Psychiatrists in West Virginia
![Photo of Patricia Sams - WV Psychiatric Services, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7700637-906a-4390-8b2b-16961c6486d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
WV Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Snowshoe, WV 26209
I specialize in medical weight loss and psychiatric medication management services for individuals who experience anxiety, depression, grief, feelings of being overwhelmed or stuck, believe they may have an attention disorder, OCD, have unhealthy relationships whether occupational or interpersonal, feel isolated, have experienced trauma, aren't able to experience joy or focus because of intrusive thoughts or worry. If you require the prescription of a controlled medication, an in-person visit (as required by the DEA) can be arranged. Intake is $125, Med Mgmt is $90/session. For one-time in-person visit: $175.
I specialize in medical weight loss and psychiatric medication management services for individuals who experience anxiety, depression, grief, feelings of being overwhelmed or stuck, believe they may have an attention disorder, OCD, have unhealthy relationships whether occupational or interpersonal, feel isolated, have experienced trauma, aren't able to experience joy or focus because of intrusive thoughts or worry. If you require the prescription of a controlled medication, an in-person visit (as required by the DEA) can be arranged. Intake is $125, Med Mgmt is $90/session. For one-time in-person visit: $175.
![Photo of Alicia Marie Myslinsky, PMHNP, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f22ff88-a2f9-4f7c-86aa-674932c72717/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Marie Myslinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weirton, WV 26062
In a world where mental health is gaining the recognition it deserves, I am driven to make a positive impact as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My personal journey and professional experiences have fortified my passion for providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals navigating the complex landscape of mental health. With a foundation in nursing and a deep appreciation for the intricate interplay of mind and body. My commitment to fostering trust and building therapeutic relationships serves as the cornerstone of my practice.
In a world where mental health is gaining the recognition it deserves, I am driven to make a positive impact as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My personal journey and professional experiences have fortified my passion for providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals navigating the complex landscape of mental health. With a foundation in nursing and a deep appreciation for the intricate interplay of mind and body. My commitment to fostering trust and building therapeutic relationships serves as the cornerstone of my practice.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c09c6bd8-4a8e-48c3-a72d-666ad02adaed/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 Shahnoor Khan - Eastern Panhandle Psychiatry Inc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/473c36df-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
We treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including (but not limited to) psychiatric emergencies and urgent consults for depression, anxiety, psychosis, panic attacks, drug detox, and Medication Assisted Treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. We see patient 6 yrs old and up.
We treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including (but not limited to) psychiatric emergencies and urgent consults for depression, anxiety, psychosis, panic attacks, drug detox, and Medication Assisted Treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. We see patient 6 yrs old and up.
![Photo of Rhonda Parker - Mountain Healing, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48568dc2-0195-44ca-be13-7ce82f831a4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mountain Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elkins, WV 26241
I am a certified FNP, PMHNP and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Provider and owner of Mountain Healing. Mountain Healing is an innovative medication management practice using Ketamine Therapy. Mountain Healing also offers retreats designed to help Healthcare and Mental Health providers process compassion fatigue and burnout. Participants have the opportunity to learn the basics of psychedelic assisted therapy, in addition to topics on Mind Body Connection and Mindfulness.
I am a certified FNP, PMHNP and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Provider and owner of Mountain Healing. Mountain Healing is an innovative medication management practice using Ketamine Therapy. Mountain Healing also offers retreats designed to help Healthcare and Mental Health providers process compassion fatigue and burnout. Participants have the opportunity to learn the basics of psychedelic assisted therapy, in addition to topics on Mind Body Connection and Mindfulness.
![Photo of Paris Cleopatra Turner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f66114c-319c-4cc6-a531-b712fc592a6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paris Cleopatra Turner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Horner, WV 26372 (Online Only)
If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change - Wayne Dyer
If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change - Wayne Dyer
![Photo of Mary Harper, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ba41f9e-0196-4f19-9f50-c0605904d79f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I serve individuals across the lifespan that struggle with mental health concerns such as Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and Substance Use Disorders.
I serve individuals across the lifespan that struggle with mental health concerns such as Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and Substance Use Disorders.
![Photo of Stephanie Hurst, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8ae829-6dd9-43b7-b5bb-d7ef4064a12e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Hurst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bridgeport, WV 26330 (Online Only)
I provide medication management for adults experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms before, during and after pregnancy; PMS/PMDD symptoms; and perimenopausal mood changes.
I provide medication management for adults experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms before, during and after pregnancy; PMS/PMDD symptoms; and perimenopausal mood changes.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41e05f74-e24f-4269-b0a0-d386ef2b6c04/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25301 (Online Only)
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in West Virginia for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting some insurances.
