Psychiatrists in 21045

Mimi Jimenez is a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. She successfully treats patients with various mental disorders using a holistic form of treatment by customizing a treatment plan. She specializes in children and adult ADHD. Her vision is to have a society that has accessible, quality, and affordable psychiatric care.
Mimi Jimenez is a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. She successfully treats patients with various mental disorders using a holistic form of treatment by customizing a treatment plan. She specializes in children and adult ADHD. Her vision is to have a society that has accessible, quality, and affordable psychiatric care.

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.

He works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults coping with a wide range of psychological conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, crisis management, suicidal ideation and behaviors, interpersonal difficulties, and loss and trauma. He adopts an integrative psychotherapy approach in order to shape each treatment experience to meet the needs of each person, and does psychological testing. Dr. Kronfli completed his Pre-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology at Canvas Health in Oakdale, Minnesota.
He works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults coping with a wide range of psychological conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, crisis management, suicidal ideation and behaviors, interpersonal difficulties, and loss and trauma. He adopts an integrative psychotherapy approach in order to shape each treatment experience to meet the needs of each person, and does psychological testing. Dr. Kronfli completed his Pre-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology at Canvas Health in Oakdale, Minnesota.

Lighthouse Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CRNP
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients! Are you tired of trying one medication after another to get relief from your symptoms? Let us work together to get to the root cause of your problems and make your life healthier and happier with and without medications. Let's meet over a FREE 15 minute consultation to see what we can do together to improve your life. Ask for the Deep Dive consultation.
Currently accepting new patients! Are you tired of trying one medication after another to get relief from your symptoms? Let us work together to get to the root cause of your problems and make your life healthier and happier with and without medications. Let's meet over a FREE 15 minute consultation to see what we can do together to improve your life. Ask for the Deep Dive consultation.

Ms. Gladys is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) , who specializes in cases such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), behavioral problems, anger management, borderline personality disorder and many other psychiatric conditions.
Ms. Gladys is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) , who specializes in cases such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), behavioral problems, anger management, borderline personality disorder and many other psychiatric conditions.

I am a Board Certified -Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on assessments, diagnosis & interventions such as medication management and individual/supportive therapy. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience. I am well versed in providing mental health services through outpatient/tele-health, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, rehabilitation, and hospice related to mental health needs. My Inpatient/Hospital experience includes Contributing Nurse Practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric and mental health services on the behavioral, medical and emergency department units.
I am a Board Certified -Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on assessments, diagnosis & interventions such as medication management and individual/supportive therapy. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience. I am well versed in providing mental health services through outpatient/tele-health, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, rehabilitation, and hospice related to mental health needs. My Inpatient/Hospital experience includes Contributing Nurse Practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric and mental health services on the behavioral, medical and emergency department units.

As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing holistic, patient-centered care that addresses both the mental and emotional well-being of individuals. With a strong foundation in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I am equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy.
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing holistic, patient-centered care that addresses both the mental and emotional well-being of individuals. With a strong foundation in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I am equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy.

I'm an ABPN board-certified, integrative and psychodynamic psychiatrist dedicated to helping you heal deeply—mind, brain, body, and soul. At True Radiance Psychiatry, I combine medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic care, including nutritional supplementation, herbal support, mindfulness, movement practices, healthy lifestyle habits and advanced lab testing for vitamins, hormones, and metabolism. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum conditions, trauma, and life stressors. My goal is to help you break free from unconscious patterns and build a life rooted in clarity, resilience, and self-understanding.
I'm an ABPN board-certified, integrative and psychodynamic psychiatrist dedicated to helping you heal deeply—mind, brain, body, and soul. At True Radiance Psychiatry, I combine medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic care, including nutritional supplementation, herbal support, mindfulness, movement practices, healthy lifestyle habits and advanced lab testing for vitamins, hormones, and metabolism. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum conditions, trauma, and life stressors. My goal is to help you break free from unconscious patterns and build a life rooted in clarity, resilience, and self-understanding.

“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.
“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the impact of mental illness on you and your household? Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be challenging but you don’t have to face it alone. We specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals aged 6 and above, dealing with a range of mental health conditions including(but not limited to) bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Break the silence, let us be part of your mental wellness journey.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the impact of mental illness on you and your household? Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be challenging but you don’t have to face it alone. We specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals aged 6 and above, dealing with a range of mental health conditions including(but not limited to) bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Break the silence, let us be part of your mental wellness journey.

Hello, my name is Dr. Kayla Scrandis. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate. I will work alongside you to decide if medication is the right option for you. I use a holistic approach to learn about you as a person beyond your mental health concerns. Using this information we can make the most informed treatment plans. I have a broad range of experience using medication to treat people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD and bipolar. I will create a calm atmosphere and have been known to use humor to help put my clients at ease. My goal is to help you feel comfortable to share your experience.
Hello, my name is Dr. Kayla Scrandis. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate. I will work alongside you to decide if medication is the right option for you. I use a holistic approach to learn about you as a person beyond your mental health concerns. Using this information we can make the most informed treatment plans. I have a broad range of experience using medication to treat people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD and bipolar. I will create a calm atmosphere and have been known to use humor to help put my clients at ease. My goal is to help you feel comfortable to share your experience.

