Psychiatrists in Charlottesville, VA
![Photo of Dillon Kayser, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8ea9991-d1b4-4ecc-bb92-2a2e051c3210/1/320x400.png)
I am from Charlottesville originally and moved back to town in 2018 following completion of medical school at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Following medical school I completed four years of psychiatry residency training at UVA. I specialize in treating adult patients with a particular interest in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and mood/substance disorders. My research interests include medical health disparities, with specific focus on social determinants of health
I am from Charlottesville originally and moved back to town in 2018 following completion of medical school at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Following medical school I completed four years of psychiatry residency training at UVA. I specialize in treating adult patients with a particular interest in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and mood/substance disorders. My research interests include medical health disparities, with specific focus on social determinants of health
![Photo of David V Hamilton Md, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f44f6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that good mental health is a product of treating the whole person. This approach often includes psychotherapy and sometimes medication, as well as mindfulness meditation, exercise, and a healthy diet. In my experience, a whole-person centered approach can decrease reliance on medications and help the patient achieve a sense of agency in their psychological wellness.
I believe that good mental health is a product of treating the whole person. This approach often includes psychotherapy and sometimes medication, as well as mindfulness meditation, exercise, and a healthy diet. In my experience, a whole-person centered approach can decrease reliance on medications and help the patient achieve a sense of agency in their psychological wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1100e0b8-221f-4530-9b1f-6b91ee2ba65d/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.
![Photo of Steven Phillips, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/504af1d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
The primary focus of my practice is seeing children and adolescents, though I see adults as well. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions, with particular expertise in ADHD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, as well as Autism. I provide a diagnostic evaluation, and then work with you to determine the preferred treatment strategy, whether it involves therapy, evidenced-based medication management, or both.
The primary focus of my practice is seeing children and adolescents, though I see adults as well. I have experience treating a wide range of conditions, with particular expertise in ADHD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, as well as Autism. I provide a diagnostic evaluation, and then work with you to determine the preferred treatment strategy, whether it involves therapy, evidenced-based medication management, or both.
![Photo of Sam Howard, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ad291db-16ea-44b3-b4e4-d8f93350d0bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902
As a provider, I seek to walk alongside patients as we work to achieve care goals together. This process requires openness, honesty, and trust that I hope to earn over time. We arrive at a collaborative treatment plan focusing on psychotherapy, diet, exercise, mindfulness, and medication if it is necessary. This whole-person approach hopes to achieve wellness while providing the opportunity to learn skills to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
As a provider, I seek to walk alongside patients as we work to achieve care goals together. This process requires openness, honesty, and trust that I hope to earn over time. We arrive at a collaborative treatment plan focusing on psychotherapy, diet, exercise, mindfulness, and medication if it is necessary. This whole-person approach hopes to achieve wellness while providing the opportunity to learn skills to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Justin Smith, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1d63d1a-cf42-4f96-b4ab-a4a996a68166/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatrist I am comfortable treating adolescent and adult patients who are searching for outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management. My approach to psychiatric treatment follows the biopsychosocial formulation, in essence attempting to understand all of the factors that contribute to a patient's situation and developing a treatment plan that may address these factors.
As a board certified psychiatrist I am comfortable treating adolescent and adult patients who are searching for outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management. My approach to psychiatric treatment follows the biopsychosocial formulation, in essence attempting to understand all of the factors that contribute to a patient's situation and developing a treatment plan that may address these factors.
![Photo of Danielle Free, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04960117-84aa-4f09-a85f-91d1724a0867/3/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Free
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Danielle offers a holistic, person-centered approach to working with patients who experience life disruptions from depression, anxiety, disorganized attention, stress, relationship dynamics, trauma, mood dysregulation, and grief. Her treatment philosophy is centered on a patient-provider partnership with a goal of cultivating mental wellness through empathic support, emotional awareness, and balancing techniques. She aims to prescribe medications in a conservative, effective and safe manner.
