Psychiatrists in 20720

Do you feel depressed, hopeless, restless, tearful, isolated? Do you have difficulty concentrating, panic attacks, fear, anxiety, lack of sleep, nightmares from trauma? Do you feel you have symptoms of ADHD, bipolar disorder or psychosis? Struggling with drug addiction? Now might be the time to get a psychiatric evaluation. Let us work together to develop a treatment plan that balances your physical and mental health. Continue reading to learn how booking a session today is the best decision you will make on your journey to mental wellness.
Do you feel depressed, hopeless, restless, tearful, isolated? Do you have difficulty concentrating, panic attacks, fear, anxiety, lack of sleep, nightmares from trauma? Do you feel you have symptoms of ADHD, bipolar disorder or psychosis? Struggling with drug addiction? Now might be the time to get a psychiatric evaluation. Let us work together to develop a treatment plan that balances your physical and mental health. Continue reading to learn how booking a session today is the best decision you will make on your journey to mental wellness.

My name is Nonye Mbionwu. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I am here to support you . I have been in this role for 3 years. I have extensive experience in inpatient and emergency department. I am very passionate about what I do and my patients are my utmost priority. I specialize in helping individuals to manage their mental health challenges and work with you to develop personalized treatment plans.
My name is Nonye Mbionwu. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I am here to support you . I have been in this role for 3 years. I have extensive experience in inpatient and emergency department. I am very passionate about what I do and my patients are my utmost priority. I specialize in helping individuals to manage their mental health challenges and work with you to develop personalized treatment plans.

Hi, my name is Dr. Rita Chioma! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse and Acute Care Nurse (PHMNP-BC, ACNP-BC) in Maryland and the District of Columbia, with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am patient-oriented and committed to providing optimum care to psychiatric mental health patients via telehealth to meet their needs. As a mental health specialist, I believe it is of the utmost importance to be open-minded, listen attentively to my patients, and take pleasure in maintaining the well-being of my patients!
Hi, my name is Dr. Rita Chioma! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse and Acute Care Nurse (PHMNP-BC, ACNP-BC) in Maryland and the District of Columbia, with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am patient-oriented and committed to providing optimum care to psychiatric mental health patients via telehealth to meet their needs. As a mental health specialist, I believe it is of the utmost importance to be open-minded, listen attentively to my patients, and take pleasure in maintaining the well-being of my patients!

Cecilia is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training treating patients with psychiatric disorders. She began her career in business administration after graduating from the Virginia Commonwealth University but followed her passion into nursing. After several years working as a nurse in different healthcare settings, she decided to specialize in mental health because of her personal experience with a loved one. She provides care using evidence-based practices and a holistic approach for both mind and body. She is a compassionate and result-driven professional whose work philosophy is individualized.
Cecilia is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training treating patients with psychiatric disorders. She began her career in business administration after graduating from the Virginia Commonwealth University but followed her passion into nursing. After several years working as a nurse in different healthcare settings, she decided to specialize in mental health because of her personal experience with a loved one. She provides care using evidence-based practices and a holistic approach for both mind and body. She is a compassionate and result-driven professional whose work philosophy is individualized.

Deora Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20720
Not accepting new clients
I have a passion for providing qclients with a holistic approach to mental health care which includes both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions. I work with the adult and senior populations focusing on assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I will work closely with you to help guide you through the process of understanding and deciding on the most effective interventions/medication management options for your diagnosis.
I have a passion for providing qclients with a holistic approach to mental health care which includes both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions. I work with the adult and senior populations focusing on assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I will work closely with you to help guide you through the process of understanding and deciding on the most effective interventions/medication management options for your diagnosis.

Navigating the path to mental well-being is a deeply personal journey, and I am here to be your guide. Recognizing the unique challenges that accompany conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, schizoaffective disorder, and more, I bring a personalized and compassionate approach to help individuals overcome these struggles. Daily tasks can sometimes feel overwhelming, making accomplishment seem distant. If the noise of the world makes it challenging to quiet your mind, I offer understanding and support.
Navigating the path to mental well-being is a deeply personal journey, and I am here to be your guide. Recognizing the unique challenges that accompany conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, schizoaffective disorder, and more, I bring a personalized and compassionate approach to help individuals overcome these struggles. Daily tasks can sometimes feel overwhelming, making accomplishment seem distant. If the noise of the world makes it challenging to quiet your mind, I offer understanding and support.

