Psychiatrists in Northampton County, 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.
![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 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 Marci Bowen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/559f5ec9-2099-47be-b25c-2a98af2976a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marci Bowen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
**Currently accepting new clients for, medication management, on a case-by-case basis** Life can be difficult and challenge us in many ways. Sometimes we are unable to just “shake it off” or “try harder” to not feel a certain way. That’s where I come in. I believe in working as a team to gain symptom control and get life back on track. Medications are beneficial to manage acute symptoms while the real foundational work is done in therapy. I approach each client holistically and tailor care to your specific needs. If you're ready to do the work then I'm here for the journey.
![Photo of Alla Lerner-Brandon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2705a223-674f-44ea-bda1-4977dea6a2bd/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified General Adult Psychiatrist who has been actively practicing in both inpatient and outpatient settings (majority outpatient) for the last eighteen 18 yrs since I graduated as a Chief Resident from MCV/VCU in 2005. I started my own private practice in June 2023 (Living Your Best, LLC) and am currently accepting new patients, ages 18-65. I consider myself to not only have consistent active listening skills, but pride myself in my all-inclusive, biopsychosocial approach to help you with your struggles and reach your highest potential, all while maintaining an empathetic and sincere nature.
I am a board certified General Adult Psychiatrist who has been actively practicing in both inpatient and outpatient settings (majority outpatient) for the last eighteen 18 yrs since I graduated as a Chief Resident from MCV/VCU in 2005. I started my own private practice in June 2023 (Living Your Best, LLC) and am currently accepting new patients, ages 18-65. I consider myself to not only have consistent active listening skills, but pride myself in my all-inclusive, biopsychosocial approach to help you with your struggles and reach your highest potential, all while maintaining an empathetic and sincere nature.
![Photo of Tanita Sweat, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/892e0581-ce62-49fc-8bcf-28abe03de739/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tanita Sweat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
Tanita is dual-certified in the state of VA and NC, with experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She believes the mind/body/spiritual connection paired with compassion and empathy, are fundamental in building an individualized, therapeutic relationship with patients and their families. In addition to medication management, your treatment session will focus on treating the whole-body and restoring balance from all aspects of your life. Your session will also incorporate brief supportive counseling on diet, mindfulness, and proper sleep hygiene. Let's get started on your journey to wellness!
Tanita is dual-certified in the state of VA and NC, with experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She believes the mind/body/spiritual connection paired with compassion and empathy, are fundamental in building an individualized, therapeutic relationship with patients and their families. In addition to medication management, your treatment session will focus on treating the whole-body and restoring balance from all aspects of your life. Your session will also incorporate brief supportive counseling on diet, mindfulness, and proper sleep hygiene. Let's get started on your journey to wellness!
![Photo of Ine Saka, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df84915d-48f0-4394-8e1b-6f8dbb72ee55/1/320x400.jpeg)
Warm Welcome! I am the founder and owner of Empathy Wellness Center. A Nurse Practitioner led practice that offers primary health as well as mental health services. At our practice we take an integrative approach to health, mental health, and overall wellness. We understand that treating the entire person is the goal, therefore, we combine medication management with lifestyle and diet modifications (where appropriate) to enhance the quality of life for our patients. We look forward to serving you. We currently offer management of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms, ADHD management, and primary care. Addiction medicine coming soon!
Warm Welcome! I am the founder and owner of Empathy Wellness Center. A Nurse Practitioner led practice that offers primary health as well as mental health services. At our practice we take an integrative approach to health, mental health, and overall wellness. We understand that treating the entire person is the goal, therefore, we combine medication management with lifestyle and diet modifications (where appropriate) to enhance the quality of life for our patients. We look forward to serving you. We currently offer management of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms, ADHD management, and primary care. Addiction medicine coming soon!
![Photo of Latricia Broaddus, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/971c737f-b39e-4a5d-8dfd-e581782ad8f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latricia is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. Latricia has been providing services to her community for many years and she is grateful and honored to be able to provide mental health services to her community. Latricia’s goal is to provide patient-centered mental health services to clients six and up with diverse backgrounds and mental health disorders. She aims to incorporate the whole person in treating her clients. Latricia’s mission is to help clients improve their quality of life by providing the tools needed to help increase their mental stability.
Latricia is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. Latricia has been providing services to her community for many years and she is grateful and honored to be able to provide mental health services to her community. Latricia’s goal is to provide patient-centered mental health services to clients six and up with diverse backgrounds and mental health disorders. She aims to incorporate the whole person in treating her clients. Latricia’s mission is to help clients improve their quality of life by providing the tools needed to help increase their mental stability.
