Psychiatrists in 21144

Photo of Kassandra A. Dickens - Moral Peak Mental Health & Wellness, LLC , MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Moral Peak Mental Health & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Moral Peak Mental Health & Wellness, LLC! Our clients are our top priority and we strive to develop a collaborative, therapeutic relationship with each individual. We specialize in individualized plans of care and constructing treatment plans that fit each clients individual needs. We also offer a convenient schedule to fit your needs. Call us and lets get a telehealth appointment scheduled for you today.
Welcome to Moral Peak Mental Health & Wellness, LLC! Our clients are our top priority and we strive to develop a collaborative, therapeutic relationship with each individual. We specialize in individualized plans of care and constructing treatment plans that fit each clients individual needs. We also offer a convenient schedule to fit your needs. Call us and lets get a telehealth appointment scheduled for you today.
(410) 835-7561 View (410) 835-7561
Photo of Olayemi Ayilegbe - Practical Life Health Services, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Practical Life Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144
Welcome to Practical Life Health Services. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles or any other mental health concerns? Are you looking for a patient centered, family oriented and holistic care approach to your mental health? Practical Life Health Services got you covered; your mental health is our priority.
Welcome to Practical Life Health Services. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles or any other mental health concerns? Are you looking for a patient centered, family oriented and holistic care approach to your mental health? Practical Life Health Services got you covered; your mental health is our priority.
(410) 834-8336 View (410) 834-8336
Photo of Adeline Azong, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adeline Azong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Severn, MD 21144
Struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles and any other mental health concerns you may be having, happy you found me ! I offer highly qualified and years of experience in the mental health field. I am deeply passionate and enthusiastic about helping my patients improve their mental health! I am fully dedicating in providing each of my patients with ongoing care, modifying their treatment plans as necessary, and providing you the utmost support. My experience include diagnosing mental illnesses, providing client-centered care, and evidence-based mental health and treatment.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles and any other mental health concerns you may be having, happy you found me ! I offer highly qualified and years of experience in the mental health field. I am deeply passionate and enthusiastic about helping my patients improve their mental health! I am fully dedicating in providing each of my patients with ongoing care, modifying their treatment plans as necessary, and providing you the utmost support. My experience include diagnosing mental illnesses, providing client-centered care, and evidence-based mental health and treatment.
(443) 331-9334 View (443) 331-9334
Photo of Idaat Timbo Jalloh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Idaat Timbo Jalloh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello I'am Idaat Timbo-Jalloh. I received my masters degree from Wilkes University, I have been practicing for about a year and half now. I have been assisting adults experiencing and treating symptoms of behavioral health disorders. Assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, provide psychotherapy and counseling, prescribe medication, educate and create mental health resources for families.
Hello I'am Idaat Timbo-Jalloh. I received my masters degree from Wilkes University, I have been practicing for about a year and half now. I have been assisting adults experiencing and treating symptoms of behavioral health disorders. Assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, provide psychotherapy and counseling, prescribe medication, educate and create mental health resources for families.
(443) 647-8760 View (443) 647-8760
Photo of Zekarias Abessa, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zekarias Abessa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I'm Zekarias Abessa, a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master of Nursing degree. For over twenty years, I've been dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. My journey in nursing has been a blend of academic excellence, with an impressive GPA of 3.92 from Walden University, and practical hands-on experience.
Hello! I'm Zekarias Abessa, a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master of Nursing degree. For over twenty years, I've been dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. My journey in nursing has been a blend of academic excellence, with an impressive GPA of 3.92 from Walden University, and practical hands-on experience.
(410) 204-4140 View (410) 204-4140
Photo of Thomas Sixbey, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas Sixbey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Thomas Sixbey is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2001. He earned his MD at University of Pittsburgh and completed his Residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Sixbey offers evidencebased treatments based on a careful evaluation of the whole person, looking at medical, psychosocial, behavioral factors. Outside of work, Dr. Sixbey enjoys traveling and reading.
