Psychiatrists in 20904

Bridget is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety/panic attacks, depression, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD/ADD, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She has worked in mental health as a nurse practitioner and as a cognitive behavioral psychotherapist. She does psychiatric evaluations, medication management, diagnosis, and treatment of people in need of mental health care.
Bridget is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety/panic attacks, depression, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD/ADD, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She has worked in mental health as a nurse practitioner and as a cognitive behavioral psychotherapist. She does psychiatric evaluations, medication management, diagnosis, and treatment of people in need of mental health care.

My name is Dr. Grace Chikezie, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC. I am a distinguished healthcare professional licensed and certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have worked with persons from various populations with mental health conditions. I believe firmly in holistic care and the holistic approach. I obtained my BSN degree at Grand Canyon University in Arizona, and my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner was obtained at Purdue University Global (former Kaplan University)
My name is Dr. Grace Chikezie, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC. I am a distinguished healthcare professional licensed and certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have worked with persons from various populations with mental health conditions. I believe firmly in holistic care and the holistic approach. I obtained my BSN degree at Grand Canyon University in Arizona, and my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner was obtained at Purdue University Global (former Kaplan University)

My mission is to foster trusting relationships with my patients built on dignity and respect ensuring that every customer feels valued and heard. I deliver a holistic approach to treatment that address the intricate connections between mind, body and emotional well being with focus on adult, adolescent and child psychiatry. I am known for my down-to-earth demeanor and unwavering professionalism and try to create a welcoming atmosphere where you can feel at ease discussing your concerns and aspirations.
My mission is to foster trusting relationships with my patients built on dignity and respect ensuring that every customer feels valued and heard. I deliver a holistic approach to treatment that address the intricate connections between mind, body and emotional well being with focus on adult, adolescent and child psychiatry. I am known for my down-to-earth demeanor and unwavering professionalism and try to create a welcoming atmosphere where you can feel at ease discussing your concerns and aspirations.

Priority Health Care Systems
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-, PMH, MSN-RN
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904
An accredited Out Patient Mental Health Center with an individualistic/holistic approach to treatment. We listen and work together with clients of all ages with various Mental health diagnosis such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Schizophrenia. That is why we have our Psychiatry, Therapist, Social worker & Case Manager all in one location. Our Joint Commission accredited Out Patient Mental Health Center (OMHC) and Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) offer medication management, therapy, self-help skills, substance abuse counseling, anger management, issues of transition, education & employment resourcing and much more...
An accredited Out Patient Mental Health Center with an individualistic/holistic approach to treatment. We listen and work together with clients of all ages with various Mental health diagnosis such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Schizophrenia. That is why we have our Psychiatry, Therapist, Social worker & Case Manager all in one location. Our Joint Commission accredited Out Patient Mental Health Center (OMHC) and Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) offer medication management, therapy, self-help skills, substance abuse counseling, anger management, issues of transition, education & employment resourcing and much more...

Lilian Lartey is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Maryland and board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, with over 13 years of experience in the health field. Throughout her career, Lilian has advanced in the field of mental health through both clinical practice and research. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. Her approach is warm, holistic, integrative, and evidence-based medication management.
Lilian Lartey is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Maryland and board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, with over 13 years of experience in the health field. Throughout her career, Lilian has advanced in the field of mental health through both clinical practice and research. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. Her approach is warm, holistic, integrative, and evidence-based medication management.

I am open-minded when exploring solutions and work to partner with clients to find what works best for their unique needs. I believe in being transparent and realistic in my care while incorporating goal setting to create a clear path toward progress. I am committed to advocating for your autonomy over your mental wellness!
I am open-minded when exploring solutions and work to partner with clients to find what works best for their unique needs. I believe in being transparent and realistic in my care while incorporating goal setting to create a clear path toward progress. I am committed to advocating for your autonomy over your mental wellness!

