Psychiatrists in 20816

Photo of Lucie S. Greenblum, MD, Psychiatrist
Lucie S. Greenblum
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20816
. I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I work in a safe, accepting, confidential setting to help you address the difficult challenges that life can throw your way: relationships that have not worked, a sense that you are not achieving your potential at work or in your personal life, chronic feelings of low self esteem and anxiety that hold you back.
. I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. I work in a safe, accepting, confidential setting to help you address the difficult challenges that life can throw your way: relationships that have not worked, a sense that you are not achieving your potential at work or in your personal life, chronic feelings of low self esteem and anxiety that hold you back.
(703) 810-7286 View (703) 810-7286
Photo of John Faulkner, CRNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Faulkner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-BC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20816
My goal is to empower clients to actively participate in the treatment process and support them in achieving their optimal mental health goals. I do this by providing compassionate, nonjudgmental care. I value open communication, active listening, and creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can freely express themselves. I utilize evidence-based treatment methods tailored to each individual's unique needs. I believe in a multi-modal approach that combines medication management, psychotherapy, and behavioral interventions to achieve the best outcomes for all clients. I look forward to meeting you!
My goal is to empower clients to actively participate in the treatment process and support them in achieving their optimal mental health goals. I do this by providing compassionate, nonjudgmental care. I value open communication, active listening, and creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can freely express themselves. I utilize evidence-based treatment methods tailored to each individual's unique needs. I believe in a multi-modal approach that combines medication management, psychotherapy, and behavioral interventions to achieve the best outcomes for all clients. I look forward to meeting you!
(443) 266-9671 View (443) 266-9671
Photo of Michael Mrizek, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Mrizek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816
As a psychiatrist, I bring a blend of medical and psychological training to my practice. I work closely with my patients to understand their individual needs and preferences, taking a holistic approach to their care.
As a psychiatrist, I bring a blend of medical and psychological training to my practice. I work closely with my patients to understand their individual needs and preferences, taking a holistic approach to their care.
(202) 902-8845 View (202) 902-8845
Photo of Mone't Ince-Amara, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mone't Ince-Amara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide comprehensive mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering both therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to help you on your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
I provide comprehensive mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering both therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to help you on your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
(240) 630-4934 View (240) 630-4934
Photo of Dr. Anissa Maroof, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anissa Maroof
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816
I am currently working with patients who primarily suffer from anxiety and mood disorders. I currently treat patients with eating disorders, OCD, and dually diagnosed patients. If you are ready for your life to improve, with or without medication, then contact me today. I offer a novel approach to treatments, which include therapy, medications, when needed, and intravenous micronutrient therapy.
I am currently working with patients who primarily suffer from anxiety and mood disorders. I currently treat patients with eating disorders, OCD, and dually diagnosed patients. If you are ready for your life to improve, with or without medication, then contact me today. I offer a novel approach to treatments, which include therapy, medications, when needed, and intravenous micronutrient therapy.
(301) 684-5060 View (301) 684-5060
Photo of Dr. Celia Regina Oliveira, MD, , MPH, Psychiatrist
Dr. Celia Regina Oliveira
Psychiatrist, MD, , MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Washington, DC and treat adults, young and older adolescents. As I was a pediatrician prior to becoming a psychiatrist, I am particularly interested in working with older adolescents and young adults who face a multitude of challenges as they progress into adulthood. Unlike many psychiatrists who prescribe medication only, I work with my clients through understanding and helping them in psychotherapy as well as providing expert treatment with the latest psychiatric medications.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Washington, DC and treat adults, young and older adolescents. As I was a pediatrician prior to becoming a psychiatrist, I am particularly interested in working with older adolescents and young adults who face a multitude of challenges as they progress into adulthood. Unlike many psychiatrists who prescribe medication only, I work with my clients through understanding and helping them in psychotherapy as well as providing expert treatment with the latest psychiatric medications.
(866) 968-2084 View (866) 968-2084
Photo of Monet Ince-Amara, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Monet Ince-Amara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide compassionate mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health concerns, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to support your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. My patient-centered approach prioritizes your voice, respects your concerns, and ensures your care plan is as unique as you are.
