percent of people with depression do not respond to medication management and psychotherapy. In these cases, where it feels like hope is lost, we can help.
More than thirty percent of people with depression do not respond to medication management and psychotherapy. In these cases, where it feels like hope is lost, we can help.
(571) 200-4927 View (571) 200-4927
Photo of Dr. Fatima Noorani, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Fatima Noorani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes due to a diagnosis or circumstance, you may find yourself stuck, unable to perform, unhappy, or unfulfilled. I'm here to help you bounce back through treatments supported by scientific evidence, which may include medication, therapy, or both. Unlike many psychiatrists, I also offer psychotherapy. I collaborate with patients to integrate their life story, strengths, and values to support them in their unique journey toward personal growth and healing. While adults of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, I specialize in supporting multicultural and BIPOC clients, as well as pregnant and postpartum clients.
Sometimes due to a diagnosis or circumstance, you may find yourself stuck, unable to perform, unhappy, or unfulfilled. I'm here to help you bounce back through treatments supported by scientific evidence, which may include medication, therapy, or both. Unlike many psychiatrists, I also offer psychotherapy. I collaborate with patients to integrate their life story, strengths, and values to support them in their unique journey toward personal growth and healing. While adults of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, I specialize in supporting multicultural and BIPOC clients, as well as pregnant and postpartum clients.
(571) 946-2437 View (571) 946-2437
Photo of Moronke Aboyewa, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Moronke Aboyewa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Moronke Aboyewa, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since 2016. I am based in Maryland but work with clients across multiple states, including Virginia via a HIPAA-protected telehealth platform. If you seek a mental health provider who puts you first, and who would not judge you but would provide a non-threatening environment for self-expression, self-reflection, and self-acceptance, then look no further for you are in the right place.
My name is Moronke Aboyewa, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since 2016. I am based in Maryland but work with clients across multiple states, including Virginia via a HIPAA-protected telehealth platform. If you seek a mental health provider who puts you first, and who would not judge you but would provide a non-threatening environment for self-expression, self-reflection, and self-acceptance, then look no further for you are in the right place.
(571) 596-6071 View (571) 596-6071
Eva Maria Theodosiadis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
At Sound Body & Mind Psychiatric Services, we recognize that both emotional and physical factors contribute to the development of psychiatric symptoms. Genetics, environment and specific stressors or traumatic events can also play an important role. Finally, an individual's character, personality, temperament, and resilence all contribute to the clinical picture, and can shape the types of symptoms we see and the prognosis. No two individuals are exactly alike and therefore, no two individuals experience psychiatric symptoms in the exact same way. This is why we create a unique treatment plan to target your specific experience.
At Sound Body & Mind Psychiatric Services, we recognize that both emotional and physical factors contribute to the development of psychiatric symptoms. Genetics, environment and specific stressors or traumatic events can also play an important role. Finally, an individual's character, personality, temperament, and resilence all contribute to the clinical picture, and can shape the types of symptoms we see and the prognosis. No two individuals are exactly alike and therefore, no two individuals experience psychiatric symptoms in the exact same way. This is why we create a unique treatment plan to target your specific experience.
(571) 414-0538 View (571) 414-0538
Photo of Edward Gelber, MD, Psychiatrist
Edward Gelber
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
(301) 750-2744 View (301) 750-2744
Photo of Dr. Richard K. Kim, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Richard K. Kim
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Dr. Kim is an experienced board-certified psychiatrist who provides compassionate, personal care through counseling and medication management. He received his BA with Honors in the Philosophy of Science and Medicine from the University of Chicago, his MD from the University of Illinois, and his psychiatry residency at the Loyola University Medical Center where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Kim has expertise in both psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and telemedicine. Dr. Kim is offers online appointments.
Dr. Kim is an experienced board-certified psychiatrist who provides compassionate, personal care through counseling and medication management. He received his BA with Honors in the Philosophy of Science and Medicine from the University of Chicago, his MD from the University of Illinois, and his psychiatry residency at the Loyola University Medical Center where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Kim has expertise in both psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and telemedicine. Dr. Kim is offers online appointments.
