Psychiatrists in Troutville, VA

Photo of Joseph W. Iskandar, DO, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Joseph W. Iskandar
Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Verified Verified
Troutville, VA 24175
Dr. Iskandar is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is also a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Osteopathic Association, and the Psychiatric Society of Virginia.
Dr. Iskandar is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is also a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Osteopathic Association, and the Psychiatric Society of Virginia.
(540) 324-2992 View (540) 324-2992

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Sims, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(571) 410-3655 View (571) 410-3655
Photo of Jenny Wang, PMHNP, FNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenny Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24024
With over 10 years experience, I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and Children/adult/gerontology primary care. I value holistic approach to individual’s physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health.
With over 10 years experience, I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and Children/adult/gerontology primary care. I value holistic approach to individual’s physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health.
(540) 660-7746 View (540) 660-7746
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Michie Bolden - Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24017
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.
(540) 302-5712 View (540) 302-5712
Photo of Elspeth Gunnoe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elspeth Gunnoe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
Hello! Whatever brings you here today, I'm here to help. I have experience in treating a wide variety of illnesses, including but not limited to PTSD, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, peripartum disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, depression, adjustment disorders, and anxiety disorders. I also can help with feelings of burnout, overwhelm, and heightened stress.
Hello! Whatever brings you here today, I'm here to help. I have experience in treating a wide variety of illnesses, including but not limited to PTSD, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, peripartum disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, depression, adjustment disorders, and anxiety disorders. I also can help with feelings of burnout, overwhelm, and heightened stress.
(540) 264-3198 View (540) 264-3198
Photo of Elizabeth Onyejekwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24008
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people to treat conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people to treat conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
(540) 274-5245 View (540) 274-5245
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Helen Lancy, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24013  (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(703) 775-4077 View (703) 775-4077
Photo of Crystal Hicks, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24033
Accepting New patients! Crystal is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in providing psychiatric treatment and consultative care for very young children, adolescents, teens and adults. She brings over 17 years of nursing experience in the mental health field, including work in both inpatient, outpatient, and residential psychiatric settings. Crystal received her Master's of Nursing from the University of Virginia. She enjoys working with and helping individuals & families with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism, history of trauma, psychosis &mood disorders.
Accepting New patients! Crystal is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in providing psychiatric treatment and consultative care for very young children, adolescents, teens and adults. She brings over 17 years of nursing experience in the mental health field, including work in both inpatient, outpatient, and residential psychiatric settings. Crystal received her Master's of Nursing from the University of Virginia. She enjoys working with and helping individuals & families with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism, history of trauma, psychosis &mood disorders.
(434) 602-5864 View (434) 602-5864
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (Online Only)
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(833) 338-0567 View (833) 338-0567
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Temple Newbold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Temple Newbold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24013  (Online Only)
Temple Newbold is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) with over a decade of nursing experience in a variety of settings including oncology, palliative, geriatrics, urgent care, and veterans health. All these experiences helped build Temple’s skills in supporting people during difficult life transitions and challenges. Temple’s ideal patients are those who are seeking improvement in quality of life and are willing to embark on a collaborative journey to enhanced mental well-being.
Temple Newbold is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) with over a decade of nursing experience in a variety of settings including oncology, palliative, geriatrics, urgent care, and veterans health. All these experiences helped build Temple’s skills in supporting people during difficult life transitions and challenges. Temple’s ideal patients are those who are seeking improvement in quality of life and are willing to embark on a collaborative journey to enhanced mental well-being.
(540) 737-8447 View (540) 737-8447
Photo of Karen Ann Overmeyer, APRN-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Ann Overmeyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24003  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am so glad you are honoring yourself by seeking some help for the journey! You didn't come this far to only come this far! Now that you recognize that some new coping skills or behavioral changes might be helpful to improve your life, let's consider working together! Got a busy schedule? I can get you in quickly and have flexible hours. I'm offering telehealth daily and have evening sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to fit into your busy day! I am open to hours by request. I am currently credentialed with GrowTherapy.com for telehealth-only visits.
Welcome! I am so glad you are honoring yourself by seeking some help for the journey! You didn't come this far to only come this far! Now that you recognize that some new coping skills or behavioral changes might be helpful to improve your life, let's consider working together! Got a busy schedule? I can get you in quickly and have flexible hours. I'm offering telehealth daily and have evening sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to fit into your busy day! I am open to hours by request. I am currently credentialed with GrowTherapy.com for telehealth-only visits.
(804) 902-2136 View (804) 902-2136
Photo of Olivia Reichenbacker - Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brookside Psychiatric Specialists PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
New clients welcome! Are you a mom or soon to be mom who just isn't feeling like yourself? Are you feeling sad or empty and can’t figure out why? Are you having scary thoughts about something happening to your baby or children? You’re not alone. These are signs of depression and anxiety which are very common during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. You don’t need to wonder if it’s normal or try and get better on your own, and you don’t need to feel scared to tell someone what you’re going through. Treatment can help and there are specialized providers who understand your unique struggles.
(757) 997-2442 View (757) 997-2442
Photo of Adam Horn, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
(571) 536-6295 View (571) 536-6295
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24001
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services 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 services 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/
(571) 223-6226 View (571) 223-6226
Photo of Stephanie East, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie East
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24033
Stephanie is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric medication management for ages 10 and up.
Stephanie is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric medication management for ages 10 and up.
(434) 337-5790 View (434) 337-5790
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (Online Only)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Kevin Conley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kevin Conley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24001
Hello! My name is Kevin Conley and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience helping people with their mental heath. I'm passionate about helping improve their mental health and I use a compassionate and engaging approach that will allow you to feel heard, understood, and cared for after our first session.
Hello! My name is Kevin Conley and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience helping people with their mental heath. I'm passionate about helping improve their mental health and I use a compassionate and engaging approach that will allow you to feel heard, understood, and cared for after our first session.
(571) 586-1519 View (571) 586-1519

See more therapy options for Troutville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Troutville, VA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Troutville, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Chronic Pain

Gender breakdown

100% Male

How Psychiatrists in Troutville, VA see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Troutville?

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.