Psychiatrists in 20875

Photo of Dr. Biliki Douglas, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Biliki Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
(240) 433-7137 View (240) 433-7137

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Suneeta Kumari, MD, MPH, CCDS, Psychiatrist
Dr. Suneeta Kumari
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, CCDS
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
(443) 870-5821 View (443) 870-5821
Photo of Bolaji O Olugboja, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bolaji O Olugboja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Randallstown, MD 21133
I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in two states; Maryland and Florida.  I have been providing nursing services for over 14years. In my practice, an individual's mental health symptoms are not only addressed, we believe in a holistic approach, whereby an individual's mental and social factors are taken into consideration. Consequently, my utmost goal is to restore individuals to normal lives and foster a HEALTHIER YOU
I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in two states; Maryland and Florida.  I have been providing nursing services for over 14years. In my practice, an individual's mental health symptoms are not only addressed, we believe in a holistic approach, whereby an individual's mental and social factors are taken into consideration. Consequently, my utmost goal is to restore individuals to normal lives and foster a HEALTHIER YOU
(410) 403-3140 View (410) 403-3140
Photo of Deanette James, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deanette James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Deanette James provides medication management to adults, 18 and over. Her office is a safe space for all individuals currently navigating a chaotic life and needing additional support. She is very much aware that the decision to take medications for stabilization of one’s mental health can be very daunting. While medications may be suggested based on your history, it is purely your decision to start and/or continue these medications.
Deanette James provides medication management to adults, 18 and over. Her office is a safe space for all individuals currently navigating a chaotic life and needing additional support. She is very much aware that the decision to take medications for stabilization of one’s mental health can be very daunting. While medications may be suggested based on your history, it is purely your decision to start and/or continue these medications.
(240) 875-6194 x1 View (240) 875-6194 x1
Photo of Charles Besong - Prime Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prime Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
We are here to provide non-judgmental support to you! Although we cannot change past challenging issues, we can support you to find a path to brighter future. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, affordable therapy and medication management services to clients in need. Call us to make an appointment today! We are a team of experienced clinicians who are passionate about building stronger families.
(240) 713-6140 View (240) 713-6140
Photo of Carolyn Jayne Howell - C. Howell, MD & Associates, MD, Psychiatrist
C. Howell, MD & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. As a psychiatrist, my job is not just to heal brain illness, but to also promote whole-person wellness. This encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I am board certified in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. My adult training was at George Washington University, and my Child Fellowship was completed at Johns Hopkins University. I have a wealth of experience in treating children and adults in various clinical settings. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy.
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. As a psychiatrist, my job is not just to heal brain illness, but to also promote whole-person wellness. This encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I am board certified in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. My adult training was at George Washington University, and my Child Fellowship was completed at Johns Hopkins University. I have a wealth of experience in treating children and adults in various clinical settings. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy.
(443) 658-1700 View (443) 658-1700
Photo of Tiffany Adeyemo - Transformation Healthcare INC, CRNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Transformation Healthcare INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046
Hello, I am Tiffany Adeyemo, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience in the mental health field. My journey began in medical patient care and transitioned to working with the forensic population at a psychiatric hospital. Witnessing the challenges many face in accessing mental health care deeply impacted me and inspired me to make a greater difference.
Hello, I am Tiffany Adeyemo, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience in the mental health field. My journey began in medical patient care and transitioned to working with the forensic population at a psychiatric hospital. Witnessing the challenges many face in accessing mental health care deeply impacted me and inspired me to make a greater difference.
(410) 936-3186 View (410) 936-3186
Photo of Tolulope Oguntomi - Tolulope Oguntomi Psych Medication Management, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tolulope Oguntomi Psych Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Do you need a psychiatric assessment for evaluation? Do you need to tweak or balance your prescription for psychiatric medication? Are you considering medication or has your therapist recommended medication? In treatment, you can help for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia or disordered sleep, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), mood disorders, self-harming, psychosis, issues related to pregnancy and postpartum, and other challenges. An assessment can help determine if you need medication, and we can develop a plan for your treatment. Reach out now for expert psychiatric support.
