Psychiatrists in Mechanicsville, VA
Wendy Michelle Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23116
My major focus areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, suicide prevention, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and neuro-developmental disorders. Additionally, I have worked closely with women and children across the lifespan inclusive of the prenatal, perinatal, postpartum, and menopausal stages of life.
My major focus areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, suicide prevention, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and neuro-developmental disorders. Additionally, I have worked closely with women and children across the lifespan inclusive of the prenatal, perinatal, postpartum, and menopausal stages of life.
Brittany Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23111 (Online Only)
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
~ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - TELE-HEALTH ONLY~ ~SELF-PAY WELCOME~ My ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. I am here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
ALIGN Integrated Care, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23111 (Online Only)
Many have asked me what does ALIGN mean or stand for. ALIGN stands for the steps that one must take when attempting to align themselves back to their "baseline." or better! A vehicle comes out of alignment gradually over time from treading over minor imperfections as do we. One should realize the process for alignment again does not happen overnight nor is it a lifetime guarantee. One may find themselves out of alignment multiple times in their lives due to the wear and tear of life’s imperfections. Alignment is a condition of the present that we hope maintains its position into our future though of the present.
Many have asked me what does ALIGN mean or stand for. ALIGN stands for the steps that one must take when attempting to align themselves back to their "baseline." or better! A vehicle comes out of alignment gradually over time from treading over minor imperfections as do we. One should realize the process for alignment again does not happen overnight nor is it a lifetime guarantee. One may find themselves out of alignment multiple times in their lives due to the wear and tear of life’s imperfections. Alignment is a condition of the present that we hope maintains its position into our future though of the present.
Natalie Mesco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23116
Natalie works with adults ages 18-65 with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and OCD and other mental health concerns. She likes to work closely with her clients to develop the best plan of care to suit their individual needs. Natalie received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Liberty University and completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University. Natalie is a native of the Richmond area. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. In her spare time she also enjoys fitness, reading, and working with her Labrador Retriever, Remi.
Natalie works with adults ages 18-65 with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and OCD and other mental health concerns. She likes to work closely with her clients to develop the best plan of care to suit their individual needs. Natalie received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Liberty University and completed her Master of Science in Nursing through Walden University. Natalie is a native of the Richmond area. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. In her spare time she also enjoys fitness, reading, and working with her Labrador Retriever, Remi.
Angela Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23111 (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
Sarah Story
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23116
Accepting NEW clients ( 18 and older). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, , PTSD and bipolar disorder. Call now to schedule an appointment.
Accepting NEW clients ( 18 and older). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, , PTSD and bipolar disorder. Call now to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Rosebelle de Leon is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. She completed her medical school education at Rosalind Franklin University, Chicago Medical School, and completed her general psychiatry residency at Rush University Medical Center. She provides psychiatric medication management for adults ages 27-64. She primarily sees patients who may be struggling with depressive, bipolar, anxiety and psychotic disorders. Dr. de Leon is currently not seeing ADHD consultations. She is not taking new patients who are on stimulants or benzodiazepines.
Dr. Rosebelle de Leon is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. She completed her medical school education at Rosalind Franklin University, Chicago Medical School, and completed her general psychiatry residency at Rush University Medical Center. She provides psychiatric medication management for adults ages 27-64. She primarily sees patients who may be struggling with depressive, bipolar, anxiety and psychotic disorders. Dr. de Leon is currently not seeing ADHD consultations. She is not taking new patients who are on stimulants or benzodiazepines.
Pamela Shipp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
Accepting New Patients. Our ideal client is YOU! Trouble sleeping, depression, mood lability, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, trouble concentrating, suicidal, homicidal, grief, drug use, and so many other things each and everyone may experience at some point in their life. However, if these things are not allowing you to live your best life we are here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others. We are here to serve you and provide all resources available to assist with the above symptoms.
Ruby Anumah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
As a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is on providing comprehensive and holistic care to individuals and families. My unique skill set allows me to address both physical and mental health concerns, providing a well-rounded approach to treatment. I am trained to perform physical exams, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders. I also have expertise in medication management, and can prescribe and monitor psychiatric medications as part of a treatment plan.
As a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is on providing comprehensive and holistic care to individuals and families. My unique skill set allows me to address both physical and mental health concerns, providing a well-rounded approach to treatment. I am trained to perform physical exams, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders. I also have expertise in medication management, and can prescribe and monitor psychiatric medications as part of a treatment plan.
Komal Singh, M.D. is a graduate of Avalon University School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital with additional fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Virginia Hospital. Dr. Singh provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children and adolescents. Dr. Singh focuses on taking a personalized approach that takes into account all aspects of the mental health of each individual patient when determining the best method of treatment. Her treatment recommendations include medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Komal Singh, M.D. is a graduate of Avalon University School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital with additional fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Virginia Hospital. Dr. Singh provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children and adolescents. Dr. Singh focuses on taking a personalized approach that takes into account all aspects of the mental health of each individual patient when determining the best method of treatment. Her treatment recommendations include medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Dr. Yaple earned his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 2003. He then moved to Richmond, Virginia where he completed his internship and residency in General Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, and then went on to complete his fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in 2008 through VCU at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children.
