Psychiatrists in Gainesville, VA
![Photo of Veronique Kom, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c8e347a-1018-4700-8954-b86a8bd45c98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronique Kom is a Certified Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia. She provides comprehensive mental health care to help patients in the community. Veronique worked over years at UVA Health as an Inpatient Nurse and currently working at Inova Health System and Columbia Associate in Psychiatry as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is focused and committed to positively impacting the community and reducing Mental Health stigma. You do not have to feel alone, reach out, help is available.
Veronique Kom is a Certified Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner licensed in Virginia. She provides comprehensive mental health care to help patients in the community. Veronique worked over years at UVA Health as an Inpatient Nurse and currently working at Inova Health System and Columbia Associate in Psychiatry as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is focused and committed to positively impacting the community and reducing Mental Health stigma. You do not have to feel alone, reach out, help is available.
![Photo of Dean F Gawum - Relief Healing Mental Health Services LLC., DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSHI, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e75e2267-b89b-40ff-acac-a6b01b308110/1/320x400.jpeg)
Relief Healing Mental Health Services LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, MSHI
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155 (Online Only)
Dr. Dean Gawum is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He is experience in multiple area in health care for about 2 decades of experience. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Jacksonville University, Master os Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. He obtained a Post-Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner from Maryville University. Dr. Gawum is Licensed in Virginia, Utah, New Mexico, Kansas, Nevada and Washington State. He is currently accepting patients in Virginia, New Mexico, Utah, and Kansas
Dr. Dean Gawum is a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. He is experience in multiple area in health care for about 2 decades of experience. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Jacksonville University, Master os Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. He obtained a Post-Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner from Maryville University. Dr. Gawum is Licensed in Virginia, Utah, New Mexico, Kansas, Nevada and Washington State. He is currently accepting patients in Virginia, New Mexico, Utah, and Kansas
![Photo of Ashraf Sefain, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c296a4b2-d8fb-433f-9e40-f177e472ecd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashraf Sefain, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNPBC) serving patients at LifeStance Health in Virginia. With a deep commitment to enhancing the mental wellbeing of his clients, Ashraf provides comprehensive mental health assessments and personalized treatment plans that may include therapy and medication management. He offers a supportive and educational approach to care, helping clients understand their mental health conditions and access additional resources and services.
Ashraf Sefain, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNPBC) serving patients at LifeStance Health in Virginia. With a deep commitment to enhancing the mental wellbeing of his clients, Ashraf provides comprehensive mental health assessments and personalized treatment plans that may include therapy and medication management. He offers a supportive and educational approach to care, helping clients understand their mental health conditions and access additional resources and services.
![Photo of Brittany Peebles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3f17481-d838-4b50-929c-ab4de807fd41/1/320x400.png)
Brittany Peebles is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brittany has more than 10 years experience working in the health care field. Brittany specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. Brittany has a holistic approach when treating her patients. Brittany feels one of the most important things is viewing the individual as a whole person, not just looking at the diagnosis given to the person. She enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dog Tarzan.
Brittany Peebles is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Brittany has more than 10 years experience working in the health care field. Brittany specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. Brittany has a holistic approach when treating her patients. Brittany feels one of the most important things is viewing the individual as a whole person, not just looking at the diagnosis given to the person. She enjoys spending time with her family and walking her dog Tarzan.
![Photo of Veronique Kom, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10067434-51bc-4c1c-96fc-7687d8b6f0aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronique Kom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Healing is focusing on building your strengths while being assisted by professional and available resources. Partnering with you by providing a comprehensive Psychiatric evaluation, setting attainable goals, and creating an individualized plan of care using an integrative approach is the key. VeveHealth uses a holistic approach by incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, psychoeducational, and cultural sensitivity throughout your individualized care.
Healing is focusing on building your strengths while being assisted by professional and available resources. Partnering with you by providing a comprehensive Psychiatric evaluation, setting attainable goals, and creating an individualized plan of care using an integrative approach is the key. VeveHealth uses a holistic approach by incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, psychoeducational, and cultural sensitivity throughout your individualized care.
