Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA

Photo of Emilie Fleagle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Emilie Fleagle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Richmond, VA 23225
Emilie has worked with diverse populations including inmates, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQIA+, and those diagnosed with various disabilities. These individuals taught her the interconnectedness between multi-generational trauma and chronic, comorbid conditions. She values unique perspectives and understands the impact of ongoing racial tensions and political climate on mental and physical health. She also recognizes the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences and traumas on substance use disorders and decision making. Emilie is comfortable treating complex Trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Emilie has worked with diverse populations including inmates, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQIA+, and those diagnosed with various disabilities. These individuals taught her the interconnectedness between multi-generational trauma and chronic, comorbid conditions. She values unique perspectives and understands the impact of ongoing racial tensions and political climate on mental and physical health. She also recognizes the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences and traumas on substance use disorders and decision making. Emilie is comfortable treating complex Trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
(804) 494-6259 View (804) 494-6259
Photo of Dr. Mariah Eze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP
Dr. Mariah Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Looking for a compassionate and emotionally intelligent psychiatric provider? Look no further. Mariah is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that is highly skilled in utilizing holistic psychopharmacological evidence based treatment approaches for patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, stress related disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders. Mariah demonstrates empathy and active listening skills that allows patients to feel seen and heard. In addition, Mariah provides individualized treatment plans tailored specifically to the needs of each patient.
Looking for a compassionate and emotionally intelligent psychiatric provider? Look no further. Mariah is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that is highly skilled in utilizing holistic psychopharmacological evidence based treatment approaches for patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, stress related disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders. Mariah demonstrates empathy and active listening skills that allows patients to feel seen and heard. In addition, Mariah provides individualized treatment plans tailored specifically to the needs of each patient.
(703) 650-9202 View (703) 650-9202
Photo of Ai Garner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ai Garner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
My mission is to not only help adolescents and young adults overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress, but to set them on a path to live their best life through transformative thinking, belief building, and effective action. It is incredibly rewarding to see young people get better and learn powerful skills to set them up for success as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. No need to sit in a waiting room or wait weeks to be seen. Clients receive compassionate and timely treatment in the comfort and convenience of their home.
My mission is to not only help adolescents and young adults overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress, but to set them on a path to live their best life through transformative thinking, belief building, and effective action. It is incredibly rewarding to see young people get better and learn powerful skills to set them up for success as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. No need to sit in a waiting room or wait weeks to be seen. Clients receive compassionate and timely treatment in the comfort and convenience of their home.
(804) 294-4293 View (804) 294-4293
Photo of Catina Greene - Greene Mental Wellness Pllc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Greene Mental Wellness Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23173
Struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. We are happy to explore substance use issues with up-to-date treatment options, as needed. Offering VA compensation assistance, ADHD testing and full psychiatric evaluations.
Struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. We are happy to explore substance use issues with up-to-date treatment options, as needed. Offering VA compensation assistance, ADHD testing and full psychiatric evaluations.
(804) 534-1866 View (804) 534-1866
Photo of Mildred Sarpong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mildred Sarpong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, personalized care to individuals across the lifespan, helping them navigate challenges related to mood, anxiety, trauma, and more. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your mental health journey.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, personalized care to individuals across the lifespan, helping them navigate challenges related to mood, anxiety, trauma, and more. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your mental health journey.
(804) 571-7402 View (804) 571-7402
Photo of James Adjin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
James Adjin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a Board certified & Licensed Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia, Maryland, Colorado and Delaware.
I'm a Board certified & Licensed Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia, Maryland, Colorado and Delaware.
(804) 391-0709 View (804) 391-0709
Photo of Lachawnda Szudlo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lachawnda Szudlo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with an extensive background in mental health to include inpatient, outpatient, forensics, geriatric, and adolescent. I completed my master's degree from Northern Kentucky University. My passion for psychiatry is based on my strong and genuine interest in helping you achieve “mental wellness” rather than focusing on “mental illness”. I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches in my work, including psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic perspectives, along with holistic and systemic approaches.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with an extensive background in mental health to include inpatient, outpatient, forensics, geriatric, and adolescent. I completed my master's degree from Northern Kentucky University. My passion for psychiatry is based on my strong and genuine interest in helping you achieve “mental wellness” rather than focusing on “mental illness”. I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches in my work, including psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic perspectives, along with holistic and systemic approaches.
(804) 571-7656 View (804) 571-7656
Photo of Dr. Catherine Ben-Agu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Dr. Catherine Ben-Agu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Catherine Ben-Agu is a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 13 years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Touro University where she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); she also attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing (PMHNP). Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems.
Dr. Catherine Ben-Agu is a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 13 years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Touro University where she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); she also attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing (PMHNP). Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems.
(804) 531-5822 View (804) 531-5822
Photo of Amanda Miller, Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
Amanda Miller
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
Online Only
Welcome! Whether you are a business executive, professional athlete, actor, college student, hard working Mom or someone who just needs some support- I am here for you! Specializing in psychotherapy, life coaching and medication management, I want to help you feel and function at your best self. This is a judgement free zone and safe place where we work together to achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you!
Welcome! Whether you are a business executive, professional athlete, actor, college student, hard working Mom or someone who just needs some support- I am here for you! Specializing in psychotherapy, life coaching and medication management, I want to help you feel and function at your best self. This is a judgement free zone and safe place where we work together to achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you!
