Psychiatrists in 21207

I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in caring for children, adolescents, and adults. With dual certifications as both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health care. My goal is to provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation followed by a personalized, dynamic plan that addresses both emotional and physical well-being.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in caring for children, adolescents, and adults. With dual certifications as both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health care. My goal is to provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation followed by a personalized, dynamic plan that addresses both emotional and physical well-being.

Mobolaji Rosanwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, MD 21207
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.

Recovery at GFC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21207
Goodtime Family Care helps patients regain control over their lives through our convenient and confidential medication assisted treatment program for substance use disorder. Our compassionate and experienced providers understand that addiction is is a chronic disease, and we prioritize judgement-free care. We work collaboratively with you on your journey to recovery by facilitating easy access to buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone), naltrexone (Vivitrol), and other medications to treat withdrawal symptoms.
Goodtime Family Care helps patients regain control over their lives through our convenient and confidential medication assisted treatment program for substance use disorder. Our compassionate and experienced providers understand that addiction is is a chronic disease, and we prioritize judgement-free care. We work collaboratively with you on your journey to recovery by facilitating easy access to buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone), naltrexone (Vivitrol), and other medications to treat withdrawal symptoms.

Beautiful Hearts and Minds Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, MD 21207
Beautiful Hearts and Minds Health Services is an Outpatient Mental Health Program that provides supportive services to minors and adults throughout Baltimore City and surrounding counties. We assist those who just need help with figuring things out, getting back on track and who are looking to accomplish their own individualized goals. We are a safe space for you to express yourself without judgement, talk through whatever is bothering you and help you to figure out the best way to resolve your concerns. We focus on YOU. We truly believe that you can recover from whatever obstacles that you are facing.
Beautiful Hearts and Minds Health Services is an Outpatient Mental Health Program that provides supportive services to minors and adults throughout Baltimore City and surrounding counties. We assist those who just need help with figuring things out, getting back on track and who are looking to accomplish their own individualized goals. We are a safe space for you to express yourself without judgement, talk through whatever is bothering you and help you to figure out the best way to resolve your concerns. We focus on YOU. We truly believe that you can recover from whatever obstacles that you are facing.

Blossom Care and Behavioral Services Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21207
Wakeelat Adeoye, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across Maryland. She graduated with honors in 2016. I specialize in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, and more.
Wakeelat Adeoye, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across Maryland. She graduated with honors in 2016. I specialize in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, and more.

Arthur Behavioural Healthcare Services LLCS'
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-B, CM/DN, C-EFM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21207
I am a doctoral preparing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized and family mental health treatment plans . I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting .We are always here to help you in all your mental health challenges. Just call us.
I am a doctoral preparing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized and family mental health treatment plans . I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting .We are always here to help you in all your mental health challenges. Just call us.
As a Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, my priority is understanding and addressing your unique needs. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health, offering personalized care that addresses each person's unique needs. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, I am here to provide personalized care tailored to your specific situation. My goal is to empower clients to reclaim their lives, fostering resilience and growth in the face of challenges. One of my key strengths is the ability to create a safe & supportive environment where you feel heard.
As a Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, my priority is understanding and addressing your unique needs. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health, offering personalized care that addresses each person's unique needs. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, I am here to provide personalized care tailored to your specific situation. My goal is to empower clients to reclaim their lives, fostering resilience and growth in the face of challenges. One of my key strengths is the ability to create a safe & supportive environment where you feel heard.

Trinity Whole Health Care Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21207
NP Cordilia Njoku is a compassionated provider with vast experience in integrated medicine, diagnosing and medication management of various illnesses including Mental and behavioral health. She will provide you with a safe space, be it in person or telehealth on your phone, tablet or a computer device. NP Cordilia Njoku is a passionate about care delivery and will guide you in the right direction direction based on your care needs. Her years of experience working and treating clients using evidenced based approach to care will help streamline a personalized care for you.
NP Cordilia Njoku is a compassionated provider with vast experience in integrated medicine, diagnosing and medication management of various illnesses including Mental and behavioral health. She will provide you with a safe space, be it in person or telehealth on your phone, tablet or a computer device. NP Cordilia Njoku is a passionate about care delivery and will guide you in the right direction direction based on your care needs. Her years of experience working and treating clients using evidenced based approach to care will help streamline a personalized care for you.

