Psychiatrists in 22554
I am Akua Amponsah-Adjei, a passionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My journey began at James Madison University, where I honed the fundamentals of nursing, and it reached new heights with a graduate degree from George Washington University.
I am Akua Amponsah-Adjei, a passionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My journey began at James Madison University, where I honed the fundamentals of nursing, and it reached new heights with a graduate degree from George Washington University.
Holistic Psychiatry & Medical Ctr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
Gifty Awenanya is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience offering comprehensive patient care in the medical-surgical unit, long-term care, and behavioral health environments. Gifty works well with diverse patient populations and fosters trusting relationships to improve outcomes, provide a safe and supportive environment for patients, utilizing evidence-based interventions to promote healing and recovery.
Gifty Awenanya is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience offering comprehensive patient care in the medical-surgical unit, long-term care, and behavioral health environments. Gifty works well with diverse patient populations and fosters trusting relationships to improve outcomes, provide a safe and supportive environment for patients, utilizing evidence-based interventions to promote healing and recovery.
Dr. Doris Cudjoe Owusu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
Dr. Owusu is a dual-certified and licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia and Maryland. I have many years of experience working in healthcare and a background in working with young adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient, outpatient, and community nursing. I am committed to providing comprehensive individualized care by focusing on the needs and struggles of my patients, and together we develop a personalized care plan which fits the patient's needs.
Dr. Owusu is a dual-certified and licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia and Maryland. I have many years of experience working in healthcare and a background in working with young adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient, outpatient, and community nursing. I am committed to providing comprehensive individualized care by focusing on the needs and struggles of my patients, and together we develop a personalized care plan which fits the patient's needs.
As a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is on providing comprehensive and holistic care to individuals and families. My unique skill set allows me to address both physical and mental health concerns, providing a well-rounded approach to treatment. I am trained to perform physical exams, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders. I also have expertise in medication management, and can prescribe and monitor psychiatric medications as part of a treatment plan.
As a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is on providing comprehensive and holistic care to individuals and families. My unique skill set allows me to address both physical and mental health concerns, providing a well-rounded approach to treatment. I am trained to perform physical exams, make diagnoses, and develop treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders. I also have expertise in medication management, and can prescribe and monitor psychiatric medications as part of a treatment plan.
Accepting New Patients !... My name is Alice Sesay, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Grand Canyon University and earned my Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Walden University, Minnesota. I have over 5 years of experience working in healthcare with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health conditions.
Accepting New Patients !... My name is Alice Sesay, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Grand Canyon University and earned my Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Walden University, Minnesota. I have over 5 years of experience working in healthcare with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health conditions.
Mindfulvision Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554 (Online Only)
At Mindfulvision Psychiatry LLC, we understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique and deserves a tailored approach. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or any other mental health condition, our telehealth services are designed to meet you where you are, offering convenient and compassionate care from the comfort of your home. We recognize the importance of feeling understood and supported, and we are committed to providing a safe space where you can express your concerns and work towards a healthier state of mind.
At Mindfulvision Psychiatry LLC, we understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique and deserves a tailored approach. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or any other mental health condition, our telehealth services are designed to meet you where you are, offering convenient and compassionate care from the comfort of your home. We recognize the importance of feeling understood and supported, and we are committed to providing a safe space where you can express your concerns and work towards a healthier state of mind.
Kadija Conteh-Barrat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
Welcome to Barrat Behavioral Health & Consulting. I'm glad you are here! As a board-certified PMHNP and FNP, I believe in using a holistic, biopsychosocial, and collaborative approach to meet your behavioral health needs. I have over 8 years of experience in a variety of areas including primary care and diverse psychiatric and mental health care including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment disorders, and other psychiatric concerns. I help individuals struggling with mental health issues become the best version of themselves.
Welcome to Barrat Behavioral Health & Consulting. I'm glad you are here! As a board-certified PMHNP and FNP, I believe in using a holistic, biopsychosocial, and collaborative approach to meet your behavioral health needs. I have over 8 years of experience in a variety of areas including primary care and diverse psychiatric and mental health care including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment disorders, and other psychiatric concerns. I help individuals struggling with mental health issues become the best version of themselves.
Holistic Psychiatry & Medical Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS BOTH IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL! We deliver a compassionate and respectable care to all patients. Moreover, while managing your symptoms with medications, we also take into consideration your general well-being. Our provider is dual-certified and licensed as a Family and Psychiatric NP with experience working with pediatrics, young adult, and geriatric populations.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS BOTH IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL! We deliver a compassionate and respectable care to all patients. Moreover, while managing your symptoms with medications, we also take into consideration your general well-being. Our provider is dual-certified and licensed as a Family and Psychiatric NP with experience working with pediatrics, young adult, and geriatric populations.
Kedest Gebreselassie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
I have been fascinated by the complex processes of the mind and the profound effects that mental illness has on people and their families. I was inspired to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner by a strong desire to improve people's lives. Throughout my nursing career, I have witnessed the profound impact that mental health conditions can have on individuals' overall well-being. I have seen the challenges faced by those living with mental illness, as well as the immense strength and resilience they possess. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals in need.
I have been fascinated by the complex processes of the mind and the profound effects that mental illness has on people and their families. I was inspired to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner by a strong desire to improve people's lives. Throughout my nursing career, I have witnessed the profound impact that mental health conditions can have on individuals' overall well-being. I have seen the challenges faced by those living with mental illness, as well as the immense strength and resilience they possess. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals in need.
