Psychiatrists in 20872

There are no results for psychiatrists in 20872

Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Maryland below.

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jade Goodloe, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
View
Photo of Tyler Andrew, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tyler Andrew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal clients may face challenges like anxiety, depression, or addiction. They seek compassionate care, effective medication management, and personalized support. Their goal is to regain balance and control over their lives through a collaborative, holistic approach to mental wellness.
My ideal clients may face challenges like anxiety, depression, or addiction. They seek compassionate care, effective medication management, and personalized support. Their goal is to regain balance and control over their lives through a collaborative, holistic approach to mental wellness.
(720) 534-2097 View (720) 534-2097
Photo of Dr. Aeva Gaymon Doomes - Aeva Gaymon Doomes MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Aeva Gaymon Doomes MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Aeva Gaymon-Doomes, MD, with over 20 years in psychiatry, focuses on child, adolescent, and women's psychiatry. She is double board-certified in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, and a member of AACAP and Black Psychiatrists of America. She is a graduate of Howard College of Medicine and Spelman College. She specializes in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD, providing services such as medication management, alongside Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. In addition, she offers strategic leadership coaching for adult women, employing emotional intelligence techniques to enhance their professional personal growth.
Aeva Gaymon-Doomes, MD, with over 20 years in psychiatry, focuses on child, adolescent, and women's psychiatry. She is double board-certified in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, and a member of AACAP and Black Psychiatrists of America. She is a graduate of Howard College of Medicine and Spelman College. She specializes in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD, providing services such as medication management, alongside Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. In addition, she offers strategic leadership coaching for adult women, employing emotional intelligence techniques to enhance their professional personal growth.
(301) 900-6243 View (301) 900-6243
Photo of Cindy Hatley, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Hatley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
(301) 409-5197 View (301) 409-5197
Photo of Hamid Tabatabai, MD, Psychiatrist
Hamid Tabatabai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My practice is primarily Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I see few adults who want psychotherapy and may or may not need medication. I provide a comprehensive psychiatric and psychological assessment before I recommend any form of treatment. I am available to my patients round a clock. There are no night time or weekends on call doctors to deal with!
My practice is primarily Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I see few adults who want psychotherapy and may or may not need medication. I provide a comprehensive psychiatric and psychological assessment before I recommend any form of treatment. I am available to my patients round a clock. There are no night time or weekends on call doctors to deal with!
(443) 222-0287 View (443) 222-0287
Photo of Xian Zhang, MD, PhD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Xian Zhang
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046
She was honored as a fellow in APA, reflecting her dedication and contribution to the field of psychiatry. She earned her PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Austin and completed a postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School in Boston. She served as chief resident during her psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC, and as chief fellow during her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship training at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.
She was honored as a fellow in APA, reflecting her dedication and contribution to the field of psychiatry. She earned her PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Austin and completed a postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School in Boston. She served as chief resident during her psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC, and as chief fellow during her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship training at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.
(443) 543-8655 View (443) 543-8655
Photo of Constance Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Constance Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm an ABPN board certified psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Yale, and NIMH. I have extensive experience using scientifically proven methods to treat depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, trauma, women’s reproductive mental health, and sleep-related issues. Our feelings are determined by complex factors, let us spend time to understand your health, your life, and your challenges. Psychiatric medications should be used careful and gently. Let me help you with making an informed and safe decision.
Welcome! I'm an ABPN board certified psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Yale, and NIMH. I have extensive experience using scientifically proven methods to treat depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, trauma, women’s reproductive mental health, and sleep-related issues. Our feelings are determined by complex factors, let us spend time to understand your health, your life, and your challenges. Psychiatric medications should be used careful and gently. Let me help you with making an informed and safe decision.
(240) 730-4104 View (240) 730-4104
