Psychiatrists in Virginia

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Photo of Michelle Millspaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle Millspaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
If you're a first responder or military member grappling with the weight of trauma, anxiety, or the relentless demands of your profession, you need more than just a therapist. You need a partner who understands the unique battles you face. That's where I come in. My approach isn't just clinical; it's deeply personal. Five years in the trauma bay taught me the raw reality of human resilience and the devastating impact of untreated stress. As a Navy wife, I live and breathe the military lifestyle, understanding its unique pressures and sacrifices. This isn't just a job for me; it's my mission.
If you're a first responder or military member grappling with the weight of trauma, anxiety, or the relentless demands of your profession, you need more than just a therapist. You need a partner who understands the unique battles you face. That's where I come in. My approach isn't just clinical; it's deeply personal. Five years in the trauma bay taught me the raw reality of human resilience and the devastating impact of untreated stress. As a Navy wife, I live and breathe the military lifestyle, understanding its unique pressures and sacrifices. This isn't just a job for me; it's my mission.
(757) 798-7904 View (757) 798-7904
Photo of Stephanie Davila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Davila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I understand that mental health is personal to each client and can have an enormous impact on your daily life when things are not going well. I respect each person as an individual and will work with you to reach your goal of improved mental health.
I understand that mental health is personal to each client and can have an enormous impact on your daily life when things are not going well. I respect each person as an individual and will work with you to reach your goal of improved mental health.
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Photo of Hazel Frasier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hazel Frasier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I have been dedicated to the medical field for 30 years with the last 15 years as a board certified family psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. In this forum, I will be caring for clients ages 13 and older. My approach to care is a holistic and humanistic approach. Yes, medication can be a part of maintaining mental health, but it is not the only part. Honest communication and respect are paramount in providing and receiving care. Additionally, my approach involves collaborating with clients to assist with achieving their highest potential, stabilizing, and maintaining mental health.
I have been dedicated to the medical field for 30 years with the last 15 years as a board certified family psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. In this forum, I will be caring for clients ages 13 and older. My approach to care is a holistic and humanistic approach. Yes, medication can be a part of maintaining mental health, but it is not the only part. Honest communication and respect are paramount in providing and receiving care. Additionally, my approach involves collaborating with clients to assist with achieving their highest potential, stabilizing, and maintaining mental health.
(804) 581-8527 View (804) 581-8527
Photo of Lydia Kawudha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Lydia Kawudha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Online Only
I know seeking help can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. I offer a safe, supportive, and holistic space where you can speak freely and feel heard. Together, we'll work toward healing, clarity, and lasting change in mind, body, and spirit. I take a holistic view of mental health, considering not just symptoms, but also the emotional, physical, social, cultural, and spiritual factors that influence well-being. This allows us to explore a wide range of supports, from medication management to lifestyle changes and therapeutic approaches. Above all, my care is patient centered. I believe in working with you not just for you.
I know seeking help can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. I offer a safe, supportive, and holistic space where you can speak freely and feel heard. Together, we'll work toward healing, clarity, and lasting change in mind, body, and spirit. I take a holistic view of mental health, considering not just symptoms, but also the emotional, physical, social, cultural, and spiritual factors that influence well-being. This allows us to explore a wide range of supports, from medication management to lifestyle changes and therapeutic approaches. Above all, my care is patient centered. I believe in working with you not just for you.
(540) 377-1809 View (540) 377-1809
Photo of Yasmin H Undeland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, FNP
Yasmin H Undeland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
My passion is to help women achieve wellness during some of the most difficult times of their lives. As a nurse practitioner, I consider and value a holistic approach when considering treatment goals. The transition to parenthood is a life changing experience with significant physical and psychological adjustments for the entire family. I focus on treating women's mental health spanning the premenstrual, perinatal, reproductive challenges, postpartum and perimenopausal periods. As a nurse practitioner I integrate evidence-based treatments with complementary therapies such as nutrition, lifestyle changes and behavioral coaching.
My passion is to help women achieve wellness during some of the most difficult times of their lives. As a nurse practitioner, I consider and value a holistic approach when considering treatment goals. The transition to parenthood is a life changing experience with significant physical and psychological adjustments for the entire family. I focus on treating women's mental health spanning the premenstrual, perinatal, reproductive challenges, postpartum and perimenopausal periods. As a nurse practitioner I integrate evidence-based treatments with complementary therapies such as nutrition, lifestyle changes and behavioral coaching.
(571) 506-7025 View (571) 506-7025
Photo of Miranda Chakos, Psychiatrist, MD
Miranda Chakos
Psychiatrist, MD
Suffolk, VA 23435
Dr. Miranda Chakos is an Adult Psychiatrist and Psychopharmacologist, with over 20 years of experience. She has extensive experience in treating patients with depression and other mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, psychological symptoms secondary to General Medical Disorder or chronic pain, somatoform disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Her approach is to conduct thorough mental health evaluations, including integration of laboratory, radiological and clinical findings, and prescribing appropriate pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment.
