Psychiatrists in Eastville, VA
![Photo of Alicia N. Rose - Alicia Rose @ Meridian Psychotherapy Services, LLC, CSAC, CARN-AP, ACNS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ef63bd-29b1-4b56-81b6-05dcc3e5676d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Rose @ Meridian Psychotherapy Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CSAC, CARN-AP, ACNS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eastville, VA 23347
Board Certified in lifespan psychiatry, adult health and addiction, my preferred clients are those 18-years-old and older that are primarily seeking professional consultation and treatment for a struggle with addiction and/or mood disorder. I will consider adolescents on a case-by-case basis. I'm a proponent of individual and group psychotherapy and the utilization of recovery models such as 12 Step programs and SMART Recovery. Medication alone is usually not the answer but a comprehensive care plan involving medication (if deemed necessary) and proper counseling.
Board Certified in lifespan psychiatry, adult health and addiction, my preferred clients are those 18-years-old and older that are primarily seeking professional consultation and treatment for a struggle with addiction and/or mood disorder. I will consider adolescents on a case-by-case basis. I'm a proponent of individual and group psychotherapy and the utilization of recovery models such as 12 Step programs and SMART Recovery. Medication alone is usually not the answer but a comprehensive care plan involving medication (if deemed necessary) and proper counseling.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Alyson Myers - Meridian Psychotherapy Services, MD, PMHNP, LCSW, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ece7d88-fee2-4b73-bc59-71cd59d5d0de/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meridian Psychotherapy Services
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Charles, VA 23310
Meridian Psychotherapy Services is a leading and trusted Hampton Roads mental health practice for over 35 years. Our expert staff of physicians, nurse practitioners and mental health professionals are committed to helping adults and adolescents through individual, group, couples, and family counseling services.
Meridian Psychotherapy Services is a leading and trusted Hampton Roads mental health practice for over 35 years. Our expert staff of physicians, nurse practitioners and mental health professionals are committed to helping adults and adolescents through individual, group, couples, and family counseling services.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Sarah Story, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cdc145e-e22a-479d-be2d-e87ee211dbdc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Story
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23116
Accepting NEW clients ( 18 and older). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, , PTSD and bipolar disorder. Call now to schedule an appointment.
Accepting NEW clients ( 18 and older). Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus and concentration, anxiety, sleeping, low motivation, depression? Untreated mental health illnesses can lead to poor quality of life and make it difficult for you to reach your goals and achieve your fullest potential in life. I'm passionate about helping clients to get prompt mental health diagnosis and treatments so that they can live their lives to the fullest. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, , PTSD and bipolar disorder. Call now to schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Brent Coyle, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a15f1206-3afb-402b-9282-a8af86c5f21f/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 Jennifer Schrecengost, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8b04228-ef98-499d-a5eb-194a94d60711/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Schrecengost is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2005. Jennifer offers culturally sensitive, family-centered, holistic care from a provider with almost 20 years of experience working with kids, teens, and their families. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys READING, family time, and Harry Potter.
Jennifer Schrecengost is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2005. Jennifer offers culturally sensitive, family-centered, holistic care from a provider with almost 20 years of experience working with kids, teens, and their families. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys READING, family time, and Harry Potter.
![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
Richmond, VA 23225 (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 Komal Singh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3999722e-c56d-4b90-b6d7-f50af4caa2a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Komal Singh, M.D. is a graduate of Avalon University School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital with additional fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Virginia Hospital. Dr. Singh provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children and adolescents. Dr. Singh focuses on taking a personalized approach that takes into account all aspects of the mental health of each individual patient when determining the best method of treatment. Her treatment recommendations include medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Komal Singh, M.D. is a graduate of Avalon University School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital with additional fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Virginia Hospital. Dr. Singh provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment services to children and adolescents. Dr. Singh focuses on taking a personalized approach that takes into account all aspects of the mental health of each individual patient when determining the best method of treatment. Her treatment recommendations include medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67e54d37-1c94-45b4-a4fd-63db0a23fc98/2/320x400.png)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23219 (Online Only)
Ike is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. Ike is affiliated with vardsurgentpsych.com and aims to provide mental health aid to people in areas that would otherwise be impossible to reach out to via tele-health. The effects of the pandemic and current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. Mental illness and stress can affect all aspects of our life if not treated/addressed. Being that every person is a unique individual, we should be treated with respect.
Ike is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practioner with over 12 years in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. Ike is affiliated with vardsurgentpsych.com and aims to provide mental health aid to people in areas that would otherwise be impossible to reach out to via tele-health. The effects of the pandemic and current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. Mental illness and stress can affect all aspects of our life if not treated/addressed. Being that every person is a unique individual, we should be treated with respect.
![Photo of Maggie Oliver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5e0b3db-0040-4c43-872c-07109595ba0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maggie Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23518 (Online Only)
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
![Photo of Nicole (Nikki) Gallegos, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6023322c-4032-46bd-8142-b88a46ea9576/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole (Nikki) Gallegos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Online Only)
Do you believe in the importance of recognizing the interconnected nature of mind, body, and spirit? It's a beautiful philosophy rooted in the understanding that genuine healing involves addressing every aspect of who you are. Hello! I'm Nikki, a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 16 years of nursing experience in various healthcare settings (emergency rooms, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, corrections, pediatric special needs, geriatrics, & sexual assault). As an Air Force veteran, a proud mother of three, & an active Catholic parishioner, my journey deeply influences how I approach mental health & well-being.
