Psychiatrists in 20016

Photo of Pooja Lakshmin, Psychiatrist, MD
Pooja Lakshmin
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20016
Not accepting new clients
**Please note: I am not accepting new patients at this time** I am a board certified perinatal psychiatrist specializing in women's mental health and perinatal psychiatry. I take a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatric treatment, and believe that no single modality can fix everything. In addition to prescribing medication when necessary, I provide psychotherapy as a means to navigate life transitions, interpersonal conflict, and identity shifts.
**Please note: I am not accepting new patients at this time** I am a board certified perinatal psychiatrist specializing in women's mental health and perinatal psychiatry. I take a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatric treatment, and believe that no single modality can fix everything. In addition to prescribing medication when necessary, I provide psychotherapy as a means to navigate life transitions, interpersonal conflict, and identity shifts.
(202) 851-9410 View (202) 851-9410
Photo of Robin Berlin, Psychiatrist, MD
Robin Berlin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Berlin started a private practice to provide a more personal and integrative approach to psychiatric care. She is a graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine and did her psychiatry residency at George Washington University and a predoctoral fellowship at the National Institutes of Health researching the impact of hormonal changes on mood. She has lived in several countries and values a culturally sensitive approach to patient care. Please note that she provides medication management only, not psychotherapy.
Dr. Berlin started a private practice to provide a more personal and integrative approach to psychiatric care. She is a graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine and did her psychiatry residency at George Washington University and a predoctoral fellowship at the National Institutes of Health researching the impact of hormonal changes on mood. She has lived in several countries and values a culturally sensitive approach to patient care. Please note that she provides medication management only, not psychotherapy.
(202) 656-3246 View (202) 656-3246
Photo of Agerie Ejigu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Agerie Ejigu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I meet patients where they are and provide individualized services to meet the individual's unique needs while working through any stigma or barriers to optimal wellbeing. I provide telehealth services exclusively and see individuals in DC, MD & Virginia for individuals 13 & up.
I meet patients where they are and provide individualized services to meet the individual's unique needs while working through any stigma or barriers to optimal wellbeing. I provide telehealth services exclusively and see individuals in DC, MD & Virginia for individuals 13 & up.
(202) 952-4808 View (202) 952-4808
Photo of Matt Leshchiner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Matt Leshchiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I diagnose and treat adults and adolescents with all psychiatric illnesses. However, I don’t get hung up on labels and diagnoses. My patients describe me as authentic because I treat each person as an individual with their own specific symptoms and needs. I am committed to providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have worked in psychiatry for over six years. I earned my BSN and MSN from The George Washington University. While I primarily do medication management, I am also trained in DBT and existential therapy.
I diagnose and treat adults and adolescents with all psychiatric illnesses. However, I don’t get hung up on labels and diagnoses. My patients describe me as authentic because I treat each person as an individual with their own specific symptoms and needs. I am committed to providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have worked in psychiatry for over six years. I earned my BSN and MSN from The George Washington University. While I primarily do medication management, I am also trained in DBT and existential therapy.
(202) 932-9745 View (202) 932-9745
Photo of Marc Dalton, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Marc Dalton
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Washington, DC 20016
I look forward to helping you achieve optimal mental health. I strive to meet each patient where they are and explore where they would like to go. I look forward to hearing from you and helping you in your journey toward good mental health.
I look forward to helping you achieve optimal mental health. I strive to meet each patient where they are and explore where they would like to go. I look forward to hearing from you and helping you in your journey toward good mental health.
(202) 816-6606 View (202) 816-6606
Photo of Michael Bogrov, Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Michael Bogrov
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Washington, DC 20016
Dr. Michael Bogrov is a Johns Hopkins trained child psychiatrist with expertise in ADHD across the age spectrum. His leadership positions while a member of the faculty at Hopkins included leading the ADHD clinic, and serving as medical director of the Children’s Mental Health Center. Over his 18 year career at Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital in Baltimore, one of the top ten rated psychiatric hospitals in the country, he served in a number of positions. He has been practicing in Washington, DC since 2015.
Dr. Michael Bogrov is a Johns Hopkins trained child psychiatrist with expertise in ADHD across the age spectrum. His leadership positions while a member of the faculty at Hopkins included leading the ADHD clinic, and serving as medical director of the Children’s Mental Health Center. Over his 18 year career at Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital in Baltimore, one of the top ten rated psychiatric hospitals in the country, he served in a number of positions. He has been practicing in Washington, DC since 2015.
