Psychiatrists in 20878

Photo of Mary Warrah Tarawalie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN
Mary Warrah Tarawalie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Hello, I'm Mary. Are you down, unable to focus or feel like your head is scattered with thoughts? Are you unable to get things done or get along with family and friends?
Hello, I'm Mary. Are you down, unable to focus or feel like your head is scattered with thoughts? Are you unable to get things done or get along with family and friends?
(301) 691-4621 View (301) 691-4621
Photo of Kristene Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kristene Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I diagnose, prescribe, treat, and manage patients with mental health illnesses such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD. I have over 15 years of nursing experience that includes medical-surgical, telemetry and psychiatry. I believe that one of my advantages as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is my extensive history and background within those various settings. I view each patient as an individual and take an integrative approach to treatment.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I diagnose, prescribe, treat, and manage patients with mental health illnesses such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD. I have over 15 years of nursing experience that includes medical-surgical, telemetry and psychiatry. I believe that one of my advantages as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is my extensive history and background within those various settings. I view each patient as an individual and take an integrative approach to treatment.
(240) 384-3086 View (240) 384-3086
Photo of Sarah Keenan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Sarah Keenan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The patient always comes first. This means spending the time needed to get to the root of the problem, taking a holistic approach to look at the myriad factors that influence mental health, and providing a safe and comfortable environment where healing can occur. As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I can manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I value providing special attention to individual needs, personal history, stressful or traumatic experiences, and concerns about medications.
The patient always comes first. This means spending the time needed to get to the root of the problem, taking a holistic approach to look at the myriad factors that influence mental health, and providing a safe and comfortable environment where healing can occur. As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I can manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. I value providing special attention to individual needs, personal history, stressful or traumatic experiences, and concerns about medications.
(301) 786-3204 View (301) 786-3204
Photo of Tessa George-Perry - TSG Mental Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in caring for children, adolescents, and adults. With dual certifications as both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health care. My goal is to provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation followed by a personalized, dynamic plan that addresses both emotional and physical well-being.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in caring for children, adolescents, and adults. With dual certifications as both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health care. My goal is to provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation followed by a personalized, dynamic plan that addresses both emotional and physical well-being.
(443) 448-8722 View (443) 448-8722
Photo of Dr. Francine Kamhoua - Authentic Mental Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Authentic Mental Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
At Authentic Mental Wellness, your mental health is our priority. Care is the cornerstone of our practice. You will be evaluated by an excellent professional. Visit our website at www.authenticmentalwellnessllc.com
At Authentic Mental Wellness, your mental health is our priority. Care is the cornerstone of our practice. You will be evaluated by an excellent professional. Visit our website at www.authenticmentalwellnessllc.com
(301) 327-2213 View (301) 327-2213
Photo of Edward Gelber, Psychiatrist, MD
Edward Gelber
Psychiatrist, MD
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and children. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity. I offer talk therapy in addition to medication treatment.
I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and children. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity. I offer talk therapy in addition to medication treatment.
(301) 691-2409 View (301) 691-2409
Photo of Tyler Andrew, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tyler Andrew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Gentle, respectful support. Providing affordable, low-side-effect treatments to overcome depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, autism, insomnia, and schizophrenia. Feel heard and be treated with a holistic approach.
Gentle, respectful support. Providing affordable, low-side-effect treatments to overcome depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, autism, insomnia, and schizophrenia. Feel heard and be treated with a holistic approach.
(443) 969-7301 View (443) 969-7301
Photo of Dr. Ciara M Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Ciara M Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Waitlist for new clients
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
(301) 780-4655 View (301) 780-4655
Photo of Fynda Fillie-Faboe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-PM
Fynda Fillie-Faboe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-PM
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Fynda Fillie-Favoe is a Board Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner-Psychiatric Mental Health (CRNP-PMH) with over twenty years of experience in working inpatient and outpatient settings. Her experience includes contract work in psychiatry and medical-surgical nursing in several states. In her home state of Maryland, Fynda was also a Delegating Nurse Case Manager working in the community with individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.
Fynda Fillie-Favoe is a Board Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner-Psychiatric Mental Health (CRNP-PMH) with over twenty years of experience in working inpatient and outpatient settings. Her experience includes contract work in psychiatry and medical-surgical nursing in several states. In her home state of Maryland, Fynda was also a Delegating Nurse Case Manager working in the community with individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.
(301) 781-5325 View (301) 781-5325
Photo of Dr. Adaku Anike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Adaku Anike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with great interpersonal skills and experience in emergency room psych consult, inpatient, and outpatient health care settings.
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with great interpersonal skills and experience in emergency room psych consult, inpatient, and outpatient health care settings.
(301) 450-6907 View (301) 450-6907
Photo of Kiera Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kiera Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
(240) 540-4848 View (240) 540-4848
Photo of Patrick Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DipACLM
Patrick Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DipACLM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an experienced board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and lifestyle medicine practitioner. My approach is top down, looking at every facet of your life, genetics, nutrition, and environment to understand what informs your symptoms. With all the stressors of life, self care and self compassion take a back seat to worry. Eating healthy, getting sunlight, and calming your nervous system can put you back in the driver's seat. Please have compassion for yourself and remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
I am an experienced board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and lifestyle medicine practitioner. My approach is top down, looking at every facet of your life, genetics, nutrition, and environment to understand what informs your symptoms. With all the stressors of life, self care and self compassion take a back seat to worry. Eating healthy, getting sunlight, and calming your nervous system can put you back in the driver's seat. Please have compassion for yourself and remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
