Psychiatrists in Warrenton, VA
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.
Katherine Warzinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! I am an experienced and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing outpatient telehealth mental health services for adults 18 and older in Virginia. Services include diagnosis, medication management, and supportive counseling. I provide an embracing and inclusive environment for clients with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, gender dysphoria, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, substance and alcohol use disorders, and more. All appointments are via a secure telehealth platform from the comfort of your home.
Accepting new patients! I am an experienced and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing outpatient telehealth mental health services for adults 18 and older in Virginia. Services include diagnosis, medication management, and supportive counseling. I provide an embracing and inclusive environment for clients with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, gender dysphoria, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, substance and alcohol use disorders, and more. All appointments are via a secure telehealth platform from the comfort of your home.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Kayla Potter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
Not accepting new clients
You deserve a life that makes you happy to wake up in the morning and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I can promise you that I will listen and support you through whatever life is handing you right now. I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two.
You deserve a life that makes you happy to wake up in the morning and at peace when you get in bed at night. I’m here to help! I can promise you that I will listen and support you through whatever life is handing you right now. I love clients who are motivated and open to change. I know taking that first step towards seeking help can be intimidating and hard, but I’m here for you! Together we will create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, or a combination of the two.
Urgent Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives. I believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality behavioral healthcare, and I am committed to making that a reality through evidence-based practices and compassionate support.
My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives. I believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality behavioral healthcare, and I am committed to making that a reality through evidence-based practices and compassionate support.
Essence Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Is your happiness, social life, academics, and professional life affected by ADHD, Alcohol use disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and looking into improving your quality of life through medications?
Is your happiness, social life, academics, and professional life affected by ADHD, Alcohol use disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and looking into improving your quality of life through medications?
More Psychiatrists Nearby
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.
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.
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.
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
Rooted Willow Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155 (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Rooted Willow, I specialize in the medication management of mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; and post-traumatic stress disorder. My practice fosters a collaborative environment where clients' input is valued, and treatment is adjusted to align with their personal goals and progress.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Rooted Willow, I specialize in the medication management of mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; and post-traumatic stress disorder. My practice fosters a collaborative environment where clients' input is valued, and treatment is adjusted to align with their personal goals and progress.
Christina Rinderle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NNP-C, PMHNP-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
As a nurse practitioner, I consider and value a holistic approach when considering treatment goals. The transition to parenthood is a life changing experience with significant physical and psychological adjustments for the entire family. Many parents experience mood changes and feel overwhelmed during pregnancy and/or after the birth of their child. When these symptoms do not resolve on their own, worsen in severity and begin to affect a person’s quality of life, they may be experiencing a perinatal mental health disorder.
As a nurse practitioner, I consider and value a holistic approach when considering treatment goals. The transition to parenthood is a life changing experience with significant physical and psychological adjustments for the entire family. Many parents experience mood changes and feel overwhelmed during pregnancy and/or after the birth of their child. When these symptoms do not resolve on their own, worsen in severity and begin to affect a person’s quality of life, they may be experiencing a perinatal mental health disorder.
David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
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.
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20156
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.
Online Psychiatrists
Restorative Behavioral Health Associates, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I am a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Restorative Behavioral Health Associates with areas of expertise that include the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood lability, trauma, ADHD, & interpersonal issues. I strive to create a safe, collaborative spirit, providing recommendations and guidance, as well as respect for the path of everyone. For over 17 years I have worked in healthcare caring for children, adolescents and adult patients in a variety of settings. After working for both Inova and Prince William Hospital as an RN I graduated with honors as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2018 working acute and chronic care.
I am a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Restorative Behavioral Health Associates with areas of expertise that include the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood lability, trauma, ADHD, & interpersonal issues. I strive to create a safe, collaborative spirit, providing recommendations and guidance, as well as respect for the path of everyone. For over 17 years I have worked in healthcare caring for children, adolescents and adult patients in a variety of settings. After working for both Inova and Prince William Hospital as an RN I graduated with honors as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2018 working acute and chronic care.
. I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I work in a safe, accepting, confidential setting to help you address the difficult challenges that life can throw your way: relationships that have not worked, a sense that you are not achieving your potential at work or in your personal life, chronic feelings of low self esteem and anxiety that hold you back.
. I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I work in a safe, accepting, confidential setting to help you address the difficult challenges that life can throw your way: relationships that have not worked, a sense that you are not achieving your potential at work or in your personal life, chronic feelings of low self esteem and anxiety that hold you back.
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/
Dr. Green (she/her) holds the position of staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board-eligible in adult psychiatry. She received her medical degree from New York Institute of Technology's College of Osteopathic Medicine on Long Island, NY. Her adult residency training was completed at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond, VA. In addition to general, adult psychiatry, Dr. Green is clinically experienced and interested in treating patients of a wide variety.
Dr. Green (she/her) holds the position of staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board-eligible in adult psychiatry. She received her medical degree from New York Institute of Technology's College of Osteopathic Medicine on Long Island, NY. Her adult residency training was completed at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond, VA. In addition to general, adult psychiatry, Dr. Green is clinically experienced and interested in treating patients of a wide variety.
Dr. Temitope Akinladenu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Welcome! I am a nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
Welcome! I am a nationally board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat all ages. I believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. I have over 10 years of healthcare experience in inpatient, outpatient, PHP, and IOP settings. My passion is to provide comprehensive care that focuses on client needs and empower full participation in their own treatment. I incorporate supportive therapy, use of positive coping skills and medication management (if needed). I believe educating how medications work in the brain is important for clients to know and understand
Dr. Chika Okeoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder, and they’re seeking clarity and stability in their lives. They may feel overwhelmed and need support managing their symptoms while striving to improve their emotional resilience and mental well-being. Their goal is to regain control, feel empowered, and thrive in both their personal and professional lives. They want compassionate, culturally competent care that helps them heal and achieve lasting balance, both mentally and physically. I offer that guidance and support.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder, and they’re seeking clarity and stability in their lives. They may feel overwhelmed and need support managing their symptoms while striving to improve their emotional resilience and mental well-being. Their goal is to regain control, feel empowered, and thrive in both their personal and professional lives. They want compassionate, culturally competent care that helps them heal and achieve lasting balance, both mentally and physically. I offer that guidance and support.
See more therapy options for Warrenton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Warrenton, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Warrenton, VA who prioritize treating:
83% | Depression |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Warrenton, VA see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Warrenton?
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.