Psychiatrists in Prince William County, VA

Dr. Alathari is Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Addiction Medicine. He is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the George Washington University Medical Center. He is also Medical Director of the INOVA Comprehensive Addiction Treatment Services and Medical Director of Fairfax Methadone Treatment Center
Dr. Alathari is Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Addiction Medicine. He is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the George Washington University Medical Center. He is also Medical Director of the INOVA Comprehensive Addiction Treatment Services and Medical Director of Fairfax Methadone Treatment Center

I'm Rose. Do you feel overwhelmed with life and feel like you don't know what to do? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself and others? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself and others.
I'm Rose. Do you feel overwhelmed with life and feel like you don't know what to do? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself and others? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself and others.

Veronique Kom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Healing is focusing on building your strengths while being assisted by professional and available resources. Partnering with you by providing a comprehensive Psychiatric evaluation, setting attainable goals, and creating an individualized plan of care using an integrative approach is the key. VeveHealth uses a holistic approach by incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, psychoeducational, and cultural sensitivity throughout your individualized care.
Healing is focusing on building your strengths while being assisted by professional and available resources. Partnering with you by providing a comprehensive Psychiatric evaluation, setting attainable goals, and creating an individualized plan of care using an integrative approach is the key. VeveHealth uses a holistic approach by incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, psychoeducational, and cultural sensitivity throughout your individualized care.

Rooted Willow Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Rooted Willow, I specialize in the medication management of mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; and post-traumatic stress disorder. My practice fosters a collaborative environment where clients' input is valued, and treatment is adjusted to align with their personal goals and progress. Rooted Willow is LGBTQIA+ friendly and an advocate of neurodiversity.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Rooted Willow, I specialize in the medication management of mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; and post-traumatic stress disorder. My practice fosters a collaborative environment where clients' input is valued, and treatment is adjusted to align with their personal goals and progress. Rooted Willow is LGBTQIA+ friendly and an advocate of neurodiversity.

Stephanie Davila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I understand that mental health is personal to each client and can have an enormous impact on your daily life when things are not going well. I respect each person as an individual and will work with you to reach your goal of improved mental health.
I understand that mental health is personal to each client and can have an enormous impact on your daily life when things are not going well. I respect each person as an individual and will work with you to reach your goal of improved mental health.

Francoise Bissai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Holistiq Health, we are accepting new patients! We currently treat ages 18 and above. We are currently offering most appointments virtually via video. Visit us at www.holistiqhealthandwellness.com or call 571-400-2326. Our specialties include medication management of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, dementia and more. We take a holistic approach to your care by focusing on your whole person; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
At Holistiq Health, we are accepting new patients! We currently treat ages 18 and above. We are currently offering most appointments virtually via video. Visit us at www.holistiqhealthandwellness.com or call 571-400-2326. Our specialties include medication management of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, dementia and more. We take a holistic approach to your care by focusing on your whole person; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Hello! I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication management with supportive therapy, fostering an environment where warmth meets understanding. I treat psychiatric conditions such as Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Panic disorder, Eating disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality disorder, Autism, Affective mood disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Pre and postpartum disorders, and other conditions.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication management with supportive therapy, fostering an environment where warmth meets understanding. I treat psychiatric conditions such as Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Panic disorder, Eating disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality disorder, Autism, Affective mood disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Pre and postpartum disorders, and other conditions.

LifeStance Health - Gainesville
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.

Enyonam Jordan-Brangman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. My role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager. In addition to medication management I also incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and person-centered techniques to treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. My role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager. In addition to medication management I also incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and person-centered techniques to treatment.

Sarah E Munn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Are you struggling with anxiety, panic, intrusive thoughts, depression and want someone to individualize your care? I will assess and recommend a unique treatment plan for you. Types of treatment plans may include (but not limited too) lifestyle changes, sleep hygiene practices, psychotropic medication management, encouraging comprehensive routine medical care, providing supportive therapy, referral for specialized individual/couples therapy, encouraging activity/exercise, establishing short and long term goals, and encouraging healthy eating habits.
Are you struggling with anxiety, panic, intrusive thoughts, depression and want someone to individualize your care? I will assess and recommend a unique treatment plan for you. Types of treatment plans may include (but not limited too) lifestyle changes, sleep hygiene practices, psychotropic medication management, encouraging comprehensive routine medical care, providing supportive therapy, referral for specialized individual/couples therapy, encouraging activity/exercise, establishing short and long term goals, and encouraging healthy eating habits.

Dr. Emma Boateng is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing practice. Emma has extensive experience in mental health, psycho-education, patient care, and chronic pain management. She uses evidence-based practice to achieve patient goals. Emma treats various conditions including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anger, relationship issues, grief/loss, stress, OCD, ADHD and eating disorders. Emma believes every person is unique, creating individualized care plans for her clients. She puts her patients first and provides respectful care.
Dr. Emma Boateng is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing practice. Emma has extensive experience in mental health, psycho-education, patient care, and chronic pain management. She uses evidence-based practice to achieve patient goals. Emma treats various conditions including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anger, relationship issues, grief/loss, stress, OCD, ADHD and eating disorders. Emma believes every person is unique, creating individualized care plans for her clients. She puts her patients first and provides respectful care.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Hi there, My name is Mizpah. I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel like you are no longer the old you?
Hi there, My name is Mizpah. I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel like you are no longer the old you?