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in West Virginia for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Valerie Keller, BA, BS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25a7973e-2798-4162-b9ea-e96472555b5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Keller
Physician Assistant, BA, BS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Williamstown, WV 26187 (Online Only)
We are WHERE you are, ready WHEN you are, to support YOUR journey! At New Hope Telehealth, we know that each person's journey is unique. That's why we provide individualized treatment designed for each client's needs. Let me personalize a treatment plan for your specific needs with medication, therapy, or both. With shorter wait times and longer appointment times than traditional clinics, I am able to connect with my clients as individuals, when they need me. At New Hope, we are dedicated to giving all our clients the best care possible.
We are WHERE you are, ready WHEN you are, to support YOUR journey! At New Hope Telehealth, we know that each person's journey is unique. That's why we provide individualized treatment designed for each client's needs. Let me personalize a treatment plan for your specific needs with medication, therapy, or both. With shorter wait times and longer appointment times than traditional clinics, I am able to connect with my clients as individuals, when they need me. At New Hope, we are dedicated to giving all our clients the best care possible.
![Photo of Dr. Suzanne Yang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f631f2b-7e46-470d-9b25-3de939571def/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking to discover strengths to meet new challenges or define your sense of purpose? Are you having relationship issues at home, school, or work? Or maybe you are asking questions about your life story, its meaning, and your place in the world. Psychotherapy can be helpful in exploring and resolving these concerns. Every person has a story to tell. I offer insight-oriented psychotherapy, an approach that focuses on your perspective and unique story. A person’s feelings, thoughts, and choices may be influenced by factors from the past that are outside of one’s awareness and exert pressure on current experiences and events.
Seeking to discover strengths to meet new challenges or define your sense of purpose? Are you having relationship issues at home, school, or work? Or maybe you are asking questions about your life story, its meaning, and your place in the world. Psychotherapy can be helpful in exploring and resolving these concerns. Every person has a story to tell. I offer insight-oriented psychotherapy, an approach that focuses on your perspective and unique story. A person’s feelings, thoughts, and choices may be influenced by factors from the past that are outside of one’s awareness and exert pressure on current experiences and events.
15 Second Videos
WV Psychiatric Services, LLC
Chenhang Zou
Mountain Healing
Valerie Keller
Chenhang Zou
Pathway To Mental Health
Carla Pottmeyer
Aisha Stevenson Reikow
Anne Phan-Huy
Chenhang Zou
Anne Phan-Huy
![Photo of Brittany Cummings, PA-C, PMH-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b8de3d9-d1c8-4729-8205-bac9721005cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany is a proud psychiatric provider at Park Valley Behavioral Health Care in Wheeling, WV. Brittany is certified by Postpartum Support International to diagnose and provide medication management to pregnant and postpartum women as well as their support person. Brittany also offers psychiatric evaluations and medication management for the general population struggling with mental health problems. Please visit our website at ParkValley.info and fill out the New Patient Form online.
Brittany is a proud psychiatric provider at Park Valley Behavioral Health Care in Wheeling, WV. Brittany is certified by Postpartum Support International to diagnose and provide medication management to pregnant and postpartum women as well as their support person. Brittany also offers psychiatric evaluations and medication management for the general population struggling with mental health problems. Please visit our website at ParkValley.info and fill out the New Patient Form online.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f0966be-7336-48f2-8a7c-706fa80d5be3/1/320x400.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 Scarlet Fannin - Pathway To Mental Health, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/310bf01a-e324-445f-bf34-580df161b582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pathway To Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Have you been in therapy since you were a child or young adult? Have you found it hard to complete your therapy? Therapy should not be a lifelong endeavor. Processing is the key. My name is Scarlet. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in psychedelics, and have extensive training in Ketamine use. If you have anxiety or depression, OCD or trauma that has not resolved via the traditional way with prescribed psychiatric medications and therapy, let’s talk and see if Ketamine is right for you. Note: I do not provide IV Ketamine. I am a provider of INharmony and SoundSelf therapy. More information by phone or website.
Have you been in therapy since you were a child or young adult? Have you found it hard to complete your therapy? Therapy should not be a lifelong endeavor. Processing is the key. My name is Scarlet. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in psychedelics, and have extensive training in Ketamine use. If you have anxiety or depression, OCD or trauma that has not resolved via the traditional way with prescribed psychiatric medications and therapy, let’s talk and see if Ketamine is right for you. Note: I do not provide IV Ketamine. I am a provider of INharmony and SoundSelf therapy. More information by phone or website.