Ernest T. Keyaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, AGPCNP-, other
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904
As a Psychiatric mental health and behavioral professional, It if my goal to listen to my patients to get a deep understanding of their behavioral and mental health needs. It is also my goal to help and advocate for my patients who struggle to be heard and understood. My goal is equally to work in collaboration with my patients to come out with acceptable and practical treatment goals goals to manage their health mental needs with the ultimate goal of rehabilitating them.
As a Psychiatric mental health and behavioral professional, It if my goal to listen to my patients to get a deep understanding of their behavioral and mental health needs. It is also my goal to help and advocate for my patients who struggle to be heard and understood. My goal is equally to work in collaboration with my patients to come out with acceptable and practical treatment goals goals to manage their health mental needs with the ultimate goal of rehabilitating them.

Oak Tree Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, HSLM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.

My mission is to foster trusting relationships with my patients built on dignity and respect ensuring that every customer feels valued and heard. I deliver a holistic approach to treatment that address the intricate connections between mind, body and emotional well being with focus on adult, adolescent and child psychiatry. I am known for my down-to-earth demeanor and unwavering professionalism and try to create a welcoming atmosphere where you can feel at ease discussing your concerns and aspirations.
My mission is to foster trusting relationships with my patients built on dignity and respect ensuring that every customer feels valued and heard. I deliver a holistic approach to treatment that address the intricate connections between mind, body and emotional well being with focus on adult, adolescent and child psychiatry. I am known for my down-to-earth demeanor and unwavering professionalism and try to create a welcoming atmosphere where you can feel at ease discussing your concerns and aspirations.

Hi, I'm a Proficient and reputable Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 13 years combined experience of caring for individuals with mental health disorders in various settings. Treatment is provided in a caring environment where you can identify and explore those challenges that may interfere with a rewarding life, career, or fulfilling relationship. I welcome adolescents, adults and geriatric patients for consultation, evaluation and medication management.
Hi, I'm a Proficient and reputable Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 13 years combined experience of caring for individuals with mental health disorders in various settings. Treatment is provided in a caring environment where you can identify and explore those challenges that may interfere with a rewarding life, career, or fulfilling relationship. I welcome adolescents, adults and geriatric patients for consultation, evaluation and medication management.

Compassionate and Dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a deep passion for mental health and a commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. With a robust 25-year nursing background spanning diverse areas of nursing practice, I have honed my skills in providing comprehensive psychiatric care to patients across the lifespan. Education and Qualifications: My journey in nursing began with earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Coppin State University.
Compassionate and Dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a deep passion for mental health and a commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. With a robust 25-year nursing background spanning diverse areas of nursing practice, I have honed my skills in providing comprehensive psychiatric care to patients across the lifespan. Education and Qualifications: My journey in nursing began with earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Coppin State University.

My name is Dr. Grace Chikezie, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC. I am a distinguished healthcare professional licensed and certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have worked with persons from various populations with mental health conditions. I believe firmly in holistic care and the holistic approach. I obtained my BSN degree at Grand Canyon University in Arizona, and my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner was obtained at Purdue University Global (former Kaplan University), as well as my Doctor of Nursing
My name is Dr. Grace Chikezie, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC. I am a distinguished healthcare professional licensed and certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have worked with persons from various populations with mental health conditions. I believe firmly in holistic care and the holistic approach. I obtained my BSN degree at Grand Canyon University in Arizona, and my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner was obtained at Purdue University Global (former Kaplan University), as well as my Doctor of Nursing

I provide mental health services to patients, families, and populations. My roles vary, but I focus on patient-centered care. I am compassionate and emotionally intelligent, and I approach my patients with empathy, considering their overall wellbeing, emotional state, and environment.
I provide mental health services to patients, families, and populations. My roles vary, but I focus on patient-centered care. I am compassionate and emotionally intelligent, and I approach my patients with empathy, considering their overall wellbeing, emotional state, and environment.

