Psychiatrists in 21042

Photo of Kimberly Camille Walker - Kimberly C. Walker, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Kimberly C. Walker, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am Board Certified in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. I have more than 20 years of experience treating ADHD, anxiety and mood issues. In working with youth, I strive to support the parents to draw on their innate strengths as experts in their children's functioning. Life brings transitions that may not play out neatly, but with collaboration, difficult times can become opportunities for growth. Medication may or may not play a role in treatment. Various treatment modalities will be explored.
I am Board Certified in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. I have more than 20 years of experience treating ADHD, anxiety and mood issues. In working with youth, I strive to support the parents to draw on their innate strengths as experts in their children's functioning. Life brings transitions that may not play out neatly, but with collaboration, difficult times can become opportunities for growth. Medication may or may not play a role in treatment. Various treatment modalities will be explored.
(240) 608-6270 View (240) 608-6270
Michael Jonathan Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
While I was training at Johns Hopkins, I found that many people from outside Baltimore were traveling into the city to find excellent psychiatric care. After finishing residency, I started the Maryland Anxiety and Depression Treatment Center to increase access to care in Howard County. If you feel that life is hopeless or that you have lost your sense of well-being, I am happy to help you to know joy again.
While I was training at Johns Hopkins, I found that many people from outside Baltimore were traveling into the city to find excellent psychiatric care. After finishing residency, I started the Maryland Anxiety and Depression Treatment Center to increase access to care in Howard County. If you feel that life is hopeless or that you have lost your sense of well-being, I am happy to help you to know joy again.
(443) 963-3534 View (443) 963-3534
Photo of Stephanie Durruthy, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephanie Durruthy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Life is full of surprises. Having a mental health issue was never you game plan. Smart people like yourself should be able to control their emotions. But here, you find yourself struggling with this new reality. It was your prior belief that mental illness happens to other people. What is the next step? Healing starts with your decision to fully understand your condition in order to achieve optimal wellness. Recovery requires time for self-discovery and awareness. Mental illness is not a choice, but your response to this situation is personal.
Life is full of surprises. Having a mental health issue was never you game plan. Smart people like yourself should be able to control their emotions. But here, you find yourself struggling with this new reality. It was your prior belief that mental illness happens to other people. What is the next step? Healing starts with your decision to fully understand your condition in order to achieve optimal wellness. Recovery requires time for self-discovery and awareness. Mental illness is not a choice, but your response to this situation is personal.
(410) 774-6535 View (410) 774-6535
Photo of Chioma Daisy Okechukwu - Riechi Health Services LLC, PMHNP, BC, RN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Riechi Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
At Riechi Health Services LLC, our approach is driven by the fact that mental wellness is a personal journey. With degrees from Bowie State and Walden Universities, and DNP in view, I, Chioma Okechukwu is a compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that desires to assist you on this journey. Struggling to connect with people of little common interest? The burden of making others priority is eating you up? Under the pressure of living up to other people's expectation? Afraid you may relapse? These and more can get you stuck at a crossroad. I'm non-judgmental, patient, have a listening ear, and knows you are unique.
At Riechi Health Services LLC, our approach is driven by the fact that mental wellness is a personal journey. With degrees from Bowie State and Walden Universities, and DNP in view, I, Chioma Okechukwu is a compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that desires to assist you on this journey. Struggling to connect with people of little common interest? The burden of making others priority is eating you up? Under the pressure of living up to other people's expectation? Afraid you may relapse? These and more can get you stuck at a crossroad. I'm non-judgmental, patient, have a listening ear, and knows you are unique.
(410) 824-5393 x1 View (410) 824-5393 x1
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(443) 747-7265 View (443) 747-7265
Photo of Dr. Paulo J Negro, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Paulo J Negro
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Do you find it difficult to manage stress? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement for many years. I provide concierge psychiatric care for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and other challenges. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, and create healthy habits. In-person medication management and brief therapy are available in Columbia, MD. Online psychiatric care is available in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
Do you find it difficult to manage stress? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement for many years. I provide concierge psychiatric care for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and other challenges. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, and create healthy habits. In-person medication management and brief therapy are available in Columbia, MD. Online psychiatric care is available in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
(443) 979-8072 View (443) 979-8072
Jermany and Associates, P.A.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
We focus on improving overall health and wellness. We offer NeuroStar TMS - a safe and effective drug-free advanced method to treat depression. We also provide General Psychiatric medication management, Weigh less strategies, and Outpatient medication assisted treatment with Buprenorphine for substance use. Dr. Jermany offers counsel for Medical Cannabis. Call 443-272-1541 for an appointment (in-person and telemedicine).
We focus on improving overall health and wellness. We offer NeuroStar TMS - a safe and effective drug-free advanced method to treat depression. We also provide General Psychiatric medication management, Weigh less strategies, and Outpatient medication assisted treatment with Buprenorphine for substance use. Dr. Jermany offers counsel for Medical Cannabis. Call 443-272-1541 for an appointment (in-person and telemedicine).
