Psychiatrists in 21122

Photo of Gbemisola Mojelope, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gbemisola Mojelope
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and similar disorders.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and similar disorders.
(443) 730-5503 View (443) 730-5503
Photo of Angela Mackay - Mackay Behavioral Health Services LLC, DNP, APRN, CRNP-PM, MSN, PHN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mackay Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CRNP-PM, MSN, PHN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, MD 21122
Dr. Angela Mackay, known to many as Dr. Mackay, completed her educational career at Walden University. While gaining clinical experience with Dr. Umaru Kamara at Axios Behavioral Health in La Plata, Southern Maryland. She has over 20 years of experience in a variety of specialties in inpatient and community healthcare settings including but not limited to psychiatry and brain injury. She was awarded Nurse of the Year by March of Dimes in 2015 as well as an individual national award by APNA in the same year. While my primary headquarters is located in MD, I have recently expanded to DC and California.
Dr. Angela Mackay, known to many as Dr. Mackay, completed her educational career at Walden University. While gaining clinical experience with Dr. Umaru Kamara at Axios Behavioral Health in La Plata, Southern Maryland. She has over 20 years of experience in a variety of specialties in inpatient and community healthcare settings including but not limited to psychiatry and brain injury. She was awarded Nurse of the Year by March of Dimes in 2015 as well as an individual national award by APNA in the same year. While my primary headquarters is located in MD, I have recently expanded to DC and California.
(410) 835-7064 View (410) 835-7064
Photo of Abdul Doza - Doza Behavioral Health Services, CRNP, MSN, BSN, RN, ASD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doza Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, MSN, BSN, RN, ASD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Maryland Psychiatric and Mental Health Provider We offer comprehensive psychiatric and behavioral services, including virtual consultations/telehealth, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy (talk therapy), and emotional support. In-office visits are also available. Are you struggling with anxiety, mood issues, concentration/focus difficulties, psychosis, substance abuse, or other behavioral concerns? Our patient-focused services are designed to help you. Together, we can work towards achieving or restoring your highest level of functioning and satisfaction.
Maryland Psychiatric and Mental Health Provider We offer comprehensive psychiatric and behavioral services, including virtual consultations/telehealth, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy (talk therapy), and emotional support. In-office visits are also available. Are you struggling with anxiety, mood issues, concentration/focus difficulties, psychosis, substance abuse, or other behavioral concerns? Our patient-focused services are designed to help you. Together, we can work towards achieving or restoring your highest level of functioning and satisfaction.
(410) 862-2670 View (410) 862-2670
Photo of Tetyana Evans, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tetyana Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Tetyana Evans is a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse in the state of Maryland. She is dually certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland, and George Washington University. She has been practicing for twelve years and is experienced in treating persons with substance use disorders and mental health disorders, including but not limited to patients with depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, psychotic disorders.
Tetyana Evans is a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse in the state of Maryland. She is dually certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. She received her education from Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland, and George Washington University. She has been practicing for twelve years and is experienced in treating persons with substance use disorders and mental health disorders, including but not limited to patients with depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, psychotic disorders.
(443) 665-0530 x319 View (443) 665-0530 x319
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
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.
(667) 326-8859 View (667) 326-8859
Photo of Alimatu Nabie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alimatu Nabie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Alimatu Nabie is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing from Drexel University. Her background includes child, adolescent, and geriatric psychiatry and also psychosomatic medicine. Miss Nabie clinical career took her on a journey through the health care system, from inpatient to outpatient settings, managing the care of everyone from children with ADHD to geriatric patients with dementia.
Alimatu Nabie is a board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing from Drexel University. Her background includes child, adolescent, and geriatric psychiatry and also psychosomatic medicine. Miss Nabie clinical career took her on a journey through the health care system, from inpatient to outpatient settings, managing the care of everyone from children with ADHD to geriatric patients with dementia.
(443) 785-2931 View (443) 785-2931
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(443) 568-3843 View (443) 568-3843
Photo of Amoah Asante, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amoah Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
(667) 285-8493 View (667) 285-8493
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(667) 372-5010 View (667) 372-5010
Photo of Chidinma Onyegwu - IC Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
IC Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-620-3616
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-620-3616
(240) 730-2993 View (240) 730-2993
Photo of Obinna Okonkwo, PMHNP, CRNPPMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Obinna Okonkwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNPPMH
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Obinna Okonkwo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. He has an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing from Prince George's Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Maryland University College, and a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Mental health disorder is a major healthcare issue in the United States of America with nearly one in five U. S. adults living with a mental illness according to the National Institute of Mental Health (2022).
Obinna Okonkwo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. He has an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing from Prince George's Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Maryland University College, and a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Mental health disorder is a major healthcare issue in the United States of America with nearly one in five U. S. adults living with a mental illness according to the National Institute of Mental Health (2022).
(443) 767-4146 View (443) 767-4146
Photo of Katherine Maas, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Maas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Katherine Maas, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Georgetown in 2014. She completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice from George Mason University in 2020. Katherine’s past nursing experience includes critical care, cardiology, community health, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. She treats psychiatric patients across the lifespan. Katherine employs a variety of approaches and methodologies while working collaboratively with her patient to design appropriate and effective treatment plans.
