Psychiatrists in 20770
My name is Dr. Grace Chikezie. I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner and a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner too, I have worked with persons from various populations with mental health issues. Personally, I believe firmly in holistic care and in holistic approach. My passion for mental health grew because I continued to encounter patients of all ages with different levels of mental distress, working as an FNP, and I really empathized with them and their families. I vehemently believe in the treatment of the whole person because as humans we need our full functionality to scale through the journey of life
My name is Dr. Grace Chikezie. I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner and a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner too, I have worked with persons from various populations with mental health issues. Personally, I believe firmly in holistic care and in holistic approach. My passion for mental health grew because I continued to encounter patients of all ages with different levels of mental distress, working as an FNP, and I really empathized with them and their families. I vehemently believe in the treatment of the whole person because as humans we need our full functionality to scale through the journey of life
Medhin Gebreamlak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Greenbelt, MD 20770
We offer sliding fee starting $45 dollars. Our service includes ADHD, ANXIETY, depression and BIPOLAR d/o treatment. We also provider substance uses disorder (SUD) treatment with Suboxone. If you are looking for an excellent health care clinic for your specific needs and provide you with the treatment you need. Our professionals are trained to develop tailored care and treatment for you. Our services include behavioral health, substance abuse disorder treatment, and primary care. We accept Medicaid, private insurances and self-pay (based on income we offer services starting $45 dollars for those who does not have insurance).
We offer sliding fee starting $45 dollars. Our service includes ADHD, ANXIETY, depression and BIPOLAR d/o treatment. We also provider substance uses disorder (SUD) treatment with Suboxone. If you are looking for an excellent health care clinic for your specific needs and provide you with the treatment you need. Our professionals are trained to develop tailored care and treatment for you. Our services include behavioral health, substance abuse disorder treatment, and primary care. We accept Medicaid, private insurances and self-pay (based on income we offer services starting $45 dollars for those who does not have insurance).
Tai Care Mental Health & Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Hello! I am a Family PMHNP (psychiatric nurse practitioner). I graduated from Bowie State University, earning my Masters of Science in Nursing. I am nationally certified as a PMHNP (psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner). I specialize in all types of mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. In my career, I have seen how effective interventions and empathetic communication could significantly alter the trajectory of a person's mental health. By bridging language barriers and understanding cultural nuances, I aim to improve access to mental health services for underserved communities.
Hello! I am a Family PMHNP (psychiatric nurse practitioner). I graduated from Bowie State University, earning my Masters of Science in Nursing. I am nationally certified as a PMHNP (psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner). I specialize in all types of mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. In my career, I have seen how effective interventions and empathetic communication could significantly alter the trajectory of a person's mental health. By bridging language barriers and understanding cultural nuances, I aim to improve access to mental health services for underserved communities.
Abundant Healthcare Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP), I find it indispensable to have the ability to actively manage mental and physical conditions cohesively. PMHNP primary focus is promoting mental health through assessment, diagnosis, disease prevention and treatment. PMHNP are proficient in the art and science of psychotherapy. PMHNP provide comprehensive patient centered MH and psychiatric care in a variety of settings such as in-patient facilities, state psychiatric facilities, correctional facilities, MH centers and schools. PMHNP execute treatment plans by means of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapeutic interventions.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP), I find it indispensable to have the ability to actively manage mental and physical conditions cohesively. PMHNP primary focus is promoting mental health through assessment, diagnosis, disease prevention and treatment. PMHNP are proficient in the art and science of psychotherapy. PMHNP provide comprehensive patient centered MH and psychiatric care in a variety of settings such as in-patient facilities, state psychiatric facilities, correctional facilities, MH centers and schools. PMHNP execute treatment plans by means of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapeutic interventions.
Berlinda Retland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
My specialty is MEDICATION MANAGEMENT for the treatment of mood disorders like depression and bipolar, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and psychosis. I personally DO NOT offer therapy (but it is available at the practice). My motto is, meeting my clients where they are, but supporting them in getting to where they truly want to be! Life is challenging enough, finding a professional and personable clinician should not be. My goal is to assist you in achieving a more fulfilling life by successfully managing your mental health. I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience.
My specialty is MEDICATION MANAGEMENT for the treatment of mood disorders like depression and bipolar, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and psychosis. I personally DO NOT offer therapy (but it is available at the practice). My motto is, meeting my clients where they are, but supporting them in getting to where they truly want to be! Life is challenging enough, finding a professional and personable clinician should not be. My goal is to assist you in achieving a more fulfilling life by successfully managing your mental health. I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience.