Folasade Fawehinmi Alaba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20720
My ideal clients are eager to improve, work diligently to improve and compliant with treatment plan.
My ideal clients are eager to improve, work diligently to improve and compliant with treatment plan.

Opus Dei Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Opus Dei Health Services, where your journey to mental health and physical wellness begins. At Opus Dei Health Services, we provide virtual physical and mental health services where you need it at your comfort. We are always at your service to help you function at your optimum with a sound mind. We specialize in treating and managing common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis, and physical illnesses
Welcome to Opus Dei Health Services, where your journey to mental health and physical wellness begins. At Opus Dei Health Services, we provide virtual physical and mental health services where you need it at your comfort. We are always at your service to help you function at your optimum with a sound mind. We specialize in treating and managing common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis, and physical illnesses

Krissey's Psychiatric and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20720
Do you struggle with exhaustion, low energy, having trouble sleeping, feeling sad or down? Are you having excessive fear or worry or extreme feelings of guilt? Do you feel withdrawn from friends and activities? Have you noticed drastic mood changes of highs and lows? There is a reason you feel that way, and I can help. I am here to listen, empathize, and try to understand how these issues affect you and your loved ones. Remember, your mental health can affect your physical health. Call to schedule an appointment.
Do you struggle with exhaustion, low energy, having trouble sleeping, feeling sad or down? Are you having excessive fear or worry or extreme feelings of guilt? Do you feel withdrawn from friends and activities? Have you noticed drastic mood changes of highs and lows? There is a reason you feel that way, and I can help. I am here to listen, empathize, and try to understand how these issues affect you and your loved ones. Remember, your mental health can affect your physical health. Call to schedule an appointment.

Peace Wellness Center Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my psychiatric mental health practice, with over two decades of experience as a nurse and advanced degrees in public health and psychiatric mental health.
My areas of specialization include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use dependence, insomnia, and many other mental health conditions. I am committed to working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and improve quality of life.
Welcome to my psychiatric mental health practice, with over two decades of experience as a nurse and advanced degrees in public health and psychiatric mental health.
My areas of specialization include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use dependence, insomnia, and many other mental health conditions. I am committed to working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans that promote healing and improve quality of life.
I believe that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, which is why I take the time to listen, understand your unique experiences, and tailor treatment plans that align with your goals and lifestyle. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, my priority is to work with you to find the right balance of therapy, medication management, and supportive strategies to help you thrive.
I believe that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, which is why I take the time to listen, understand your unique experiences, and tailor treatment plans that align with your goals and lifestyle. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns, my priority is to work with you to find the right balance of therapy, medication management, and supportive strategies to help you thrive.

Do you feel down, depressed, changes in appetite, feel anxious, can’t stop worrying about things, have low motivation, can’t get out of bed? Is it hard to pay attention and complete tasks? Do you suffer from nightmares due to past trauma? Does your heart race and do you have panic attacks? I am here to tell you that you are not alone in your journey. I will listen to your concerns in a safe and positive space and, working together in partnership, help you find the solutions you are looking for. As an experienced professional, I will support you with the best quality care you deserve through medication management.
Do you feel down, depressed, changes in appetite, feel anxious, can’t stop worrying about things, have low motivation, can’t get out of bed? Is it hard to pay attention and complete tasks? Do you suffer from nightmares due to past trauma? Does your heart race and do you have panic attacks? I am here to tell you that you are not alone in your journey. I will listen to your concerns in a safe and positive space and, working together in partnership, help you find the solutions you are looking for. As an experienced professional, I will support you with the best quality care you deserve through medication management.

