Psychiatrists in Woodbridge, VA
![Photo of Amber Dise, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ce5a423-aefa-43f6-8700-c51324089dff/1/320x400.png)
Amber Dise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Dr. Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who completed her doctoral studies at George Mason University. Amber has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns.
Dr. Amber Dise is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who completed her doctoral studies at George Mason University. Amber has experience helping patients navigate the psychosocial aspects of medical conditions and illness management, especially when they overlap with psychiatric concerns.
![Photo of Liza Lobrin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/428630a5-fadf-4fb9-b763-d83330f991f8/1/320x400.png)
Liza Lobrin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Liza is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on the treatment of the adult population with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma- and stressor-related disorders. Liza completed her Master of Science in Nursing degree (PMHNP program) at Walden University. Before pursuing her MSN, she worked in different settings as a psychiatric nurse for almost 20 years and provided care to individuals with various mental health diagnoses, ranging from mood disorders to schizophrenia.
Liza is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) focused on the treatment of the adult population with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma- and stressor-related disorders. Liza completed her Master of Science in Nursing degree (PMHNP program) at Walden University. Before pursuing her MSN, she worked in different settings as a psychiatric nurse for almost 20 years and provided care to individuals with various mental health diagnoses, ranging from mood disorders to schizophrenia.
![Photo of Rose Ehichioya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba16700b-f155-43c6-90eb-87b6e5dc06f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rose Ehichioya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191 (Online Only)
I'm Rose. Do you feel overwhelmed with life and feel like you don't know what to do? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself and others? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself and others.
I'm Rose. Do you feel overwhelmed with life and feel like you don't know what to do? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself and others? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself and others.
![Photo of Adeline Mangwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3664a1a0-9bd3-4726-a92f-be18a4e2934a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
![Photo of Theo Sangodele, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0566ac8e-abae-43cd-9dd9-03ee6276f1e8/1/320x400.png)
Theo Sangodele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Theo Sangodele is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Theo's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Theo completed his Master's Nursing degree (MSN) at The University of Toledo.
Theo Sangodele is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Theo's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Theo completed his Master's Nursing degree (MSN) at The University of Toledo.
![Photo of Adekunbi Akins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a3ff247-cead-42df-a8e8-772b481143de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adekunbi Akins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191 (Online Only)
Description Hi, I am an experienced psychiatric and mental health provider and a professional talk therapist serving clients from Virginia and DC. I graduated with my Masters degree from George Washington University with Cum laude. I have strong expertise in conducting a thorough assessment and diagnosis of clients across lifespan.
Description Hi, I am an experienced psychiatric and mental health provider and a professional talk therapist serving clients from Virginia and DC. I graduated with my Masters degree from George Washington University with Cum laude. I have strong expertise in conducting a thorough assessment and diagnosis of clients across lifespan.
![Photo of Emma Boateng, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6cd65e6-71e0-404d-af37-f061483c77a4/1/320x400.png)
Emma Boateng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Dr. Emma Boateng is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of nursing practice. Emma has extensive experience in mental health, psycho-education, patient care, and chronic pain management. She uses evidence-based practice to achieve patient goals. Emma treats various conditions including depression, ADHD, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anger, relationship issues, grief/loss, stress, OCD, and eating disorders. Emma believes every person is unique, creating individualized care plans for her clients. She puts her patients first and provides respectful care.
Dr. Emma Boateng is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of nursing practice. Emma has extensive experience in mental health, psycho-education, patient care, and chronic pain management. She uses evidence-based practice to achieve patient goals. Emma treats various conditions including depression, ADHD, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anger, relationship issues, grief/loss, stress, OCD, and eating disorders. Emma believes every person is unique, creating individualized care plans for her clients. She puts her patients first and provides respectful care.
![Photo of Elizabeth Onyejekwe, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e202740d-8b4e-4e8d-8ee2-e272fb2b16a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD and others. I also treat mood disorders during pregnancy and post-natal.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD and others. I also treat mood disorders during pregnancy and post-natal.