(703) 940-9921 View (703) 940-9921
Photo of Doris Owusu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doris Owusu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Owusu is a dual-certified and licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the states of Virginia and Maryland. I have many years of experience working in healthcare and a background in working with young adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient, outpatient, and community nursing. I am committed to providing comprehensive individualized care by focusing on the needs and struggles of my patients, and together we develop a personalized care plan that fits the patient's needs.
Dr. Owusu is a dual-certified and licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the states of Virginia and Maryland. I have many years of experience working in healthcare and a background in working with young adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient, outpatient, and community nursing. I am committed to providing comprehensive individualized care by focusing on the needs and struggles of my patients, and together we develop a personalized care plan that fits the patient's needs.
(571) 506-3845 View (571) 506-3845
Photo of Amanda Felix, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Felix
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Amanda Felix, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals. I am BIPOC and LGBTQ+ affirming and have vast experience in working with transgender individuals. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere, while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals.
I am Dr. Amanda Felix, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals. I am BIPOC and LGBTQ+ affirming and have vast experience in working with transgender individuals. I use a holistic patient-focused treatment model which is centered on creating a safe, judgment-free, and laid-back atmosphere, while taking the time to listen to and understand my clients' concerns and treatment goals.
(571) 601-2417 View (571) 601-2417
Photo of Rosario Nunez Brito, MD, Psychiatrist
Rosario Nunez Brito
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Dr. Nunez Brito is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her training in Adult Psychiatry at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington, DC and completed training in psychotherapy at the Washington Psychoanalytic Institute and the Baltimore Washington Institute. Served as Medical Director of Outpatient Services at Suburban Hospital John Hopkins Medicine. Offers a solid base of vast clinical experience in combination with psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions. Works in a collaborative, warm, and open minded style with her patients. Offers in person and on line appointments.
Dr. Nunez Brito is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her training in Adult Psychiatry at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington, DC and completed training in psychotherapy at the Washington Psychoanalytic Institute and the Baltimore Washington Institute. Served as Medical Director of Outpatient Services at Suburban Hospital John Hopkins Medicine. Offers a solid base of vast clinical experience in combination with psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions. Works in a collaborative, warm, and open minded style with her patients. Offers in person and on line appointments.
(703) 215-1357 View (703) 215-1357
Photo of Dr. Clair Oja, DNP, PMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Clair Oja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
Dr. Clair Oja is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She prescribes Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Spravato, and Ketamine. Dr. Oja completed her doctorate focusing on mental health and the lack of access to mental health care. For the past thirteen years, she has treated a variety of mental health disorders in a family practice setting. Dr. Oja is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to pediatric and adult populations. Dr.
Dr. Clair Oja is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She prescribes Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Spravato, and Ketamine. Dr. Oja completed her doctorate focusing on mental health and the lack of access to mental health care. For the past thirteen years, she has treated a variety of mental health disorders in a family practice setting. Dr. Oja is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to pediatric and adult populations. Dr.
(571) 765-2285 View (571) 765-2285
Photo of Amanjot Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist
Amanjot Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
I am a Psychiatrist with dual training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry along with Adult Psychiatry. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, behavioral problems and incorporate my knowledge of psychotherapy along with psychopharmacology in my treatment approach. I provide psychotherapy and medication management as indicated, often in combination with an emphasis on care that is interactive and customized to best meet the individual needs of the person. I assess my patient's needs and tailor my approach to address them. I closely work with families as a unit of assessment and also as a unit of treatment.
I am a Psychiatrist with dual training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry along with Adult Psychiatry. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, behavioral problems and incorporate my knowledge of psychotherapy along with psychopharmacology in my treatment approach. I provide psychotherapy and medication management as indicated, often in combination with an emphasis on care that is interactive and customized to best meet the individual needs of the person. I assess my patient's needs and tailor my approach to address them. I closely work with families as a unit of assessment and also as a unit of treatment.
