Psychiatrists in 23231
![Photo of Ogochukwu Obiekwe - Assured Healthcare, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc3462c5-827b-470d-9ce7-9d583da1a028/1/320x400.jpeg)
Assured Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23231 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
![Photo of Dr. Tonjanika Ballard, DNP, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdc6f8d3-5931-4014-9a72-420bfb5693a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tonjanika Ballard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23231
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! I am the founder and owner of Unique Holistic Care. A Nurse Practitioner led practice that embodies the "whole person" as our treatment focus. Medication treat symptomology only and has lead to more stable lives. Yet, holistically, you as the client need more than just a prescription to maintain stability. Together, as a team we incorporate, medication, social, mental, physical, emotional and spiritual needs to optimize functioning. These components will allow our team along with your input, arrive at a treatment plan that best suits your needs.
Greetings! I am the founder and owner of Unique Holistic Care. A Nurse Practitioner led practice that embodies the "whole person" as our treatment focus. Medication treat symptomology only and has lead to more stable lives. Yet, holistically, you as the client need more than just a prescription to maintain stability. Together, as a team we incorporate, medication, social, mental, physical, emotional and spiritual needs to optimize functioning. These components will allow our team along with your input, arrive at a treatment plan that best suits your needs.
![Photo of Dexter Lett, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a789b47-cfc5-4c37-aaed-0137876746f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
Hello, I'm Dexter, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to comprehensive mental health care. With over 15 years of clinical experience spanning diverse inpatient and outpatient settings, I've cared for patients across all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. While prescribing medications is a viable option, I prioritize patient education and understanding. I strongly believe in ensuring that patients comprehend the reasons behind their medications and encourage open discussions about their treatment plans.
![Photo of LaToya Yvette Bragg - Brighter Days Mental Health Services LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/343ad6cf-9897-47d2-9a96-9269e8697966/3/320x400.png)
Brighter Days Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23231
We are currently accepting clients ages 6 and older. We specialize in treating clients with Depression, ADHD, and Mood disorders across the lifespan. We understand that it can be overwhelming and quite stressful when seeking a provider to assist with your behaviorial health needs. Are goal is to provide a therapeutic and supportive environment so that our clients can feel safe and comfortable. We strive to provide an optimal level of care to help our clients meet their behavioral health needs. We offer Medical Marijuana Evaluations and Spravato Treatment.
We are currently accepting clients ages 6 and older. We specialize in treating clients with Depression, ADHD, and Mood disorders across the lifespan. We understand that it can be overwhelming and quite stressful when seeking a provider to assist with your behaviorial health needs. Are goal is to provide a therapeutic and supportive environment so that our clients can feel safe and comfortable. We strive to provide an optimal level of care to help our clients meet their behavioral health needs. We offer Medical Marijuana Evaluations and Spravato Treatment.
![Photo of Toni Plummer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39a46c1d-0fc1-4b00-9879-9d4184672430/2/320x400.png)
Toni Plummer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23231 (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.
![Photo of Garvey T. Dobbins, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd49f6b8-bcf3-4434-b537-fbf5928a8155/3/320x400.jpeg)
Garvey T. Dobbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23231
We Are Accpeting New Clients! - Are you are looking for something different, dynamic, and energizing? That’s our view of how therapy should be. Sometimes it’s talking it out. Other times when it’s really rough, medication may help. At our practice, you will have access to both. We will listen to you, we will work with you, and we will push you to explore different ways of seeing yourself and seeing the world around you. The goal of therapy is to one day, no longer need it. The goal of therapy is to be able to achieve your highest potential. Consultations are always free, call today and let’s talk about a new way to do therapy.
We Are Accpeting New Clients! - Are you are looking for something different, dynamic, and energizing? That’s our view of how therapy should be. Sometimes it’s talking it out. Other times when it’s really rough, medication may help. At our practice, you will have access to both. We will listen to you, we will work with you, and we will push you to explore different ways of seeing yourself and seeing the world around you. The goal of therapy is to one day, no longer need it. The goal of therapy is to be able to achieve your highest potential. Consultations are always free, call today and let’s talk about a new way to do therapy.
See more therapy options for 23231
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 23231
< 10
Psychiatrists in 23231 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Behavioral Issues |
57% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 23231 see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 23231?
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.