Tehila Healthcare is owned and managed by Favour Ofoegbu, a highly experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with nearly two decades of combined clinical expertise in mental health care and general nursing. I have a strong background in delivering compassionate, patient-centered care, with a focus on helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
As a dedicated mental health practitioner, I specialize in personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Vast in treating various challenges such as Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, Sleep d/o, ADHD, etc.
Tehila Healthcare is owned and managed by Favour Ofoegbu, a highly experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with nearly two decades of combined clinical expertise in mental health care and general nursing. I have a strong background in delivering compassionate, patient-centered care, with a focus on helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
As a dedicated mental health practitioner, I specialize in personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Vast in treating various challenges such as Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, Sleep d/o, ADHD, etc.

Renew your Mind Wellness Services LLC- Katia Coley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN , FNP-C, PMHNP-B
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Hello there, are you sensing something doesn't feel right in your life, are you tired of the one size fit all medication management. My philosophy is that every person is a unique individual that deserves time and respect to be heard. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my goal is to increase the quality of life with a uniquely personalized and comprehensive approach to care. I am also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner which allows me to provide more non-medical holistic care as I can give consideration to your medical issues.
Hello there, are you sensing something doesn't feel right in your life, are you tired of the one size fit all medication management. My philosophy is that every person is a unique individual that deserves time and respect to be heard. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my goal is to increase the quality of life with a uniquely personalized and comprehensive approach to care. I am also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner which allows me to provide more non-medical holistic care as I can give consideration to your medical issues.

My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.

Are you or your child struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, or other psychiatric concerns? Do you need expert medication management to help manage symptoms effectively? Whether you are exploring psychiatric medication for the first time or seeking adjustments for better results, a comprehensive evaluation can help determine the most effective treatment plan for you. I am here to listen to your story and provide personalized care tailored to your needs.
Are you or your child struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, or other psychiatric concerns? Do you need expert medication management to help manage symptoms effectively? Whether you are exploring psychiatric medication for the first time or seeking adjustments for better results, a comprehensive evaluation can help determine the most effective treatment plan for you. I am here to listen to your story and provide personalized care tailored to your needs.

I’m Dr. Constance Zou—an ABPN board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Columbia, Yale, and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)—and I’m honored to accompany you on your path toward mental wellness. My practice blends rigorous science with heartfelt care to personalize treatment tailored to your unique story and goals.
I’m Dr. Constance Zou—an ABPN board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Columbia, Yale, and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)—and I’m honored to accompany you on your path toward mental wellness. My practice blends rigorous science with heartfelt care to personalize treatment tailored to your unique story and goals.

Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.

Dr. Esteban Toledo-Carrion is a bilingual, board certified adult and addiction psychiatrist with training in psychodynamic psychotherapy. He was born and raised in Ecuador and completed his medical training in his home country, where his interest and commitment to helping diverse populations began. He complemented his medical studies with a research fellowship through the International Research Initiative and the P.A.I.N. group at Boston Children's Hospital, studying and authoring the impact of traumatic brain injury in children.
Dr. Esteban Toledo-Carrion is a bilingual, board certified adult and addiction psychiatrist with training in psychodynamic psychotherapy. He was born and raised in Ecuador and completed his medical training in his home country, where his interest and commitment to helping diverse populations began. He complemented his medical studies with a research fellowship through the International Research Initiative and the P.A.I.N. group at Boston Children's Hospital, studying and authoring the impact of traumatic brain injury in children.

Too many tabs open in your mind? Let’s sort them out—together. I specialize in ADHD and understand how overwhelming it can feel to stay focused and organized. Whether you're navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I offer personalized, compassionate care to help you find clarity and balance. With cultural sensitivity at the heart of my practice, I create a safe space where your needs come first. Let’s take the first step toward calm, confidence, and renewed well-being.
Too many tabs open in your mind? Let’s sort them out—together. I specialize in ADHD and understand how overwhelming it can feel to stay focused and organized. Whether you're navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I offer personalized, compassionate care to help you find clarity and balance. With cultural sensitivity at the heart of my practice, I create a safe space where your needs come first. Let’s take the first step toward calm, confidence, and renewed well-being.

You may be a good fit for our offerings if you are a member of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community and a survivor of toxic stress/ trauma who seeks to develop a more profound sense of grounding and tolerance of the present moment for improved self-compassion, stress management, and social connection. Our ideal client wishes to explore compassionate inquiry, mindfulness, and intuitive movement on their journey to meet their wellness goals. Our ideal client values compassion, connection, curiosity, choice, and care. Our ideal client is committed to growth, healing, and the coaching process.
You may be a good fit for our offerings if you are a member of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community and a survivor of toxic stress/ trauma who seeks to develop a more profound sense of grounding and tolerance of the present moment for improved self-compassion, stress management, and social connection. Our ideal client wishes to explore compassionate inquiry, mindfulness, and intuitive movement on their journey to meet their wellness goals. Our ideal client values compassion, connection, curiosity, choice, and care. Our ideal client is committed to growth, healing, and the coaching process.
See more therapy options for 21045
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21045
100+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in 21045 who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
64% | Sleep or Insomnia |
58% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | Aetna |
72% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 21045 see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
19% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21045?
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.