A child and adolescent psychiatrist, conducts full psychiatric evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults. Experienced in the treatment of a variety of clinical concerns, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), intellectual disabilities, Autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and psychosis. After adult psychiatry training in Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Altahir completed his fellowship studies at Penn state University in 2005.
A child and adolescent psychiatrist, conducts full psychiatric evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults. Experienced in the treatment of a variety of clinical concerns, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), intellectual disabilities, Autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and psychosis. After adult psychiatry training in Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Altahir completed his fellowship studies at Penn state University in 2005.
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
Dr. Kamal is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. Dr. Kamal is passionate about the care she provides to her patients and sees her work with patients as a partnership. Dr Kamal was instrumental in establishing a psychiatric care unit in a reputed hospital which gained the distinction of achieving the highest patient's satisfaction in a short span of time. She has an extensive experience treating adults who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective D/O and others.
Leigh Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
Leigh is a dedicated and highly accomplished professional with an extensive background spanning eleven years across diverse healthcare settings, including emergency, procedural, and psychiatric care. Originally hailing from Roanoke, Virginia, Leigh's journey began in the Marine Corps immediately after high school. Over the course of six years, he not only traveled across multiple continents but also achieved meritorious promotions and gained invaluable combat experience, demonstrating unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership qualities.
Leigh is a dedicated and highly accomplished professional with an extensive background spanning eleven years across diverse healthcare settings, including emergency, procedural, and psychiatric care. Originally hailing from Roanoke, Virginia, Leigh's journey began in the Marine Corps immediately after high school. Over the course of six years, he not only traveled across multiple continents but also achieved meritorious promotions and gained invaluable combat experience, demonstrating unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership qualities.
Kimberly Ann Bailey Dexter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554
I offer patient-centered care and that means a collaborative effort of decision making is performed to provide the treatment services you want or need to ensure recovery or optimal functioning. I provide quality treatment that leads to recovery, personal development, and helps you to achieve your treatment goals for success and optimal functioning for daily living. I have over 10 years of psychiatric experience in both outpatient and inpatient treatment in crisis stabilization, substance use services.
I offer patient-centered care and that means a collaborative effort of decision making is performed to provide the treatment services you want or need to ensure recovery or optimal functioning. I provide quality treatment that leads to recovery, personal development, and helps you to achieve your treatment goals for success and optimal functioning for daily living. I have over 10 years of psychiatric experience in both outpatient and inpatient treatment in crisis stabilization, substance use services.
Kerniba Ghoneim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
As a licensed practitioner in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia, I am a board-certified Doctorate Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized, incorporating complementary therapies such as nutrition, vitamins, and supplementation into conventional psychiatric methods. I strive to identify and address the root causes of your personal and professional challenges, prescribing medications conservatively, safely, and effectively when needed.
As a licensed practitioner in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia, I am a board-certified Doctorate Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized, incorporating complementary therapies such as nutrition, vitamins, and supplementation into conventional psychiatric methods. I strive to identify and address the root causes of your personal and professional challenges, prescribing medications conservatively, safely, and effectively when needed.
Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
Amaechi Egbujuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Licensed in Florida, Virginia, and New Jersey.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Licensed in Florida, Virginia, and New Jersey.
Dr. Mee Young Sowa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554
Finding a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who actively listens to your concerns with empathy is crucial for navigating the complexities of managing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, and difficulties with focus and attention. For adults, this journey often involves reestablishing connections both with others and with themselves, recognizing that healing goes beyond medication alone. Adolescents face additional challenges, including bullying, academic stress, and struggles in school, highlighting the importance of support tailored to their unique needs.
Finding a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who actively listens to your concerns with empathy is crucial for navigating the complexities of managing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, and difficulties with focus and attention. For adults, this journey often involves reestablishing connections both with others and with themselves, recognizing that healing goes beyond medication alone. Adolescents face additional challenges, including bullying, academic stress, and struggles in school, highlighting the importance of support tailored to their unique needs.
Hi there, My name is Mizpah. I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel like you are no longer the old you?
Hi there, My name is Mizpah. I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Do you feel like you are no longer the old you?
Book an appointment on Grow Therapy. Steph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a medical provider, he is a firm believer in creating a principled safe place; his responsibility is to enhance each person’s experience by engaging in effective, respectful communication. From the moment Steph meets you he provides quality services through an unique individualized approach to enhance one’s understanding. If necessary, in a collaborative manner he is willing to work with each person’s support system.
Book an appointment on Grow Therapy. Steph is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a medical provider, he is a firm believer in creating a principled safe place; his responsibility is to enhance each person’s experience by engaging in effective, respectful communication. From the moment Steph meets you he provides quality services through an unique individualized approach to enhance one’s understanding. If necessary, in a collaborative manner he is willing to work with each person’s support system.
Grace Soistman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554 (Online Only)
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from George Mason University. 17 years of clinical experience from the Philippines, the Middle East, and the United States. I am currently licensed in the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Virginia, and I am dedicated to reaching out to and helping clients from diverse communities.
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from George Mason University. 17 years of clinical experience from the Philippines, the Middle East, and the United States. I am currently licensed in the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Virginia, and I am dedicated to reaching out to and helping clients from diverse communities.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 22554
30+
Average cost per session
$190
Psychiatrists in 22554 who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Bipolar Disorder |
90% | Anxiety |
90% | ADHD |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Sleep or Insomnia |
57% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 22554 see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 22554?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.