Psychiatrists in Suffolk, VA
![Photo of Miranda Chakos, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac1f351f-20df-413d-b33b-ec27eceb00e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Miranda Chakos is an Adult Psychiatrist and Psychopharmacologist, with over 20 years of experience. She has extensive experience in treating patients with depression and other mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, psychological symptoms secondary to General Medical Disorder or chronic pain, somatoform disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Her approach is to conduct thorough mental health evaluations, including integration of laboratory, radiological and clinical findings, and prescribing appropriate pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment.
Dr. Miranda Chakos is an Adult Psychiatrist and Psychopharmacologist, with over 20 years of experience. She has extensive experience in treating patients with depression and other mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, psychological symptoms secondary to General Medical Disorder or chronic pain, somatoform disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Her approach is to conduct thorough mental health evaluations, including integration of laboratory, radiological and clinical findings, and prescribing appropriate pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment.
![Photo of Gloria O Egbuniwe, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c146f195-30cd-4d9e-b543-1618f4a38b62/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gloria O Egbuniwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
*** NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS***Gloria Egbuniwe received her undergraduate training from West Coast University. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Master’s as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is nationally certified through the American Nurse Credentialing Center for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has specialty competencies in treating psychiatric disorders throughout lifespan. My goal is to provide a holistic, evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment.
*** NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS***Gloria Egbuniwe received her undergraduate training from West Coast University. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Master’s as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is nationally certified through the American Nurse Credentialing Center for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has specialty competencies in treating psychiatric disorders throughout lifespan. My goal is to provide a holistic, evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment.
![Photo of Jasmine Malone, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebf03b76-b5ad-4584-be16-9336b0180524/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Malone, APRN, PMHNP-BC Jasmine Malone is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2021. Jasmine believes in patient-centered care tailored to each individual's holistic needs. She does not just focus on the symptoms but the underlying physical, mental, and spiritual factors that impact mental well-being. In her free time, Jasmine enjoys yoga, cooking, swimming and spending time outdoors.
Jasmine Malone, APRN, PMHNP-BC Jasmine Malone is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2021. Jasmine believes in patient-centered care tailored to each individual's holistic needs. She does not just focus on the symptoms but the underlying physical, mental, and spiritual factors that impact mental well-being. In her free time, Jasmine enjoys yoga, cooking, swimming and spending time outdoors.
![Photo of Dr. Shenell Graham, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a19f1117-c4f6-4893-82ff-f633d51d8d76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shenell Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23435
Take the first step towards enhancing your mental well-being with personalized care from an experienced PMHNP. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing high-quality, personalized care to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. I hold a Doctorate of Nursing from Old Dominion University and a Master of Science degree from Eastern Kentucky University. My approach to care is holistic, collaborative, and evidence-based, integrating medication management and lifestyle interventions tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Take the first step towards enhancing your mental well-being with personalized care from an experienced PMHNP. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing high-quality, personalized care to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. I hold a Doctorate of Nursing from Old Dominion University and a Master of Science degree from Eastern Kentucky University. My approach to care is holistic, collaborative, and evidence-based, integrating medication management and lifestyle interventions tailored to each individual's unique needs.
![Photo of Katlyn Tillett, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e403cfda-5e1e-43b8-9d97-8732084f48b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katlyn Tillett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23435
Katlyn received specialized psychiatric training from The Ohio State University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She utilizes a holistic, person-centered approach that is tailored to the individual needs of her client. When treating younger clients, Katlyn maintains a family-based approach that ensures an enhanced understanding of the family system and the role that each individual plays. Katlyn specializes in the psychiatric needs of patients across the life span.
Katlyn received specialized psychiatric training from The Ohio State University and is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She utilizes a holistic, person-centered approach that is tailored to the individual needs of her client. When treating younger clients, Katlyn maintains a family-based approach that ensures an enhanced understanding of the family system and the role that each individual plays. Katlyn specializes in the psychiatric needs of patients across the life span.
![Photo of Melissa Gross, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/914fad83-0948-4e0e-86bf-4f42acb104ec/1/320x400.png)
Melissa Gross is a Psychiatrist in Virginia with 30 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Hampton University and a Medical Degree from the VCU School of Medicine. Melissa completed her Internship and Residency at the Psychiatry Eastern Virginia School of Medicine and her Fellowship at the Addiction Medicine University of Cincinnati.
Melissa Gross is a Psychiatrist in Virginia with 30 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Hampton University and a Medical Degree from the VCU School of Medicine. Melissa completed her Internship and Residency at the Psychiatry Eastern Virginia School of Medicine and her Fellowship at the Addiction Medicine University of Cincinnati.
