Psychiatrists in Petersburg City County, VA

Photo of Arlene S. Quijano, Physician Assistant, PA
Arlene S. Quijano
Physician Assistant, PA
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.
(434) 885-0467 View (434) 885-0467
Photo of Arlene S Quijano, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Arlene S Quijano
Physician Assistant, PA-C
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) 374-8942 View (804) 374-8942
Photo of Kerniba Ghoneim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CMHIMP
Kerniba Ghoneim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CMHIMP
5 Endorsed
Petersburg, VA 23803
I am a board-certified Doctorate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP), licensed in MD, DC, and VA. I incorporate complementary therapies, such as nutrition, vitamins, and supplementation, into conventional psychiatry methods. My approach centers on holistic and individualized care, identifying and addressing the root causes of your personal and professional challenges. I prescribe medications conservatively, safely, and effectively. I treat patients of all ages (6 yrs and up) and accept most major insurance payers. www.vigorintegrative. com
I am a board-certified Doctorate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP), licensed in MD, DC, and VA. I incorporate complementary therapies, such as nutrition, vitamins, and supplementation, into conventional psychiatry methods. My approach centers on holistic and individualized care, identifying and addressing the root causes of your personal and professional challenges. I prescribe medications conservatively, safely, and effectively. I treat patients of all ages (6 yrs and up) and accept most major insurance payers. www.vigorintegrative. com
(571) 540-7904 View (571) 540-7904
Photo of Olamide Ipeaiyeda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Olamide Ipeaiyeda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My passion lies in helping others, and I work closely with clients to create personalized plans that support meaningful, lasting change. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on the individual's unique needs, strengths, and goals. I integrate evidence-based practices and person-centered therapy to guide treatment.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive care to individuals and families facing mental health challenges. My passion lies in helping others, and I work closely with clients to create personalized plans that support meaningful, lasting change. My approach to mental healthcare is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on the individual's unique needs, strengths, and goals. I integrate evidence-based practices and person-centered therapy to guide treatment.
(804) 206-8638 View (804) 206-8638
Photo of Elizabeth Onyejekwe - Godaelli Psychiatry and Mental Health Center , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Godaelli Psychiatry and Mental Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Online Only
Godaelli Psychiatry and Mental Health Center is transforming lives through holistic medication management and supportive therapy. Our team of experienced Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing mental health treatment to children, teens, adults, and families. Whether your goal is to attain mental stability or you want to maintain stable mental health, our providers are equipped and ready to help. They treat our patients with empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of both the biological and psychological details of psychiatric disorders and their associated symptoms.
Godaelli Psychiatry and Mental Health Center is transforming lives through holistic medication management and supportive therapy. Our team of experienced Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing mental health treatment to children, teens, adults, and families. Whether your goal is to attain mental stability or you want to maintain stable mental health, our providers are equipped and ready to help. They treat our patients with empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of both the biological and psychological details of psychiatric disorders and their associated symptoms.
(757) 568-7333 View (757) 568-7333
Photo of Jill B Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Jill B Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling like you need to get your mind and body back on track? You may have struggles, situations, issues and circumstances. Let me help you find the best ways to get healthy and point you in the direction for a better you.
Are you feeling like you need to get your mind and body back on track? You may have struggles, situations, issues and circumstances. Let me help you find the best ways to get healthy and point you in the direction for a better you.
(804) 251-3988 View (804) 251-3988
Photo of Dr. Gifty Addai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP) with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in advocating for patient empowerment, clear communication and education to achieve set goals.
Greetings! I am a doctoral prepared board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP) with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in advocating for patient empowerment, clear communication and education to achieve set goals.
(571) 475-9172 View (571) 475-9172
Photo of Kimberly Fields, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Kimberly Fields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Serves Area
LIGHT Hearted Wellness Care, LLC is committed to providing compassionate care to those facing psychological challenges. I offer medication management in a safe therapeutic and supportive environment. Treatment is patient centered and supports open communication and collaboration of care. I strive to combine my clinical expertise with empathy, tailoring treatment plans to everyone’s specific needs, and encouraging a strong sense of well-being.
LIGHT Hearted Wellness Care, LLC is committed to providing compassionate care to those facing psychological challenges. I offer medication management in a safe therapeutic and supportive environment. Treatment is patient centered and supports open communication and collaboration of care. I strive to combine my clinical expertise with empathy, tailoring treatment plans to everyone’s specific needs, and encouraging a strong sense of well-being.
(804) 277-2359 View (804) 277-2359
Photo of Michon Blowe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, RNC
Michon Blowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, RNC
Serves Area
You deserve to be whole! Let's get to work! I provide culturally competent psychiatric care throughout the lifespan for all mental health conditions. Your well-being is at the heart of our partnership. Our therapeutic relationship is a collaboration, where your insights and preferences guide our journey. I am committed to actively listening and validating your experiences. You can text or call 804-606-0272 to answer any questions you may have.
You deserve to be whole! Let's get to work! I provide culturally competent psychiatric care throughout the lifespan for all mental health conditions. Your well-being is at the heart of our partnership. Our therapeutic relationship is a collaboration, where your insights and preferences guide our journey. I am committed to actively listening and validating your experiences. You can text or call 804-606-0272 to answer any questions you may have.
(804) 395-7660 View (804) 395-7660

