Psychiatrists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Apex Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatrist in Roanoke, 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 Apex Psychiatry, PLLC, Physician Assistant in Roanoke, VA
Apex Psychiatry, PLLC
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
My name is Phil Johns DMSC, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psych, CHES. I am a native of Virginia and began my career as a psychiatric physician assistant in 2009. My goal is help you transform your mental health with ease. Together, we can overcome challenges and achieve wellness.
My name is Phil Johns DMSC, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psych, CHES. I am a native of Virginia and began my career as a psychiatric physician assistant in 2009. My goal is help you transform your mental health with ease. Together, we can overcome challenges and achieve wellness.
(540) 698-4179 View (540) 698-4179
Photo of Elspeth Gunnoe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, 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
Photo of Jennifer Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(571) 410-3655 View (571) 410-3655
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist in Roanoke, VA
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (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 Roanoke, VA
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011
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 Maggie Oliver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
Maggie Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014  (Online Only)
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
(703) 997-1744 View (703) 997-1744
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (Online Only)
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(833) 338-0567 View (833) 338-0567
Photo of Direct Mental Wellness, Psychiatrist in Roanoke, VA
Direct Mental Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
If you’re looking for a psychiatrist who listens to you, who is respectful the human rights and dignity of minorities, women and LGBTQ+ people, who enjoys helping people with autism, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, developmental and complex trauma, ME-CFS and other chronic developmental or medical conditions, who offers evidence based care while being open to your experiences with complimentary and alternative treatments, who empowers you with quality information to make the best choices for you personally, we may be a good fit. I offer in-person Ketamine Assisted Therapy at your home or therapist's office in northeast TN and southwest VA.
If you’re looking for a psychiatrist who listens to you, who is respectful the human rights and dignity of minorities, women and LGBTQ+ people, who enjoys helping people with autism, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, developmental and complex trauma, ME-CFS and other chronic developmental or medical conditions, who offers evidence based care while being open to your experiences with complimentary and alternative treatments, who empowers you with quality information to make the best choices for you personally, we may be a good fit. I offer in-person Ketamine Assisted Therapy at your home or therapist's office in northeast TN and southwest VA.
(540) 755-0098 View (540) 755-0098
Photo of Adam Horn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
(571) 536-6295 View (571) 536-6295
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist in Roanoke, VA
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011  (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 Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
Renew Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24017
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 Helen Lancy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24013  (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(703) 775-4077 View (703) 775-4077
Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24001  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting patient at this time.
Not accepting patient at this time.
(757) 520-1463 View (757) 520-1463
Photo of Cave Spring Behavioral health , Psychiatrist in Roanoke, VA
Cave Spring Behavioral health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24013
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my page. I am board certified psychiatrist. I completed psychiatry residency at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital at Winston Salem . My medical career started in 1997 in the field of pathology. My practice focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of adults who deal with all types of anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Treatment involves medication management, psychotherapy and natural treatments tailored to individual needs.
Welcome to my page. I am board certified psychiatrist. I completed psychiatry residency at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital at Winston Salem . My medical career started in 1997 in the field of pathology. My practice focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of adults who deal with all types of anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Treatment involves medication management, psychotherapy and natural treatments tailored to individual needs.
(540) 215-8938 View (540) 215-8938
Photo of Temple Newbold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
Temple Newbold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015  (Online Only)
Temple Newbold is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) with over a decade of nursing experience in a variety of settings including oncology, palliative, geriatrics, urgent care, and veterans health. All these experiences helped build Temple’s skills in supporting people during difficult life transitions and challenges. Temple’s ideal patients are those who are seeking improvement in quality of life and are willing to embark on a collaborative journey to enhanced mental well-being.
Temple Newbold is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) with over a decade of nursing experience in a variety of settings including oncology, palliative, geriatrics, urgent care, and veterans health. All these experiences helped build Temple’s skills in supporting people during difficult life transitions and challenges. Temple’s ideal patients are those who are seeking improvement in quality of life and are willing to embark on a collaborative journey to enhanced mental well-being.
(540) 737-8447 View (540) 737-8447
Photo of Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist in Roanoke, VA
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24001
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/
(571) 223-6226 View (571) 223-6226
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist in Roanoke, VA
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Dr. Phan-Huy treats adults of all walks of life. Backed by medical and specialty training from the University of Michigan coupled with broad clinical experience, she provides bespoke care for various psychiatric concerns, including anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD and trauma-related disorders. Her treatment philosophy is to combine medication where indicated with psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. This integrative approach sets the foundation for healing and life-long well-being.
Dr. Phan-Huy treats adults of all walks of life. Backed by medical and specialty training from the University of Michigan coupled with broad clinical experience, she provides bespoke care for various psychiatric concerns, including anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD and trauma-related disorders. Her treatment philosophy is to combine medication where indicated with psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. This integrative approach sets the foundation for healing and life-long well-being.
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Photo of Jenny Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roanoke, VA
Jenny Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MA
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24024
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 Roanoke, VA
Focus Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
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

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Roanoke, VA

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Roanoke, VA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
93% Depression
93% Bipolar Disorder
89% Medication Management
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Trauma and PTSD
64% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Roanoke, VA see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Roanoke?

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.