(202) 525-5123 View (202) 525-5123
Photo of Navin Reddy - Washington Interventional Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Washington Interventional Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
At Washington Interventional Psychiatry, we are dedicated to offering cutting-edge and evidence-based treatments that cater to a diverse range of mental health needs. Our practice is built on the foundation of providing effective, efficient, and safe interventions that truly make a difference in the lives of our patients. We take pride in being a leading psychiatric practice that embraces a comprehensive approach to mental health care. Our range of services includes medication management, interventional therapies, and even groundbreaking psychedelic treatments like ketamine and spravato.
At Washington Interventional Psychiatry, we are dedicated to offering cutting-edge and evidence-based treatments that cater to a diverse range of mental health needs. Our practice is built on the foundation of providing effective, efficient, and safe interventions that truly make a difference in the lives of our patients. We take pride in being a leading psychiatric practice that embraces a comprehensive approach to mental health care. Our range of services includes medication management, interventional therapies, and even groundbreaking psychedelic treatments like ketamine and spravato.
(202) 759-8751 View (202) 759-8751
Photo of Mekedes Mekonnen - Clearpoint Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Clearpoint Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Washington, DC 20016
Now Accepting New Clients – In-Person & Telehealth. Are you struggling with chronic low mood, persistent anxiety, or difficulty focusing on daily tasks? Do you experience intrusive thoughts, trauma-related flashbacks, or debilitating panic attacks? You are not alone. Mental health challenges affect one in five adults in the United States, and effective support is available. I specialize in working with individuals and families, from age 5 & up, navigating the complexities of: Depression Anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder, Alcohol use, & Schizophrenia.
Now Accepting New Clients – In-Person & Telehealth. Are you struggling with chronic low mood, persistent anxiety, or difficulty focusing on daily tasks? Do you experience intrusive thoughts, trauma-related flashbacks, or debilitating panic attacks? You are not alone. Mental health challenges affect one in five adults in the United States, and effective support is available. I specialize in working with individuals and families, from age 5 & up, navigating the complexities of: Depression Anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder, Alcohol use, & Schizophrenia.
(202) 519-6979 View (202) 519-6979
Photo of Christopher Thomas Raczynski, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Christopher Thomas Raczynski
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Thanks for taking the time to learn about me and Washington Interventional Psychiatry (WIP), which my partner, Navin Reddy, MD and I co-founded in early 2018. I am fellowship trained in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. My primary interest/expertise is in treating condition that do not response adequately to oral psychotropic medication. Our fastest acting, safest, and most effective treatments include ketamine infusion therapy and accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (aTMS). We have 9 prescribers in practice that manage oral medications for patients. None of us offer psychotherapy.
Thanks for taking the time to learn about me and Washington Interventional Psychiatry (WIP), which my partner, Navin Reddy, MD and I co-founded in early 2018. I am fellowship trained in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. My primary interest/expertise is in treating condition that do not response adequately to oral psychotropic medication. Our fastest acting, safest, and most effective treatments include ketamine infusion therapy and accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (aTMS). We have 9 prescribers in practice that manage oral medications for patients. None of us offer psychotherapy.
(202) 856-9203 View (202) 856-9203
Photo of Tuna Burgut, Psychiatrist, MD
Tuna Burgut
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I have trained at Cornell and Columbia and am Board Certified in both Psychiatry and Neurology. Having trained in both specialties, I believe that brain and mind are inseparable, therefore I frequently evaluate my patients with multiple modalities.I am interested in assessing each patient comprehensively using multiple perspectives, including cognition, behavior, life story and personality. My practice focuses on patients living with mood, cognitive and behavioral problems which are sometimes in the context of other neurological symptoms. I am dedicated to helping my patients with mood disorders, behavioral disorders, cognitive concerns, anxiety, ADHD and other disorders.
I have trained at Cornell and Columbia and am Board Certified in both Psychiatry and Neurology. Having trained in both specialties, I believe that brain and mind are inseparable, therefore I frequently evaluate my patients with multiple modalities.I am interested in assessing each patient comprehensively using multiple perspectives, including cognition, behavior, life story and personality. My practice focuses on patients living with mood, cognitive and behavioral problems which are sometimes in the context of other neurological symptoms. I am dedicated to helping my patients with mood disorders, behavioral disorders, cognitive concerns, anxiety, ADHD and other disorders.