(571) 901-1573 View (571) 901-1573
Photo of Natasha Olliver, PA-C, MS, Physician Assistant
Natasha Olliver
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MS
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Christopher Schubert, MD, BSE, Psychiatrist
Dr. Christopher Schubert
Psychiatrist, MD, BSE
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
Dr. Schubert MD is Board Certified in Psychiatry and has experience in and passion for treating a diverse patient population with particular interest in children (and young at heart) adults and professionals struggling with mental health issues. He has particular interests in ADHD, Anxiety/Depressive disorders, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, eating disorders, and personality disorders with interpersonal relationship struggles. He takes particular pride in finding missed medical diagnoses with psychological issues related to chronic/acute medical illness, as these tend to be more rapidly cured.
Dr. Schubert MD is Board Certified in Psychiatry and has experience in and passion for treating a diverse patient population with particular interest in children (and young at heart) adults and professionals struggling with mental health issues. He has particular interests in ADHD, Anxiety/Depressive disorders, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, eating disorders, and personality disorders with interpersonal relationship struggles. He takes particular pride in finding missed medical diagnoses with psychological issues related to chronic/acute medical illness, as these tend to be more rapidly cured.
(703) 839-0143 View (703) 839-0143
Photo of Kalkidan Ayalew, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kalkidan Ayalew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
In my practice, empathy and compassion are at the forefront. I believe that effective mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a journey that requires understanding, patience, and a personalized approach. I am committed to delivering comprehensive care tailored to each individual, whether that involves medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. I treat variety of conditions from ADHD to spectrum of anxiety disorders and mood problems. Trauma and autism spectrum are other areas of my focus.
In my practice, empathy and compassion are at the forefront. I believe that effective mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a journey that requires understanding, patience, and a personalized approach. I am committed to delivering comprehensive care tailored to each individual, whether that involves medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. I treat variety of conditions from ADHD to spectrum of anxiety disorders and mood problems. Trauma and autism spectrum are other areas of my focus.
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Photo of Patricia Bailey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello. My name is Patricia Bailey. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My focus areas include addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders/bipolar disorders. My approach to care is cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing along with medication management. I typically work with patients with addiction, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. My sessions are 100% telemedicine.
Hello. My name is Patricia Bailey. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My focus areas include addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders/bipolar disorders. My approach to care is cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing along with medication management. I typically work with patients with addiction, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. My sessions are 100% telemedicine.
(571) 630-3357 View (571) 630-3357
Photo of Franca Bakane, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Franca Bakane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Ms. Franca Bakane, PMHNP, is committed to supporting clients in Virginia with a personalized, evidence-based approach to mental health care. She integrates lifestyle changes with therapeutic interventions to create individualized treatment plans for issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Ms. Bakane provides compassionate, non-judgmental care, empowering clients to take control of their health. Also specializing in alcohol and drug use, eating disorders, and PTSD, she offers both therapy and medication management.
Ms. Franca Bakane, PMHNP, is committed to supporting clients in Virginia with a personalized, evidence-based approach to mental health care. She integrates lifestyle changes with therapeutic interventions to create individualized treatment plans for issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Ms. Bakane provides compassionate, non-judgmental care, empowering clients to take control of their health. Also specializing in alcohol and drug use, eating disorders, and PTSD, she offers both therapy and medication management.
(571) 576-3454 View (571) 576-3454
Photo of Shealyn Cyr, MD, Psychiatrist
Shealyn Cyr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Shealyn Cyr, MD is a board-certified Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2006. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of Texas at San Antonio, her medical school at Texas A&M University, College of Medicine, and her Residency at the University of Texas at Southwestern. Dr. Cyr believes in a balanced approach to psychiatric health through a model that integrates medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and thorough medical evaluation.
Shealyn Cyr, MD is a board-certified Psychiatrist in Virginia who has been practicing since 2006. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of Texas at San Antonio, her medical school at Texas A&M University, College of Medicine, and her Residency at the University of Texas at Southwestern. Dr. Cyr believes in a balanced approach to psychiatric health through a model that integrates medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and thorough medical evaluation.
(571) 946-8134 View (571) 946-8134
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in McLean, VA

90+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in McLean, VA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
94% Depression
81% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
76% Trauma and PTSD
69% Medication Management
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
81% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in McLean, VA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in McLean?

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.