![Photo of Sumera Nadeem, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48968547-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nadeem is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience in treating adults with Psychiatric conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, AD/HD, PTSD, Bipolar, and Psychotic Disorders and a variety of other problems including Women's Mental Health. With her extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, she performs diagnostic evaluations and medication management using exceptional clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Her specialty is working with chronic and challenging mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar, and impulse control disorders.
Dr. Nadeem is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience in treating adults with Psychiatric conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, AD/HD, PTSD, Bipolar, and Psychotic Disorders and a variety of other problems including Women's Mental Health. With her extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, she performs diagnostic evaluations and medication management using exceptional clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Her specialty is working with chronic and challenging mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar, and impulse control disorders.
![Photo of Hui Suk Kuk, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b37905c3-adbc-4507-805c-2c556e5992fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ms. Hui Suk (“Hee-sook”) Kuk is a bilingual (Korean, English) board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. Ms. Kuk obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing at George Washington University and completed a degree in Advanced Nursing Practice at the University of Virginia-Charlottesville. She specializes in Psychiatry by training in Psychiatric-Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing at UVA.
Ms. Hui Suk (“Hee-sook”) Kuk is a bilingual (Korean, English) board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. Ms. Kuk obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing at George Washington University and completed a degree in Advanced Nursing Practice at the University of Virginia-Charlottesville. She specializes in Psychiatry by training in Psychiatric-Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing at UVA.
![Photo of Cassie Behseta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efb3ac0b-0d1b-4d2e-b7ea-2835d7706373/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie Behseta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Cassie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. She has eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For her, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing her to work with families across the lifespan and work closely and collaboratively with people. Cassie utilizes evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). She manages and treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, and women's health.
Cassie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. She has eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For her, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing her to work with families across the lifespan and work closely and collaboratively with people. Cassie utilizes evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). She manages and treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, and women's health.
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![Photo of Deanna Hercik - Ally in Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/105e8a98-eb48-4971-a708-76f33c98ffa6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ally in Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
My ideal client can be described as someone who is motivated to engage in treatment and actively participate in their treatment plan. They will be open to self reflection and willing to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They will be committed to making positive change in their life and are receptive to guidance and feedback. Additionally, they should be honest and transparent about their symptoms, allowing for accurate assessment and effective treatment planning. Overall the ideal client is someone who values the therapeutic process and is ready to collaborate to achieve their goals.
My ideal client can be described as someone who is motivated to engage in treatment and actively participate in their treatment plan. They will be open to self reflection and willing to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They will be committed to making positive change in their life and are receptive to guidance and feedback. Additionally, they should be honest and transparent about their symptoms, allowing for accurate assessment and effective treatment planning. Overall the ideal client is someone who values the therapeutic process and is ready to collaborate to achieve their goals.
![Photo of Mariah Eze, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21d83728-5f29-4ea7-9878-2a1bfbf9e13d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariah Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22191 (Online Only)
Looking for a compassionate and emotionally intelligent psychiatric provider? Look no further. Mariah is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that is highly skilled in utilizing holistic psychopharmacological evidence based treatment approaches for patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, stress related disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders. Mariah demonstrates empathy and active listening skills that allows patients to feel seen and heard. In addition, Mariah provides individualized treatment plans tailored specifically to the needs of each patient.
Looking for a compassionate and emotionally intelligent psychiatric provider? Look no further. Mariah is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that is highly skilled in utilizing holistic psychopharmacological evidence based treatment approaches for patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, stress related disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other psychiatric disorders. Mariah demonstrates empathy and active listening skills that allows patients to feel seen and heard. In addition, Mariah provides individualized treatment plans tailored specifically to the needs of each patient.
