Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA

Photo of Dr. Robert F Busch - LifeStance Health - Virginia Beach, Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(757) 378-0366 View (757) 378-0366
Photo of Heather Hall Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Heather Hall Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
My ideal patient believes there is a better way to thrive; not just live, but is unsure of the steps needed to achieve this goal. They are open to an inclusive, thorough, approach tailored to where they are now and where they want to be in the future. I offer an approach to mental wellness involving nutrition, exercise, lifestyle modifications, and if necessary, medication. I aim to establish balance in the divergent complexities of modern life & guide patients to a sense overall stability; so, when the inevitable storm passes through their lives, they can maintain the course.
My ideal patient believes there is a better way to thrive; not just live, but is unsure of the steps needed to achieve this goal. They are open to an inclusive, thorough, approach tailored to where they are now and where they want to be in the future. I offer an approach to mental wellness involving nutrition, exercise, lifestyle modifications, and if necessary, medication. I aim to establish balance in the divergent complexities of modern life & guide patients to a sense overall stability; so, when the inevitable storm passes through their lives, they can maintain the course.
(757) 863-4328 View (757) 863-4328
Photo of Mary Crutchfield - Leva Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Leva Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
We are providers that believe in the mind body connection. We want to address all parts of you, seeing you as a whole person: body, mind, and soul. We acknowledge that sometimes medications are necessary and we integrate our medical background into your care when needed. We know sometimes medications are not necessary and other valuable healing options are available to you. You may come without knowing your diagnosis and need clarity, you may want to learn how to process and release pent up emotions, or you may just need your medications refills. We are here to support all those needs and your personal goals.
We are providers that believe in the mind body connection. We want to address all parts of you, seeing you as a whole person: body, mind, and soul. We acknowledge that sometimes medications are necessary and we integrate our medical background into your care when needed. We know sometimes medications are not necessary and other valuable healing options are available to you. You may come without knowing your diagnosis and need clarity, you may want to learn how to process and release pent up emotions, or you may just need your medications refills. We are here to support all those needs and your personal goals.
(757) 347-4017 View (757) 347-4017
Photo of Denayer Mueller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, NP
Denayer Mueller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, NP
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluation visits and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting daily optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today.. We offer affordable rates-Full Psychiatric Evals $199, Follow-up visits $85-$109. Also accepting many insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluation visits and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting daily optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today.. We offer affordable rates-Full Psychiatric Evals $199, Follow-up visits $85-$109. Also accepting many insurance plans.
(757) 960-3270 View (757) 960-3270
Photo of Matthew Sachs, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBA
Matthew Sachs
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBA
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
I provide ADHD treatment WITHOUT having to go get extra, needless testing from another psychologist. Diagnosis and treatment both are done by me in one appointment! I'm a double-boarded Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatrist. I run a cash-based telehealth practice. My sub-specialty is ADHD, but I can help with any issue from A-Z. I have great computer software that puts the patient in charge of their treatment. We can do everything online: scheduling appointments, complete forms, communicate, electronically prescribe, have our interview, and discuss treatment, all from the comforts of your phone or computer.
I provide ADHD treatment WITHOUT having to go get extra, needless testing from another psychologist. Diagnosis and treatment both are done by me in one appointment! I'm a double-boarded Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatrist. I run a cash-based telehealth practice. My sub-specialty is ADHD, but I can help with any issue from A-Z. I have great computer software that puts the patient in charge of their treatment. We can do everything online: scheduling appointments, complete forms, communicate, electronically prescribe, have our interview, and discuss treatment, all from the comforts of your phone or computer.
(757) 210-7514 View (757) 210-7514
Photo of Natalie Piedt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Natalie Piedt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Accepting new clients! Offering evening & weekend hours! As a bilingual psych NP, my goal is to create a safe, comfortable space—paired with my dry sense of humor (and Meg Thee Stallion references)—to remind you that YOU lead the way in your care. I provide psychiatric services and medication management with an integrative mind-body-soul approach. I won’t push meds or make you relive your trauma. I’m here to empower you, remind you of your strengths, and be your biggest hype-woman as we work toward the best version of you!
Accepting new clients! Offering evening & weekend hours! As a bilingual psych NP, my goal is to create a safe, comfortable space—paired with my dry sense of humor (and Meg Thee Stallion references)—to remind you that YOU lead the way in your care. I provide psychiatric services and medication management with an integrative mind-body-soul approach. I won’t push meds or make you relive your trauma. I’m here to empower you, remind you of your strengths, and be your biggest hype-woman as we work toward the best version of you!