Danielle offers a holistic, person-centered approach to working with patients who experience life disruptions from depression, anxiety, disorganized attention, stress, relationship dynamics, trauma, mood dysregulation, and grief. Her treatment philosophy is centered on a patient-provider partnership with a goal of cultivating mental wellness through empathic support, emotional awareness, and balancing techniques. She aims to prescribe medications in a conservative, effective and safe manner.
![Photo of Mimi Tyson, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f38f1f70-1158-4b4f-957a-468dd088d967/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides compassionate, empathetic care tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides compassionate, empathetic care tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Christopher A Rowley, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2644c405-1d0c-4fc2-ad9b-8e3e2206d40f/2/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to treating general psychiatric illnesses, I work with those struggling with addictive substances including opioids, alcohol, methamphetamine, cannabis, among others. Recognizing that you will have your own unique goals, I will help you create an individualized treatment plan to serve as a compass on your journey toward healing. I recognize that while medications can be of immense benefit, they are not always a cure-all and are often only part of the solution. I do my best to stay current on the latest treatment interventions, and have even trained in the field of psychedelic assisted psychotherapy.
In addition to treating general psychiatric illnesses, I work with those struggling with addictive substances including opioids, alcohol, methamphetamine, cannabis, among others. Recognizing that you will have your own unique goals, I will help you create an individualized treatment plan to serve as a compass on your journey toward healing. I recognize that while medications can be of immense benefit, they are not always a cure-all and are often only part of the solution. I do my best to stay current on the latest treatment interventions, and have even trained in the field of psychedelic assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92d005a7-5fe2-47e6-b713-feb8cf723cc1/1/320x400.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 Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4e62578-8221-46bb-a744-5b25c2989bed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
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![Photo of Robert Johnston - Robert Johnston, MD - Centerspace Psychiatry, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4736d12b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Johnston, MD - Centerspace Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903
My practice focuses on the mental health of children, families, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of presenting issues, with the most common including learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, anxiety, and mood disorders.
My practice focuses on the mental health of children, families, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of presenting issues, with the most common including learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Benjamin Stephens, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74567e8c-1180-4eaa-9c1f-f9f3e8248cdc/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatrist, I can offer help with clarifying diagnoses and provide recommendations on evidence-based treatment, including medication and therapy approaches.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I can offer help with clarifying diagnoses and provide recommendations on evidence-based treatment, including medication and therapy approaches.
![Photo of Barbara Gay Haskins - Couples Psychotherapy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a83846aa-1921-458e-8acf-40360f572ab4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychodynamic couples therapy is an exploratory kind of therapy. Adults carry within themselves the lessons and feelings from a lifetime of experiences. Some of these are obvious, and some are located outside of one’s awareness. All these experiences and feelings can potentially affect the situation which brings a couple to therapy. Concerns about intimacy and sexual connection can have psychodynamic underpinnings and may also be explored in this therapy. Some couples note that they are having the same quarrel over and over, and they feel stuck and unable to change this pattern. Some are unsure if they wish to stay together.
Psychodynamic couples therapy is an exploratory kind of therapy. Adults carry within themselves the lessons and feelings from a lifetime of experiences. Some of these are obvious, and some are located outside of one’s awareness. All these experiences and feelings can potentially affect the situation which brings a couple to therapy. Concerns about intimacy and sexual connection can have psychodynamic underpinnings and may also be explored in this therapy. Some couples note that they are having the same quarrel over and over, and they feel stuck and unable to change this pattern. Some are unsure if they wish to stay together.
![Photo of Dr. Lee Moore - Better Mental Health & Wellness, DNP, MEd, APRN, PMHNP, CNE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2dae244-f61d-4ddb-8805-7227a7175e73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Better Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MEd, APRN, PMHNP, CNE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Welcome to Better Mental Health & Wellness, an integrated mental health practice owned and operated by Dr. Lee Moore, PMHNP-BC. We offer psychiatric services to Virginia residents via telehealth or in-person meetings. While we have focused experience working alongside LGBTQ+-identifying individuals, individuals with trauma histories, and individuals managing substance use concerns, we welcome ALL individuals seeking support and direction. Dr. Moore has experience working within a wide range of settings and with individuals across every spectrum, offering a unique perspective on care.
