Psychiatrists in West End, VA

Photo of Toni Plummer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toni Plummer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
I am Toni Plummer, and I am a Certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner. I believe in empowering individuals to manage various psychiatric conditions. I provide a person-centered holistic approach to mental health care. My medication recommendations are based on evidence-based best practice research. I complete a holistic assessment that I may help you identify psychosocial factors which may contribute to your current mood state. My communication style is honest, direct, and empathetic. I encourage people I work with to provide similar communication in working with me so that I may best serve them.
(804) 207-7215 View (804) 207-7215
Photo of Oluwaseyi Soetan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Oluwaseyi Soetan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
(804) 494-4266 View (804) 494-4266
Photo of Sumiah Kabir, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sumiah Kabir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing individualized care that addresses both the mind and body. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. My healthcare career began five years ago as an oncology nurse, where I saw firsthand how emotional and physical healing are deeply connected. Through my experiences, I developed a profound passion for mental health care. I recognize that true wellness requires addressing the whole person—not just symptoms.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing individualized care that addresses both the mind and body. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. My healthcare career began five years ago as an oncology nurse, where I saw firsthand how emotional and physical healing are deeply connected. Through my experiences, I developed a profound passion for mental health care. I recognize that true wellness requires addressing the whole person—not just symptoms.
(804) 391-0073 View (804) 391-0073
Photo of Stephanie Porter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome and Congratulations! Sometimes the hardest part of getting the help we all need is finding the strength to ask for it. If you or a loved one struggles with a mental health issue, Stephanie would love to help you work through this difficult situation. Stephanie is a mother to five children and has personally experienced the distress that mental health issues can cause in close relationships. She takes joy in helping others find ways to successfully manage and even overcome their mental health issues. It would be an honor to help you find peace of mind in your mental health.
Welcome and Congratulations! Sometimes the hardest part of getting the help we all need is finding the strength to ask for it. If you or a loved one struggles with a mental health issue, Stephanie would love to help you work through this difficult situation. Stephanie is a mother to five children and has personally experienced the distress that mental health issues can cause in close relationships. She takes joy in helping others find ways to successfully manage and even overcome their mental health issues. It would be an honor to help you find peace of mind in your mental health.
(434) 478-4703 View (434) 478-4703
Photo of Michael Chon, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Chon
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I believe every person is unique, which is why I take a personalized and compassionate approach to care. I create thoughtful, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs and goals. Whether I'm working with a young child or an adult, my focus is always on supporting long-term mental wellness and helping each person move through life with greater resilience and confidence. Michael is passionate about understanding the human mind and helping others navigate life’s mental health challenges.
I believe every person is unique, which is why I take a personalized and compassionate approach to care. I create thoughtful, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs and goals. Whether I'm working with a young child or an adult, my focus is always on supporting long-term mental wellness and helping each person move through life with greater resilience and confidence. Michael is passionate about understanding the human mind and helping others navigate life’s mental health challenges.
(804) 781-3549 View (804) 781-3549
Photo of Esther Shadare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Shadare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Dr. Esther Shadare, commonly addressed as Dr. S, Dr. E, or Dr. Shadare (Sha-Dah-Ray). I obtained my certification and licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2015 shortly after graduating from Bowie State University, Bowie, MD followed by my DNP with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Brandman University, Irvine, California in 2017. I have devoted my career to advancing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about serving diverse populations and committed to a holistic approach to ensure individualized, patient-centered care.
I am Dr. Esther Shadare, commonly addressed as Dr. S, Dr. E, or Dr. Shadare (Sha-Dah-Ray). I obtained my certification and licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in 2015 shortly after graduating from Bowie State University, Bowie, MD followed by my DNP with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Brandman University, Irvine, California in 2017. I have devoted my career to advancing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. I am passionate about serving diverse populations and committed to a holistic approach to ensure individualized, patient-centered care.
(571) 516-3449 View (571) 516-3449
Photo of Harpreet Kang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Harpreet Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
Hello, my name is Harpreet Kang, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about supporting my clients' mental wellness journey. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field with a client-centered approach. I will meet you with compassion and empathy to identify the best treatment plan for you.