(202) 952-2311 View (202) 952-2311
Photo of Carlos E Sluzki, Psychiatrist, MD
Carlos E Sluzki
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20016
I am a seasoned therapist for individuals, couples and families, with years of experience (and many presentations and publications --see my website www.sluzki.com). In therapy, I follow an empathic systemic/ narrative orientation, with occasional whiffs stemming from my prior psychoanalytic training. I am also a psychiatrist, with M.D. licenses in CA, DC and MA, and I offer medication management if needed. My multi-lingual, multi-cultural practice takes place in English, Spanish or Italian. Half of my current practice is by Skype/Zoom.
I am a seasoned therapist for individuals, couples and families, with years of experience (and many presentations and publications --see my website www.sluzki.com). In therapy, I follow an empathic systemic/ narrative orientation, with occasional whiffs stemming from my prior psychoanalytic training. I am also a psychiatrist, with M.D. licenses in CA, DC and MA, and I offer medication management if needed. My multi-lingual, multi-cultural practice takes place in English, Spanish or Italian. Half of my current practice is by Skype/Zoom.
(202) 517-2732 View (202) 517-2732
Photo of Andres Barkil-Oteo, Psychiatrist, MD, MIPP
Andres Barkil-Oteo
Psychiatrist, MD, MIPP
Washington, DC 20016
My ideal client is someone who is experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, burnout, or trauma and is seeking a comprehensive, holistic approach to their well-being. They are open-minded and motivated to explore both conventional and complementary therapies to achieve a deeper level of healing. This client recognizes the importance of addressing not just their symptoms but also the underlying causes and contributing factors, including lifestyle, nutrition, and emotional health. Their goal is to achieve a balanced and resilient state of mind, body, and spirit.
My ideal client is someone who is experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, burnout, or trauma and is seeking a comprehensive, holistic approach to their well-being. They are open-minded and motivated to explore both conventional and complementary therapies to achieve a deeper level of healing. This client recognizes the importance of addressing not just their symptoms but also the underlying causes and contributing factors, including lifestyle, nutrition, and emotional health. Their goal is to achieve a balanced and resilient state of mind, body, and spirit.
(855) 675-0880 View (855) 675-0880
Photo of Sonya Bakshi, Psychiatrist, MD
Sonya Bakshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20016
Dr. Sonya Bakshi attended Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her adult general psychiatry residency at NYU School of Medicine. She served as Chief Resident at NYU and completed an addiction psychiatry fellowship. She practices compassionate, empathic, and patient-centered care, tailoring each patient’s treatment to their own unique needs. She specializes in alcohol and opiate dependence as well as depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and bipolar disorder. She is highly specialized in the use of medications for substance use such as Suboxone and Sublocade.
Dr. Sonya Bakshi attended Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her adult general psychiatry residency at NYU School of Medicine. She served as Chief Resident at NYU and completed an addiction psychiatry fellowship. She practices compassionate, empathic, and patient-centered care, tailoring each patient’s treatment to their own unique needs. She specializes in alcohol and opiate dependence as well as depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and bipolar disorder. She is highly specialized in the use of medications for substance use such as Suboxone and Sublocade.
(202) 804-8924 View (202) 804-8924
Photo of Ike Nnawuchi - Horizon Integrative Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Horizon Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20016
As an Integrative Psychiatrist, I offer a patient-centered model where I combine conventional medicine and evidence-based pharmaceutical treatments with complementary mind-body medicine, nutritional counseling, vitamins, micronutrients, psychotherapy, and preventative medicine to promote long-term wellbeing.
As an Integrative Psychiatrist, I offer a patient-centered model where I combine conventional medicine and evidence-based pharmaceutical treatments with complementary mind-body medicine, nutritional counseling, vitamins, micronutrients, psychotherapy, and preventative medicine to promote long-term wellbeing.
(202) 851-8574 View (202) 851-8574
Photo of Jeffrey L Seal, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey L Seal
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20016
I am a psychiatrist specializing in medication management for adults and late adolescents, providing a high-touch, concierge-level approach to care. My practice is dedicated to offering thorough, in-depth assessments and personalized treatment plans for individuals seeking more comprehensive care than typically available through primary care or insurance-based settings. I work closely with patients to develop tailored treatment strategies, emphasizing accessibility and responsiveness to their needs.