Comprehensive Health and Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over nineteen years of experience in nursing. Accepting new patients with a wide range of mental health challenges. I am passionate about patients and value patients by showing everyone respect, compassion, kindness, empathetic, non-judgmental, patient-centered care, and treatment to patients. I provide evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for a wide range of mental health illnesses. Services are offered confidentially and discreetly by telehealth services and outpatient office. When you are looking for a partner to walk you through the journey of mental health,
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over nineteen years of experience in nursing. Accepting new patients with a wide range of mental health challenges. I am passionate about patients and value patients by showing everyone respect, compassion, kindness, empathetic, non-judgmental, patient-centered care, and treatment to patients. I provide evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for a wide range of mental health illnesses. Services are offered confidentially and discreetly by telehealth services and outpatient office. When you are looking for a partner to walk you through the journey of mental health,
Terra Health Care LLC is an outpatient mental health clinic offering both virtual and in-person appointments. Terra Health Care has trained clinicians who are excellence in providing mental health services for adults, young adults, adolescents and children. Terra Health Care LLC provides innovative, evidence-based practice treatment and care to all its patients. At Terra Health Care it’s our goal to strive for excellence, while providing the care needed by our patients to overcome the challenges affecting their lives.
Terra Health Care LLC is an outpatient mental health clinic offering both virtual and in-person appointments. Terra Health Care has trained clinicians who are excellence in providing mental health services for adults, young adults, adolescents and children. Terra Health Care LLC provides innovative, evidence-based practice treatment and care to all its patients. At Terra Health Care it’s our goal to strive for excellence, while providing the care needed by our patients to overcome the challenges affecting their lives.
Utopia was created to help build a society where people not only identified their dreams, they achieved them. Motivated to transform and redefine the idea of wellness for all through the use of innovative modalities, Utopia Health Center strives toward ending the stigma associated with mental and substance use disorders. Being client centered is the foundation Utopia is built on; showing commitment to provide access to services and ensuring those services provide building blocks for a holistic culture of well-being. Cultivating a better tomorrow for our clients and the surrounding communities with our hands and hearts - that's Utopia.
Utopia was created to help build a society where people not only identified their dreams, they achieved them. Motivated to transform and redefine the idea of wellness for all through the use of innovative modalities, Utopia Health Center strives toward ending the stigma associated with mental and substance use disorders. Being client centered is the foundation Utopia is built on; showing commitment to provide access to services and ensuring those services provide building blocks for a holistic culture of well-being. Cultivating a better tomorrow for our clients and the surrounding communities with our hands and hearts - that's Utopia.
I understand at times seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting task. As your provider I want to ensure that you feel heard, collaborate together towards your wellness goals and achieve optimal clinical outcomes. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I provide an evidence-based, patient-centered (not patient or provider driven) approach for individuals ages 10 and older.
I understand at times seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting task. As your provider I want to ensure that you feel heard, collaborate together towards your wellness goals and achieve optimal clinical outcomes. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I provide an evidence-based, patient-centered (not patient or provider driven) approach for individuals ages 10 and older.
Christina Ekoko Abange
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Dr. Christina Ekoko Abange is an experienced and compassionate Pediatric, Geriatric, and Psychiatric Nurse with 13 years in the industry. Patient rights advocate with excellent communication and critical thinking skills. Track record for demonstrating strong leadership, team management, crisis management, and organizational skills. Patient-focused care provider dedicated to patient success. Dr. Christina Ekoko Abange is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Certified Registered Nurse (CRN)
Dr. Christina Ekoko Abange is an experienced and compassionate Pediatric, Geriatric, and Psychiatric Nurse with 13 years in the industry. Patient rights advocate with excellent communication and critical thinking skills. Track record for demonstrating strong leadership, team management, crisis management, and organizational skills. Patient-focused care provider dedicated to patient success. Dr. Christina Ekoko Abange is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Certified Registered Nurse (CRN)
A Peaceful Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Are you feeling sad, lack of concentration, lack of energy, feeling irritable, anxious, you are not enjoying things you used to enjoy? Do you have, ADHD, Anxiety, Major Depression, Bipolar I/II, addiction, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Psychosis, Mood disorder? Are you looking for someone who is compassionate, understanding, and listens? Then you have come to the right place. Our provider will use a holistic approach and work with you to select the treatment plan tailored to your symptoms. We use individualize approach, new medications, and new testing that are available for treatment of mental health. Call or email us today!
Are you feeling sad, lack of concentration, lack of energy, feeling irritable, anxious, you are not enjoying things you used to enjoy? Do you have, ADHD, Anxiety, Major Depression, Bipolar I/II, addiction, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Psychosis, Mood disorder? Are you looking for someone who is compassionate, understanding, and listens? Then you have come to the right place. Our provider will use a holistic approach and work with you to select the treatment plan tailored to your symptoms. We use individualize approach, new medications, and new testing that are available for treatment of mental health. Call or email us today!
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPN, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenbelt, MD 20770
I offer Diagnostic Assessments, Psychiatric Evaluation, Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Family Therapy, Medication Management and/or Monitoring, either Office and Home Based Services. I also offer Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) and Mental Health Education.
I offer Diagnostic Assessments, Psychiatric Evaluation, Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Family Therapy, Medication Management and/or Monitoring, either Office and Home Based Services. I also offer Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) and Mental Health Education.
