Psychiatrists in Winchester City County, VA
![Photo of Dr. Rauf Cheema, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38ff7f32-682c-4caa-aa2a-dbb54b415b6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help patients with various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and more. I encourage an open and compassionate relationship between myself and my patients. I have been serving the Northern Virginia and Shenandoah area for 24 years and remain passionate about serving this community.
I help patients with various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and more. I encourage an open and compassionate relationship between myself and my patients. I have been serving the Northern Virginia and Shenandoah area for 24 years and remain passionate about serving this community.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a80d00a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Winchester, VA 22601
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video for clients across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine 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 and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services including Suboxone Treatment via video for clients across Virginia. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine 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 Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07384fa6-b5d5-42bd-8d56-706322252d80/1/320x400.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 Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e4219eb-1477-4748-b0ba-65273260ad2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Winchester, VA 22601
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 Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2997a738-afb3-4161-9a41-e80b8dc052ae/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. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db6c0ea8-50cb-4c40-98d7-f8f02acbe8fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Rebecca Ann Myers-Settle, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8ea6f33-8354-4ebd-bd73-15b02d52e7ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Ann Myers-Settle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Winchester, VA 22601
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Mary Fisher, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a2bc2d3-2dd5-46f1-82e0-9336bba84f12/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to care is to a goal based approach. I partner with my patients, their families and support networks to establish their goals for treatment. From this point, we partner to meet where the patient is and journey together to meet those goals. My philosophy is a patient centered approach that is a true partnership. In treating all ages, from 10 years old through the life span, I use our time together to create a judgement free space.
My approach to care is to a goal based approach. I partner with my patients, their families and support networks to establish their goals for treatment. From this point, we partner to meet where the patient is and journey together to meet those goals. My philosophy is a patient centered approach that is a true partnership. In treating all ages, from 10 years old through the life span, I use our time together to create a judgement free space.
![Photo of Gifty Awenanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13f6da5f-4cc4-4b66-babf-25e9b7820b91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gifty Awenanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
Gifty Awenanya is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience offering comprehensive patient care in the medical-surgical unit, long-term care, and behavioral health environments. Gifty works well with diverse patient populations and fosters trusting relationships to improve outcomes, provide a safe and supportive environment for patients, utilizing evidence-based interventions to promote healing and recovery.
Gifty Awenanya is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience offering comprehensive patient care in the medical-surgical unit, long-term care, and behavioral health environments. Gifty works well with diverse patient populations and fosters trusting relationships to improve outcomes, provide a safe and supportive environment for patients, utilizing evidence-based interventions to promote healing and recovery.
![Photo of Shah M Nadeem, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47e1b897-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In the realm of psychiatry, I am dedicated to making a profound impact on the well-being of individuals, both in their present lives and for generations to come. I recognize the unmet needs of individuals struggling with addiction, a population deserving of attentive and specialized care. My treatment approach revolves around empowering patients to attain their objectives and integrate as productive members of the community. Committed to fostering the growth of future healthcare professionals, I garnered the Excellence in Teaching Award from George Washington University in 2016-2017.
In the realm of psychiatry, I am dedicated to making a profound impact on the well-being of individuals, both in their present lives and for generations to come. I recognize the unmet needs of individuals struggling with addiction, a population deserving of attentive and specialized care. My treatment approach revolves around empowering patients to attain their objectives and integrate as productive members of the community. Committed to fostering the growth of future healthcare professionals, I garnered the Excellence in Teaching Award from George Washington University in 2016-2017.
![Photo of Dr. Gifty Addai, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18518858-9b6d-4bec-b221-3edb316a272e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gifty Addai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Greetings! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a therapeutic partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. My experience in medical and mental health allows me to make appropriate treatment plans, therapy and medication recommendations, if necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
Greetings! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. My approach is patient-centered and holistic, creating a therapeutic partnership with each client. I advocate for patient empowerment through family and patient education, clear communication, and trust to help improve quality of life. My experience in medical and mental health allows me to make appropriate treatment plans, therapy and medication recommendations, if necessary. I believe in treating the root cause and not just treating symptoms.
![Photo of Leanne Hyler, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22222ee9-45e5-477f-b06d-9a5805bb1cb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
![Photo of Agerie Ejigu, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ddfa02c-4c85-469a-8d96-42d32527af1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Agerie Ejigu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203 (Online Only)
I meet patients where they are and provide individualized services to meet the individual's unique needs while working through any stigma or barriers to optimal wellbeing. I provide telehealth services exclusively and see individuals in DC, MD & Virginia for individuals 13 & up.
I meet patients where they are and provide individualized services to meet the individual's unique needs while working through any stigma or barriers to optimal wellbeing. I provide telehealth services exclusively and see individuals in DC, MD & Virginia for individuals 13 & up.
![Photo of Dr. Kasie M. Cassell, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP-C, PMH-C, MSN/Ed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f85e5dfc-6a51-4520-8ceb-58fb762ab4a8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kasie M. Cassell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP-C, PMH-C, MSN/Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151 (Online Only)
My passion is to help women achieve wellness during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Asking for help does not make you weak, it shows incredible strength & courage. I focus on treating women's mental health spanning the premenstrual, perinatal, & perimenopausal period.
My passion is to help women achieve wellness during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Asking for help does not make you weak, it shows incredible strength & courage. I focus on treating women's mental health spanning the premenstrual, perinatal, & perimenopausal period.
![Photo of Brent Coyle, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e14fea49-dc4d-41c0-a753-b38019c7a449/2/320x400.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 Patricia Obeng, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11545618-7b4f-4777-aa1e-0b440b866c2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Patricia Obeng is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from George Mason University, Virginia, and has over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. Her expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in family medicine.
Dr. Patricia Obeng is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner who holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from George Mason University, Virginia, and has over 12 years of combined healthcare experience. Her expertise includes both inpatient and outpatient mental health services, as well as acute care in family medicine.
![Photo of Alicia Ciliezar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89d3a557-5f41-436a-abb6-4ad443f20300/2/320x400.png)
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
![Photo of Erica Bindrim - Mind and Body Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/895d9d22-6d74-417c-a714-f83559d7440c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
We are a group of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners that offer outpatient psychiatric care for all ages. Our comprehensive services include: telehealth and in office psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, prescription management, genetic testing, and psychotherapy. We also provide consultations and evaluations for outside agencies such as the courts and schools.
![Photo of Cherrica L Lindsay, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7064336a-84e9-43a8-a614-ececf91173df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cherrica L Lindsay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Stephens City, VA 22655 (Online Only)
My passion for mental health began early in my nursing career when I encountered individuals struggling with complex psychiatric conditions. Witnessing their resilience and the profound effect of effective treatment on their lives inspired me to specialize further. After obtaining my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I pursued a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus on Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Practice, driven by a desire to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological and physiological aspects of mental health. I treat adults, adolescents, and children with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and ADHD.
My passion for mental health began early in my nursing career when I encountered individuals struggling with complex psychiatric conditions. Witnessing their resilience and the profound effect of effective treatment on their lives inspired me to specialize further. After obtaining my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I pursued a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus on Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Practice, driven by a desire to provide comprehensive care that addresses psychological and physiological aspects of mental health. I treat adults, adolescents, and children with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and ADHD.
![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.
See more therapy options for Winchester City County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Winchester City County, VA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Winchester City County, VA who prioritize treating:
86% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Self Esteem |
71% | Self-Harming |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Winchester City County, VA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Winchester City 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.