Katherine Maas, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Georgetown in 2014. She completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice from George Mason University in 2020. Katherine’s past nursing experience includes critical care, cardiology, community health, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. She treats psychiatric patients across the lifespan. Katherine employs a variety of approaches and methodologies while working collaboratively with her patient to design appropriate and effective treatment plans.
(443) 486-3156 View (443) 486-3156
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(667) 220-0045 View (667) 220-0045
Photo of Kate Pabai, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kate Pabai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
My ideal client is navigating challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, or PTSD, seeking clarity, relief, and balance in their life. They need a safe, compassionate space to express their concerns and desire a collaborative, evidence-based approach to achieve emotional well-being and long-term recovery.
My ideal client is navigating challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, or PTSD, seeking clarity, relief, and balance in their life. They need a safe, compassionate space to express their concerns and desire a collaborative, evidence-based approach to achieve emotional well-being and long-term recovery.
(301) 205-5682 View (301) 205-5682
Photo of Robert Herman, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Herman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
Robert A. Herman, M.D., FAPA, received his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1983. He completed his residency in Psychiatry at New York University-Bellevue Hospital Center in 1987 and completed psychoanalytic training at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1992. He was certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and is a Distinguished Life Fellow in the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Herman has taught at New York University, Columbia University, the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
Robert A. Herman, M.D., FAPA, received his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1983. He completed his residency in Psychiatry at New York University-Bellevue Hospital Center in 1987 and completed psychoanalytic training at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1992. He was certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and is a Distinguished Life Fellow in the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Herman has taught at New York University, Columbia University, the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
(443) 888-2063 View (443) 888-2063
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, MD 21122
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.
(667) 202-0051 View (667) 202-0051
Photo of Yeside Ojo - Novum Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, CRNP, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Novum Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, CRNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide client-centered care and treatments based on evidence-based guideline by diagnosing according to the latest edition of the DSM and listening to the clients concerns and symptoms. Effectively manage client symptoms by initiating, adjusting, and continuously monitoring medication administration. Improve client's self-awareness and knowledge regarding mental health illnesses and medications by educating on the proper use, drug interactions, and adverse drug reactions of medications and the course and prognosis of mental illnesses.
I provide client-centered care and treatments based on evidence-based guideline by diagnosing according to the latest edition of the DSM and listening to the clients concerns and symptoms. Effectively manage client symptoms by initiating, adjusting, and continuously monitoring medication administration. Improve client's self-awareness and knowledge regarding mental health illnesses and medications by educating on the proper use, drug interactions, and adverse drug reactions of medications and the course and prognosis of mental illnesses.
(410) 291-1683 View (410) 291-1683
Photo of Amanda Mullins, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Mullins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Amanda and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Maryland. I specialize in Stress Management, Anxiety, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, ADHD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Amanda and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Maryland. I specialize in Stress Management, Anxiety, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, ADHD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(240) 255-7991 View (240) 255-7991
Photo of Omiah Behavioral Health Wellness Llc - Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Omiah Behavioral Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
Accepting New Clients in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. Whether online or in-person, we believe the right for every individual is to receive quality mental health services. Understanding each person’s experience is different, we consider all aspects of your life and treat the WHOLE person not just symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced providers who create partnership with each client, actively listen to your personal goals regarding treatment, uphold the dignity and integrity of each client, and are invested in your journey towards mental health wellness.
(240) 647-5910 View (240) 647-5910
Photo of Alexis Ryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Alexis Ryan is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with her Master’s of Science in Nursing acquired from Vanderbilt University’s No. 1 ranked program in the country. She combines expertise and evidence-based approaches to care with an unflagging commitment to compassion and kindness in order to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders with particular proficiency in mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Alexis utilizes psychotherapy, creates treatment plans, prescribes clinically-supported medications, and provides diagnostic clarity and education.
Alexis Ryan is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with her Master’s of Science in Nursing acquired from Vanderbilt University’s No. 1 ranked program in the country. She combines expertise and evidence-based approaches to care with an unflagging commitment to compassion and kindness in order to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders with particular proficiency in mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Alexis utilizes psychotherapy, creates treatment plans, prescribes clinically-supported medications, and provides diagnostic clarity and education.
(301) 709-9907 View (301) 709-9907
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 21122

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 21122 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
97% Anxiety
97% Bipolar Disorder
88% Trauma and PTSD
84% ADHD
72% Sleep or Insomnia
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
84% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 21122 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 21122?

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.