Do you believe in the importance of recognizing the interconnected nature of mind, body, and spirit? It's a beautiful philosophy rooted in the understanding that genuine healing involves addressing every aspect of who you are. Hello! I'm Nikki, a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 16 years of nursing experience in various healthcare settings (emergency rooms, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, corrections, pediatric special needs, geriatrics, & sexual assault). As an Air Force veteran, a proud mother of three, & an active Catholic parishioner, my journey deeply influences how I approach mental health & well-being.
![Photo of Loyette Wong - Loyette Wong, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00c583d7-1e6e-42aa-b626-de2b89181724/1/320x400.jpeg)
Loyette Wong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
Loyette Wong is a military veteran and board-certified nurse practitioner. As a nurse practitioner, she has treated patients with a wide range of diagnoses in the fields of sleep medicine, neurology and family medicine. She went on to receive her post-master's certification in psychiatric-mental health in order to better serve the demand of her patients. She specializes in providing compassionate and culturally competent care.
Loyette Wong is a military veteran and board-certified nurse practitioner. As a nurse practitioner, she has treated patients with a wide range of diagnoses in the fields of sleep medicine, neurology and family medicine. She went on to receive her post-master's certification in psychiatric-mental health in order to better serve the demand of her patients. She specializes in providing compassionate and culturally competent care.
![Photo of joginder Pal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5084a1f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist. I have served Tidewater area for more than 35 years. You are devastated by severe PSYCHOLOGICAL crisis. You want to regain your controI. I offer URGENT Medication interventions within 24-48 hours. My experience of years from serving people inpt /out pt , all ages with wide range of Mental Health disorders is value and quality of care you need to facilitate rapid healing and restoring, coping and functioning. Offering Late afternoon? Eve and Saturday Appointments if preferred. Telehealth/ Videro sessions can be arranged.
I am Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist. I have served Tidewater area for more than 35 years. You are devastated by severe PSYCHOLOGICAL crisis. You want to regain your controI. I offer URGENT Medication interventions within 24-48 hours. My experience of years from serving people inpt /out pt , all ages with wide range of Mental Health disorders is value and quality of care you need to facilitate rapid healing and restoring, coping and functioning. Offering Late afternoon? Eve and Saturday Appointments if preferred. Telehealth/ Videro sessions can be arranged.
![Photo of Leanne Hyler, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22222ee9-45e5-477f-b06d-9a5805bb1cb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
![Photo of Angela Allen Blaine, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85c02969-955d-4e48-bd8a-aee3de27df33/1/320x400.png)
Angela Allen Blaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223 (Online Only)
Angela Allen-Blaine is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and her Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. Angela completed her post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and is currently working toward her doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
Angela Allen-Blaine is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her Nursing degree at Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, received her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Old Dominion University, and her Master's degree in Nursing from Liberty University. Angela completed her post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ANCC Board Certification from the University of Cincinnati and is currently working toward her doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) at Liberty University.
![Photo of Ogochukwu Obiekwe - Assured Healthcare, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc3462c5-827b-470d-9ce7-9d583da1a028/1/320x400.jpeg)
Assured Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23231 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my master’s degrees from The Catholic University of America and Liberty University respectively.
![Photo of Ryan Ernest, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d94a69dd-2e68-428b-af99-5fd84800e1fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
![Photo of Valentina Cimolai Md, CA, FL, NY, VA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82f977e6-daa2-4baa-b3cf-b77c279cad39/2/320x400.png)
Valentina Cimolai Md
Psychiatrist, CA, FL, NY, VA
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Online Only)
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. It is important to get to the root causes of the challenges you are facing and tap into your abilities to heal yourself. I am a board-certified psychiatrist in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, and Integrative Medicine and combine conventional treatments (medications and evidence-based therapies) with a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, supplements, and mind-body techniques.
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. It is important to get to the root causes of the challenges you are facing and tap into your abilities to heal yourself. I am a board-certified psychiatrist in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, and Integrative Medicine and combine conventional treatments (medications and evidence-based therapies) with a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, supplements, and mind-body techniques.
![Photo of Petitecha Wimbush, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/968f8ab3-cd74-4818-8957-caf6efbf8b2a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Petitecha Wimbush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chester, VA 23836
I believe mental wellness can be achieved through medication management, therapy and complementary/alternative treatment to improve the health of the mind-body connection. I am here to assist you in taking back control of your mental health and well-being.
I believe mental wellness can be achieved through medication management, therapy and complementary/alternative treatment to improve the health of the mind-body connection. I am here to assist you in taking back control of your mental health and well-being.
![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
Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (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.
Nearby Searches for Eastville
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Eastville, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Eastville, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Spirituality |
100% | Other |
100% | Substance Use |
100% | Alcohol Use |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Eastville, VA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Eastville?
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.