Psychiatrists in Martinsville, VA

Photo of Cheryl R Zupancic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Cheryl R Zupancic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Martinsville, VA 24112  (Online Only)
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
(434) 278-7963 View (434) 278-7963
Photo of Evanna Burkett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Evanna Burkett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Martinsville, VA 24112  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
When providing care to the psychiatric population it is my duty and responsibility to practice with a non-judgmental approach and meet individuals where they are. The associated stigma, misconceptions, and need for mental health providers serves as a driving force to address the associated stigma, assumptions, and negative associations. I am hopeful that we can overcome this stigma by placing emphasis on your individual goals as it relates to your well-being through effective communication by providing a provider-client relationship where rapport is established and built upon.
When providing care to the psychiatric population it is my duty and responsibility to practice with a non-judgmental approach and meet individuals where they are. The associated stigma, misconceptions, and need for mental health providers serves as a driving force to address the associated stigma, assumptions, and negative associations. I am hopeful that we can overcome this stigma by placing emphasis on your individual goals as it relates to your well-being through effective communication by providing a provider-client relationship where rapport is established and built upon.
(336) 439-8408 View (336) 439-8408

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Stephen Narigon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Stephen Narigon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsville, VA 24343  (Online Only)
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psycho-education. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
We are accepting new pediatric and adult clients in North Carolina and Virginia. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in psychiatry treating Autism, personality disorders, and mood disorders. The care provided includes solution-focused therapy, medication support, and psycho-education. My primary areas of interest include positive and supportive psychology, optimizing human performance, and evidence-based methodologies in psychiatry. I collaborate with my clients to help discover personal treatment goals and formulate a mutually agreed-upon strategy for treatment.
(984) 203-9158 View (984) 203-9158
Photo of Jenny Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Jenny Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MA
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
With over 10 years experience, I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and Children/adult/gerontology primary care. I value holistic approach to individual’s physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health.
With over 10 years experience, I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and Children/adult/gerontology primary care. I value holistic approach to individual’s physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health.
(540) 660-7746 View (540) 660-7746
Photo of Focus Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse in Martinsville, VA
Focus Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bedford, VA 24523
Mental Health issues can make life difficult. At Focus Psychiatry, we want to help you get your life back on track and feeling better as soon as possible. You don't have to leave your home to see your mental health provider. Beth will come to you, virtually. All you need is an internet connection and a device with a camera and speaker. It can be as simple as your smartphone! ​ No sitter - no transportation? No problem! See your provider on your lunch break? YES! ​ Simply just don't want to fight traffic or leave home? It's easy! You can schedule online anytime at www.focuspsychiatryandwellness.com
Mental Health issues can make life difficult. At Focus Psychiatry, we want to help you get your life back on track and feeling better as soon as possible. You don't have to leave your home to see your mental health provider. Beth will come to you, virtually. All you need is an internet connection and a device with a camera and speaker. It can be as simple as your smartphone! ​ No sitter - no transportation? No problem! See your provider on your lunch break? YES! ​ Simply just don't want to fight traffic or leave home? It's easy! You can schedule online anytime at www.focuspsychiatryandwellness.com
(540) 305-3623 View (540) 305-3623
Photo of Dr. Sanket R Dhat, Psychiatrist in Martinsville, VA
Dr. Sanket R Dhat
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
I am Founder and CEO of the Credence Behavioral Health (CBH). CBH is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health , substance abuse and Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) services to the communities of Lynchburg and surrounding Central Virginia area. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of healthcare to our patients with compassion and respect. We strive to improve the health and well-being of our community through our commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research.
I am Founder and CEO of the Credence Behavioral Health (CBH). CBH is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health , substance abuse and Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) services to the communities of Lynchburg and surrounding Central Virginia area. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of healthcare to our patients with compassion and respect. We strive to improve the health and well-being of our community through our commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research.
(434) 448-4517 View (434) 448-4517
Photo of Julia Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Julia Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Julia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with twelve years of nursing experience working in various mental health settings. These settings range from acute inpatient hospitalization, crisis stabilization, and substance abuse treatment. She has been practicing in outpatient psychiatry for two years treating patients with anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and addiction.
Julia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with twelve years of nursing experience working in various mental health settings. These settings range from acute inpatient hospitalization, crisis stabilization, and substance abuse treatment. She has been practicing in outpatient psychiatry for two years treating patients with anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, and addiction.
(540) 405-6160 View (540) 405-6160
Photo of Easy-Access Behavioral & Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Easy-Access Behavioral & Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Covington, VA 24426  (Online Only)
Building effective therapeutic relationship with our patient's is the bedrock of our practice. Our passion for treatment of all forms is centered on individualize treatment model where the client's need is our priority. We inculcate culture diversity, evidence-based model of treatment and the prioritization of patient's concerns and needs. New Client's and established clients are all given the trustworthy care to the best of our ability.
Building effective therapeutic relationship with our patient's is the bedrock of our practice. Our passion for treatment of all forms is centered on individualize treatment model where the client's need is our priority. We inculcate culture diversity, evidence-based model of treatment and the prioritization of patient's concerns and needs. New Client's and established clients are all given the trustworthy care to the best of our ability.
(540) 358-8746 View (540) 358-8746
Photo of Elspeth Gunnoe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Elspeth Gunnoe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
