Psychiatrists in Hopewell, VA
Cynthia Timok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopewell, VA 23860 (Online Only)
I'm Cindy, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner devoted to helping you navigate life's complexities and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Additionally, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management, along with referrals for psychotherapy and other services. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment where you feel heard and empowered. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
I'm Cindy, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner devoted to helping you navigate life's complexities and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Additionally, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management, along with referrals for psychotherapy and other services. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment where you feel heard and empowered. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Dr. Nasr Basir Balla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hopewell, VA 23860 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Petitecha Wimbush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chester, VA 23836
I believe mental wellness can be achieved through medication management, therapy and complementary/alternative treatment to improve the health of the mind-body connection. I am here to assist you in taking back control of your mental health and well-being.
I believe mental wellness can be achieved through medication management, therapy and complementary/alternative treatment to improve the health of the mind-body connection. I am here to assist you in taking back control of your mental health and well-being.
Easy-Access Behavioral & Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23831 (Online Only)
Building effective therapeutic relationship with our patient's is the bedrock of our practice. Our passion for treatment of all forms is centered on individualize treatment model where the client's need is our priority. We inculcate culture diversity, evidence-based model of treatment and the prioritization of patient's concerns and needs. New Client's and established clients are all given the trustworthy care to the best of our ability.
Building effective therapeutic relationship with our patient's is the bedrock of our practice. Our passion for treatment of all forms is centered on individualize treatment model where the client's need is our priority. We inculcate culture diversity, evidence-based model of treatment and the prioritization of patient's concerns and needs. New Client's and established clients are all given the trustworthy care to the best of our ability.
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersburg, VA 23804
Greetings! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
Greetings! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics in mental health. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. I use an integrative approach which includes a combination of lifestyle, nutrition, and traditional medication recommendations, when necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification, with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification, with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
Jc Health Group Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colonial Heights, VA 23834
I am a doctoral-prepared dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I manage most mental health issues and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. I'll use a whole self-approach, in addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I am passionate about working with diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, race/ethnicity or sexual orientation. I'm privileged to understand culturally conscious care, which has allowed me to help many families who have experienced trauma and cultural barriers.
I am a doctoral-prepared dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I manage most mental health issues and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. I'll use a whole self-approach, in addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I am passionate about working with diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, race/ethnicity or sexual orientation. I'm privileged to understand culturally conscious care, which has allowed me to help many families who have experienced trauma and cultural barriers.
Michon Blowe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, RNC
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23804
You deserve to be whole! Let's get to work! I provide culturally competent psychiatric care throughout the lifespan for all mental health conditions. Contact me at www.threattcounselpsych.org. Your well-being is at the heart of our partnership. Our therapeutic relationship is a collaboration, where your insights and preferences guide our journey. I am committed to actively listening and validating your experiences.. You can also email if that works better for you.
You deserve to be whole! Let's get to work! I provide culturally competent psychiatric care throughout the lifespan for all mental health conditions. Contact me at www.threattcounselpsych.org. Your well-being is at the heart of our partnership. Our therapeutic relationship is a collaboration, where your insights and preferences guide our journey. I am committed to actively listening and validating your experiences.. You can also email if that works better for you.
Brighter Days Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23836
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.
Natalie Dionne Haslem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, CNE-BC
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23831 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it will be my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to medication management and therapy. My job is to manage your medications successfully, providing you with an enhanced quality of life. I am currently seeing clients in Virginia and Georgia will follow.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it will be my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to medication management and therapy. My job is to manage your medications successfully, providing you with an enhanced quality of life. I am currently seeing clients in Virginia and Georgia will follow.
Victor Nwagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Victor is a doctorate prepared psychiatric and mental health provider who concentrates on children and adult with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder, Dementia, and other behavioral health issues. He has over 15 years experience in general and mental health care practice which spans across Canada and the US. He graduated from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at the University of South Alabama. He was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Zeta Gamma Chapter.
Victor is a doctorate prepared psychiatric and mental health provider who concentrates on children and adult with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder, Dementia, and other behavioral health issues. He has over 15 years experience in general and mental health care practice which spans across Canada and the US. He graduated from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at the University of South Alabama. He was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Zeta Gamma Chapter.