Dr. Thomas Sixbey is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2001. He earned his MD at University of Pittsburgh and completed his Residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Sixbey offers evidencebased treatments based on a careful evaluation of the whole person, looking at medical, psychosocial, behavioral factors. Outside of work, Dr. Sixbey enjoys traveling and reading.
(410) 584-3863 View (410) 584-3863
Photo of Samantha Rogers, MSN, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Samantha Rogers is an Advanced Practice Nurse (PMHNP) at LifeStance Health, offering empathetic and compassionate care to adults across Maryland. She specializes in providing personalized medication management and therapeutic support, working closely with each individual to tailor care to their unique needs. Samantha's goal is to be a supportive teammate on her clients' journey to healing, helping them find what works best for their mental health. She treats adults aged 18 through 64, offering evidence-based approaches that promote resilience and well-being.
Samantha Rogers is an Advanced Practice Nurse (PMHNP) at LifeStance Health, offering empathetic and compassionate care to adults across Maryland. She specializes in providing personalized medication management and therapeutic support, working closely with each individual to tailor care to their unique needs. Samantha's goal is to be a supportive teammate on her clients' journey to healing, helping them find what works best for their mental health. She treats adults aged 18 through 64, offering evidence-based approaches that promote resilience and well-being.
(443) 702-5214 View (443) 702-5214
Photo of Elizabeth Middle Name Adeyemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Middle Name Adeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Proximity Health Care Services is a mental health clinic supporting kids, teen, young adults, caregivers and parents struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. At our practice, we provide different kinds of mental health services at your comfort. We work to enhance the quality of life of our patients by enabling them to maintain their health, well-being, independence, and participation in the community.
Proximity Health Care Services is a mental health clinic supporting kids, teen, young adults, caregivers and parents struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. At our practice, we provide different kinds of mental health services at your comfort. We work to enhance the quality of life of our patients by enabling them to maintain their health, well-being, independence, and participation in the community.
(410) 291-1604 View (410) 291-1604
Photo of Ephraim A Makinde - Ace Behavioral and Mental Health Clinic , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ace Behavioral and Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Ace Behavioral and Mental Health Services, our providers are well-versed in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health disorders. We combine evidence-based treatment and specific modalities to create the best care plan for each client.
Welcome to Ace Behavioral and Mental Health Services, our providers are well-versed in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental health disorders. We combine evidence-based treatment and specific modalities to create the best care plan for each client.
(301) 709-9853 View (301) 709-9853
Photo of Dr. Thomas Sixbey - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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) 390-5460 View (443) 390-5460
Photo of Chidinma Eze, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chidinma Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Chidinma Eze, PMHNP, is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who started practicing in 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Stevenson University, a Master of Science in Nursing FNP-C from Walden University, and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice PMHNP-BC from Brandman University. Dr. Eze believes in providing an evidence-based treatment and referral as needed. In her spare time, Dr. Eze enjoys traveling, farming, cooking, and reading.
Dr. Chidinma Eze, PMHNP, is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who started practicing in 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Stevenson University, a Master of Science in Nursing FNP-C from Walden University, and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice PMHNP-BC from Brandman University. Dr. Eze believes in providing an evidence-based treatment and referral as needed. In her spare time, Dr. Eze enjoys traveling, farming, cooking, and reading.
(410) 346-3990 View (410) 346-3990
Photo of Chinyere Obi, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinyere Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Chinyere Obi is a nurse practitioner who has been in practice for 18+ years. She went to Walden University where she received her Master?s of Nursing. She is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses methods such as CBT and Person Centered treatment to approach clients of all types. She believes that CBT is the most widely used therapy for anxiety disorders. She believes that research has shown it to be very effective in treating panic disorders, phobias, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety, among many other conditions.
Chinyere Obi is a nurse practitioner who has been in practice for 18+ years. She went to Walden University where she received her Master?s of Nursing. She is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses methods such as CBT and Person Centered treatment to approach clients of all types. She believes that CBT is the most widely used therapy for anxiety disorders. She believes that research has shown it to be very effective in treating panic disorders, phobias, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety, among many other conditions.
(410) 873-1827 View (410) 873-1827

