Psychiatrists in Manassas City County, VA
![Photo of Adomale Elba - Urgent Behavioral Health Services, DNP, MS, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b273d1ff-505e-4b35-accf-f19de1a8f610/2/320x400.jpeg)
Urgent Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives. I believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality behavioral healthcare, and I am committed to making that a reality through evidence-based practices and compassionate support.
My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives. I believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality behavioral healthcare, and I am committed to making that a reality through evidence-based practices and compassionate support.
![Photo of Adomale Elba, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a188ef5b-a8d8-44d8-8220-bfda456fe631/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there, I'm Dr. Elba, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be daunting and overwhelming! I am here to support you every step of the way! My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives.
Hello there, I'm Dr. Elba, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be daunting and overwhelming! I am here to support you every step of the way! My mission is to promote mental wellness and help individuals achieve their full potential in all areas of their lives.
![Photo of Dena Wampler, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd11b28d-82f6-43b6-82dc-175dba08fe03/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dena Wampler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
In a series of happy coincidences, my life took an unexpected turn in the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Master’s program where I was able to secure a spot in the psychiatric/mental health specialty. Much of my practice has been in community mental health which has been fulfilling, enlightening and educational. I’m comfortable with diagnosing and providing medication for depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and sleep issues and providing education about the medication.
In a series of happy coincidences, my life took an unexpected turn in the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Master’s program where I was able to secure a spot in the psychiatric/mental health specialty. Much of my practice has been in community mental health which has been fulfilling, enlightening and educational. I’m comfortable with diagnosing and providing medication for depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and sleep issues and providing education about the medication.
![Photo of Lartoniah Hassan - Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f27b1314-c6c2-4a5b-93b7-abe3d62c8438/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
![Photo of Melanie Parks, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/963ea1c6-a3cb-4199-8afe-160e9ddaae17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Parks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
I have been practicing since 2003, treating patients of all ages in various settings. My therapeutic treatment goals are to provide the best mental health care possible through a holistic approach.
I have been practicing since 2003, treating patients of all ages in various settings. My therapeutic treatment goals are to provide the best mental health care possible through a holistic approach.
![Photo of Stephanie Foster, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eea512ba-8c2c-4842-a084-2470dc011115/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with many years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in a wide range of treatment areas including depression, anxiety, autism, oppositional defiant disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I have worked in several settings and enjoy providing care through telehealth which offers access to quality care when it is needed.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with many years of experience treating children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in a wide range of treatment areas including depression, anxiety, autism, oppositional defiant disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I have worked in several settings and enjoy providing care through telehealth which offers access to quality care when it is needed.
![Photo of Dana Mohl - Paragon Integrative Psychiatry, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d509bff-d601-4359-be0c-5e0603a3e668/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paragon Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Dana Mohl & I'm a Nurse Practitioner (NP), double board-certified in Family Practice and Psychiatry, and have training in Integrative Psychiatry. I've worked in healthcare since 2006 and have a passion for mental health that started in my training when I received the Outstanding Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner award. I use an integrative, personalized, and collaborative approach to guide you through a journey to true healing. I treat my patients safely, without judging, and with kindness, empathy, and compassion. Everyone is welcome here and deserves quality care. Please visit my website or email me.
Welcome! My name is Dana Mohl & I'm a Nurse Practitioner (NP), double board-certified in Family Practice and Psychiatry, and have training in Integrative Psychiatry. I've worked in healthcare since 2006 and have a passion for mental health that started in my training when I received the Outstanding Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner award. I use an integrative, personalized, and collaborative approach to guide you through a journey to true healing. I treat my patients safely, without judging, and with kindness, empathy, and compassion. Everyone is welcome here and deserves quality care. Please visit my website or email me.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f347250-08b7-4e2b-8e8c-f4216e9f1f17/3/320x400.jpeg)
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/
![Photo of Cash McGregor, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b2495a-ebdf-478e-a971-c31d9e1f68b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! - www.conquesthealth.org - I am available for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and especially substance use disorders. I prioritize availability for appointments, with both in-person and online scheduling available with some mornings, evenings, and weekends.
Accepting New Patients! - www.conquesthealth.org - I am available for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and especially substance use disorders. I prioritize availability for appointments, with both in-person and online scheduling available with some mornings, evenings, and weekends.
![Photo of Peggy Doyle - Peggy Doyle, Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse, PMH, CNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce81419-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Peggy Doyle, Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH, CNS, BC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20108
During the 50+ years I have been serving the community as a nurse and mental health therapist I have learned that you who come to me for help have your own answers locked inside. My work is to share my skills and experience to help you unravel your confusion and ease your emotional pain. Couples with relationship issues learn to listen. Individuals learn to deal with loss and grief. Anxiety dissipates with insight and learned skills. Children and Adolescents improve self esteem and confidence. Changing the way you look at your world will change the way you feel and act.