Dr. Miranda Chakos is an Adult Psychiatrist and Psychopharmacologist, with over 20 years of experience. She has extensive experience in treating patients with depression and other mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, psychological symptoms secondary to General Medical Disorder or chronic pain, somatoform disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Her approach is to conduct thorough mental health evaluations, including integration of laboratory, radiological and clinical findings, and prescribing appropriate pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment.
(757) 778-9458 View (757) 778-9458
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 Marlene Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Marlene Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Wirtz, VA 24184
Welcome, glad to see you’re reaching out for support; a sign of positive mental health! I have over 30 years’ experience in mental, physical and spiritual health care. I am certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice philosophy is holistic, embracing body, mind and spirit to allow for maximum well-being.
Welcome, glad to see you’re reaching out for support; a sign of positive mental health! I have over 30 years’ experience in mental, physical and spiritual health care. I am certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice philosophy is holistic, embracing body, mind and spirit to allow for maximum well-being.
(540) 402-1719 View (540) 402-1719
Photo of Nicole Edwards-Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Nicole Edwards-Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Richmond, VA 23235
Dr. Nicole Edwards Hamilton, DNP, PMHNP-BC, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over 24 years of nursing experience, Nicole is deeply passionate about supporting individuals struggling with psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia. She understands the complexities of these conditions and strives to provide comprehensive care that improves both symptom management and overall functioning. She is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care to individuals in need.
Dr. Nicole Edwards Hamilton, DNP, PMHNP-BC, holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over 24 years of nursing experience, Nicole is deeply passionate about supporting individuals struggling with psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia. She understands the complexities of these conditions and strives to provide comprehensive care that improves both symptom management and overall functioning. She is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care to individuals in need.
(804) 390-8637 View (804) 390-8637
Photo of Dr. Rashida Gray, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Rashida Gray
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23294
2025 Richmond Top Doc: Rashida Gray, MD Have you been searching for a psychiatrist who listens and partners with you to improve your mental health? Are you feeling unsatisfied with your current treatment? Or, maybe you are looking for a specialist-trained physician to help you understand your mental health challenges and provide a path forward to improved mental well-being. If the above resonates with you, then Gray MD Psychiatry is the right choice for you. We can work together to help improve your depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, stress, or trauma.
2025 Richmond Top Doc: Rashida Gray, MD Have you been searching for a psychiatrist who listens and partners with you to improve your mental health? Are you feeling unsatisfied with your current treatment? Or, maybe you are looking for a specialist-trained physician to help you understand your mental health challenges and provide a path forward to improved mental well-being. If the above resonates with you, then Gray MD Psychiatry is the right choice for you. We can work together to help improve your depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, stress, or trauma.
(804) 293-2519 View (804) 293-2519
Photo of Stephanie Waggel, Psychiatrist, MD, MS, PMH-C
Stephanie Waggel
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Allow me to help improve your life. I am a psychiatrist in Reston, Virginia with degrees in psychology, biology, and medicine. I can see patients from anywhere in Virginia. I have 17+ years of experience in mental health. I am one of three physicians in Virginia trained in perinatal mental health. My special focus is on women, mood, anxiety, ADHD testing AND treatment, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, and more! I am a mother, author, motivational speaker, teacher, cancer survivor, marathon runner, medical student advisor, martial artist and founder of Improve Medical Culture. Learn more at www.ImproveLifePLLC.com
Allow me to help improve your life. I am a psychiatrist in Reston, Virginia with degrees in psychology, biology, and medicine. I can see patients from anywhere in Virginia. I have 17+ years of experience in mental health. I am one of three physicians in Virginia trained in perinatal mental health. My special focus is on women, mood, anxiety, ADHD testing AND treatment, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, and more! I am a mother, author, motivational speaker, teacher, cancer survivor, marathon runner, medical student advisor, martial artist and founder of Improve Medical Culture. Learn more at www.ImproveLifePLLC.com
(703) 763-0884 View (703) 763-0884
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
Online Only
Accepting new patients in Virginia for telehealth visits and medication management. I am board-certified treat Children and Adults. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Offering affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups -$85-$109. Accepting many insurances.
Accepting new patients in Virginia for telehealth visits and medication management. I am board-certified treat Children and Adults. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Offering affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups -$85-$109. Accepting many insurances.
