Psychiatrists in Clarke County, VA
Hava Oaks Medical Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Berryville, VA 22611 (Online Only)
Dr. O, as her patients affectionately know her, is a compassionate and experienced mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome a wide range of challenges. She specializes in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, eating disorders, OCD, DMDD, ODD, and substance use disorders. Dr. O's approach that combines evident-based medication management and varieties of psychotherapy techniques is rooted in unconditional positive regard, creating a safe and supportive environment for her patients.
Dr. O, as her patients affectionately know her, is a compassionate and experienced mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome a wide range of challenges. She specializes in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, eating disorders, OCD, DMDD, ODD, and substance use disorders. Dr. O's approach that combines evident-based medication management and varieties of psychotherapy techniques is rooted in unconditional positive regard, creating a safe and supportive environment for her patients.
Suellen Drake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Berryville, VA 22611
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in Medications for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Attacks, and related issues. I am licensed in Psychiatry and Family Practice which allows me to see the patient as a whole. I strive to treat a patient's symptoms as one problem, not as individual symptoms. This frequently allows for less medication and maybe a reduction in your current medication. I have over 15 years experience. I welcome the opportunity to visit with you to see if your life could be much better !
I specialize in Medications for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Attacks, and related issues. I am licensed in Psychiatry and Family Practice which allows me to see the patient as a whole. I strive to treat a patient's symptoms as one problem, not as individual symptoms. This frequently allows for less medication and maybe a reduction in your current medication. I have over 15 years experience. I welcome the opportunity to visit with you to see if your life could be much better !
Online Psychiatrists
Manjit Sangha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Allen, VA 23059
Welcome! Accepting New Patients! . My mission is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms, by integrating holistic psychiatry with a comprehensive approach that includes medications, therapy, and complementary/alternative treatments. I am committed to creating a healing environment where each individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being is nurtured. I treats all psychiatric issues, with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD,OCD, insomnia, addiction and other mood disorders. I collaborate closely with individuals to find the most appropriate and effective medication regimen.
Welcome! Accepting New Patients! . My mission is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms, by integrating holistic psychiatry with a comprehensive approach that includes medications, therapy, and complementary/alternative treatments. I am committed to creating a healing environment where each individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being is nurtured. I treats all psychiatric issues, with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD,OCD, insomnia, addiction and other mood disorders. I collaborate closely with individuals to find the most appropriate and effective medication regimen.
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/
Terry Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, VA 22405 (Online Only)
Mental health treatment can be overwhelming and scary, congratulations on taking the first step! I am a compassionate and empathetic provider who understands the importance of building long term trusting relationships with patients, to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns, and work together towards achieving their goals. I will take the time to listen to each individual's unique needs, and to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
Mental health treatment can be overwhelming and scary, congratulations on taking the first step! I am a compassionate and empathetic provider who understands the importance of building long term trusting relationships with patients, to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns, and work together towards achieving their goals. I will take the time to listen to each individual's unique needs, and to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
Katherine Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20176 (Online Only)
I have been treating mood disorders, such as depression, for the past twelve years. I focus on individualized care with my patients, taking into account their past experiences with medications and their current priorities with treatment. I combine medication management with cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. Please note that I do not prescribe routine/daily benzodiazepines and patients on any controlled substances, such as stimulants, are required to have an in-person appointment with me before December 2024. I am currently treating ages 20 and up.
I have been treating mood disorders, such as depression, for the past twelve years. I focus on individualized care with my patients, taking into account their past experiences with medications and their current priorities with treatment. I combine medication management with cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. Please note that I do not prescribe routine/daily benzodiazepines and patients on any controlled substances, such as stimulants, are required to have an in-person appointment with me before December 2024. I am currently treating ages 20 and up.
Godaelli Psychiatric and Mental Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192 (Online Only)
Godaelli Healthcare Services is transforming lives through holistic medication management and supportive therapy. Our team of experienced Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing mental health treatment to children, teens, adults, and families. Whether your goal is to attain mental stability or you want to maintain stable mental health, our providers are equipped and ready to help. They treat our patients with empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of both the biological and psychological details of psychiatric disorders and their associated symptoms.