(443) 863-6157 View (443) 863-6157
Photo of Samirawit Hailemariam - Nigisiti Health and Wellness , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nigisiti Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
With a dedicated commitment to mental health and wellness, over 15 years of experience as a registered nursing and as a advanced practice psychiatric provider, I offer my clients a holistic and patient-centered approach to mental health care. For those of us who are working to seek self-understanding and self-development, a support system is invaluable. I take pride in collaborating with folk on their mental health journey. I look forward to meeting you.
With a dedicated commitment to mental health and wellness, over 15 years of experience as a registered nursing and as a advanced practice psychiatric provider, I offer my clients a holistic and patient-centered approach to mental health care. For those of us who are working to seek self-understanding and self-development, a support system is invaluable. I take pride in collaborating with folk on their mental health journey. I look forward to meeting you.
(443) 351-6132 View (443) 351-6132
Photo of Kamal Bhatia, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Kamal Bhatia
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Accepting NEW Patients- Welcome! I know reaching out for help can feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s a courageous step, and I’m here to walk alongside you. As a board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, I’d love to get to know you and create a treatment plan that truly fits your needs. My focus is on providing care that’s compassionate, ethical, and grounded in what works best for you. I enjoy working with high functioning professionals and have a special interest in helping people with anxiety, insomnia, executive dysfunction, OCD, and more.
Accepting NEW Patients- Welcome! I know reaching out for help can feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s a courageous step, and I’m here to walk alongside you. As a board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, I’d love to get to know you and create a treatment plan that truly fits your needs. My focus is on providing care that’s compassionate, ethical, and grounded in what works best for you. I enjoy working with high functioning professionals and have a special interest in helping people with anxiety, insomnia, executive dysfunction, OCD, and more.
(301) 485-5883 View (301) 485-5883
Photo of Glory A Tataw - Glory Tataw, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Glory Tataw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
“Let’s build the life you deserve.” “Accepting New Clients” Medication and Therapy services– Virtual and In-Person, No Waiting List! Taking the first step toward improving your mental health can feel overwhelming. Congratulations on reaching out – it’s a courageous and essential decision. At GBH, we’re here to walk with you on your journey to a happier, healthier life. Whether you’re dealing with focusing, concentration, bipolar, anxiety, depression, stress, or addiction, we’ll meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. Same-day, evening, and weekend appointments . Book now at gloriousmentalclinic.com or CALL /TEXT
“Let’s build the life you deserve.” “Accepting New Clients” Medication and Therapy services– Virtual and In-Person, No Waiting List! Taking the first step toward improving your mental health can feel overwhelming. Congratulations on reaching out – it’s a courageous and essential decision. At GBH, we’re here to walk with you on your journey to a happier, healthier life. Whether you’re dealing with focusing, concentration, bipolar, anxiety, depression, stress, or addiction, we’ll meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. Same-day, evening, and weekend appointments . Book now at gloriousmentalclinic.com or CALL /TEXT
(410) 883-9678 View (410) 883-9678
Photo of Kim Bridgette Jones-Fearing - Kim Jones-Fearing, MD, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Kim Jones-Fearing, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
The decision to seek mental health care can be a difficult one. By the time most people come to see me, they have already tried many other ways of feeling better. I will talk to you to find out what your goals are and what ways you are willing to try to start feeling better at a pace that feels most comfortable for you. I can do talk therapy as well if you do not have a therapist or do not feel comfortable transitioning to a therapist yet. We can discuss tele-psychiatry after your initial in person visits.
The decision to seek mental health care can be a difficult one. By the time most people come to see me, they have already tried many other ways of feeling better. I will talk to you to find out what your goals are and what ways you are willing to try to start feeling better at a pace that feels most comfortable for you. I can do talk therapy as well if you do not have a therapist or do not feel comfortable transitioning to a therapist yet. We can discuss tele-psychiatry after your initial in person visits.
(667) 200-0627 View (667) 200-0627
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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(443) 339-8209 View (443) 339-8209
Photo of Nadimire Jules-Dole, MD, Psychiatrist
Nadimire Jules-Dole
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I help children, adolescents, and adults achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach. You deserve the best and I strive to work with you to provide exceptional service that is guided by science, compassion, and hope. I treat the whole person combining holistic techniques including nutritional supplements, herbal/plant-based medicine, laboratory testing, mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric modalities like psychotropic medication and psychotherapy.
I help children, adolescents, and adults achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach. You deserve the best and I strive to work with you to provide exceptional service that is guided by science, compassion, and hope. I treat the whole person combining holistic techniques including nutritional supplements, herbal/plant-based medicine, laboratory testing, mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric modalities like psychotropic medication and psychotherapy.
(410) 346-9348 View (410) 346-9348
Photo of Dr. Gedeon Longtchi, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Gedeon Longtchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I am Dr. Gideon, and I am here to serve you in a relatable way to get you back to feeling like yourself again—patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Relationship issues, or other mood-related symptoms. We aim to provide you with clinical expertise for mental, emotional, and spiritual stability. I manage patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Eating disorders, OCD, personality disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more.
Hi, I am Dr. Gideon, and I am here to serve you in a relatable way to get you back to feeling like yourself again—patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Relationship issues, or other mood-related symptoms. We aim to provide you with clinical expertise for mental, emotional, and spiritual stability. I manage patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Eating disorders, OCD, personality disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more.