Absolute Mental Healthcare Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am PMHNP-Board Certified, committed to offering mental health treatment and support to families and individuals struggling with depression, Anxiety, trauma-related issues, sleep disturbance, mood instability, psychosis, addiction, emotional distress, cognitive decline-related behaviors, and Hyperactivity in children. My GOAL is to provide Optimal mental healthcare for all through comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based interventions. Currently accepting new patients via Telehealth, initiate help via video or telephone consultation.
I am PMHNP-Board Certified, committed to offering mental health treatment and support to families and individuals struggling with depression, Anxiety, trauma-related issues, sleep disturbance, mood instability, psychosis, addiction, emotional distress, cognitive decline-related behaviors, and Hyperactivity in children. My GOAL is to provide Optimal mental healthcare for all through comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based interventions. Currently accepting new patients via Telehealth, initiate help via video or telephone consultation.

Evelyn-Lydia Gyamfi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with over 15 years of experience as a Registered Nurse.
Evelyn-Lydia Gyamfi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with over 15 years of experience as a Registered Nurse.

Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.

The Fix Mental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
The Fix Mental Wellness Center provides telehealth psychiatric services in Maryland, DC, and Florida, and treats a variety of mental health disorders via medication management. We are an inclusive practice, and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step toward bettering themselves. We will meet you where you are in your mental health journey, and help facilitate the change needed for you to live your best life.
The Fix Mental Wellness Center provides telehealth psychiatric services in Maryland, DC, and Florida, and treats a variety of mental health disorders via medication management. We are an inclusive practice, and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step toward bettering themselves. We will meet you where you are in your mental health journey, and help facilitate the change needed for you to live your best life.

Are you feeling down, sad, unhappy? Ask me how I can help because mental health is also a priority. Thus, respecting and understanding one's belief is among my strongest qualities because being empathetic, listening and building trust helps to bridge the gap in accessing mental health services. My strong clinical skills, such as listening, communication, empathy, and building trust with my clients, are my assets to bridge the gap in accessing mental health services.
Are you feeling down, sad, unhappy? Ask me how I can help because mental health is also a priority. Thus, respecting and understanding one's belief is among my strongest qualities because being empathetic, listening and building trust helps to bridge the gap in accessing mental health services. My strong clinical skills, such as listening, communication, empathy, and building trust with my clients, are my assets to bridge the gap in accessing mental health services.

Accepting NEW patients -appointments available within 1 week- Visit our website and BOOK online, call us or email us. We serve the state of Maryland via telepsychiatry. Utilizing a patient centered approach, we listen to your concerns and develop a treatment plan in partnership with you. Whether you chose an integrative or conventional approach, we honor each patients individuality and preferences in determining which strategies will be most beneficial to achieve optimal mental wellness, not just the absence of symptoms.
Accepting NEW patients -appointments available within 1 week- Visit our website and BOOK online, call us or email us. We serve the state of Maryland via telepsychiatry. Utilizing a patient centered approach, we listen to your concerns and develop a treatment plan in partnership with you. Whether you chose an integrative or conventional approach, we honor each patients individuality and preferences in determining which strategies will be most beneficial to achieve optimal mental wellness, not just the absence of symptoms.

You’re not just looking for a prescription—you’re looking for someone who truly gets what you’re going through. Whether you're battling anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, BPD or navigating substance use challenges, you deserve care that treats you as a whole person—not just your symptoms..
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience, I work with adults and children who are ready for compassionate, evidence-based support. My integrative, holistic approach considers your mental health, physical health, & lifestyle-because real healing happens when we care for every part of you.
You’re not just looking for a prescription—you’re looking for someone who truly gets what you’re going through. Whether you're battling anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, BPD or navigating substance use challenges, you deserve care that treats you as a whole person—not just your symptoms..
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience, I work with adults and children who are ready for compassionate, evidence-based support. My integrative, holistic approach considers your mental health, physical health, & lifestyle-because real healing happens when we care for every part of you.
See more therapy options for 20904
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 20904
20+
Average cost per session
$120
Psychiatrists in 20904 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
95% | ADHD |
95% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 20904 see their clients
77% | Online Only | |
23% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 20904?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.