Hello! Whatever brings you here today, I'm here to help. I have experience in treating a wide variety of illnesses, including but not limited to adjustment disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, peripartum disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, depression, PTSD, and anxiety disorders.
Hello! Whatever brings you here today, I'm here to help. I have experience in treating a wide variety of illnesses, including but not limited to adjustment disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, peripartum disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, depression, PTSD, and anxiety disorders.
(540) 264-3198 View (540) 264-3198
Center for Care and Resiliency, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
Types of Services Offered: Psychiatric Diagnostic, Assessment Psychiatric Medication Management, Ketamine treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Marriage and family counseling, Group Counseling, Guidance and career counseling, Mental health counseling, Substance abuse counseling, Educational Counseling, Parenting Counseling, Infectious Disease counseling, Eating disorder counseling, Grief counseling, and Trauma counseling
(540) 384-4630 View (540) 384-4630
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist in Martinsville, VA
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501  (Online Only)
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.
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Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Martinsville, VA
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
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Photo of Patrick Crook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Patrick Crook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marion, VA 24354  (Online Only)
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in South Carolina. I received my Masters in Nursing from Duquesne University (Forensic Nursing), Post-Masters in Nursing from University of Virginia (PMHNP). I served in both U.S. Navy and U.S. Public Health Service, retired in 2019. I have been practicing for 12 yrs. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, based in South Carolina. I received my Masters in Nursing from Duquesne University (Forensic Nursing), Post-Masters in Nursing from University of Virginia (PMHNP). I served in both U.S. Navy and U.S. Public Health Service, retired in 2019. I have been practicing for 12 yrs. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(276) 296-6544 View (276) 296-6544
Photo of Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salem, VA 24153
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.
I have a genuine, realistic approach to psychiatry that relates to a variety of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. I originally graduated with a bachelors in Psychology from Old Dominion University. I later returned to school to become a Registered Nurse in 2006 and eventually circled back into psychiatry via psychiatric home health. I decided to return to school to be a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner after many years of educating and advocating for mental health within the adult and geriatric community. In 2016, I graduated from University of Southern Indiana with a Masters of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and subsequently certified by ANCC to practice and prescribe as a PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I continue the rewarding practice of managing adult and geriatric patients with complex medical co-morbities that require additional expertise in managing their mental health needs. I am a family-oriented and spiritually grounded practitioner that seeks to thrive within my calling to provide a holistic and realistic approach to mental health for my patients.
(540) 302-5712 View (540) 302-5712
Photo of Dr. J. Todd Holland, Psychiatrist in Martinsville, VA
Dr. J. Todd Holland
Psychiatrist, DO, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
You are an adult experiencing symptoms of untreated ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, PTSD, addictive behaviors? I am accepting new patients. I offer assessment and treatment plans for adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep issues and general psychiatric conditions. I accept most private insurance, and offer telehealth and in person. Visit my site at Blacksburgpsychiatry.com
You are an adult experiencing symptoms of untreated ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, PTSD, addictive behaviors? I am accepting new patients. I offer assessment and treatment plans for adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep issues and general psychiatric conditions. I accept most private insurance, and offer telehealth and in person. Visit my site at Blacksburgpsychiatry.com
(540) 501-6533 View (540) 501-6533
Photo of Lisa Clement-DeFalco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Martinsville, VA
Lisa Clement-DeFalco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
Many years of providing mental health care to families, children and adults in community health centers, outpatient clinics and inpatient mental health units have given me vast experience with various mental health diagnoses and treatment modalities. I have appreciated working with clients with depression, anxiety/trauma, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. I also appreciate the struggles that people diagnosed with personality disorders (truly a relational experience) especially Borderline and Antisocial Personality Disorders. Further, the influences of mind-altering substances on mental health must always be considered and address
Many years of providing mental health care to families, children and adults in community health centers, outpatient clinics and inpatient mental health units have given me vast experience with various mental health diagnoses and treatment modalities. I have appreciated working with clients with depression, anxiety/trauma, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. I also appreciate the struggles that people diagnosed with personality disorders (truly a relational experience) especially Borderline and Antisocial Personality Disorders. Further, the influences of mind-altering substances on mental health must always be considered and address
(434) 830-5306 View (434) 830-5306
Photo of Arlene Quijano, Physician Assistant in Martinsville, VA
Arlene Quijano
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
(804) 578-7542 View (804) 578-7542
Photo of Apex Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatrist in Martinsville, VA
Apex Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.
Dr. Muppa is an Adult, Child and Adolescent Board certified Psychiatrist with more than 15 years experience. Dr. Muppa practices with compassion, empathy and focuses on holistic approach to treat patients. Apex Psychiatry offers expert care to help you overcome challenges and achieve wellness. Comprehensive and personalized treatment plans, expert providers and the convenience of virtual appointments - all designed to meet your unique needs. Apex psychiatry focuses on evidence based medicine. Visit www.apexpsychiatryva.com for additional information.
(540) 501-6378 View (540) 501-6378
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist in Martinsville, VA
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
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.
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Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Martinsville, VA
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
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See more therapy options for Martinsville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Martinsville, VA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Martinsville, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management
100% Dual Diagnosis

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Martinsville, VA see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Martinsville?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.