Photo of Tyler Andrew, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tyler Andrew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Gentle, respectful support. If you're looking for a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is committed to helping you achieve your goals, I'm dedicated to providing affordable, low-side-effect treatments for mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, autism, insomnia, schizophrenia, and more!
Gentle, respectful support. If you're looking for a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is committed to helping you achieve your goals, I'm dedicated to providing affordable, low-side-effect treatments for mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, autism, insomnia, schizophrenia, and more!
(443) 969-7301 View (443) 969-7301
Photo of Wandayi Solani, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wandayi Solani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Now taking Aetna, UHC, Cigna, and Carefirst BCBS. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and I provide comprehensive mental health care to clients with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD across the lifespan.
Now taking Aetna, UHC, Cigna, and Carefirst BCBS. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and I provide comprehensive mental health care to clients with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD across the lifespan.
(240) 410-6152 View (240) 410-6152
Photo of Eveline Gwaabe - Wisechoice Multispecialty clinic LLC, PMHNP-B, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wisechoice Multispecialty clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20886
Ms. Gwaabe is the founder and medical director of Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic LLC. She is certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2016. At WisechoiceMC, we value lives and listen to our clients. We intergrate GeneSight testing to guide treatment options when needed in addition to the collaboration with the patient, therapists, PCP and families. We highly believe in everyone's right to high quality healthcare. Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic is ready to welcome you in a safe space. Together we can make a difference!
Ms. Gwaabe is the founder and medical director of Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic LLC. She is certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2016. At WisechoiceMC, we value lives and listen to our clients. We intergrate GeneSight testing to guide treatment options when needed in addition to the collaboration with the patient, therapists, PCP and families. We highly believe in everyone's right to high quality healthcare. Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic is ready to welcome you in a safe space. Together we can make a difference!
(240) 973-4735 View (240) 973-4735
Photo of Christopher Bertsch - Baltimore Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Baltimore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
FAST evaluation access and we can work with ALL private insurance! Book on our website BaltimorePsychiatry com 24/7. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with our actions. Our appointment lengths are about 50% longer than the typical public practice that rushes through service. Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can process courtesy claims for any out-of-network (OON) policy, or you may opt for our low cash pricing. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with real-time electronic prescriptions.
FAST evaluation access and we can work with ALL private insurance! Book on our website BaltimorePsychiatry com 24/7. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with our actions. Our appointment lengths are about 50% longer than the typical public practice that rushes through service. Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can process courtesy claims for any out-of-network (OON) policy, or you may opt for our low cash pricing. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with real-time electronic prescriptions.
(443) 234-0632 View (443) 234-0632
Photo of Michelle Tucker Jones, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Tucker Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I started Serenity Heart Healthcare because I wanted to build an organization where I could provide care that focused on identifying the root cause of a person's health condition and provide care from a holistic perspective. I want Serenity Heart to be an organization that provides the tools, education and care that allows a person to cultivate a mentally, spiritually and physically healthy self.
I started Serenity Heart Healthcare because I wanted to build an organization where I could provide care that focused on identifying the root cause of a person's health condition and provide care from a holistic perspective. I want Serenity Heart to be an organization that provides the tools, education and care that allows a person to cultivate a mentally, spiritually and physically healthy self.
(443) 706-8779 View (443) 706-8779
Photo of Dana Gorsche, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Gorsche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Daná Gorsche DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Rush University School of Nursing. Daná has training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan with a special focus on adults, older adults, military, and first responders.
Dr. Daná Gorsche DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Rush University School of Nursing. Daná has training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan with a special focus on adults, older adults, military, and first responders.
(240) 213-6862 View (240) 213-6862
Photo of Lindsey Burd, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey Burd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
NOW Accepting New Patients- Affordable Fee Schedule. Reaching out for help and a starting medication can be an overwhelming, daunting task- but it doesn't have to be. I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths are always considered. I work with patients to offer collaborative and integrative mental health care, with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan.