(240) 453-4323 View (240) 453-4323
Photo of Dr. Francine Kamhoua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Dr. Francine Kamhoua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Dr. Francine's purpose is to offer and provide personalized mental health care to all clients including medication initiation/management and therapy services. Remember that your mental health is a priority and matters today and always. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD, psychosis, or mood disorders, do not hesitate to ask for professional help so that you can live your life to the fullest of your abilities.
Dr. Francine's purpose is to offer and provide personalized mental health care to all clients including medication initiation/management and therapy services. Remember that your mental health is a priority and matters today and always. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD, psychosis, or mood disorders, do not hesitate to ask for professional help so that you can live your life to the fullest of your abilities.
(240) 433-5482 View (240) 433-5482
Photo of Barbara Eloisa Mai - Mai Center for Wellness and Energy Therapies, Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, BC-P
Mai Center for Wellness and Energy Therapies
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, BC-P
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Our veterans and their family members are a priority to me. I also welcome clients and their pets who have been dealing with chronic medical illness and pain. I have seen clients for many years who are managing addiction and related couple/family issues. I spent decades in hospital settings seeing clients with all sorts of grieving concerns. From health, lifestyle, legal, and stress management to end-of-life challenges, I am delighted to assist clients to approach situations in a hopeful, pragmatic, and strategic manner with the goal of achieving greater mind, body, and spirit health and wellness.
Our veterans and their family members are a priority to me. I also welcome clients and their pets who have been dealing with chronic medical illness and pain. I have seen clients for many years who are managing addiction and related couple/family issues. I spent decades in hospital settings seeing clients with all sorts of grieving concerns. From health, lifestyle, legal, and stress management to end-of-life challenges, I am delighted to assist clients to approach situations in a hopeful, pragmatic, and strategic manner with the goal of achieving greater mind, body, and spirit health and wellness.
(301) 804-6490 View (301) 804-6490
Photo of Lawrencia Addo Darko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Lawrencia Addo Darko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
(240) 932-5163 View (240) 932-5163
Photo of Somgolie Ozodigwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Somgolie Ozodigwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at Vigor Integrative Wellness with extensive experience in mental health care. My career as a traveling healthcare provider has allowed me to serve diverse populations nationwide, enhancing my ability to connect with patients from all backgrounds and cultures. With training from esteemed institutions under respected professionals, I bring both academic excellence and practical expertise to my practice
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at Vigor Integrative Wellness with extensive experience in mental health care. My career as a traveling healthcare provider has allowed me to serve diverse populations nationwide, enhancing my ability to connect with patients from all backgrounds and cultures. With training from esteemed institutions under respected professionals, I bring both academic excellence and practical expertise to my practice
(301) 307-5606 View (301) 307-5606
Photo of Dr. Crystal Greene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Dr. Crystal Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Dr. Greene specializes in addictive disorders and other mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety, and ADHD. She cares for clients across the lifespan including youth, adolescents, adults, and older adults. She provides medication management, executive functioning coaching, individual, and family therapy. She provides a safe and nurturing space for clients. She has assisted and guided many clients in maintaining their sobriety for many years.
Dr. Greene specializes in addictive disorders and other mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety, and ADHD. She cares for clients across the lifespan including youth, adolescents, adults, and older adults. She provides medication management, executive functioning coaching, individual, and family therapy. She provides a safe and nurturing space for clients. She has assisted and guided many clients in maintaining their sobriety for many years.
(240) 512-8336 View (240) 512-8336
Photo of Ashley Kinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Kinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide patient-centered care to help patients manage depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, and other mood disorders. I have been in the medical field for 20 years working in various settings/specialties. When I began working in behavioral health, the connection I was able to make with my patients quickly became my passion in life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I strive to provide patient-centered care to help patients manage depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, and other mood disorders. I have been in the medical field for 20 years working in various settings/specialties. When I began working in behavioral health, the connection I was able to make with my patients quickly became my passion in life.
(443) 234-8113 View (443) 234-8113
Photo of Stella Nnabugwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stella Nnabugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Stella Chinonyerem Nnabugwu, CRNP, DNP Student License(s): Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP), Registered Nurse (RN). As a psychiatric mental health CRNP, my approach to care is centered on providing individualized, evidence-based treatment to improve mental health outcomes. I focus on enhancing medication adherence, utilizing technology for patient support, and fostering a collaborative, compassionate environment to empower patients in managing their mental health. My practice is dedicated to delivering holistic care that addresses both the psychological and physical needs of individuals.
Stella Chinonyerem Nnabugwu, CRNP, DNP Student License(s): Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP), Registered Nurse (RN). As a psychiatric mental health CRNP, my approach to care is centered on providing individualized, evidence-based treatment to improve mental health outcomes. I focus on enhancing medication adherence, utilizing technology for patient support, and fostering a collaborative, compassionate environment to empower patients in managing their mental health. My practice is dedicated to delivering holistic care that addresses both the psychological and physical needs of individuals.
(443) 951-3518 View (443) 951-3518
Photo of Monica Manka Ngwa - Clarksburg Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CRNP, PMH
Monica Manka Ngwa - Clarksburg Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CRNP, PMH
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Clarksburg Behavioral Health is deeply committed to fostering a trusting and collaborative relationship with each of their clients. We understand that reaching out for support can be a significant and courageous step. It requires vulnerability and strength to seek assistance during challenging times.
Clarksburg Behavioral Health is deeply committed to fostering a trusting and collaborative relationship with each of their clients. We understand that reaching out for support can be a significant and courageous step. It requires vulnerability and strength to seek assistance during challenging times.
(240) 213-0006 View (240) 213-0006
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See more therapy options for 20878

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20878

80+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 20878 who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
93% Depression
86% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Trauma and PTSD
54% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
91% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 20878 see their clients

68% Online Only
32% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20878?

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.