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Photo of Amaechi Egbujo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amaechi Egbujo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my approach to providing mental healthcare is patient-centered, holistic, and evidence-based. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients, ensuring that they feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, by considering biological, psychological, and social factors in their mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my approach to providing mental healthcare is patient-centered, holistic, and evidence-based. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients, ensuring that they feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, by considering biological, psychological, and social factors in their mental health.
(804) 552-3794 View (804) 552-3794
Photo of Kelly F. Cook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Kelly F. Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Text/call 973-298-0812. You deserve to live an inspired, fulfilling, purposeful life. I treat adults with mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and others. Utilizing a multi-dimensional wellness model to holistically address mental illnesses, I offer individualized treatment plans that encompass mindfulness-based practices and psychopharmacology.
Text/call 973-298-0812. You deserve to live an inspired, fulfilling, purposeful life. I treat adults with mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and others. Utilizing a multi-dimensional wellness model to holistically address mental illnesses, I offer individualized treatment plans that encompass mindfulness-based practices and psychopharmacology.
(973) 298-0812 View (973) 298-0812
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 Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Richmond, VA 23220
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Patricia Amankwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Patricia Amankwa PMHNP.As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing holistic and patient-centered care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. My approach is rooted in the belief that mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and I strive to create a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment for my patients. I utilize evidence-based practices and collaborate with patients to develop personalized treatment plans, considering their unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and personal goals.
Patricia Amankwa PMHNP.As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing holistic and patient-centered care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. My approach is rooted in the belief that mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and I strive to create a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment for my patients. I utilize evidence-based practices and collaborate with patients to develop personalized treatment plans, considering their unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and personal goals.
(804) 465-7836 View (804) 465-7836
Photo of Lis Collins - Mountain Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Mountain Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP, -BC
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
For many people struggling with mental health issues, psychiatry leaves them feeling unseen and stuck in a frustrating loop, never getting the attention, focus, and depth of care they deserve. I help uncover and treat the root causes of their mental health issues, so they can build a strong foundation for mental wellness and break their reliance on medications. Offering functional, integrative, and conventional psychiatry to children, adolescents and adults. Providing thorough psychiatric assessments, alternatives to medications, and holistic, high-touch care.
For many people struggling with mental health issues, psychiatry leaves them feeling unseen and stuck in a frustrating loop, never getting the attention, focus, and depth of care they deserve. I help uncover and treat the root causes of their mental health issues, so they can build a strong foundation for mental wellness and break their reliance on medications. Offering functional, integrative, and conventional psychiatry to children, adolescents and adults. Providing thorough psychiatric assessments, alternatives to medications, and holistic, high-touch care.
(804) 207-4235 View (804) 207-4235
Photo of Dexter Lett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Dexter Lett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Richmond, VA 23225
My ideal client is someone seeking clarity and stability in their mental health. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma, impacting their relationships, work, and overall well-being. They need a provider who listens, educates, and collaborates on a personalized treatment plan. Their goals include emotional balance, improved focus, better coping strategies, and greater confidence in managing their mental health. Ultimately, they want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make meaningful progress in their lives.
My ideal client is someone seeking clarity and stability in their mental health. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma, impacting their relationships, work, and overall well-being. They need a provider who listens, educates, and collaborates on a personalized treatment plan. Their goals include emotional balance, improved focus, better coping strategies, and greater confidence in managing their mental health. Ultimately, they want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make meaningful progress in their lives.
(804) 589-4607 View (804) 589-4607
Photo of Leanne Hyler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Leanne Hyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Richmond, VA 23225
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
(804) 376-8795 View (804) 376-8795
Photo of Kelly Cook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Kelly Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Richmond, VA 23226
Kelly Cook, MSN, MFA, PMHNP-BC, provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adults across Virginia. She integrates narrative psychotherapy, self-concept work, and psychopharmacology to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and mood disorders. Kelly helps individuals navigate identity shifts, career changes, and reintegration challenges. Her approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and narrative techniques. With backgrounds in creative writing and nursing, she brings a holistic, empathetic perspective to treatment.
Kelly Cook, MSN, MFA, PMHNP-BC, provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adults across Virginia. She integrates narrative psychotherapy, self-concept work, and psychopharmacology to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and mood disorders. Kelly helps individuals navigate identity shifts, career changes, and reintegration challenges. Her approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and narrative techniques. With backgrounds in creative writing and nursing, she brings a holistic, empathetic perspective to treatment.
(804) 913-2679 View (804) 913-2679
Photo of Dr. Kemberly Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Dr. Kemberly Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Richmond, VA 23229
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the significance of trust and the impact is has on the outcomes we achieve together. I am fully aware that trust is not granted easily; it is earned through transparency, reliability, and consistently delivering exceptional results. My upmost priority is to earn your trust through my actions. words, and dedication to you as my client. Thank you for considering me as your Mental Health partner. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with you and build a strong, trusting relationship.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand the significance of trust and the impact is has on the outcomes we achieve together. I am fully aware that trust is not granted easily; it is earned through transparency, reliability, and consistently delivering exceptional results. My upmost priority is to earn your trust through my actions. words, and dedication to you as my client. Thank you for considering me as your Mental Health partner. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with you and build a strong, trusting relationship.
(804) 494-5106 View (804) 494-5106
Photo of Amy Fehrmann, Psychiatrist, MD
Amy Fehrmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hi! I'm Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Hi! I'm Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
(804) 391-8994 View (804) 391-8994

See more therapy options for Richmond

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA

200+

Average cost per session

$187

Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
77% Trauma and PTSD
75% ADHD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
85% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Richmond, VA see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Richmond?

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.