Dr. Yetunde Precious Rotimi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20720
Are you tired of feeling unheard and overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, ADHD, or bipolar disorder? I understand how difficult it can be to navigate these challenges alone, and I’m here to help. I know how important it is to find a space where you’re truly seen and understood. I am committed to walking with you on your unique healing journey.
I create a sanctuary for you where empathy and expertise come together to guide you through the toughest moments. I aim to help you find balance amidst racing thoughts and shifting emotions. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, supportive environment, compassionate, and judgment-free.
Are you tired of feeling unheard and overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, ADHD, or bipolar disorder? I understand how difficult it can be to navigate these challenges alone, and I’m here to help. I know how important it is to find a space where you’re truly seen and understood. I am committed to walking with you on your unique healing journey.
I create a sanctuary for you where empathy and expertise come together to guide you through the toughest moments. I aim to help you find balance amidst racing thoughts and shifting emotions. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, supportive environment, compassionate, and judgment-free.

Ritz Behavioral Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Rita Dexter is a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental health Nurse Practitioner who is driven, client-focused and proactive with over six years of experience working in different roles in the mental health field. Rita received her Master of Science in Nursing with concentration in psychiatric/mental Health at Walden University. Her diverse training and experience have prepared her to provide quality mental health care to her patients. Rita conducts psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and treats individuals with mental health disorders. Rita is accepting new clients, offering in person and telehealth visit.
Dr. Rita Dexter is a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental health Nurse Practitioner who is driven, client-focused and proactive with over six years of experience working in different roles in the mental health field. Rita received her Master of Science in Nursing with concentration in psychiatric/mental Health at Walden University. Her diverse training and experience have prepared her to provide quality mental health care to her patients. Rita conducts psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and treats individuals with mental health disorders. Rita is accepting new clients, offering in person and telehealth visit.

Maria Harrison is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) Licensed in Maryland. I have over 14 years of experience in the healthcare industry. I aim to provide you the best care with respect and empathy. Let me walk with you through this journey with love and kindness.
Maria Harrison is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) Licensed in Maryland. I have over 14 years of experience in the healthcare industry. I aim to provide you the best care with respect and empathy. Let me walk with you through this journey with love and kindness.

Innovo Life Health Practice - Telehealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, CRNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
In 2013, Innovo Life, LLC opened to service individuals in the Maryland area and now in Virginia too. Over the past 2 decades plus, the owners and staff combined, have been in involved in the lives of many and are now using these experiences to empower, support, educate, and treat individuals who cross the entryway of Innovo Life. We offer to the community: Psychiatric Diagnosis and Medication Management. Life Coaching is also available to get on track with your goals, be accountable with your goals and see achievement (In Spanish and English)
In 2013, Innovo Life, LLC opened to service individuals in the Maryland area and now in Virginia too. Over the past 2 decades plus, the owners and staff combined, have been in involved in the lives of many and are now using these experiences to empower, support, educate, and treat individuals who cross the entryway of Innovo Life. We offer to the community: Psychiatric Diagnosis and Medication Management. Life Coaching is also available to get on track with your goals, be accountable with your goals and see achievement (In Spanish and English)

Dr. Grace O. Akinpetide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to New Horizon Behavioral & Wellness Center, where your journey to mental well-being is our priority. At our center, you will find a welcoming and supportive environment tailored to your individual needs. Dr. Akinpetide has particularly emphasized the importance of precise diagnostic tools like ADHD testing (now available both online and in-person) and pharmacogenomic testing (GeneSight), recognizing the critical role they play in formulating effective treatment plans that can be conducted either from the comfort of the patient's home or in-person.
Welcome to New Horizon Behavioral & Wellness Center, where your journey to mental well-being is our priority. At our center, you will find a welcoming and supportive environment tailored to your individual needs. Dr. Akinpetide has particularly emphasized the importance of precise diagnostic tools like ADHD testing (now available both online and in-person) and pharmacogenomic testing (GeneSight), recognizing the critical role they play in formulating effective treatment plans that can be conducted either from the comfort of the patient's home or in-person.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

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.
Shanea McDaniel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.

Linda Nwachuku is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialized in providing comprehensive mental health treatment. With an extensive experience in this field, her commitment is to empower individuals on their journey towards mental wellness.
Linda Nwachuku is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialized in providing comprehensive mental health treatment. With an extensive experience in this field, her commitment is to empower individuals on their journey towards mental wellness.
See more therapy options for 20720
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 20720
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 20720 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Sleep or Insomnia |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 20720 see their clients
62% | Online Only | |
38% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
93% | Female | |
7% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 20720?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.