(802) 210-1802 View (802) 210-1802
Photo of Angela Allen-Blaine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angela Allen-Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Richmond, VA 23230
Angela Allen-Blaine is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a compassionate, client-centered approach to mental health care. She began her nursing journey at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and went on to complete her Master of Science in Nursing at Liberty University. She later received her post-master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the University of Cincinnati and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
Angela Allen-Blaine is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a compassionate, client-centered approach to mental health care. She began her nursing journey at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and went on to complete her Master of Science in Nursing at Liberty University. She later received her post-master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the University of Cincinnati and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
(804) 568-9213 View (804) 568-9213
Photo of Elia Tessera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Elia Tessera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Aldie, VA 20105
I'm committed to continuous learning to provide evidence-based treatment modalities. I firmly believe in a holistic approach to health and I see the importance of mental health in achieving your optimal overall health and well-being. When I practice I want decision making to be shared, working together as a team.
I'm committed to continuous learning to provide evidence-based treatment modalities. I firmly believe in a holistic approach to health and I see the importance of mental health in achieving your optimal overall health and well-being. When I practice I want decision making to be shared, working together as a team.
(571) 946-7499 View (571) 946-7499
Photo of Khursheed Khine, Psychiatrist, MD
Khursheed Khine
Psychiatrist, MD
Alexandria, VA 22311
Not accepting new clients
***Please note that Dr. Khine is currently not accepting new patients in order to serve her existing patients better*** My goal is to combine empathy with excellent clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Your privacy is highly valued, thus treatment is provided in a safe and confidential manner.
***Please note that Dr. Khine is currently not accepting new patients in order to serve her existing patients better*** My goal is to combine empathy with excellent clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Your privacy is highly valued, thus treatment is provided in a safe and confidential manner.
(703) 646-8098 View (703) 646-8098
Photo of Tegan Snigier, Psychiatrist, PsyD
Tegan Snigier
Psychiatrist, PsyD
Online Only
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has lived in both Virginia and Massachusetts. I have experience working with clients of all ages and their families.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has lived in both Virginia and Massachusetts. I have experience working with clients of all ages and their families.
(804) 206-5893 View (804) 206-5893
Photo of Alexis C. Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, FNP-BC
Alexis C. Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, FNP-BC
Online Only
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
(540) 351-9672 View (540) 351-9672
Photo of Shenise Seabrook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Shenise Seabrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Do you take time for your mental health care needs? You should never feel alone when it comes to getting mental health treatment. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in providing individualistic and holistic mental health care with compassion. I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, sleep, and mood disorders while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Do you take time for your mental health care needs? You should never feel alone when it comes to getting mental health treatment. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in providing individualistic and holistic mental health care with compassion. I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, sleep, and mood disorders while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
(571) 517-2721 View (571) 517-2721
Photo of Dr. Andrew Buchholz, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Andrew Buchholz
Psychiatrist, DO
Newport News, VA 23606
Dr. Andrew Buchholz, MPh FAPa, helps individuals in Virginia navigate mental health challenges through compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a prescriber at LifeStance Health, he works with adults, teens, and seniors, offering medication management and individual therapy tailored to each person’s unique story and clinical needs. With expertise in treating complex conditions, Dr. Buchholz brings a thoughtful, integrative approach to care for patients across diverse backgrounds, including military veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and first responders. Dr.
Dr. Andrew Buchholz, MPh FAPa, helps individuals in Virginia navigate mental health challenges through compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a prescriber at LifeStance Health, he works with adults, teens, and seniors, offering medication management and individual therapy tailored to each person’s unique story and clinical needs. With expertise in treating complex conditions, Dr. Buchholz brings a thoughtful, integrative approach to care for patients across diverse backgrounds, including military veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and first responders. Dr.
(757) 260-5010 View (757) 260-5010
Photo of Kehinde Oyekan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP , PMH
Kehinde Oyekan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP , PMH
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
As a Board certified Nurse Practitioner practicing in Psychiatry, my role includes getting to know your whole life story, your current concerns as well as diagnosis, and to figure out together what treatment approach makes most sense for you. My practice approach is a mix of prescribing up to date psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification- diet, exercise, etc. I strongly believe a patient and his or her provider need to have a two-way relationship. I will always discuss with you what medication options are available, their risks.
As a Board certified Nurse Practitioner practicing in Psychiatry, my role includes getting to know your whole life story, your current concerns as well as diagnosis, and to figure out together what treatment approach makes most sense for you. My practice approach is a mix of prescribing up to date psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification- diet, exercise, etc. I strongly believe a patient and his or her provider need to have a two-way relationship. I will always discuss with you what medication options are available, their risks.
(571) 450-9021 View (571) 450-9021

See more therapy options for Virginia

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Virginia who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
77% Bipolar Disorder
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% ADHD
72% Medication Management
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Aetna
84% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Virginia see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Virginia?

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.