![Photo of Dana Foster, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32f55472-ec2a-4cbb-bc75-38d50a6d16e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23435
Ms. Dana Foster is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2019. Ms. Foster provides culturally competent mental health care with compassion and with a holistic approach. In her spare time, Ms. Foster enjoys reading, traveling, outdoor dining and activities.
Ms. Dana Foster is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2019. Ms. Foster provides culturally competent mental health care with compassion and with a holistic approach. In her spare time, Ms. Foster enjoys reading, traveling, outdoor dining and activities.
![Photo of LaToya Mullen - Ivy Health and Psychological Services LLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff351188-eb0b-4ca3-a74d-4c2e38c9280d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ivy Health and Psychological Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434
LaToya Mullen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and has been working in the mental health field as a healthcare professional for the last 10 years. She is also certified to perform Cannabis THC Oil Evaluations for the state of Virginia. LaToya graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2016 and from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 2020. Since starting her nursing career in 2007, LaToya has spent time working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings serving both adults and adolescents/children with various psychiatric illnesses.
LaToya Mullen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and has been working in the mental health field as a healthcare professional for the last 10 years. She is also certified to perform Cannabis THC Oil Evaluations for the state of Virginia. LaToya graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2016 and from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 2020. Since starting her nursing career in 2007, LaToya has spent time working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings serving both adults and adolescents/children with various psychiatric illnesses.
![Photo of Dr. Kiniya Church, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b05d4485-ffd8-411a-a801-f5f45b4ac837/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kiniya Church
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
At Release it Counseling, we understand the profound challenges that can hinder the journey to true peace, freedom, and joy. The weight of past pain and current obstacles can leave you feeling stuck, hopeless, and broken. That's why we specialize in Christian Professional counseling and life coaching, offering a pathway to healing and freedom. Having experienced the feeling of being bound and discovering the freedom in Christ through good health, I like to promote that same freedom to others.
At Release it Counseling, we understand the profound challenges that can hinder the journey to true peace, freedom, and joy. The weight of past pain and current obstacles can leave you feeling stuck, hopeless, and broken. That's why we specialize in Christian Professional counseling and life coaching, offering a pathway to healing and freedom. Having experienced the feeling of being bound and discovering the freedom in Christ through good health, I like to promote that same freedom to others.
![Photo of Jamie Deputy - Ocean Reins Behavioral Health Inc, MSN, ARPN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6575899d-03e3-4afa-b8fa-ff26185c92dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ocean Reins Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARPN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434 (Online Only)
"Bringing Hope During The Waves of Life."
"Bringing Hope During The Waves of Life."
![Photo of Dr. Angela M. Allen - Focused Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddb3ba2a-29ee-416a-8940-ab584645d972/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Dr. Angela Allen, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - U.S. Navy veteran and practice owner. At Focused we provide evidence-based psychiatric medication management to meet the mental health needs of the children, adolescent, adult and geriatric residents of Smithfield, Isle of Wight County, VA and surrounding communities.
I am Dr. Angela Allen, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - U.S. Navy veteran and practice owner. At Focused we provide evidence-based psychiatric medication management to meet the mental health needs of the children, adolescent, adult and geriatric residents of Smithfield, Isle of Wight County, VA and surrounding communities.
![Photo of James Paul Callis - In Harmony Wellness, MS, MPA, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1df77f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatry. Part of an excellent team at In Harmony Wellness, in northern Chesapeake, VA (near Chesapeake Square Mall) Serve to manage Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit disorders, and more. Provides services ages 15 -75 years old. Experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health since 1988 with diverse populations and multiple capacities including psychotherapy in 1990s. Patients are encouraged to embrace total health while working on better mental health.
Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatry. Part of an excellent team at In Harmony Wellness, in northern Chesapeake, VA (near Chesapeake Square Mall) Serve to manage Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit disorders, and more. Provides services ages 15 -75 years old. Experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health since 1988 with diverse populations and multiple capacities including psychotherapy in 1990s. Patients are encouraged to embrace total health while working on better mental health.