Too Mindful Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD or trauma, feeling overwhelmed and seeking relief. They need a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and find practical strategies for managing symptoms. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, reduce distress, and improve overall well-being, allowing them to fully engage in life and relationships. They are motivated for growth and open to a personalized treatment plan, including therapy and medication, to support their mental health journey.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD or trauma, feeling overwhelmed and seeking relief. They need a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and find practical strategies for managing symptoms. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, reduce distress, and improve overall well-being, allowing them to fully engage in life and relationships. They are motivated for growth and open to a personalized treatment plan, including therapy and medication, to support their mental health journey.

Nurse Watch: Health, Wellness & Coaching
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been feeling anxious or worried? Have you been feeling unhappy or sad? Do you feel as though no one takes the time to explain your diagnosis or medication? No worries, Nurse Watch is here to help you Watch your Mental Health and Well-being. I am a passionate & enthusiastic dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner who is dedicated to promoting mental health wellness, addressing mental health concerns, and providing patient-centered care. I believe in approaching each client individually in a non-judgmental way while providing a safe place to address their concerns.
Have you been feeling anxious or worried? Have you been feeling unhappy or sad? Do you feel as though no one takes the time to explain your diagnosis or medication? No worries, Nurse Watch is here to help you Watch your Mental Health and Well-being. I am a passionate & enthusiastic dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner who is dedicated to promoting mental health wellness, addressing mental health concerns, and providing patient-centered care. I believe in approaching each client individually in a non-judgmental way while providing a safe place to address their concerns.

I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of knowledge. I initially graduated from Walden University as a Family Nurse Practitioner with my master’s degree in 2016. I have worked in different healthcare settings including acute care settings, post-acute care, outpatient, substance abuse, and urgent care. Given the high demand for mental health practitioners, I worked in mental health clinics, residential organization to manage behavioral health care as a provider and also in skilled nursing facility.
I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of knowledge. I initially graduated from Walden University as a Family Nurse Practitioner with my master’s degree in 2016. I have worked in different healthcare settings including acute care settings, post-acute care, outpatient, substance abuse, and urgent care. Given the high demand for mental health practitioners, I worked in mental health clinics, residential organization to manage behavioral health care as a provider and also in skilled nursing facility.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Dr. Julaine Newell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlawn, MD 21207
I offer therapy for Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Depression, and Communication Skills, focusing on symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, low motivation, and panic disorder, with a personalized approach. I aim to provide empathetic and effective interventions to help manage mental health symptoms and impairments. Together, we work to identify how, and which medications can support the effectiveness of your current talk therapy treatments.
I offer therapy for Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Depression, and Communication Skills, focusing on symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, low motivation, and panic disorder, with a personalized approach. I aim to provide empathetic and effective interventions to help manage mental health symptoms and impairments. Together, we work to identify how, and which medications can support the effectiveness of your current talk therapy treatments.

Elizabeth Omopariola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21207
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to providing holistic and person-centered mental health care. With over 5 years of experience in the mental health field, I have developed a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the impact it has on individuals' lives. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I possess a unique blend of nursing expertise and advanced psychiatric knowledge.Through a comprehensive and collaborative approach, I strive to deliver exceptional care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspect. I am licensed in Maryland and Washington DC
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to providing holistic and person-centered mental health care. With over 5 years of experience in the mental health field, I have developed a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the impact it has on individuals' lives. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I possess a unique blend of nursing expertise and advanced psychiatric knowledge.Through a comprehensive and collaborative approach, I strive to deliver exceptional care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspect. I am licensed in Maryland and Washington DC

Atofom Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, MD 21207
At Atofom Behavioral Health, our team of highly trained and experienced providers offers a range of services designed to support patients in achieving their goals and improving their overall well-being. We work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. We offer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness and substance abuse disorders to promote health equity and improve health outcomes for all individuals.
At Atofom Behavioral Health, our team of highly trained and experienced providers offers a range of services designed to support patients in achieving their goals and improving their overall well-being. We work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. We offer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness and substance abuse disorders to promote health equity and improve health outcomes for all individuals.