Dr. K. Pierre Eklou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Nice to meet you! My dedication to mental health stems from a deeply rooted belief in the power of empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric provider, I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges openly. Believing in the uniqueness of each person's healing journey, I hope to support anyone seeking understanding and guidance in navigating life's mental health challenges - anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, substance use, or other concerns - in finding a path toward healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of self. I value trust and mutual respect in my approach to care.
Nice to meet you! My dedication to mental health stems from a deeply rooted belief in the power of empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric provider, I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges openly. Believing in the uniqueness of each person's healing journey, I hope to support anyone seeking understanding and guidance in navigating life's mental health challenges - anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, substance use, or other concerns - in finding a path toward healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of self. I value trust and mutual respect in my approach to care.

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC). I attended the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Chamberlain University where I received my Master of Science in Nursing degree.
I believe in high-quality care that prioritizes patient-centeredness, empathy, and evidence-based practice. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for patients to share their stories and work toward mental health goals. I value the therapeutic relationship with my patients by taking time to actively listen, empathize, and build trust.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC). I attended the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Chamberlain University where I received my Master of Science in Nursing degree.
I believe in high-quality care that prioritizes patient-centeredness, empathy, and evidence-based practice. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for patients to share their stories and work toward mental health goals. I value the therapeutic relationship with my patients by taking time to actively listen, empathize, and build trust.

My ideal client is someone who seeks clarity amidst emotional or mental challenges. They may be struggling with anxiety, stress, or navigating life transitions, and they are looking for support to regain a sense of control and purpose. Their goals are to build emotional resilience, improve their mental well-being, and cultivate meaningful relationships. They want to find peace, balance, and confidence in their decisions, driven by a desire to thrive, not just survive, in both personal and professional aspects of life. I am committed to helping them uncover their inner strength and achieve their full potential.
My ideal client is someone who seeks clarity amidst emotional or mental challenges. They may be struggling with anxiety, stress, or navigating life transitions, and they are looking for support to regain a sense of control and purpose. Their goals are to build emotional resilience, improve their mental well-being, and cultivate meaningful relationships. They want to find peace, balance, and confidence in their decisions, driven by a desire to thrive, not just survive, in both personal and professional aspects of life. I am committed to helping them uncover their inner strength and achieve their full potential.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For me, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing me to work with families across the lifespan and collaborate closely with people. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I manage and treat conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and women's health issues.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For me, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing me to work with families across the lifespan and collaborate closely with people. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I manage and treat conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and women's health issues.

Dr. Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who completed her doctoral studies at George Mason University. Amber has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns.
Dr. Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who completed her doctoral studies at George Mason University. Amber has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns.

Veronique Kom is a Certified Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia. She provides comprehensive mental health care to help patients in the community. Veronique worked over years at UVA Health as an Inpatient Nurse and currently working at Inova Health System and Columbia Associate in Psychiatry as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is focused and committed to positively impacting the community and reducing Mental Health stigma. You do not have to feel alone, reach out, help is available.
Veronique Kom is a Certified Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia. She provides comprehensive mental health care to help patients in the community. Veronique worked over years at UVA Health as an Inpatient Nurse and currently working at Inova Health System and Columbia Associate in Psychiatry as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is focused and committed to positively impacting the community and reducing Mental Health stigma. You do not have to feel alone, reach out, help is available.

Peace Rain PMH LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, DNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20111
As a mental health nurse practitioner, I am trained to listen and provide expert outpatient, individualized, and psychological care. In addition to prescribing medication, I focus on individuals and families understanding medication risks and benefits for their mental health needs. Services provided are not limited to Bipolar disorders, Depression, Insomnia, Generalized anxiety disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Substance use Disorders. I serve individuals with respect and honor.
As a mental health nurse practitioner, I am trained to listen and provide expert outpatient, individualized, and psychological care. In addition to prescribing medication, I focus on individuals and families understanding medication risks and benefits for their mental health needs. Services provided are not limited to Bipolar disorders, Depression, Insomnia, Generalized anxiety disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Substance use Disorders. I serve individuals with respect and honor.

I provide comprehensive medication management and therapeutic support that addresses both the psychological and biological dimensions of mental health challenges. My goal is to nurture profound, meaningful connections with my clients, prioritizing empathy and compassion throughout our journey. Together, we will develop a tailored treatment plan specifically aimed at achieving your mental health goals. You are an individual of great value, deserving of all the best life has to offer. I invite you to reach out and schedule an appointment today. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work together.
I provide comprehensive medication management and therapeutic support that addresses both the psychological and biological dimensions of mental health challenges. My goal is to nurture profound, meaningful connections with my clients, prioritizing empathy and compassion throughout our journey. Together, we will develop a tailored treatment plan specifically aimed at achieving your mental health goals. You are an individual of great value, deserving of all the best life has to offer. I invite you to reach out and schedule an appointment today. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work together.
See more therapy options for Prince William County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Prince William County, VA
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Prince William County, VA who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Prince William County, VA see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Prince William 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.
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.