(757) 260-3356 View (757) 260-3356
Photo of Manjit Sangha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Manjit Sangha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! Accepting New Patients! . My mission is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms, by integrating holistic psychiatry with a comprehensive approach that includes medications, therapy, and complementary/alternative treatments. I am committed to creating a healing environment where each individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being is nurtured. I treats all psychiatric issues, with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD,OCD, insomnia, addiction and other mood disorders. I collaborate closely with individuals to find the most appropriate and effective medication regimen.
Welcome! Accepting New Patients! . My mission is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms, by integrating holistic psychiatry with a comprehensive approach that includes medications, therapy, and complementary/alternative treatments. I am committed to creating a healing environment where each individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being is nurtured. I treats all psychiatric issues, with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD,OCD, insomnia, addiction and other mood disorders. I collaborate closely with individuals to find the most appropriate and effective medication regimen.
(804) 534-2745 View (804) 534-2745
Photo of Amber Dise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amber Dise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns. Addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. Amber works with families to create a calming and trusting environment. Amber offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients' individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for.
Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns. Addressing mental health issues can be scary, especially for children and parents. Amber works with families to create a calming and trusting environment. Amber offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients' individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for.
(571) 202-7066 View (571) 202-7066
Photo of Virginia Bradley - VHAO Mind Wellness and Treatment Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
VHAO Mind Wellness and Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
We are passionately dedicated towards helping individuals receive timely and quality mental health treatment. Our goal is to assist individuals through struggles, challenges, and to improve mental wellness. With over 20 years of psychiatric experience and a commitment to understanding the human mind, we are here to guide you on your journey by offering medications that can help relief, reduce, and alleviate symptoms paired with talk therapy to unlock healing for past emotional trauma. Mental wellness is an ongoing journey, we focus on helping individuals achieve mental stability, personal growth and self-discovery.
We are passionately dedicated towards helping individuals receive timely and quality mental health treatment. Our goal is to assist individuals through struggles, challenges, and to improve mental wellness. With over 20 years of psychiatric experience and a commitment to understanding the human mind, we are here to guide you on your journey by offering medications that can help relief, reduce, and alleviate symptoms paired with talk therapy to unlock healing for past emotional trauma. Mental wellness is an ongoing journey, we focus on helping individuals achieve mental stability, personal growth and self-discovery.
(276) 242-4813 View (276) 242-4813
Photo of Mariah Eze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Mariah Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Mariah. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings or labile moods? I am a very compassionate board-certified mental health provider that utilizes holistic and psychopharmacological evidence-based approaches in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders.
Hi there, I'm Mariah. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings or labile moods? I am a very compassionate board-certified mental health provider that utilizes holistic and psychopharmacological evidence-based approaches in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders.
(571) 368-6828 View (571) 368-6828
Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chinyere Ugwanyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
Chinyere is a Board-Certified and Licensed Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 12 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and medication management to patients with varying degrees of mental illness.
(804) 373-4900 View (804) 373-4900
Photo of Dr. Temitope Akinladenu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I am a doctoral prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I have a decade of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
(703) 291-6422 View (703) 291-6422
Photo of Grace Soistman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Soistman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of George Mason University. I am Filipino-American with years of clinical experience in Asia, the Middle East, and the United States. My background has given me firsthand insight into the disparities people face (social, economic, cultural) and how these can lead to profound mental distress.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of George Mason University. I am Filipino-American with years of clinical experience in Asia, the Middle East, and the United States. My background has given me firsthand insight into the disparities people face (social, economic, cultural) and how these can lead to profound mental distress.
(571) 556-8496 View (571) 556-8496
Photo of Rajni Sharma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rajni Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
Hi there, I am Rajni Sharma, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I studied at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania for my PMHNP degree, an FNP master’s degree at Chamberlin University, and a bachelor’s degree at American Sentinel University. I have been practicing for more than five years in behavior health and vulnerable subpopulations.