Dr. Yaple earned his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 2003. He then moved to Richmond, Virginia where he completed his internship and residency in General Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, and then went on to complete his fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in 2008 through VCU at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a residency trained psychiatrist, and I run a solo practice on the outskirts of Richmond, Virginia. I prefer to do psychotherapy as well as medication management (when one or both are appropriate for a patient), and I believe this makes me unique. You might perceive a psychiatrist as just being someone who orders medications, and leaves the "talk therapy" to someone else. As my patient, however, you have an "all-in-one" experience, and that will allow you to return to your normal self as quickly as possible.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a residency trained psychiatrist, and I run a solo practice on the outskirts of Richmond, Virginia. I prefer to do psychotherapy as well as medication management (when one or both are appropriate for a patient), and I believe this makes me unique. You might perceive a psychiatrist as just being someone who orders medications, and leaves the "talk therapy" to someone else. As my patient, however, you have an "all-in-one" experience, and that will allow you to return to your normal self as quickly as possible.
Greenbrook TMS Centers is the Mid-Atlantic's leading rTMS provider. We exclusively practice Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy. Cleared in 2008, this revolutionary treatment is FDA indicated for major depressive disorder, and has potential to provide relief and even remission from depression in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
Greenbrook TMS Centers is the Mid-Atlantic's leading rTMS provider. We exclusively practice Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy. Cleared in 2008, this revolutionary treatment is FDA indicated for major depressive disorder, and has potential to provide relief and even remission from depression in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
Victor Nwagwu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. Victor utilizes a patient-centered approach to a trauma-informed type of care. He is a certified mindfulness informed practitioner (CMIP) that utilizes mindfulness skills to provide supportive psychotherapy during medication management. Victor is skilled in MI, active listening, and cultural competence. Outside of work, Victor enjoys soccer and traveling.
Victor Nwagwu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. Victor utilizes a patient-centered approach to a trauma-informed type of care. He is a certified mindfulness informed practitioner (CMIP) that utilizes mindfulness skills to provide supportive psychotherapy during medication management. Victor is skilled in MI, active listening, and cultural competence. Outside of work, Victor enjoys soccer and traveling.
Jennifer Schrecengost
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CPNP-PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23116
Practice provider: Jennifer Schrecengost, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CPNP-PC. Jennifer has worked with children and families in primary care for nearly 20 years and treating kids and adolescents is truly where our passion lies. Whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, or insomnia, it is important to know that you are working not just with an individual but with a family, each member of which plays an important part in the client's progress and recovery. My priority is providing individualized, non-judgmental, holistic care that fully supports and recognizes the importance of family participation in treatment.
Practice provider: Jennifer Schrecengost, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CPNP-PC. Jennifer has worked with children and families in primary care for nearly 20 years and treating kids and adolescents is truly where our passion lies. Whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, or insomnia, it is important to know that you are working not just with an individual but with a family, each member of which plays an important part in the client's progress and recovery. My priority is providing individualized, non-judgmental, holistic care that fully supports and recognizes the importance of family participation in treatment.
Brandie Moore
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MPA, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
16+/NEW patients welcome! Are you suffering from attention and concentration problems, lack of motivation, experiencing bouts of depression or crying spells, feeling panicked, contemplating self-harm or suicide, or coping with divorce, death of a loved one, or job loss? Consider my practice, where I offer psychiatric medications, supplement /macronutrient recommendations that enhance your overall wellbeing, ADHD assessments, and psychotherapy. We can work together to build your confidence, reduce the impact of trauma, and increase your trust in yourself and others.
16+/NEW patients welcome! Are you suffering from attention and concentration problems, lack of motivation, experiencing bouts of depression or crying spells, feeling panicked, contemplating self-harm or suicide, or coping with divorce, death of a loved one, or job loss? Consider my practice, where I offer psychiatric medications, supplement /macronutrient recommendations that enhance your overall wellbeing, ADHD assessments, and psychotherapy. We can work together to build your confidence, reduce the impact of trauma, and increase your trust in yourself and others.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Deborah Crutchfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Deborah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the outpatient mental health sector. She works with individuals across the lifespan from pediatrics to geriatrics. She has over 14 years of experience in emergency medicine, psychiatry, and addiction. She specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, and various other mental health issues.
Deborah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the outpatient mental health sector. She works with individuals across the lifespan from pediatrics to geriatrics. She has over 14 years of experience in emergency medicine, psychiatry, and addiction. She specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, and various other mental health issues.
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.
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.
Adhd-Aid Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23221 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in DC, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. If you are a student or professional struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression. Make an appointment, get tested online for ADHD, and enjoy life. Today, you are one step closer to a new you. I offer comprehensive ADHD testing accepted at schools and workplaces for ADA accommodations like extra time on tests or a distraction-free environment. I test ages 5+. I have recently added Personality testing to my practice. This means if you do not have ADHD, we can help figure out what the underlining issue is. This is covered by your insurance.
Accepting new clients in DC, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. If you are a student or professional struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression. Make an appointment, get tested online for ADHD, and enjoy life. Today, you are one step closer to a new you. I offer comprehensive ADHD testing accepted at schools and workplaces for ADA accommodations like extra time on tests or a distraction-free environment. I test ages 5+. I have recently added Personality testing to my practice. This means if you do not have ADHD, we can help figure out what the underlining issue is. This is covered by your insurance.
See more therapy options for Mechanicsville
Nearby Searches for Mechanicsville
- Ashland
- Bellevue
- Bon Air
- Chester
- Chesterfield
- Glen Allen
- Henrico
- Hopewell
- Midlothian
- North Chesterfield
- Richmond
- West End
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mechanicsville, VA
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Mechanicsville, VA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | Medication Management |
81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
92% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Mechanicsville, VA see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mechanicsville?
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.