(757) 267-9529 View (757) 267-9529
Photo of Liliana A Kim - Aria Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aria Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Accepting New Patients! At Aria Psychiatry, we prioritize a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatric care, providing our patients with compassionate and personalized mental health services. Our team aims to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can flourish. With a focus on individuals' unique needs, we offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy, facilitating their journey toward mental wellness.
Accepting New Patients! At Aria Psychiatry, we prioritize a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatric care, providing our patients with compassionate and personalized mental health services. Our team aims to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can flourish. With a focus on individuals' unique needs, we offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy, facilitating their journey toward mental wellness.
(757) 520-8457 View (757) 520-8457
Photo of Amy Fehrmann, Psychiatrist, MD
Amy Fehrmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
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.
(757) 997-1967 View (757) 997-1967
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(757) 530-7264 View (757) 530-7264
Photo of Katharine W Heatwole - Ocean Psychiatric Group, P.C., Psychiatrist, MD
Ocean Psychiatric Group, P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
(757) 799-4575 View (757) 799-4575
Photo of Natalia Cameron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Natalia Cameron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Natalia Cameron is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2017. Natalia believes mental wellness should be addressed in a holistic and supportive manner. She is a fluent Spanish speaker and is proud to provide culturally competent care to all. Natalia's idea of self-care consists of hanging out with her dogs and drinking coffee at a bookstore.
Natalia Cameron is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2017. Natalia believes mental wellness should be addressed in a holistic and supportive manner. She is a fluent Spanish speaker and is proud to provide culturally competent care to all. Natalia's idea of self-care consists of hanging out with her dogs and drinking coffee at a bookstore.
(757) 992-8817 View (757) 992-8817
Photo of Javier Way - TrueWay Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
TrueWay Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Here at TrueWay we love to help people who are struggling mentally and need a sense of direction. You don’t need to know the exact cause of the underlying issue quite yet - that’s what we are here to help you figure out. Once you are able to identify the trigger and stressors in your life; you are better able to manage them. Whether that is with medications, nutrition, supplements, or talk therapy. At TrueWay we are here to help you find your way to mental wellness.
Here at TrueWay we love to help people who are struggling mentally and need a sense of direction. You don’t need to know the exact cause of the underlying issue quite yet - that’s what we are here to help you figure out. Once you are able to identify the trigger and stressors in your life; you are better able to manage them. Whether that is with medications, nutrition, supplements, or talk therapy. At TrueWay we are here to help you find your way to mental wellness.
(757) 571-8184 View (757) 571-8184
Photo of Amanda Johnson - A New Day Healthcare, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
A New Day Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy alone is not always enough to improve mental health. Medication alone or medication in conjunction with therapy can help to stabilize many mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. Amanda sees clients 16 years of age and above and is proud to create an inclusive experience to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and backgrounds.
Therapy alone is not always enough to improve mental health. Medication alone or medication in conjunction with therapy can help to stabilize many mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders. Amanda sees clients 16 years of age and above and is proud to create an inclusive experience to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and backgrounds.
(757) 210-6562 View (757) 210-6562
Photo of Louisa Ayafor, Psychiatrist, MD
Louisa Ayafor
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Throughout my career as a Psychiatrist, I have been privileged to work with people across a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, from anxiety and mood disorders to complex trauma, thought disorders, and personality disorders. These experiences have taught me that every person’s journey is different and that effective treatment requires medical expertise and the ability to listen effectively and appropriately respond to each person’s needs. I aim to offer a non-judgmental environment where individuals can feel comfortable seeking help and create a welcoming space where patients feel heard, understood, and supported.
Throughout my career as a Psychiatrist, I have been privileged to work with people across a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, from anxiety and mood disorders to complex trauma, thought disorders, and personality disorders. These experiences have taught me that every person’s journey is different and that effective treatment requires medical expertise and the ability to listen effectively and appropriately respond to each person’s needs. I aim to offer a non-judgmental environment where individuals can feel comfortable seeking help and create a welcoming space where patients feel heard, understood, and supported.
(757) 302-1137 View (757) 302-1137
Photo of Seliat Dosunmu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Seliat Dosunmu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Dr. Seliat Dosunmu, FNP, PMHNP, DNP, is a highly experienced healthcare provider with over twelve years of dedicated service in nursing. With advanced degrees in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health from Brandman University, she is uniquely equipped to offer comprehensive care that addresses the mental, emotional, and physical health of her patients. Her approach is grounded in compassion, scientific knowledge, and a deep commitment to helping others.
