Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA
![Photo of Geranameo Vladimir Bullock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22c2780d-c225-4869-85af-e213cb1524da/2/320x400.jpeg)
I see a variety of individuals: children, adolescents, and adults. While I have a physical office space, I also do virtual appointments. I also treat some people in nursing home or group home settings. I take time in my appointments to get to know the person, the sources of the symptoms experienced, and explore the various aspects of the individual for a wholistic treatment.
I see a variety of individuals: children, adolescents, and adults. While I have a physical office space, I also do virtual appointments. I also treat some people in nursing home or group home settings. I take time in my appointments to get to know the person, the sources of the symptoms experienced, and explore the various aspects of the individual for a wholistic treatment.
![Photo of Angel Williams-Kent - Wellness and Balance LLC, MSN, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29fca035-6abb-4836-b7d2-8d63b3d1e50f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellness and Balance LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23321
The PMHNP compassion group provides care for the mental health community to render medication management. A group of professionals came together to share experiences and offer mutual support to the mental health community. Within the compassion group, the providers have experience in providing strategies for managing stress. The provider offers professional medication management to assist patients with psychiatric disorders fully. A professional approach to a more comprehensive treatment can address all Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorders. Other Therapies and modalities are offered through referrals. Accepting New PTS
The PMHNP compassion group provides care for the mental health community to render medication management. A group of professionals came together to share experiences and offer mutual support to the mental health community. Within the compassion group, the providers have experience in providing strategies for managing stress. The provider offers professional medication management to assist patients with psychiatric disorders fully. A professional approach to a more comprehensive treatment can address all Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorders. Other Therapies and modalities are offered through referrals. Accepting New PTS
![Photo of Rachel F Firman, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f8c575f-ea3a-400a-84c0-74a9abcacbdb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel F Firman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I believe that together we can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. I treat adult patients 18-64 years old. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. I believe that together we can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. I treat adult patients 18-64 years old. I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
![Photo of James Paul Callis - In Harmony Wellness, MS, MPA, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1df77f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatry. Part of an excellent team at In Harmony Wellness, in northern Chesapeake, VA (near Chesapeake Square Mall) Serve to manage Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit disorders, and more. Provides services ages 15 -75 years old. Experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health since 1988 with diverse populations and multiple capacities including psychotherapy in 1990s. Patients are encouraged to embrace total health while working on better mental health.
Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatry. Part of an excellent team at In Harmony Wellness, in northern Chesapeake, VA (near Chesapeake Square Mall) Serve to manage Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit disorders, and more. Provides services ages 15 -75 years old. Experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health since 1988 with diverse populations and multiple capacities including psychotherapy in 1990s. Patients are encouraged to embrace total health while working on better mental health.
![Photo of Amy Gallardo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ae2c5c2-7b90-4a49-881f-62c8f634c928/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Gallardo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Amy can help you by really listening and having compassion for what you’re going through. Look, life is tough, Amy is here to make it a little easier with medication management. In her spare time, Amy enjoys reading a good book and gardening.
Amy Gallardo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Amy can help you by really listening and having compassion for what you’re going through. Look, life is tough, Amy is here to make it a little easier with medication management. In her spare time, Amy enjoys reading a good book and gardening.
![Photo of Katia Hall - Alpha Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/070a5780-b4ab-40f3-9845-1b12ec5aa643/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Marci Bowen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/559f5ec9-2099-47be-b25c-2a98af2976a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marci Bowen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
![Photo of Shahauna Mallery, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73566c61-b04b-4e6e-b77b-113d714fd229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shahauna Mallery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
Shahauna is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. She worked as a psychiatric RN for many years prior to becoming a psychiatric NP. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective and a multitude of resources during treatment planning.
Shauna Polen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of combined health care experience in various settings. I have a background in the inpatient acute care setting and inpatient psychiatric settings. I have worked at local hospitals serving the Tidewater, Virginia region.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of combined health care experience in various settings. I have a background in the inpatient acute care setting and inpatient psychiatric settings. I have worked at local hospitals serving the Tidewater, Virginia region.
![Photo of Rachel Firman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed66ef90-c6bc-4856-9e9a-19f26aa9c98b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. She believes that together the two of you can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. She treats adult patients 18-64 years old. Rachel is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. She is also a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her experience includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. She believes that together the two of you can work to establish a medication regimen designed to increase your quality of life and minimize symptom presentation. She treats adult patients 18-64 years old. Rachel is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with a Master's Degree in Nursing that includes a focused concentration on Psychiatric Mental Health. She is also a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
![Photo of Kassimier Thompson - Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed132b17-fcab-406a-a478-8c5f8be111b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322 (Online Only)
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
100% Telepsychiatry Fee for Service Practice NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in VA and NC. Our mission is to integrate mental health and wellness into everyday living. Dr. Thompson chose to become a psychiatrist because everyone has a story, and deserves having someone who can both hear and hold their pain. She loves watching the progression in individual’s lives. People usually come to see her because they are in despair and not sure where to turn to find relief. Dr. Thompson likes taking the journey with her patients to take them from a state of crisis and uncertainty and helping them achieve stability and wellness from the inside out.