(571) 568-5768 View (571) 568-5768
Photo of Victor Nwagwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Victor Nwagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Victor Nwagwu is a doctorate-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in general nursing and mental health care practice, which spans across Canada and the US. I prioritize the mental well-being of my clients, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored to meet their unique needs. I am highly skilled, and I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace, healing, and growth.
Victor Nwagwu is a doctorate-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in general nursing and mental health care practice, which spans across Canada and the US. I prioritize the mental well-being of my clients, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and therapies tailored to meet their unique needs. I am highly skilled, and I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can find solace, healing, and growth.
(703) 972-1895 View (703) 972-1895
Photo of Aisha A Gatling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN- RN
Aisha A Gatling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN- RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! My name is Aisha Gatling and I am a medication management provider. I attended Old Dominion University where I earned my Bachelor's in Biology/ Pre-medicine in 2009. In 2014 I redirected my focus and earned a second Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Norfolk State University. I spent five years bedside in ICU, dedicated to understanding the comprehensive components of patient care. In 2019, I returned to Walden University where I earned my Master's in Nursing with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Hi! My name is Aisha Gatling and I am a medication management provider. I attended Old Dominion University where I earned my Bachelor's in Biology/ Pre-medicine in 2009. In 2014 I redirected my focus and earned a second Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Norfolk State University. I spent five years bedside in ICU, dedicated to understanding the comprehensive components of patient care. In 2019, I returned to Walden University where I earned my Master's in Nursing with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(757) 780-5901 View (757) 780-5901
Photo of Trish Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Trish Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Thrishanna Clark. I am a nurse practitioner in Virginia. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I specialize in psychotherapy, medication management and holistic interventions. I treat various mental health conditions. My clients describe me as warm, knowledgeable and extremely approachable. My goal as a mental health professional is to simply help make you the best that you can be!
Hello, my name is Thrishanna Clark. I am a nurse practitioner in Virginia. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I specialize in psychotherapy, medication management and holistic interventions. I treat various mental health conditions. My clients describe me as warm, knowledgeable and extremely approachable. My goal as a mental health professional is to simply help make you the best that you can be!
(804) 465-7587 View (804) 465-7587
Photo of Saghi Tehran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Saghi Tehran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Nice to meet you! I'm a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, based in Virginia. I received my master's from the University of Virginia in addition I completed a one-year child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of California at San Diego. I find enjoyment in helping and providing resources so that children, adolescents, and adults may reach their full potential and be able to manage the demands of daily life.
Nice to meet you! I'm a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, based in Virginia. I received my master's from the University of Virginia in addition I completed a one-year child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of California at San Diego. I find enjoyment in helping and providing resources so that children, adolescents, and adults may reach their full potential and be able to manage the demands of daily life.
(804) 596-4758 View (804) 596-4758

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sydney Kiker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sydney Kiker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am so glad you are here. Hi, I’m Sydney. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing virtual care to adults across Virginia. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, binge eating disorder, PTSD, and support those facing life’s challenges. I also welcome clients seeking an LGBTQIA+ provider and offer ADHD testing for diagnosis and treatment. My goal is not just to prescribe medication and send you on your way — it’s to be a long-term, trusted partner in helping you achieve a happy and fulfilling life.
I am so glad you are here. Hi, I’m Sydney. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing virtual care to adults across Virginia. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, binge eating disorder, PTSD, and support those facing life’s challenges. I also welcome clients seeking an LGBTQIA+ provider and offer ADHD testing for diagnosis and treatment. My goal is not just to prescribe medication and send you on your way — it’s to be a long-term, trusted partner in helping you achieve a happy and fulfilling life.
(804) 375-5701 View (804) 375-5701

See more therapy options for West End

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in West End, VA

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in West End, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
79% Trauma and PTSD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
58% Grief
42% ADHD

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
84% Aetna
84% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in West End, VA see their clients

84% Online Only
16% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in West End?

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.