Dr. Seliat Dosunmu, FNP, PMHNP, DNP, is a highly experienced healthcare provider with over twelve years of dedicated service in nursing. With advanced degrees in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health from Brandman University, she is uniquely equipped to offer comprehensive care that addresses the mental, emotional, and physical health of her patients. Her approach is grounded in compassion, scientific knowledge, and a deep commitment to helping others.
(757) 601-5031 View (757) 601-5031
Photo of Eric Lange, Physician Assistant, MPA, PA-C
Eric Lange
Physician Assistant, MPA, PA-C
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Accepting new patients. Evening hours available.
I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Accepting new patients. Evening hours available.
(757) 982-2609 View (757) 982-2609
Photo of Natasha Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Natasha Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Natasha Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has an MSN, APRN, and PMHNP-BC from Walden University. Natasha's treatment style is unique in that she takes the time to get to know the client holistically upon initial interview and devises the least restrictive treatment plan with the patient. Natasha is very down to earth and outgoing and has several professional and personal experiences from which she bases her treatment upon.
Natasha Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has an MSN, APRN, and PMHNP-BC from Walden University. Natasha's treatment style is unique in that she takes the time to get to know the client holistically upon initial interview and devises the least restrictive treatment plan with the patient. Natasha is very down to earth and outgoing and has several professional and personal experiences from which she bases her treatment upon.
(757) 600-0272 View (757) 600-0272
Photo of Ruth Mena Akyatan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth Mena Akyatan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating mental health challenges on your own. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in helping clients with a wide range of disorders in children, adolescents, and adults help them find relief from ADHD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, PTSD, Acute Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Major Depression Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders, trauma, and complex life stressors.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating mental health challenges on your own. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in helping clients with a wide range of disorders in children, adolescents, and adults help them find relief from ADHD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, PTSD, Acute Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Major Depression Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders, trauma, and complex life stressors.
(757) 209-9146 View (757) 209-9146
Photo of Sheryl Arrington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sheryl Arrington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Life can be overwhelming and stressful at times, and it may leave you feeling as if you're all alone in the world, but know your are not alone and you are important. Asking for help may be hard, but you are here and that is the first step. I would like to help you, lets collaborate, and come up with a plan to help you feel better about yourself and your life. My name is Sheryl Arrington I am board certified mental health nurse practitioner that is currently accepting new patients. I am dedicated to providing compassionate mental health services. I have 15 years plus of healthcare experience.
Life can be overwhelming and stressful at times, and it may leave you feeling as if you're all alone in the world, but know your are not alone and you are important. Asking for help may be hard, but you are here and that is the first step. I would like to help you, lets collaborate, and come up with a plan to help you feel better about yourself and your life. My name is Sheryl Arrington I am board certified mental health nurse practitioner that is currently accepting new patients. I am dedicated to providing compassionate mental health services. I have 15 years plus of healthcare experience.
(757) 664-9700 View (757) 664-9700
Photo of Monica Riffey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Monica Riffey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Online Only
Dr. Riffey is currently accepting NEW patients. As a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through life's many challenges. I work with you to identify and treat mental health disorders, like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I enjoy working with my clients to improve their to create treatment plans that work for them! I offer compassionate and personalized sessions virtually to help you on your journey to wellness. My approach is warm, personalized, evidence-based, and focused on your unique needs.
Dr. Riffey is currently accepting NEW patients. As a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through life's many challenges. I work with you to identify and treat mental health disorders, like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I enjoy working with my clients to improve their to create treatment plans that work for them! I offer compassionate and personalized sessions virtually to help you on your journey to wellness. My approach is warm, personalized, evidence-based, and focused on your unique needs.
(757) 702-3418 View (757) 702-3418

See more therapy options for Virginia Beach

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
93% Anxiety
75% Bipolar Disorder
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management
72% ADHD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Virginia Beach, VA see their clients

51% Online Only
49% 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 Virginia Beach?

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.