Do you need a psychiatric assessment for evaluation? Do you need to tweak or balance your prescription for psychiatric medication? Are you considering medication or has your therapist recommended medication? In treatment, you can help for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia or disordered sleep, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), mood disorders, self-harming, psychosis, issues related to pregnancy and postpartum, and other challenges. An assessment can help determine if you need medication, and we can develop a plan for your treatment. Reach out now for expert psychiatric support.
(301) 591-6750 View (301) 591-6750
Photo of Diana Pieterson - Gracious Health Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gracious Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
‘Out of all the things I have lost, I miss my mind the most’ (Mark Twain) The task is so simple but yet, I can’t bring myself to be motivated and focused enough to do it. I walk around and see others getting on with their lives and wonder what I am doing wrong, why can’t I be like them? I thought I’ll have it all figured out by now. The worst part is making everyone around me believe ‘I got my shit together’. My mind goes round and round at night and I lay starring at the ceiling, and before I know, it is time to start the same routine over again. I am at a standstill; I feel exhausted, overwhelmed and so trapped!
‘Out of all the things I have lost, I miss my mind the most’ (Mark Twain) The task is so simple but yet, I can’t bring myself to be motivated and focused enough to do it. I walk around and see others getting on with their lives and wonder what I am doing wrong, why can’t I be like them? I thought I’ll have it all figured out by now. The worst part is making everyone around me believe ‘I got my shit together’. My mind goes round and round at night and I lay starring at the ceiling, and before I know, it is time to start the same routine over again. I am at a standstill; I feel exhausted, overwhelmed and so trapped!
(443) 843-0584 View (443) 843-0584
Photo of Denise Edgecombe Holland, MD, Psychiatrist
Denise Edgecombe Holland
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I believe that treating the whole person & promoting wellness can increase the joy in one's life.
I believe that treating the whole person & promoting wellness can increase the joy in one's life.
(240) 262-0798 View (240) 262-0798
Photo of Ruth Bissell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth Bissell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ruth earned a BSN with a focus on addiction studies. She assisted with the recovery of adolescents and adults by using Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT), counseling, education, and group therapy. Since addiction treatment often requires treating other psychiatric problems, Ruth gained expertise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, and ADHD as well studying Motivational Therapy (MT) and psychotherapy.
Ruth earned a BSN with a focus on addiction studies. She assisted with the recovery of adolescents and adults by using Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT), counseling, education, and group therapy. Since addiction treatment often requires treating other psychiatric problems, Ruth gained expertise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, and ADHD as well studying Motivational Therapy (MT) and psychotherapy.
(443) 746-0130 View (443) 746-0130
Photo of Ritu Goel - Maryland Wellness and Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryland Wellness and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
(410) 324-6308 x202 View (410) 324-6308 x202
Photo of Jackie Dougherty - Brunswick Psychiatry and Wellness Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brunswick Psychiatry and Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
We are a team of holistic providers; holistic in that we view people as a whole, not a list of symptoms or boxes to check off. We take pride in working with our patients to find a plan of care that they are comfortable with. We hope that you will consider us approachable and flexible. Our nurse practitioners are working mothers, Frederick County residents and Maryland natives. We understand the demands of raising children and growing families in a post-COVID world and can relate to your worries and needs on a personal level.
We are a team of holistic providers; holistic in that we view people as a whole, not a list of symptoms or boxes to check off. We take pride in working with our patients to find a plan of care that they are comfortable with. We hope that you will consider us approachable and flexible. Our nurse practitioners are working mothers, Frederick County residents and Maryland natives. We understand the demands of raising children and growing families in a post-COVID world and can relate to your worries and needs on a personal level.
(240) 748-0179 View (240) 748-0179
Photo of Paula Ison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paula Ison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I utilize an Individualized patient-centered care and holistic care model. I believe in involving the patient in creating their care plan. I focus on 13 years old and older folks. As a communication style, I like to create a friendly environment where clients can feel comfortable and safe in disclosing their struggles. We will establish a treatment goal at the beginning and would revisit the goal periodically. During the first session, we would be exploring their psychosocial history and all the factors that could impact treatment.
I utilize an Individualized patient-centered care and holistic care model. I believe in involving the patient in creating their care plan. I focus on 13 years old and older folks. As a communication style, I like to create a friendly environment where clients can feel comfortable and safe in disclosing their struggles. We will establish a treatment goal at the beginning and would revisit the goal periodically. During the first session, we would be exploring their psychosocial history and all the factors that could impact treatment.
(443) 541-5186 View (443) 541-5186
Photo of Esther Chiedu - Lumen Christi Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lumen Christi Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