Seraphine Agbor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charles Town, WV 25414
Dr. Agbor has strong clinical skills, enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Agbor has strong clinical skills, enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Seraphine Agbor previously worked for: Montgomery County Correctional Facility in Boyds, Maryland, (Jail) NIH (National Institute of Health) Bethesda, with Dr. Anthony Fauci PIW (Psychiatric Institute of Washington DC) Adventist Behavioral Health and Wellness, Rockville, MD Medstar Washington Hospital Center, DC (Psychiatric Department) Medstar Montgomery Hospital, Olney (Psychiatric Department)
Dr. Agbor has strong clinical skills, enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Agbor has strong clinical skills, enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Seraphine Agbor previously worked for: Montgomery County Correctional Facility in Boyds, Maryland, (Jail) NIH (National Institute of Health) Bethesda, with Dr. Anthony Fauci PIW (Psychiatric Institute of Washington DC) Adventist Behavioral Health and Wellness, Rockville, MD Medstar Washington Hospital Center, DC (Psychiatric Department) Medstar Montgomery Hospital, Olney (Psychiatric Department)
![Photo of Alfredo Aguirre, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d77ed3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Aguirre is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who opened his practice, Park Valley Behavioral Health Care in 1999 and has provided the Wheeling area with mental health services for 20 years. Dr. Aguirre attended medical school at Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, completed his psychiatric residency at Illinois State Psychiatric Institute, and pursued a fellowship in child psychiatry at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of Pittsburgh. With over 40 years of experience in psychiatry, Dr. Aguirre has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient, as well as residential and correction facilities.
Dr. Aguirre is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who opened his practice, Park Valley Behavioral Health Care in 1999 and has provided the Wheeling area with mental health services for 20 years. Dr. Aguirre attended medical school at Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, completed his psychiatric residency at Illinois State Psychiatric Institute, and pursued a fellowship in child psychiatry at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of Pittsburgh. With over 40 years of experience in psychiatry, Dr. Aguirre has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient, as well as residential and correction facilities.
![Photo of Carla Pottmeyer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc8ed591-2f64-4629-9779-4b398db0a644/1/320x400.png)
Carla Pottmeyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wheeling, WV 26003 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I am certified both in West Virginia and Ohio as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner. I love what I do and think most of us just need that extra care to address mental health and move forward to a life you love. I utilize a lot of motivational interviewing, person centered approach, and addressing distorted thought patterns with cognitive behavioral therapy. I practice holistically addressing the mind, body, and environment.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I am certified both in West Virginia and Ohio as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner. I love what I do and think most of us just need that extra care to address mental health and move forward to a life you love. I utilize a lot of motivational interviewing, person centered approach, and addressing distorted thought patterns with cognitive behavioral therapy. I practice holistically addressing the mind, body, and environment.
![Photo of Solange Adangwa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8853535-24a0-400c-9b16-aa928ab28ea9/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a PMHNP, I play a vital role in helping mental health patients through expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, ongoing support, and collaborative care aimed at improving their symptoms, functioning, and quality of life. This is achieved by performing thorough assessments, including interviews, observation, and psychological testing, to understand the patient's symptoms, history, and circumstances. I develop individualized treatment plans that may include medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and other interventions. I collaborate with other healthcare providers ensures comprehensive, coordinated care.
As a PMHNP, I play a vital role in helping mental health patients through expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, ongoing support, and collaborative care aimed at improving their symptoms, functioning, and quality of life. This is achieved by performing thorough assessments, including interviews, observation, and psychological testing, to understand the patient's symptoms, history, and circumstances. I develop individualized treatment plans that may include medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and other interventions. I collaborate with other healthcare providers ensures comprehensive, coordinated care.
![Photo of Kerry Tucker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaf6bc62-d4b8-4694-9f9e-fdc3f3c41e22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry Tucker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25403 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Kerry and I am excited to get to know you. I have been a nurse since 2013 and a nurse practitioner since 2020. I live in the beautiful Eastern panhandle of WV with my spouse and 3 children. In my personal time I enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, watching my daughter play soccer, reading, and going to music concerts and festivals. I am a big animal lover and have 6 dogs and 3 cats. As a hobby I run my own travel advisor business.
Welcome! My name is Kerry and I am excited to get to know you. I have been a nurse since 2013 and a nurse practitioner since 2020. I live in the beautiful Eastern panhandle of WV with my spouse and 3 children. In my personal time I enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, watching my daughter play soccer, reading, and going to music concerts and festivals. I am a big animal lover and have 6 dogs and 3 cats. As a hobby I run my own travel advisor business.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d129c6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
TelePsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25304
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across West 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 the below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across West 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 the below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
See more therapy options for West Virginia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in West Virginia who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Medication Management |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
59% | Stress |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in West Virginia see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
87% | Female | |
13% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in West Virginia?
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.