![Photo of Brent Coyle, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e14fea49-dc4d-41c0-a753-b38019c7a449/2/320x400.png)
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Francoise Bissai, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c589dc1b-20e6-4e05-a228-a9e3c9856b8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Francoise Bissai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22193 (Online Only)
At Holistiq Health, we are accepting new patients! We currently treat ages 18 and above. We are currently offering most appointments virtually via video. Visit us at www.holistiqhealthandwellness.com or call 571-400-2326. Our specialties include medication management of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, dementia and more. We take a holistic approach to your care by focusing on your whole person; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
At Holistiq Health, we are accepting new patients! We currently treat ages 18 and above. We are currently offering most appointments virtually via video. Visit us at www.holistiqhealthandwellness.com or call 571-400-2326. Our specialties include medication management of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, dementia and more. We take a holistic approach to your care by focusing on your whole person; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
![Photo of Evelyn W Nuwordu, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe389ff-a97a-4bd1-8bda-63cf297e463e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evelyn W Nuwordu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Dr. Nuwordu is a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with inclusive training and experience in treating psychiatric disorders in inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Nuwordu worked with Active/retired military Service members, underprivileged clients in correctional facilities in four Virginia counties. Dr. Nuwordu is compassionate and thoughtful makes every effort to provide and guarantee her clients comprehensive and best available treatment that is individually centered in an empathic environment. Dr. Nuwordu has a personal passion for helping people and believes that the Sound mind builds a healthy body.
Dr. Nuwordu is a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with inclusive training and experience in treating psychiatric disorders in inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Nuwordu worked with Active/retired military Service members, underprivileged clients in correctional facilities in four Virginia counties. Dr. Nuwordu is compassionate and thoughtful makes every effort to provide and guarantee her clients comprehensive and best available treatment that is individually centered in an empathic environment. Dr. Nuwordu has a personal passion for helping people and believes that the Sound mind builds a healthy body.
![Photo of Helen Lancy, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5b870e-271a-4e79-b046-d5e7eaf88591/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22191 (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
![Photo of Adekunbi Akins - AkinsMHS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec6341d7-234a-45b8-a88e-a06a89c859c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
lots of young people and adults suffer from ADHD, this has affected their daily function and productivity. My ADHD clients have many options of stimulants and non stimulants medications that have proven effective. Depression hurts, and lots of traumatic events can trigger it. Depression can also be accompanied by symptoms like anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, appetite change and chronic pain. Whatever symptoms my clients struggle with, there are proven screening techniques, assessment, evaluation, medications and psychotherapeutic approaches I use to help clients of all ages. You can start living a happy life again!
lots of young people and adults suffer from ADHD, this has affected their daily function and productivity. My ADHD clients have many options of stimulants and non stimulants medications that have proven effective. Depression hurts, and lots of traumatic events can trigger it. Depression can also be accompanied by symptoms like anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, appetite change and chronic pain. Whatever symptoms my clients struggle with, there are proven screening techniques, assessment, evaluation, medications and psychotherapeutic approaches I use to help clients of all ages. You can start living a happy life again!
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20deb710-c4e8-43e3-8eef-abd6b29ef5f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22193 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Kavitha Tatineni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Kavitha Tatineni is a Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree from Old Dominion University. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP, PHMNP-BC). She has been taking care of patients for more than 10 years. She has worked in many different capacities as a mental health provider including working with adults, children, and families across the lifespan. She is highly experienced in medication management and treatment for depression, anxiety, and mood disorders, as well as a variety of individual mental health disorders.
Kavitha Tatineni is a Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree from Old Dominion University. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP, PHMNP-BC). She has been taking care of patients for more than 10 years. She has worked in many different capacities as a mental health provider including working with adults, children, and families across the lifespan. She is highly experienced in medication management and treatment for depression, anxiety, and mood disorders, as well as a variety of individual mental health disorders.
See more therapy options for Woodbridge
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Woodbridge, VA
60+
Average cost per session
$190
Psychiatrists in Woodbridge, VA who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Medication Management |
65% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
88% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Woodbridge, VA see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Woodbridge?
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.