(240) 219-8750 View (240) 219-8750
Photo of Yolana Young, MD, Psychiatrist
Yolana Young
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Welcome prospective clients! I am currently offering telepsychiatry visits only. I hope that I can help you progress to your optimal self and understand the complicated dynamics of your emotions. I have almost 11 years of experience treating patients. I would love to work on your strengths, weaknesses and help you gain insight into your overall sense of self. Depending on the individual, this may happen quickly or require time and patience. Based on your needs, we will determine if you will benefit from therapy and/or medications. I primarily provide medication management for difficulties that warrant psychotropic intervention.
Welcome prospective clients! I am currently offering telepsychiatry visits only. I hope that I can help you progress to your optimal self and understand the complicated dynamics of your emotions. I have almost 11 years of experience treating patients. I would love to work on your strengths, weaknesses and help you gain insight into your overall sense of self. Depending on the individual, this may happen quickly or require time and patience. Based on your needs, we will determine if you will benefit from therapy and/or medications. I primarily provide medication management for difficulties that warrant psychotropic intervention.
(844) 538-0048 View (844) 538-0048
Photo of Gideon Nyambiya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gideon Nyambiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My name is Gideon Nyambiya (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-PMHNP-BC) Board Certified. I am a provider at Restorative Counseling and Wellness Center LLC, with a specific focus on medication management. My responsibilities include: 1) Prescribing medications for various mental health disorders by applying evidence based practice; 2) Educating clients on the safest way of taking prescribed medications; 3) Providing psychotherapy as needed and working with you.
My name is Gideon Nyambiya (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-PMHNP-BC) Board Certified. I am a provider at Restorative Counseling and Wellness Center LLC, with a specific focus on medication management. My responsibilities include: 1) Prescribing medications for various mental health disorders by applying evidence based practice; 2) Educating clients on the safest way of taking prescribed medications; 3) Providing psychotherapy as needed and working with you.
(410) 936-4707 View (410) 936-4707
Photo of Yang Roby, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Yang Roby
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dr. Yang Roby is a board-certified psychiatrist who has a decade of experience treating adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma disorders, and phobias. She integrates pharmaceutical expertise with mindfulness and therapy for a holistic approach. She enjoys working with clients facing school and life challenges, parenting issues as well as transitional difficulties in every aspect of life.
Dr. Yang Roby is a board-certified psychiatrist who has a decade of experience treating adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma disorders, and phobias. She integrates pharmaceutical expertise with mindfulness and therapy for a holistic approach. She enjoys working with clients facing school and life challenges, parenting issues as well as transitional difficulties in every aspect of life.
(443) 355-4468 View (443) 355-4468
Photo of Dr. Sanjeev Singhal, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sanjeev Singhal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
At Frederick Psychiatry we believe that those looking for services of therapist or a Psychiatrist find it hard to open themselves to others. Your experience with us would be with dignity, respect and empathy, regardless of your gender, ethnicity or other ways you identify yourself. Our focus is on traditional Medication Management in Expert Hands. Therapy at Frederick Psychiatry is integrated with Medication Management. It is result oriented therapy and coaching to improve day to day task of living. We offer Early Appointment availability for New patients. Evaluations 90 Minutes, Follow Up Appointments 30-45 Minutes.
At Frederick Psychiatry we believe that those looking for services of therapist or a Psychiatrist find it hard to open themselves to others. Your experience with us would be with dignity, respect and empathy, regardless of your gender, ethnicity or other ways you identify yourself. Our focus is on traditional Medication Management in Expert Hands. Therapy at Frederick Psychiatry is integrated with Medication Management. It is result oriented therapy and coaching to improve day to day task of living. We offer Early Appointment availability for New patients. Evaluations 90 Minutes, Follow Up Appointments 30-45 Minutes.
(240) 816-3625 View (240) 816-3625
Photo of Paul Giannandrea, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul Giannandrea
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
For 20 years, I was a full-time faculty member at the University of Maryland, School of Medicine teaching medical students and training residents. I have 32 years experience in private practice assisting persons with substance use disorders, major psychiatric disturbances and behavioral addictions, including sexual addiction and gambling. As a Board certified psychiatrist in Addiction Medicine, Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatrist, I deal with the negative consequences of a variety of disorders alone and in combination, as well as relationship issues not related to addictions. I am particularly trained and experienced in the use of medication for these problems and their symptoms.
For 20 years, I was a full-time faculty member at the University of Maryland, School of Medicine teaching medical students and training residents. I have 32 years experience in private practice assisting persons with substance use disorders, major psychiatric disturbances and behavioral addictions, including sexual addiction and gambling. As a Board certified psychiatrist in Addiction Medicine, Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatrist, I deal with the negative consequences of a variety of disorders alone and in combination, as well as relationship issues not related to addictions. I am particularly trained and experienced in the use of medication for these problems and their symptoms.
(410) 709-3180 View (410) 709-3180
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 21042

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 21042 who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
95% Anxiety
85% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
78% Medication Management
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Aetna
79% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 21042 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 21042?

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.