![Photo of Naomi Myrick - Cardinal Care Psychiatric Service, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9548cad-e3b5-48e1-ac5b-3eb3fe7da0f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cardinal Care Psychiatric Service
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23435
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** IN PERSON OR TELEHEALTH. My ideal client is every client who is ready to get to work to improve their mental health. Whether you are coping with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia my goal will be to help you understand your diagnosis and investigate the most effective means to help you reach wellness. My approach is highly collaborative, including patient input as well as input from other members of the patient care team. My focus is in reaching a plan that is most comfortable, safe and effective for the patient.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** IN PERSON OR TELEHEALTH. My ideal client is every client who is ready to get to work to improve their mental health. Whether you are coping with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia my goal will be to help you understand your diagnosis and investigate the most effective means to help you reach wellness. My approach is highly collaborative, including patient input as well as input from other members of the patient care team. My focus is in reaching a plan that is most comfortable, safe and effective for the patient.
![Photo of Brence Brooks, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e232588-c26c-4a83-8616-5b000897ee48/1/320x400.png)
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434 (Online Only)
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2caa267d-bc83-4e8f-b5c1-72b5fab1dc0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23432 (Online Only)
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Angel Williams-Kent - Wellness and Balance LLC, MSN, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29fca035-6abb-4836-b7d2-8d63b3d1e50f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellness and Balance LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
The PMHNP compassion group provides care for the mental health community to render medication management. A group of professionals came together to share experiences and offer mutual support to the mental health community. Within the compassion group, the providers have experience in providing strategies for managing stress. The provider offers professional medication management to assist patients with psychiatric disorders fully. A professional approach to a more comprehensive treatment can address all Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorders. Other Therapies and modalities are offered through referrals. Accepting New PTS
The PMHNP compassion group provides care for the mental health community to render medication management. A group of professionals came together to share experiences and offer mutual support to the mental health community. Within the compassion group, the providers have experience in providing strategies for managing stress. The provider offers professional medication management to assist patients with psychiatric disorders fully. A professional approach to a more comprehensive treatment can address all Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorders. Other Therapies and modalities are offered through referrals. Accepting New PTS
![Photo of Candace Lankford - Candace Lankford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ea64be2-d0f6-4def-9970-74f33f23c927/2/320x400.jpeg)
Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare mission is to assist individuals living with mental illness to remain in their communities independently. Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare goal is to provide individualize and compassionate care to individuals living with mental illness and caring for family members with mental illness. Call or emails us to schedule your appointment.
Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare mission is to assist individuals living with mental illness to remain in their communities independently. Better Solutions Behavioral Healthcare goal is to provide individualize and compassionate care to individuals living with mental illness and caring for family members with mental illness. Call or emails us to schedule your appointment.
![Photo of Dr. Nasr Basir Balla, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d032171-3085-4e34-a43a-8277251781e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nasr Basir Balla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23432 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
![Photo of Abdul Mateen - Peace of Mind Behavioral Health, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d11444f3-ef91-4541-93aa-562c003c695b/1/320x400.jpeg)
*ACCEPTING NEW TELEPSYCH PATIENTS ACROSS VIRGINIA *CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY* AFTER SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS. It can be very frustrating to see your child suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger issues or school problems. What’s even more frustrating is when you are trying to seek help for your child but can’t find someone who specializes in treating children. Because of a severe shortage of child & adolescent psychiatrists, many children do not get the proper treatment they need.
*ACCEPTING NEW TELEPSYCH PATIENTS ACROSS VIRGINIA *CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY* AFTER SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS. It can be very frustrating to see your child suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger issues or school problems. What’s even more frustrating is when you are trying to seek help for your child but can’t find someone who specializes in treating children. Because of a severe shortage of child & adolescent psychiatrists, many children do not get the proper treatment they need.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Sikira Mukaila, PMHN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11acad69-3b3d-4c0d-bf28-5b92464f48c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sikira Mukaila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHN-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23321 (Online Only)
Sikira Mukaila is a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have a strong commitment to providing compassionate Mental healthcare services, I offer medication management, Psychotherapy, talk therapy or both. With over 15 years in healthcare I possess a profound comprehension of mental healthcare and an unwavering commitment to improving the overall well-being of my clients. You are most welcome to view my profile and book an appointment on Grow Therapy.
Sikira Mukaila is a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have a strong commitment to providing compassionate Mental healthcare services, I offer medication management, Psychotherapy, talk therapy or both. With over 15 years in healthcare I possess a profound comprehension of mental healthcare and an unwavering commitment to improving the overall well-being of my clients. You are most welcome to view my profile and book an appointment on Grow Therapy.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Suffolk, VA
10+
Average cost per session
$165
Psychiatrists in Suffolk, VA who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
84% | Medication Management |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | ADHD |
68% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
94% | Elevance |
88% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Suffolk, VA see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
95% | Female | |
5% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Suffolk?
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.