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mei-Jen Hong Hillary - Telehealth Only, CRNP, PMH, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mei-Jen Hong Hillary - Telehealth Only
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I speak English and Mandarin. I work evening hours from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. I am one of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Innovo Life Mental Health Practice in Maryland. My professional background is rooted in providing comprehensive mental health care. With advanced education and specialized training, I am equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat a diverse range of psychiatric disorders. My role involves conducting psychiatric evaluations, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and formulating evidence-based treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
I speak English and Mandarin. I work evening hours from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. I am one of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Innovo Life Mental Health Practice in Maryland. My professional background is rooted in providing comprehensive mental health care. With advanced education and specialized training, I am equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat a diverse range of psychiatric disorders. My role involves conducting psychiatric evaluations, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and formulating evidence-based treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
(410) 705-2915 View (410) 705-2915
Photo of Dr. Michael Dickson, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Michael Dickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 8 years of experience in mental health. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or ADHD, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work on finding the right strategies and treatments to help you manage your emotions, improve your mental well-being, and move towards a more fulfilling future. You deserve a brighter tomorrow — and I’m here to help
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 8 years of experience in mental health. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or ADHD, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work on finding the right strategies and treatments to help you manage your emotions, improve your mental well-being, and move towards a more fulfilling future. You deserve a brighter tomorrow — and I’m here to help
(240) 213-6293 View (240) 213-6293
Photo of Cindy Hatley, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Hatley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
(301) 409-5197 View (301) 409-5197
Photo of Neal Ranen - Ranen Psychiatric Associates, MD, Psychiatrist
Ranen Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
After training at Hopkins and then serving as full-time staff/faculty at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine for many years, I am now in private practice where I treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, irritability, OCD, mood swings, Bipolar, and life stressors. I am double Board-Certified, and both a Psychopharmacologist (medication expert) and Psychotherapist (using Cognitive-Behavioral therapy and other approaches). You deserve expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach to understanding you and your circumstances.
After training at Hopkins and then serving as full-time staff/faculty at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine for many years, I am now in private practice where I treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, irritability, OCD, mood swings, Bipolar, and life stressors. I am double Board-Certified, and both a Psychopharmacologist (medication expert) and Psychotherapist (using Cognitive-Behavioral therapy and other approaches). You deserve expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach to understanding you and your circumstances.
(410) 413-2145 View (410) 413-2145
Photo of Caroline Bonu - BCB Liberty Healthcare, MSN, PMHMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BCB Liberty Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHMP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am experienced Mental Health provider with over 10 years of experience working with variety of patients. My goal is to empower everyone I come across so they can get the best of what matter to them. I will take the time to listen and formulate a plan that will work for you. I believe everyone deserve the best care and my job is to provide just that. I am accepting new patient and have immediate opening.
I am experienced Mental Health provider with over 10 years of experience working with variety of patients. My goal is to empower everyone I come across so they can get the best of what matter to them. I will take the time to listen and formulate a plan that will work for you. I believe everyone deserve the best care and my job is to provide just that. I am accepting new patient and have immediate opening.
(202) 929-2406 View (202) 929-2406
Photo of Ahkere Gwan, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ahkere Gwan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Akhere makes a point to listen and try to understand patients’ needs beyond simply prescribing medication. She sees the decision-making process as collaborative, educating the patient throughout the process as she combines medication and psychotherapy for the best results. Akhere treats anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, mood disorders, and other psychiatric and mental health problems.
Akhere makes a point to listen and try to understand patients’ needs beyond simply prescribing medication. She sees the decision-making process as collaborative, educating the patient throughout the process as she combines medication and psychotherapy for the best results. Akhere treats anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, mood disorders, and other psychiatric and mental health problems.
(410) 541-1418 View (410) 541-1418
Photo of Chris Bertsch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chris Bertsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Schedule on our website 24/7 for an evaluation potentially as early as same-week anywhere in Maryland for medication management. My practice philosophy is to treat my patients the same way I would want my family to be treated. I evaluate patients holistically and genuinely listen. We work together formulating a treatment plan you are happy with. Rather than just dictating treatment, I prefer to explain reasonable options and let you choose what you are comfortable with. Evaluations are scheduled for 90 minutes and follow-up appointments for a full 30 minutes. To ensure your needs are fully met, appointments are never rushed.
Schedule on our website 24/7 for an evaluation potentially as early as same-week anywhere in Maryland for medication management. My practice philosophy is to treat my patients the same way I would want my family to be treated. I evaluate patients holistically and genuinely listen. We work together formulating a treatment plan you are happy with. Rather than just dictating treatment, I prefer to explain reasonable options and let you choose what you are comfortable with. Evaluations are scheduled for 90 minutes and follow-up appointments for a full 30 minutes. To ensure your needs are fully met, appointments are never rushed.
(443) 331-5476 View (443) 331-5476
Photo of Gertrude Onyinye Nwachukwu Pmhnp, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gertrude Onyinye Nwachukwu Pmhnp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
Great to meet you. My name is Gertrude Nwachukwu Board certifield PMHNP-BC Silver Spring MD. II treat Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Disorders of adolescents in adolescents and adults. Depression and Anxiety presents a major threat to human emotion though, seen as a normal reaction to stress dysfunctional coping, fear, restlessness, worry, sadness, insomnia, poor appetite and anhedonia are some of the symtoms. My goal is to recorgnise and improve coping activities and control the symptoms of anxiety, and depression. My approach is Holistic Evidence-Based care that position you for all round support . I collaborate and refer as need
Great to meet you. My name is Gertrude Nwachukwu Board certifield PMHNP-BC Silver Spring MD. II treat Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Disorders of adolescents in adolescents and adults. Depression and Anxiety presents a major threat to human emotion though, seen as a normal reaction to stress dysfunctional coping, fear, restlessness, worry, sadness, insomnia, poor appetite and anhedonia are some of the symtoms. My goal is to recorgnise and improve coping activities and control the symptoms of anxiety, and depression. My approach is Holistic Evidence-Based care that position you for all round support . I collaborate and refer as need
(443) 909-2268 View (443) 909-2268

See more therapy options for 21144

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 21144

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 21144 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
58% Psychosis
58% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
83% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 21144 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 21144?

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.