I provide compassionate mental health care for individuals aged 10 to 55, offering therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, maternal mental health concerns, PTSD, schizophrenia, or other challenges, I’m here to support your journey toward healing and growth. As an inclusive provider, I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, religions, and identities, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. My patient-centered approach prioritizes your voice, respects your concerns, and ensures your care plan is as unique as you are.
(571) 651-8443 View (571) 651-8443
Photo of James Park, PMHNP, CRNP, Adult, Psychiatric Nurse
James Park
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, CRNP, Adult
Verified Verified
Serves Area
****TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE***** In life, we all experiences times of emotional pain. Sometimes, this leads to experiences of depression, anxiety, and other symptoms that may impact your relationships, work, and overall well-being. I work collaboratively with each patient to help relieve unnecessary suffering. Medications can be an important component of treatment. I work with each patient to carefully consider the best options as part of a holistic treatment plan. My areas of clinical focus include treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and childhood onset ADHD.
****TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE***** In life, we all experiences times of emotional pain. Sometimes, this leads to experiences of depression, anxiety, and other symptoms that may impact your relationships, work, and overall well-being. I work collaboratively with each patient to help relieve unnecessary suffering. Medications can be an important component of treatment. I work with each patient to carefully consider the best options as part of a holistic treatment plan. My areas of clinical focus include treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and childhood onset ADHD.
(443) 501-2806 View (443) 501-2806
Photo of June Ottley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
June Ottley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
June Ottley is certified as an Adult, Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2015. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner from the University of Maryland. She later returned to advance her education and clinical expertise, by obtaining a Post Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
June Ottley is certified as an Adult, Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2015. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner from the University of Maryland. She later returned to advance her education and clinical expertise, by obtaining a Post Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(240) 523-4470 View (240) 523-4470
Photo of Crystal Amoah, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-C, DNP(s), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Amoah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-C, DNP(s)
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I offer a tele-psychiatry based practice located in PA, MD and DE for clients stable for outpatient services and offer client centered and compassionate care while having exemplary skills, but passion and understanding. I have extensive training and experience in providing quality care to those suffering from an array of mental illnesses. My goal is to have my clients receive adequate care in the comfort of their home while being able to live a healthy and normal life. I offer night and weekend appointments, and can see most clients within 72 of initial email or phone call!
I offer a tele-psychiatry based practice located in PA, MD and DE for clients stable for outpatient services and offer client centered and compassionate care while having exemplary skills, but passion and understanding. I have extensive training and experience in providing quality care to those suffering from an array of mental illnesses. My goal is to have my clients receive adequate care in the comfort of their home while being able to live a healthy and normal life. I offer night and weekend appointments, and can see most clients within 72 of initial email or phone call!
(302) 202-0576 View (302) 202-0576
Photo of Elizabeth Omopariola, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Omopariola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Elizabeth Omopariola and I am a Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
My name is Elizabeth Omopariola and I am a Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
(240) 563-0510 View (240) 563-0510
Photo of Titilayo Raji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Titilayo Raji
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Titi Raji is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2019. She holds a DNP, PMHNP from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, an FNP from St Joseph College of Maine, and a BSN from Marymount University. Titi believes in providing individualized quality and compassionate mental health care services to clients and families in need through prevention, intervention, treatment, and education. She strives to provide patient-focused care in a supportive atmosphere in which patients, family members, and professionals are treated with the utmost dignity and respect.
Titi Raji is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2019. She holds a DNP, PMHNP from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, an FNP from St Joseph College of Maine, and a BSN from Marymount University. Titi believes in providing individualized quality and compassionate mental health care services to clients and families in need through prevention, intervention, treatment, and education. She strives to provide patient-focused care in a supportive atmosphere in which patients, family members, and professionals are treated with the utmost dignity and respect.
(240) 913-6283 View (240) 913-6283
Photo of Dasheara Duck, Duck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dasheara Duck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Duck
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, My name is Dasheara Duck and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I began my career as a assertive community health nurse working in Baltimore city and surrounding areas to bring awareness to mental health in the community. In 2016, I transitioned into the hospital setting where I specialized as a crisis stabilization nurse in the emergency room and a inpatient psychiatric nurse. In 2019 I decided to further my career as a psychiatric mental health nurse Practitioner.