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![Photo of Taniece Reid, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c43d6565-0745-457b-a585-84a95fe362f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taniece Reid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
My ideal client is any client who made the choice to seek help. Knowing your exact issues, needs or goals is not a requirement to be seen. We will work together to identify the issues, identify the needs and formulate achievable goals. Seeking help is the beginning and the most important step in the journey to achieve optimal mental health and should be commended. It then changes from a one man battle to a team effort. I will provide a supportive, stigma free and non-judgmental environment to enhance client empowerment, compliance, and education.
My ideal client is any client who made the choice to seek help. Knowing your exact issues, needs or goals is not a requirement to be seen. We will work together to identify the issues, identify the needs and formulate achievable goals. Seeking help is the beginning and the most important step in the journey to achieve optimal mental health and should be commended. It then changes from a one man battle to a team effort. I will provide a supportive, stigma free and non-judgmental environment to enhance client empowerment, compliance, and education.
![Photo of Brence Brooks, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4d5785-0386-4d9f-8c67-ba9fa0094406/1/320x400.png)
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322 (Online Only)
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Stanisha Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c73f886-727b-4c13-8055-a52fda1bcb9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stanisha Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320 (Online Only)
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
![Photo of Denita Peele-Whickum - Aligning Paths Mental Health Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6d5e2b5-aed7-4982-8320-d1491ccb0f28/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aligning Paths Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
We're excited to announce that we're now accepting new clients starting as young as age 7. Our services encompass a wide range of specialties, from medication management to weight loss management, independent veteran examinations, & medical cannabis evaluations. Our dedicated team has extensive experience in treating various conditions, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many more. We’re here to address the challenges you face with understanding and expertise. Your mental health is invaluable & you're not alone; we're here to walk with you on your path to a brighter, healthier future.
We're excited to announce that we're now accepting new clients starting as young as age 7. Our services encompass a wide range of specialties, from medication management to weight loss management, independent veteran examinations, & medical cannabis evaluations. Our dedicated team has extensive experience in treating various conditions, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many more. We’re here to address the challenges you face with understanding and expertise. Your mental health is invaluable & you're not alone; we're here to walk with you on your path to a brighter, healthier future.
![Photo of Justin Ray - South Chesapeake Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/549bede7-bd91-4961-a1e1-089f51105c12/2/320x400.jpeg)
South Chesapeake Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Robyn Hilbert, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ce5a1a-45e2-4e09-bfe9-c64e487cd057/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robyn Hilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
With over 30 years’ experience as a Registered Nurse, & the past two years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have cared for individuals & families in some of their darkest & scariest times. Life is a journey which is not meant to be journeyed alone. I want to help you journey through any mental health struggles you may be experiencing. It is ok to ask for help. Understanding initiating psychotropic medications can be scary, it is this fear of the unknown or social stigma, where I want to meet you & help teach you your options, supporting you as you journey towards being the best version of you possible!
With over 30 years’ experience as a Registered Nurse, & the past two years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I have cared for individuals & families in some of their darkest & scariest times. Life is a journey which is not meant to be journeyed alone. I want to help you journey through any mental health struggles you may be experiencing. It is ok to ask for help. Understanding initiating psychotropic medications can be scary, it is this fear of the unknown or social stigma, where I want to meet you & help teach you your options, supporting you as you journey towards being the best version of you possible!
![Photo of Stanisha Williams, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83fe7700-a553-4f93-958b-8d1bfe144475/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stanisha Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320 (Online Only)
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. With years of dedicated experience, I am committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals of all ages. Visit www.embracemp.com to schedule your appointment.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. With years of dedicated experience, I am committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals of all ages. Visit www.embracemp.com to schedule your appointment.
![Photo of Michele Davidson, PhD, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, CFN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b35175a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, CNM, PMH-C, CFN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Accepting New Patients: I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families to work together to address mental health conditions along with life transition issues. I work with women and men of all ages with various mental health issues, including pregnant and postpartum women. I use a combination of coaching, therapy, medication management, and goal setting to help patients develop a plan of care based on their goals. As a nurse midwife, I have expertise in women's mental health issues. I also have expertise in treating adults transitioning to college or the workforce and adults in role transition.
Accepting New Patients: I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families to work together to address mental health conditions along with life transition issues. I work with women and men of all ages with various mental health issues, including pregnant and postpartum women. I use a combination of coaching, therapy, medication management, and goal setting to help patients develop a plan of care based on their goals. As a nurse midwife, I have expertise in women's mental health issues. I also have expertise in treating adults transitioning to college or the workforce and adults in role transition.
![Photo of Quanda Griffin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/add03f6d-f6ba-4831-aec1-110ffa7aef39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Quanda Griffin is a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2009. She has an AND from Norfolk State University, a BSN from Norfolk State University, an MS from Hampton University, and a Post-Masters Certificate from University of Virginia. Quanda can offer assistance in helping you to learn how to manage life stressors, changes, and related problems that can be challenging and overwhelming. She will help you to recognize thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are counterproductive and keeping you from being the best version of you.
Quanda Griffin is a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2009. She has an AND from Norfolk State University, a BSN from Norfolk State University, an MS from Hampton University, and a Post-Masters Certificate from University of Virginia. Quanda can offer assistance in helping you to learn how to manage life stressors, changes, and related problems that can be challenging and overwhelming. She will help you to recognize thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are counterproductive and keeping you from being the best version of you.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA
70+
Average cost per session
$155
Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
84% | Aetna |
72% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Chesapeake, VA see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chesapeake?
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.