Welcome to Better Mental Health & Wellness, an integrated mental health practice owned and operated by Dr. Lee Moore, PMHNP-BC. We offer psychiatric services to Virginia residents via telehealth or in-person meetings. While we have focused experience working alongside LGBTQ+-identifying individuals, individuals with trauma histories, and individuals managing substance use concerns, we welcome ALL individuals seeking support and direction. Dr. Moore has experience working within a wide range of settings and with individuals across every spectrum, offering a unique perspective on care.
![Photo of Alexis Ryan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07e96a4d-f410-4f45-8301-9030ab2d6ed1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903 (Online Only)
Alexis Ryan is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with her Master’s of Science in Nursing acquired from Vanderbilt University’s No. 1 ranked program in the country. She combines expertise and evidence-based approaches to care with an unflagging commitment to compassion and kindness in order to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders with particular proficiency in mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Alexis utilizes psychotherapy, creates treatment plans, prescribes clinically-supported medications, and provides diagnostic clarity and education.
Alexis Ryan is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with her Master’s of Science in Nursing acquired from Vanderbilt University’s No. 1 ranked program in the country. She combines expertise and evidence-based approaches to care with an unflagging commitment to compassion and kindness in order to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders with particular proficiency in mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Alexis utilizes psychotherapy, creates treatment plans, prescribes clinically-supported medications, and provides diagnostic clarity and education.
![Photo of Brandon Burr - Adhd Aid, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3989a4c8-7224-4bda-bff4-1317554330fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adhd Aid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902 (Online Only)
Finally, Covid is almost over. I am Accepting New Patients. No more waiting for months. Suppose you are a student or professional and struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression. Make an appointment, get tested, and enjoy life. Today, you are one step closer to a new you. I offer comprehensive ADHD testing accepted at schools and workplaces for ADA accommodations like extra time on tests. Anxiety and Sleep issues can feel like ADHD. Untreated Depression & Mood Ups and Downs all share the symptoms of ADHD, so let's investigate together.
Finally, Covid is almost over. I am Accepting New Patients. No more waiting for months. Suppose you are a student or professional and struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression. Make an appointment, get tested, and enjoy life. Today, you are one step closer to a new you. I offer comprehensive ADHD testing accepted at schools and workplaces for ADA accommodations like extra time on tests. Anxiety and Sleep issues can feel like ADHD. Untreated Depression & Mood Ups and Downs all share the symptoms of ADHD, so let's investigate together.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98bd1bc6-6d5a-4c2d-ad2f-71d1bc49fdb3/1/320x400.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. Benjamin Pumphrey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84d98f5e-d93f-45ab-a8c7-a349c0d199cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deep understanding of the nature and history of symptoms is necessary to guide treatment and generate lasting improvements. Engaging in mental health care requires patience, a curious mind, and an honest desire to make changes. I provide psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy with a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic approach. I received my medical degree from the University of Virginia and completed my psychiatry residency through the University of Pennsylvania.
Deep understanding of the nature and history of symptoms is necessary to guide treatment and generate lasting improvements. Engaging in mental health care requires patience, a curious mind, and an honest desire to make changes. I provide psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy with a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic approach. I received my medical degree from the University of Virginia and completed my psychiatry residency through the University of Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Mindful Mental Health - Mindful Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3d9a37-99fa-4adc-90db-8b2c4ec2c039/3/320x400.jpeg)
Easily schedule appointment online today 24/7 @ www.mindfulmh.com
Easily schedule appointment online today 24/7 @ www.mindfulmh.com
See more therapy options for Charlottesville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Charlottesville, VA
30+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Charlottesville, VA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
78% | Elevance |
How Psychiatrists in Charlottesville, VA see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
44% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Charlottesville?
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.