Godaelli Healthcare Services is transforming lives through holistic medication management and supportive therapy. Our team of experienced Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing mental health treatment to children, teens, adults, and families. Whether your goal is to attain mental stability or you want to maintain stable mental health, our providers are equipped and ready to help. They treat our patients with empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of both the biological and psychological details of psychiatric disorders and their associated symptoms.
Angela Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202 (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
*ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS* *TELE-HEALTH ONLY* I am looking to serve you! I am looking for clients that have trouble sleeping, depression, mood changes, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, or have trouble concentrating, If this sounds like some things you have been struggling with I would love to have you as a client. Together, we can work together in hopes of finding balance so you can live YOUR BEST LIFE. I am here to assist. No one should have to go through these events alone or feel isolated from others.
Jane Sullivan is a Nurse Practitioner in Washington, DC who has been practicing since 1997. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont and a Master's Degree from Rivier University. Jane thoroughly assesses clients for individualized treatment to include medication management to be monitored and continually assessed together with client input to attain stabilization and ability to live their fullest potential. Jane is originally from Boston but has lived throughout the US. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and neighbors, as well as her son's dog FEN (short for Fenway Park).
Jane Sullivan is a Nurse Practitioner in Washington, DC who has been practicing since 1997. She has an undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont and a Master's Degree from Rivier University. Jane thoroughly assesses clients for individualized treatment to include medication management to be monitored and continually assessed together with client input to attain stabilization and ability to live their fullest potential. Jane is originally from Boston but has lived throughout the US. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and neighbors, as well as her son's dog FEN (short for Fenway Park).
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths, harness into your available resources, while getting the symptoms under control. At inspire behavioral health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths, harness into your available resources, while getting the symptoms under control. At inspire behavioral health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
Integrated Cognitive Care Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147 (Online Only)
In our sessions, you can expect a collaborative and tailored approach, drawing upon evidence-based practices such as psychodynamic therapy. I view our relationship as a partnership, ensuring that decisions about your care align with your unique needs and goals. Confidentiality is paramount, and I encourage open communication and feedback, with a willingness to adjust our treatment plan based on your needs. Continuous learning is a priority to provide you with the best care possible.
In our sessions, you can expect a collaborative and tailored approach, drawing upon evidence-based practices such as psychodynamic therapy. I view our relationship as a partnership, ensuring that decisions about your care align with your unique needs and goals. Confidentiality is paramount, and I encourage open communication and feedback, with a willingness to adjust our treatment plan based on your needs. Continuous learning is a priority to provide you with the best care possible.
Accepting new clients 18 and over. Crystal Lee is a board certified psychiatric NP with experience working in healthcare since 2010. At Essential Health we realize that each person is unique and want to know your story and treat the whole person and not just a diagnosis. We strive to make sure that we treat each patient with kindness and respect in order to maintain a collaborative relationship and to ensure that your personal goals are being met. We accept multiple insurances and are working on credentialing with others so contact us at essentialhealthva.com to confirm if we accept your insurance or to book an appointment.
Accepting new clients 18 and over. Crystal Lee is a board certified psychiatric NP with experience working in healthcare since 2010. At Essential Health we realize that each person is unique and want to know your story and treat the whole person and not just a diagnosis. We strive to make sure that we treat each patient with kindness and respect in order to maintain a collaborative relationship and to ensure that your personal goals are being met. We accept multiple insurances and are working on credentialing with others so contact us at essentialhealthva.com to confirm if we accept your insurance or to book an appointment.
Veronique Kom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Healing is focusing on building your strengths while being assisted by professional and available resources. Partnering with you by providing a comprehensive Psychiatric evaluation, setting attainable goals, and creating an individualized plan of care using an integrative approach is the key. VeveHealth uses a holistic approach by incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, psychoeducational, and cultural sensitivity throughout your individualized care.