NOW Accepting New Patients- Affordable Fee Schedule. Reaching out for help and a starting medication can be an overwhelming, daunting task- but it doesn't have to be. I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths are always considered. I work with patients to offer collaborative and integrative mental health care, with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan.
(410) 701-3258 View (410) 701-3258
Photo of Rachael McCarthy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachael McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703
There is more to treating mental health conditions than simply prescribing medications. I believe in taking a personal approach to patient care and collaborating with my patients to create a treatment plan that aligns with your beliefs and values. I consider the patient as a whole. Your treatment goals are my goals. I maintain a flexible schedule which includes evening and weekend appointments because life doesn't just occur 9am-5pm.
There is more to treating mental health conditions than simply prescribing medications. I believe in taking a personal approach to patient care and collaborating with my patients to create a treatment plan that aligns with your beliefs and values. I consider the patient as a whole. Your treatment goals are my goals. I maintain a flexible schedule which includes evening and weekend appointments because life doesn't just occur 9am-5pm.
(540) 533-2951 View (540) 533-2951
Photo of Kasheria West, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kasheria West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
Accepting New Clients. Kasheria West is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. Through comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support, she strive to empower her patients to thrive in all aspects of their lives. She aspire to be a trusted partner in her patients mental health journey, offering hope, guidance, and advocacy every step of the way.
Accepting New Clients. Kasheria West is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. Through comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support, she strive to empower her patients to thrive in all aspects of their lives. She aspire to be a trusted partner in her patients mental health journey, offering hope, guidance, and advocacy every step of the way.
(240) 689-3171 View (240) 689-3171
Photo of Crystal Daniels, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Daniels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I originally started a career in clinical psychology. Once I completed an APA internship in psychology, I decided to return to school to study advanced nursing in psychiatry.
I originally started a career in clinical psychology. Once I completed an APA internship in psychology, I decided to return to school to study advanced nursing in psychiatry.
(443) 672-5004 View (443) 672-5004
Photo of Dr. Patrick K Nganga, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Patrick K Nganga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, and may also have co-existing conditions such as substance use or chronic illness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to achieve stability and improve their mental and emotional well-being. They want clear communication and collaborative care to guide them toward recovery, and they value a provider who understands the complexities of both mental and physical health.
My ideal client struggles with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, and may also have co-existing conditions such as substance use or chronic illness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to achieve stability and improve their mental and emotional well-being. They want clear communication and collaborative care to guide them toward recovery, and they value a provider who understands the complexities of both mental and physical health.
(301) 205-5041 View (301) 205-5041
Photo of Katie Barrick-Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Barrick-Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046
Synergy Strive is a diverse team of solution-focused clinicians with the goal of helping adults, teens, adolescents, and children uncover their true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can help you get on a path of healthy discovery. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we’re ready to work with you to achieve your goals.
Synergy Strive is a diverse team of solution-focused clinicians with the goal of helping adults, teens, adolescents, and children uncover their true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can help you get on a path of healthy discovery. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we’re ready to work with you to achieve your goals.
(443) 898-4870 View (443) 898-4870
Photo of Nadimire Jules-Dole, MD, Psychiatrist
Nadimire Jules-Dole
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I help children, adolescents, and adults achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach. You deserve the best and I strive to work with you to provide exceptional service that is guided by science, compassion, and hope. I treat the whole person combining holistic techniques including nutritional supplements, herbal/plant-based medicine, laboratory testing, mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric modalities like psychotropic medication and psychotherapy.
I help children, adolescents, and adults achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach. You deserve the best and I strive to work with you to provide exceptional service that is guided by science, compassion, and hope. I treat the whole person combining holistic techniques including nutritional supplements, herbal/plant-based medicine, laboratory testing, mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric modalities like psychotropic medication and psychotherapy.
(410) 346-9348 View (410) 346-9348

See more therapy options for 20872

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20872

< 10

Psychiatrists in 20872 who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in 20872 see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20872?

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.