![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 Arun Paul, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8bdf749-88ec-433f-ab26-2385ed017676/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arun Paul has completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency from Jamaica Hospital and Child and Adolescent Fellowship from Elmhurst Hospital in New York. Dr. Paul has extensive experience in treating wide variety of mental health conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, Trauma related disorders and many others. He believes in collaborative approach and individualized treatment planning to improve one's overall quality of life and functioning.
Dr. Arun Paul has completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency from Jamaica Hospital and Child and Adolescent Fellowship from Elmhurst Hospital in New York. Dr. Paul has extensive experience in treating wide variety of mental health conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, Trauma related disorders and many others. He believes in collaborative approach and individualized treatment planning to improve one's overall quality of life and functioning.
![Photo of Justin Ray - South Chesapeake Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/549bede7-bd91-4961-a1e1-089f51105c12/2/320x400.jpeg)
South Chesapeake Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
Welcome to South Chesapeake Psychiatry, where we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care with a focus on medication management. At our practice, we understand the importance of personalized treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Led by experienced mental health professionals and a dedicated team of office staff, we are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive and compassionate environment. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care, we strive to empower our clients to make informed decisions about their mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec372beb-b437-4360-9504-5ec9d190912f/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 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 Dawn Adele Freeman, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78467c3b-3ed9-49c3-94b0-4ee2c2b8a707/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Adele Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23502 (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing holistic care, addressing the mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of my clients throughout the seasons of life. I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 17 years of dedicated adult and geriatric experience. Working with adults struggling from depression, anxiety, stress, and dementia related concerns has been an area of focus throughout my years of practice.
I am passionate about providing holistic care, addressing the mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of my clients throughout the seasons of life. I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 17 years of dedicated adult and geriatric experience. Working with adults struggling from depression, anxiety, stress, and dementia related concerns has been an area of focus throughout my years of practice.
![Photo of Angela Harris-Bonner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bac41c51-d213-4e4c-b513-48c8c3e7bed5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Harris-Bonner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, VA 23831 (Online Only)
Greetings, my name is Angela Harris-Bonner, a provider at Unlimited Wellness Psychiatric Services. I love serving my community as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am a graduate of Walden University. I have over a decade of experience in behavioral health caring for adults, seniors and adolescents in an array of settings. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis and ADHD.
Greetings, my name is Angela Harris-Bonner, a provider at Unlimited Wellness Psychiatric Services. I love serving my community as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am a graduate of Walden University. I have over a decade of experience in behavioral health caring for adults, seniors and adolescents in an array of settings. My areas of interest include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis and ADHD.
![Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ac2a145-8dee-4a53-88ba-03ff514c498f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
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 LaToya Kearney, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5162232-7c6b-4b74-b01a-6a2f41faba72/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaToya Kearney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23704
LaToya Kearney is a nationally certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about raising awareness about mental health conditions.
LaToya Kearney is a nationally certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about raising awareness about mental health conditions.
![Photo of Morgan Foster, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0d5da7-76ad-4f4d-aa06-09c1ab0993d9/1/320x400.png)
Morgan Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Choosing treatment for mental health is tough - I'm here to help guide you step by step in the process. With 8 years of experience in the psychiatric nursing field prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I gained tons of meaningful experiences helping treat mental illnesses across the entire lifespan, from toddlers to the elderly. I am here to treat each person holistically, and create a treatment plan that will fit THEM; telling someone to do something they don't agree with never works, right?
Choosing treatment for mental health is tough - I'm here to help guide you step by step in the process. With 8 years of experience in the psychiatric nursing field prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I gained tons of meaningful experiences helping treat mental illnesses across the entire lifespan, from toddlers to the elderly. I am here to treat each person holistically, and create a treatment plan that will fit THEM; telling someone to do something they don't agree with never works, right?
![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 Terrinda Alston, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/368f1ca3-63e2-4a6e-b14a-06496bd6a77e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Terrinda Alston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23502
Accepting New Patients! My name is Dr. Terrinda Alston, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC , I am Doctorally Prepared dual-certified Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for children, adolescents and adults. Please contact the office by call or text to 757-689-7120 to schedule an appointment.
Accepting New Patients! My name is Dr. Terrinda Alston, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC , I am Doctorally Prepared dual-certified Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for children, adolescents and adults. Please contact the office by call or text to 757-689-7120 to schedule an appointment.
See more therapy options for Northampton County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Northampton County, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Northampton County, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Other |
100% | Substance Use |
100% | Alcohol Use |
100% | Chronic Relapse |
Average years in practice
35 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Northampton County, VA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Northampton 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.