Healing is focusing on building your strengths while being assisted by professional and available resources. Partnering with you by providing a comprehensive Psychiatric evaluation, setting attainable goals, and creating an individualized plan of care using an integrative approach is the key. VeveHealth uses a holistic approach by incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, psychoeducational, and cultural sensitivity throughout your individualized care.
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.
Kehinde Oyekan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP , PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
As a Board certified Nurse Practitioner practicing in Psychiatry, my role includes getting to know your whole life story, your current concerns as well as diagnosis, and to figure out together what treatment approach makes most sense for you. My practice approach is a mix of prescribing up to date psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification- diet, exercise, etc. I strongly believe a patient and his or her provider need to have a two-way relationship. I will always discuss with you what medication options are available, their risks.
As a Board certified Nurse Practitioner practicing in Psychiatry, my role includes getting to know your whole life story, your current concerns as well as diagnosis, and to figure out together what treatment approach makes most sense for you. My practice approach is a mix of prescribing up to date psychiatric medications and alternative natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification- diet, exercise, etc. I strongly believe a patient and his or her provider need to have a two-way relationship. I will always discuss with you what medication options are available, their risks.
Adam O'Neill & Associates LLC
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
Adam's treatment approach is rooted in the understanding that first, we are made in the image of God, second, that our biology, psychology, and spiritual state have been impacted by the Fall, and third, that the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on our psychology begins with salvation and continues through the faithful stewardship of our mind and body. We hold strongly that medication does not constitute a lack of faith in God’s ability to bring miraculous healing but that it may be prayerfully considered when appropriate and accepted with thanks as a gift from God.
Adam's treatment approach is rooted in the understanding that first, we are made in the image of God, second, that our biology, psychology, and spiritual state have been impacted by the Fall, and third, that the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on our psychology begins with salvation and continues through the faithful stewardship of our mind and body. We hold strongly that medication does not constitute a lack of faith in God’s ability to bring miraculous healing but that it may be prayerfully considered when appropriate and accepted with thanks as a gift from God.
Sam Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902
As a provider, I seek to walk alongside patients as we work to achieve care goals together. This process requires openness, honesty, and trust that I hope to earn over time. We arrive at a collaborative treatment plan focusing on psychotherapy, diet, exercise, mindfulness, and medication if it is necessary. This whole-person approach hopes to achieve wellness while providing the opportunity to learn skills to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
As a provider, I seek to walk alongside patients as we work to achieve care goals together. This process requires openness, honesty, and trust that I hope to earn over time. We arrive at a collaborative treatment plan focusing on psychotherapy, diet, exercise, mindfulness, and medication if it is necessary. This whole-person approach hopes to achieve wellness while providing the opportunity to learn skills to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Dr. Yvette Zebaze is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing for more than a decade. In 2013, she received her associate degree in nursing from Standard College of Nursing. Following that, in 2015, she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governor University. Further advancing her education, she completed her Doctoral of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry at George Mason University. Dr. Zebaze's approach to care is centered around evidence-based practices, aiming to support her clients as they pursue healthier lives.
Dr. Yvette Zebaze is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing for more than a decade. In 2013, she received her associate degree in nursing from Standard College of Nursing. Following that, in 2015, she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governor University. Further advancing her education, she completed her Doctoral of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry at George Mason University. Dr. Zebaze's approach to care is centered around evidence-based practices, aiming to support her clients as they pursue healthier lives.
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.
Shenise Seabrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20112 (Online Only)
Do you take time for your mental health care needs? You should never feel alone when it comes to getting mental health treatment. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in providing individualistic and holistic mental health care with compassion. I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, sleep, and mood disorders while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Do you take time for your mental health care needs? You should never feel alone when it comes to getting mental health treatment. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in providing individualistic and holistic mental health care with compassion. I diagnose and treat patients with anxiety, depression, sleep, and mood disorders while treating everyone with dignity and respect.
See more therapy options for Clarke County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Clarke County, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Clarke County, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Clarke County, VA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Clarke County?
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.