Jill B Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersburg, VA 23803
Are you feeling like you need to get your mind and body back on track? You may have struggles, situations, issues and circumstances. Let me help you find the best ways to get healthy and point you in the direction for a better you.
Are you feeling like you need to get your mind and body back on track? You may have struggles, situations, issues and circumstances. Let me help you find the best ways to get healthy and point you in the direction for a better you.
Solomon Okwueze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23237 (Online Only)
Solomon Okwueze is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare field. He has had the opportunity to work in a different healthcare setting. He has worked in a teaching Hospital, as well as NGOs such as Doctors without Border. He has provided mental health services both here in the USA and in Canada.
Solomon Okwueze is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare field. He has had the opportunity to work in a different healthcare setting. He has worked in a teaching Hospital, as well as NGOs such as Doctors without Border. He has provided mental health services both here in the USA and in Canada.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification, with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification, with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
Angela Harris-Bonner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, VA 23831 (Online Only)
Greetings, my name is Angela Harris-Bonner, a provider at Unlimited Wellness Psychiatric Services. I love serving my community as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am a graduate of Walden University. I have over a decade of experience in behavioral health caring for adults, seniors and adolescents in an array of settings. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis and ADHD.
Greetings, my name is Angela Harris-Bonner, a provider at Unlimited Wellness Psychiatric Services. I love serving my community as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am a graduate of Walden University. I have over a decade of experience in behavioral health caring for adults, seniors and adolescents in an array of settings. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis and ADHD.
Deneice Wickens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Petersburg, VA 23803 (Online Only)
Now Accepting NEW Clients: Plant Your Roots with Us at Eden Total Care! Hello, I'm Deneice, a PsychNP offering virtual sessions in VA, NY, FL, CO, WA, OR, CA, AZ, & TX. I specialize in guiding teens and young-feeling adults through complex mental health issues, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD. My holistic approach offers personalized care, blending evidence-based therapies with medication management. Together, we'll create a treatment plan that suits your unique preferences, supporting your well-being and building a foundation for long-term stability and resilience.
Now Accepting NEW Clients: Plant Your Roots with Us at Eden Total Care! Hello, I'm Deneice, a PsychNP offering virtual sessions in VA, NY, FL, CO, WA, OR, CA, AZ, & TX. I specialize in guiding teens and young-feeling adults through complex mental health issues, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD. My holistic approach offers personalized care, blending evidence-based therapies with medication management. Together, we'll create a treatment plan that suits your unique preferences, supporting your well-being and building a foundation for long-term stability and resilience.
Online Psychiatrists
Kanisha Belt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I work with a diverse group of clients. As a provider, it is my goal to provide the best unbiased, client-centered care possible. I utilize evidence-based practice to guide my care. I listen to my clients as we work together to create an individualized treatment plan. I am passionate about helping people achieve the best version of themselves as identified by the individual.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I work with a diverse group of clients. As a provider, it is my goal to provide the best unbiased, client-centered care possible. I utilize evidence-based practice to guide my care. I listen to my clients as we work together to create an individualized treatment plan. I am passionate about helping people achieve the best version of themselves as identified by the individual.
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Hi! I’m Amy Fehrmann, a double board-certified Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, having completed my medical education at Georgetown University School of Medicine, followed by Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at the University of Maryland Medical Center/Sheppard Pratt, where I also had the honor of serving as Chief Fellow. My passion lies in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, with a particular focus on early childhood trauma and Women’s Mental Health.
Mrs. Bonner is a certified family nurse practitioner and board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, with over 8 years of healthcare experience in a variety of settings. Mrs. Bonner focuses on holistic patient-centered care and utilizes evidence-based practice modalities while focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
Mrs. Bonner is a certified family nurse practitioner and board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, with over 8 years of healthcare experience in a variety of settings. Mrs. Bonner focuses on holistic patient-centered care and utilizes evidence-based practice modalities while focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
Alpha Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Our mission is to provide quality, culturally competent mental health care to those in Chesapeake, Virginia and the surrounding areas that make up Hampton Roads.
Our mission is to provide quality, culturally competent mental health care to those in Chesapeake, Virginia and the surrounding areas that make up Hampton Roads.
See more therapy options for Hopewell
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hopewell, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hopewell, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
100% | Oppositional Defiance (ODD) |
100% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Hopewell, VA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hopewell?
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.