We believe in Albus Dumbledore's Quote "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of time, if only one remembers to turn on the light". We are here to walk with you, listen and provide the best options for your health. Lumen Christi Behavioral Health LLC is a preeminent healthcare provider dedicated and passionate to delivering exceptional, individualized, and holistic care encompassing the mind, body, and spirit. Esther Chiedu, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a lot of experience working in different areas of mental healthcare system.
We believe in Albus Dumbledore's Quote "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of time, if only one remembers to turn on the light". We are here to walk with you, listen and provide the best options for your health. Lumen Christi Behavioral Health LLC is a preeminent healthcare provider dedicated and passionate to delivering exceptional, individualized, and holistic care encompassing the mind, body, and spirit. Esther Chiedu, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a lot of experience working in different areas of mental healthcare system.
(410) 376-8587 View (410) 376-8587
Photo of Theresa Uzoukwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Uzoukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
At D & A Holdings, we understand that life can be rough and overwhelming, especially when juggling numerous things simultaneously. We can help address many daily mental health challenges people face using evidence-based approaches to better health. I am a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience with in-patient and out-patient mental health services. We provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, and teaching self-care activities, care coordination,
At D & A Holdings, we understand that life can be rough and overwhelming, especially when juggling numerous things simultaneously. We can help address many daily mental health challenges people face using evidence-based approaches to better health. I am a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience with in-patient and out-patient mental health services. We provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, and teaching self-care activities, care coordination,
(410) 989-4662 View (410) 989-4662
Photo of Elionore Nkwemou, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elionore Nkwemou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a compassionate, multi-licensed healthcare professional, currently pursuing my Doctorate of Nursing Practice. I am also a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I am a compassionate, multi-licensed healthcare professional, currently pursuing my Doctorate of Nursing Practice. I am also a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(301) 804-2916 View (301) 804-2916
Photo of Katarina (Kat) Mijic-Barisic, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katarina (Kat) Mijic-Barisic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I’m Kat, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential and live a happier, more fulfilling life through medication management and supportive therapy. I believe that every person has the capacity for growth and resilience. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to understanding each individual's unique journey, and my mission is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Hi! I’m Kat, a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential and live a happier, more fulfilling life through medication management and supportive therapy. I believe that every person has the capacity for growth and resilience. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to understanding each individual's unique journey, and my mission is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(443) 647-8278 View (443) 647-8278
Photo of Edner Charles - EdChA Behavioral Health, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EdChA Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We perform psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults experiencing mental health symptoms or suffering from various type of mental illness including Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and more.
We perform psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults experiencing mental health symptoms or suffering from various type of mental illness including Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and more.
(240) 802-7091 View (240) 802-7091
Photo of Deepa Abhilash, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deepa Abhilash
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Deepa Abhilash, PMHNP, FNP My goal is to advocate for people who are struggling with serious mental illness. I am always looking forward to opportunities to serve, educate and encourage them to be responsible for their mental health. I aspire to help them to be able to function in the community so they can find their purpose in their life. I use an integrated approach in the treatment of mental illness which include medication management, motivational interviewing and various therapeutic approaches including cognitive & behavioral, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment.
Deepa Abhilash, PMHNP, FNP My goal is to advocate for people who are struggling with serious mental illness. I am always looking forward to opportunities to serve, educate and encourage them to be responsible for their mental health. I aspire to help them to be able to function in the community so they can find their purpose in their life. I use an integrated approach in the treatment of mental illness which include medication management, motivational interviewing and various therapeutic approaches including cognitive & behavioral, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment.
(443) 830-3536 View (443) 830-3536

See more therapy options for 20875

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20875

< 10

Psychiatrists in 20875 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Grief

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 20875 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20875?

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.