During the 50+ years I have been serving the community as a nurse and mental health therapist I have learned that you who come to me for help have your own answers locked inside. My work is to share my skills and experience to help you unravel your confusion and ease your emotional pain. Couples with relationship issues learn to listen. Individuals learn to deal with loss and grief. Anxiety dissipates with insight and learned skills. Children and Adolescents improve self esteem and confidence. Changing the way you look at your world will change the way you feel and act.
![Photo of David Phelps - David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ea395a7-b608-4e41-9396-303b5156057c/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Phelps, APRN. Conquest Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
Accepting New Patients- www.conquesthealth.org -You are a unique and complex person, which is why you deserve personalized care. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse or another psychiatric illness I'm here to help you. Whether you feel that you could benefit from medications for a few months, or you have a more chronic and complex condition, let's explore your options together. I'll provide you with the teaching and expertise you need to make your own informed decisions. Together, we'll set tangible goals and focus on how we can improve your overall functioning, wherever you are in life.
![Photo of Kelsey Skiljan, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3905311-8c94-40c6-92a7-c62b96a18633/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 to focus on your strengths and 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, 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 to focus on your strengths and 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, it is also important to understand that people are much more than symptoms they are experiencing.
![Photo of Jacquetta “Jay” Garris, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a77939e-8342-4a65-8143-d34b565db486/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacquetta “Jay” Garris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of specific conditions and symptoms. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, provide medication management, and when appropriate provide psychotherapeutic interventions. My approach to mental health care is holistic and patient-centered in nature. *NOW OFFERING CBD/THC-A Oil evaluations*
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of specific conditions and symptoms. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, provide medication management, and when appropriate provide psychotherapeutic interventions. My approach to mental health care is holistic and patient-centered in nature. *NOW OFFERING CBD/THC-A Oil evaluations*
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b397680-2d40-4a0f-b479-c7500a3c9f68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Dr. Janet Asare - Integrated Telepsychiatry LLC , DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8feac9d-2161-4f3d-842f-8b50dfcf115c/2/320x400.png)
Integrated Telepsychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20108 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. My expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in internal medicine. Currently offering telepsychiatry services to patients aged 18 and older. I am available to assist my clients to manage their mental wellbeing through an integrative evidenced based approach, incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation during each session.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. My expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in internal medicine. Currently offering telepsychiatry services to patients aged 18 and older. I am available to assist my clients to manage their mental wellbeing through an integrative evidenced based approach, incorporating medication management, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation during each session.
![Photo of Cassie Behseta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efb3ac0b-0d1b-4d2e-b7ea-2835d7706373/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie Behseta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
Cassie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. She has eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For her, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing her to work with families across the lifespan and work closely and collaboratively with people. Cassie utilizes evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). She manages and treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, and women's health.
Cassie is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. She has eight years of experience in both medical emergency room care and acute psychiatric care. For her, psychiatry was an obvious choice, allowing her to work with families across the lifespan and work closely and collaboratively with people. Cassie utilizes evidence-based treatments such as ketamine-assisted therapy, crisis/emergency management, supportive therapy, motivational interviewing (MI), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). She manages and treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, and women's health.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60aa1fe7-3ee0-4640-b8e1-45cb2a71d38f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Dr. Doris Cudjoe Owusu, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c744fe2-0e41-4957-b8e2-ad37a4f0f113/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Doris Cudjoe Owusu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20108
Dr. Owusu is a dual-certified and licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia and Maryland. I have many years of experience working in healthcare and a background in working with young adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient, outpatient, and community nursing. I am committed to providing comprehensive individualized care by focusing on the needs and struggles of my patients, and together we develop a personalized care plan which fits the patient's needs.
Dr. Owusu is a dual-certified and licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Virginia and Maryland. I have many years of experience working in healthcare and a background in working with young adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient, outpatient, and community nursing. I am committed to providing comprehensive individualized care by focusing on the needs and struggles of my patients, and together we develop a personalized care plan which fits the patient's needs.
![Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3911b91-258f-4d17-9d81-a4509f8dfbab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Kristy Wade, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b789abb-5714-419c-a9e9-316390d78396/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristy Wade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20108
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 and harnessing your available resources while controlling the symptoms. 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 the 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 and harnessing your available resources while controlling the symptoms. 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 the symptoms they are experiencing.
See more therapy options for Manassas City County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Manassas City County, VA
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Manassas City County, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
91% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
82% | ADHD |
82% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
88% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Manassas City County, VA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
93% | Female | |
7% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Manassas City County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.