I am a psychiatrist specializing in medication management for adults and late adolescents, providing a high-touch, concierge-level approach to care. My practice is dedicated to offering thorough, in-depth assessments and personalized treatment plans for individuals seeking more comprehensive care than typically available through primary care or insurance-based settings. I work closely with patients to develop tailored treatment strategies, emphasizing accessibility and responsiveness to their needs.
(202) 946-5733 View (202) 946-5733
Photo of Shannon Sabanosh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Shannon Sabanosh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Online Only
Accepting new clients in DC, MD, & VA (as of May 2025). As a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I work with clients who are often feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or out of sync with the life they want to be living. Many of the people I work with are juggling careers, relationships, family, and health — and despite their best efforts, find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, mood instability, or feeling disconnected from themselves. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel better — not just symptom-free, but truly well. They want to understand what’s happening.
Accepting new clients in DC, MD, & VA (as of May 2025). As a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I work with clients who are often feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or out of sync with the life they want to be living. Many of the people I work with are juggling careers, relationships, family, and health — and despite their best efforts, find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, mood instability, or feeling disconnected from themselves. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel better — not just symptom-free, but truly well. They want to understand what’s happening.
(844) 748-8577 View (844) 748-8577
Photo of Nicole Perras, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicole Perras
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Not accepting new clients
****Dr. Perras is not taking new patients at this time**** I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with experience in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric issues. I practice humanistic medicine with an emphasis on treatment of the whole person. My approach to care combines evidence-based medicine with patient-driven collaboration. All appointments will be done via telepsychiatry until further notice.
****Dr. Perras is not taking new patients at this time**** I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with experience in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric issues. I practice humanistic medicine with an emphasis on treatment of the whole person. My approach to care combines evidence-based medicine with patient-driven collaboration. All appointments will be done via telepsychiatry until further notice.
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Photo of Enyonam Jordan-Brangman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNP, NP
Enyonam Jordan-Brangman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-C, PMHNP, NP
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. My role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager. In addition to medication management I also incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and person-centered techniques to treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to my patients. My goal is to get to know my patients individually by listening to their unique needs and establishing treatment goals that focus on the whole person. My role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist and medication manager. In addition to medication management I also incorporate various therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and person-centered techniques to treatment.
(571) 771-2713 View (571) 771-2713
Photo of Sarah Keenan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Sarah Keenan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The patient always comes first. This means spending the time needed to get to the root of the problem, taking a holistic approach to look at the myriad factors that influence mental health, and providing a safe and comfortable environment where healing can occur. As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I can manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I value providing special attention to individual needs, personal history, stressful or traumatic experiences, and concerns about medications.
The patient always comes first. This means spending the time needed to get to the root of the problem, taking a holistic approach to look at the myriad factors that influence mental health, and providing a safe and comfortable environment where healing can occur. As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I can manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I value providing special attention to individual needs, personal history, stressful or traumatic experiences, and concerns about medications.
(301) 786-3204 View (301) 786-3204
Photo of L. Brown - E-Psychiatriq LLC, Telepsychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-NC, CARN-AP
E-Psychiatriq LLC, Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-NC, CARN-AP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
E-Psychiatriq LLC provides telehealth behavioral services throughout Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Idaho, via tele-video conferencing. We treat a wide range of mental and psychological disorders and can provide patients with the same treatment just as if they were on-site. We also collaborate with organizations to provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for sole proprietorship's, and medical providers interested in implementing a virtual collaborative care model within their practice. We offer self- scheduling on our website at www.epsychiatriq.com, visit us today!
E-Psychiatriq LLC provides telehealth behavioral services throughout Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Idaho, via tele-video conferencing. We treat a wide range of mental and psychological disorders and can provide patients with the same treatment just as if they were on-site. We also collaborate with organizations to provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for sole proprietorship's, and medical providers interested in implementing a virtual collaborative care model within their practice. We offer self- scheduling on our website at www.epsychiatriq.com, visit us today!
(443) 292-9191 View (443) 292-9191
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See more therapy options for 20016

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20016

40+

Average cost per session

$215

Psychiatrists in 20016 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Medication Management
78% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 20016 see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20016?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.