![Photo of David Phelps - David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ea395a7-b608-4e41-9396-303b5156057c/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db6c0ea8-50cb-4c40-98d7-f8f02acbe8fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2997a738-afb3-4161-9a41-e80b8dc052ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Erica Bindrim - Mind and Body Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/895d9d22-6d74-417c-a714-f83559d7440c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60aa1fe7-3ee0-4640-b8e1-45cb2a71d38f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Dr. Janet Asare - Integrated Telepsychiatry LLC , DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8feac9d-2161-4f3d-842f-8b50dfcf115c/2/320x400.png)
Integrated Telepsychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20108 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. My expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in internal medicine. Currently offering telepsychiatry services to patients aged 18 and older. I am available to assist my clients to manage their mental wellbeing through an integrative evidenced based approach, incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation during each session.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. My expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in internal medicine. Currently offering telepsychiatry services to patients aged 18 and older. I am available to assist my clients to manage their mental wellbeing through an integrative evidenced based approach, incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation during each session.
![Photo of Dr. K. Pierre Eklou, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b4aaaf2-146c-48fc-b3e7-fad9a159ace6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. K. Pierre Eklou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109 (Online Only)
Nice to meet you! My dedication to mental health stems from a deeply rooted belief in the power of empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric provider, I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges openly. Believing in the uniqueness of each person's healing journey, I hope to support anyone seeking understanding and guidance in navigating life's mental health challenges - anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, substance use, or other concerns - in finding a path toward healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of self. I value trust and mutual respect in my approach to care.
Nice to meet you! My dedication to mental health stems from a deeply rooted belief in the power of empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric provider, I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges openly. Believing in the uniqueness of each person's healing journey, I hope to support anyone seeking understanding and guidance in navigating life's mental health challenges - anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, substance use, or other concerns - in finding a path toward healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of self. I value trust and mutual respect in my approach to care.
![Photo of Sana Kamal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c57ecfc4-9440-4fbc-a9b2-2ee8dfb2f847/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4fc2fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment in our Virginia location in Lansdowne/Ashburn in addition to video appointment across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child, Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment in our Virginia location in Lansdowne/Ashburn in addition to video appointment across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
![Photo of Clifford Newman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4782a2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist who does psychotherapy and will only use medication if necessary. I believe psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment that will minimize the use of medications.
Although I work with relationship difficulties, it is only on an individual basis and not as a couples counselor.
I am a psychiatrist who does psychotherapy and will only use medication if necessary. I believe psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment that will minimize the use of medications.
Although I work with relationship difficulties, it is only on an individual basis and not as a couples counselor.
![Photo of Cash McGregor, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b2495a-ebdf-478e-a971-c31d9e1f68b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! - www.conquesthealth.org - I am available for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and especially substance use disorders. I prioritize availability for appointments, with both in-person and online scheduling available with some mornings, evenings, and weekends.
Accepting New Patients! - www.conquesthealth.org - I am available for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and especially substance use disorders. I prioritize availability for appointments, with both in-person and online scheduling available with some mornings, evenings, and weekends.
![Photo of Dr. Peace Peters, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e98a5098-968d-4689-8a08-64ed86d8eb25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peace Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20152 (Online Only)
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-trained board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
![Photo of Kelsey Skiljan, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3905311-8c94-40c6-92a7-c62b96a18633/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all have solutions within us - it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is to focus on your strengths and harness into your available resources while getting the symptoms under control. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
We all have solutions within us - it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is to focus on your strengths and harness into your available resources while getting the symptoms under control. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
![Photo of Nadine Kakanou, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de558cef-8634-4977-be46-9460cc7d4a52/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nadine Kakanou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Catharpin, VA 20143 (Online Only)
Nadine Kakanou is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Nadine completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. A PMHNP is tasked with evaluating a patient’s mental health status by assessing their relevant medical background, conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and identifying potential issues that might negatively impact a patient's mental health.
Nadine Kakanou is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Nadine completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. A PMHNP is tasked with evaluating a patient’s mental health status by assessing their relevant medical background, conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and identifying potential issues that might negatively impact a patient's mental health.
![Photo of Lartoniah Hassan - Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f27b1314-c6c2-4a5b-93b7-abe3d62c8438/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
See more therapy options for Gainesville
Nearby Searches for Gainesville
- Aldie
- Ashburn
- Centreville
- Chantilly
- Fairfax
- Fairfax Station
- Haymarket
- Herndon
- Manassas
- Manassas Park
- Middleburg
- Warrenton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gainesville, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Gainesville, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
63% | Sleep or Insomnia |
50% | Eating Disorders |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Gainesville, VA see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gainesville?
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.