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Rehan Saleem M D, Psychiatrist, MD
Rehan Saleem M D
Psychiatrist, MD
Midlothian, VA 23113
My approach is based on holistic psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary/alternative treatments to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication. My practice specializes in treating patients who are struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, OCD and day to day stress. I also offer TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) Therapy for depression and anxious depression.
My approach is based on holistic psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary/alternative treatments to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication. My practice specializes in treating patients who are struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, OCD and day to day stress. I also offer TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) Therapy for depression and anxious depression.
(804) 258-4668 View (804) 258-4668
Photo of Camarita Titang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Camarita Titang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m Camarita Titang, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Virginia. With specialized training and experience, I have had the privilege of treating individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of psychiatric disorders in outpatient clinical settings. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, and I offer psychopharmacological treatments for a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and more.
I’m Camarita Titang, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Virginia. With specialized training and experience, I have had the privilege of treating individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of psychiatric disorders in outpatient clinical settings. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, and I offer psychopharmacological treatments for a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and more.
(703) 783-2416 View (703) 783-2416
Photo of Demetrous Johnston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Demetrous Johnston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Demetrous Johnston is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with tri-fold practice experience that includes academia. He is certified in both behavioral health and medical/surgical nursing. His practice history includes inpatient milieu management, outpatient medication management, community based medication management, and talk therapy.
Demetrous Johnston is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with tri-fold practice experience that includes academia. He is certified in both behavioral health and medical/surgical nursing. His practice history includes inpatient milieu management, outpatient medication management, community based medication management, and talk therapy.
(757) 290-1363 View (757) 290-1363
Photo of Rajni Sharma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rajni Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma. I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner PMHNP.
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma. I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner PMHNP.
(804) 599-4678 View (804) 599-4678
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse including Suboxone Treatment via video for clients across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse including Suboxone Treatment via video for clients across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(804) 409-4163 View (804) 409-4163
Photo of Afaribea Fosu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Afaribea Fosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hampton, VA 23666
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in the importance of providing holistic care when managing one’s mental health needs.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in the importance of providing holistic care when managing one’s mental health needs.
(757) 866-4830 View (757) 866-4830
Photo of Melissa Gross, Psychiatrist, MD
Melissa Gross
Psychiatrist, MD
Suffolk, VA 23435
Melissa Gross is a Psychiatrist in Virginia with 30 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Hampton University and a Medical Degree from the VCU School of Medicine. Melissa completed her Internship and Residency at the Psychiatry Eastern Virginia School of Medicine and her Fellowship at the Addiction Medicine University of Cincinnati.
Melissa Gross is a Psychiatrist in Virginia with 30 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Hampton University and a Medical Degree from the VCU School of Medicine. Melissa completed her Internship and Residency at the Psychiatry Eastern Virginia School of Medicine and her Fellowship at the Addiction Medicine University of Cincinnati.
(757) 798-7907 View (757) 798-7907
Photo of Dr. Nasr Basir Balla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Dr. Nasr Basir Balla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
(804) 589-5165 View (804) 589-5165
Photo of Christabel Lartey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christabel Lartey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Nice to meet you! I'm Dr. Christabel Lartey and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I hold a board certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as well as an ASAM waiver to provide Medication- Assisted Treatment for those with substance use disorders as well as co-occurring Mental health conditions. My approach to care varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I see each patient as a unique individual and consider their holistic circumstances when evaluating their mental health needs.
Nice to meet you! I'm Dr. Christabel Lartey and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I hold a board certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as well as an ASAM waiver to provide Medication- Assisted Treatment for those with substance use disorders as well as co-occurring Mental health conditions. My approach to care varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I see each patient as a unique individual and consider their holistic circumstances when evaluating their mental health needs.
(571) 586-9045 View (571) 586-9045
Photo of Golda Trompeta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Golda Trompeta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), dedicated to managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, insomnia, and challenges related to life transitions. With 24 years of acute care experience, I bring strong critical care skills to my practice, focusing on providing quality, evidence-based care through a compassionate approach. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia and my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), dedicated to managing and treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, insomnia, and challenges related to life transitions. With 24 years of acute care experience, I bring strong critical care skills to my practice, focusing on providing quality, evidence-based care through a compassionate approach. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia and my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
(804) 635-3153 View (804) 635-3153
Photo of Kassimier Thompson - Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC , Psychiatrist, MD
Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
(757) 210-5835 View (757) 210-5835

See more therapy options for Petersburg City County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Petersburg City County, VA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Petersburg City County, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
89% Behavioral Issues
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Psychosis
78% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Petersburg City County, VA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Petersburg 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.