Hi, My name is Dasheara Duck and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I began my career as a assertive community health nurse working in Baltimore city and surrounding areas to bring awareness to mental health in the community. In 2016, I transitioned into the hospital setting where I specialized as a crisis stabilization nurse in the emergency room and a inpatient psychiatric nurse. In 2019 I decided to further my career as a psychiatric mental health nurse Practitioner.
(240) 689-3193 View (240) 689-3193
Photo of Clifford Sussman, MD, Psychiatrist
Clifford Sussman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
-I have a private practice in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and young adults in Washington, DC. I am one of the few specialists in the country in internet and video game addiction. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. - I am currently accepting new clients who seek help with problematic technology use. -Please visit my website www.cliffordsussmanmd.com for many free resources on internet and video game addiction including FAQ and videos. - I am not in any insurance network but can provide billing codes.
-I have a private practice in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and young adults in Washington, DC. I am one of the few specialists in the country in internet and video game addiction. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. - I am currently accepting new clients who seek help with problematic technology use. -Please visit my website www.cliffordsussmanmd.com for many free resources on internet and video game addiction including FAQ and videos. - I am not in any insurance network but can provide billing codes.
(202) 643-5962 View (202) 643-5962
Photo of Ahmed Hefuna, MD, Psychiatrist
Ahmed Hefuna
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Ahmed Hefuna, MD is a clinical psychiatrist with dual board certification in both child & adolescent psychiatry and general psychiatry. . After graduating from medical school , Dr. Hefuna did his residency in psychiatry at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. He then completed a fellowship in child & Adolescent psychiatry at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC. He has been in private practice since 2014.
Ahmed Hefuna, MD is a clinical psychiatrist with dual board certification in both child & adolescent psychiatry and general psychiatry. . After graduating from medical school , Dr. Hefuna did his residency in psychiatry at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. He then completed a fellowship in child & Adolescent psychiatry at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC. He has been in private practice since 2014.
(301) 205-5506 View (301) 205-5506
Photo of Titilayo Raji - LifeStance Health, CNP/PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP/PMH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(240) 635-8282 View (240) 635-8282
Photo of Anson Liu - Dr. Anson Liu, M.D. & Dr. Emily Gavett, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anson Liu, M.D. & Dr. Emily Gavett, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, psychotherapy treatment in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Dr. Liu and Dr. Gavett both have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma-related disorders (including PTSD), ADHD, child behavioral problems, personality disorders, Family/Parent-Child/Couple Conflicts and high functioning individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Treatment begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, where we will review biological, social, and psychological contributions to your present concerns.
We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, psychotherapy treatment in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Dr. Liu and Dr. Gavett both have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma-related disorders (including PTSD), ADHD, child behavioral problems, personality disorders, Family/Parent-Child/Couple Conflicts and high functioning individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Treatment begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, where we will review biological, social, and psychological contributions to your present concerns.
(443) 901-4630 View (443) 901-4630
Photo of Dr. Zivago Bunting - Oak Tree Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, HSLM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oak Tree Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, HSLM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.
(240) 201-2059 View (240) 201-2059
Photo of Miriam G. Bloom, MD, Psychiatrist
Miriam G. Bloom
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My work as a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist is to appreciate the complexities of each person that enters my office. Understanding each patient requires careful listening and learning about childhood development and experiences, strengths and goals, academic and professional accomplishments, and quality of family and personal relationships. I treat patients on on my own or in collaboration with their therapists. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy treatment, with special expertise treating younger children with ADHD, autism, and mood disorders.
My work as a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist is to appreciate the complexities of each person that enters my office. Understanding each patient requires careful listening and learning about childhood development and experiences, strengths and goals, academic and professional accomplishments, and quality of family and personal relationships. I treat patients on on my own or in collaboration with their therapists. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy treatment, with special expertise treating younger children with ADHD, autism, and mood disorders.
(301) 507-3255 View (301) 507-3255
Photo of Kristi Muncie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(301) 450-5357 View (301) 450-5357
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20816

20+

Average cost per session

$262

Psychiatrists in 20816 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
83% ADHD
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Medication Management

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 20816 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20816?

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.