My experience as a registered nurse for over ten years includes teaching, research, psychiatric inpatient units and crisis management. Seeing the overlay of trauma, mental health and substance abuse across all ages, identities, races and religions led me to want to help my patients on a deeper level to make change and be present for their change on a more personal level. This was my motivation to go back and earn my Doctorate Degree to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have additional training in addictions to help serve as many patients as I can regardless of their diagnoses or comorbidities.
My experience as a registered nurse for over ten years includes teaching, research, psychiatric inpatient units and crisis management. Seeing the overlay of trauma, mental health and substance abuse across all ages, identities, races and religions led me to want to help my patients on a deeper level to make change and be present for their change on a more personal level. This was my motivation to go back and earn my Doctorate Degree to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have additional training in addictions to help serve as many patients as I can regardless of their diagnoses or comorbidities.
Dr. Leanyuy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She specializes in psychopharmacology and various forms of psychotherapies for individuals, couples and families.
Dr. Leanyuy is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She specializes in psychopharmacology and various forms of psychotherapies for individuals, couples and families.
Hello! I work at Choice Clinical Services, located in Greenbelt. However, I can see patients remotely anywhere in MD. I work with patients of all ages and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have found that I really enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and adolescents. We will work as a team because ultimately, you know what will work best for you. Hope to hear from you! Please reach out via email or phone.
Hello! I work at Choice Clinical Services, located in Greenbelt. However, I can see patients remotely anywhere in MD. I work with patients of all ages and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have found that I really enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and adolescents. We will work as a team because ultimately, you know what will work best for you. Hope to hear from you! Please reach out via email or phone.
ADHD Management and Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , CRNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
At ADHD Management and Wellness Clinic, we provide the support and resources you need to help you succeed and reach your goals. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) a neuro-cognitive disorder, with persistent patterns of inattention, distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Our licensed clinicians conduct a full evaluation and a thorough ADHD assessment to determine a treatment plan just for you which may include medication management if needed.
At ADHD Management and Wellness Clinic, we provide the support and resources you need to help you succeed and reach your goals. We specialize in the evaluation and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) a neuro-cognitive disorder, with persistent patterns of inattention, distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Our licensed clinicians conduct a full evaluation and a thorough ADHD assessment to determine a treatment plan just for you which may include medication management if needed.
I am Dr. Dagmar Ngiowa DNP. I hold dual certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I am compassionate about my patient care and take a holistic approach in caring for my patients. I enjoy working with patients with all types of mental illnesses, to include, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and much more. As a mental health practitioner, I apply compassion, empathy and respect when caring for patients, this helps to restore their dignity thereby reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
I am Dr. Dagmar Ngiowa DNP. I hold dual certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I am compassionate about my patient care and take a holistic approach in caring for my patients. I enjoy working with patients with all types of mental illnesses, to include, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and much more. As a mental health practitioner, I apply compassion, empathy and respect when caring for patients, this helps to restore their dignity thereby reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
Arise & Shine Health Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
At Arise & Shine we provide competent and compassionate care by empowering individuals to address mental health challenges with resilience, fostering well-being for all. Arise & Shine healthcenter provide; Initial and follow up assessment, Medication management. We work with children and adolescents struggling with significant mood and behavioral dysregulation related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety and ADHD. Our experience extends from 4 to 100 yrs old. We will work with you to take control of your life so that you can be in charge once again.
At Arise & Shine we provide competent and compassionate care by empowering individuals to address mental health challenges with resilience, fostering well-being for all. Arise & Shine healthcenter provide; Initial and follow up assessment, Medication management. We work with children and adolescents struggling with significant mood and behavioral dysregulation related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety and ADHD. Our experience extends from 4 to 100 yrs old. We will work with you to take control of your life so that you can be in charge once again.
Hi, I'm a Proficient and reputable Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 12 years combined experience of caring for individuals with mental health disorders in various settings.
Hi, I'm a Proficient and reputable Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 12 years combined experience of caring for individuals with mental health disorders in various settings.
EM&E Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770
1 in 5 adults suffers from a mental health condition or substance use disorder. 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Unfortunately, stigma leads to so many individuals not receiving the care they need. Hi, I am Evelyn Mensah and I am here to partner with you to provide you with the needed psychiatric /behavioral health care. Evelyn uses a holistic and person-centered approach to care.
1 in 5 adults suffers from a mental health condition or substance use disorder. 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Unfortunately, stigma leads to so many individuals not receiving the care they need. Hi, I am Evelyn Mensah and I am here to partner with you to provide you with the needed psychiatric /behavioral health care. Evelyn uses a holistic and person-centered approach to care.
See more therapy options for 20770
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 20770
50+
Average cost per session
$165
Psychiatrists in 20770 who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
47% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Aetna |
70% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in 20770 see their clients
57% | Online Only | |
43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
94% | Female | |
6% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 20770?
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.