Trumedis Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi there, my name is Dr. Vicky Marie Deuboue, welcome to my page on Trumedis website. I have a Doctorate degree in Nurse Practitioner (DNP), with specialty in Family Nursing (FNP) I provide continuing and comprehensive healthcare for the individual and family across all ages, genders, diseases, and body systems. I have well over 15 years’ experience in my practice and I am looking forward to working with you.
Hi there, my name is Dr. Vicky Marie Deuboue, welcome to my page on Trumedis website. I have a Doctorate degree in Nurse Practitioner (DNP), with specialty in Family Nursing (FNP) I provide continuing and comprehensive healthcare for the individual and family across all ages, genders, diseases, and body systems. I have well over 15 years’ experience in my practice and I am looking forward to working with you.

ARE Mental Health and Consult Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Adriane English is a Maryland-licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience serving diverse populations including adults, individuals with developmental disabilities, and the elderly and disabled. Adriane has provided care to address mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, as well as chronic medical conditions and social determinants of health.
Adriane English is a Maryland-licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience serving diverse populations including adults, individuals with developmental disabilities, and the elderly and disabled. Adriane has provided care to address mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, as well as chronic medical conditions and social determinants of health.

Process of Changes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP-FP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I currently practice at Process of Changes (POC) a multifaceted, inclusive behavioral health care facility that offers high quality transformative services, by highly qualified team. The services offered at POC includes Outpatient Mental Health (OMHC)Services; Outpatient treatment Program for substance use disorder, (SUD); Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program, (IOP); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Adults, (PRP-A); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Minors, (PRP-M), and a family medical Clinic in the same location. We are a “ONE STOP SHOP” outpatient facility for your mental health and medical care needs.
I currently practice at Process of Changes (POC) a multifaceted, inclusive behavioral health care facility that offers high quality transformative services, by highly qualified team. The services offered at POC includes Outpatient Mental Health (OMHC)Services; Outpatient treatment Program for substance use disorder, (SUD); Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program, (IOP); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Adults, (PRP-A); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Minors, (PRP-M), and a family medical Clinic in the same location. We are a “ONE STOP SHOP” outpatient facility for your mental health and medical care needs.

Right Step Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you suffering from a mental health issue or struggling with addiction? Giving up is not an option until our clients experiencing a mental health problem (s) and/or drug addiction issues get the necessary support they deserve. We treat our clients with respect and provide patient-centered care to help clients and their families improve upon their quality of life.
Are you suffering from a mental health issue or struggling with addiction? Giving up is not an option until our clients experiencing a mental health problem (s) and/or drug addiction issues get the necessary support they deserve. We treat our clients with respect and provide patient-centered care to help clients and their families improve upon their quality of life.

Antorian Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MPH, CNE
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Psychiatric, behavioral, and/or mental health disorders have touched the lives of many of us. Fortunately, help is available. Antorian Health is open to partnering with persons who are ready for change. For potential clients who are searching providers, congratulations, you have taken the first step!
Psychiatric, behavioral, and/or mental health disorders have touched the lives of many of us. Fortunately, help is available. Antorian Health is open to partnering with persons who are ready for change. For potential clients who are searching providers, congratulations, you have taken the first step!

My Care Clinic, Llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am Hamida Majili, a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 13 years. Throughout my personal and career life, I have embraced diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, diagnosis, race/ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My Care Clinic (MCC) team focuses on person-centered care approaches and helping patients and families bridge the gap in mental health services, such as providing individualized therapy sessions, medication management, reducing mental health stigma, and providing access to care and resources.
I am Hamida Majili, a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 13 years. Throughout my personal and career life, I have embraced diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, diagnosis, race/ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My Care Clinic (MCC) team focuses on person-centered care approaches and helping patients and families bridge the gap in mental health services, such as providing individualized therapy sessions, medication management, reducing mental health stigma, and providing access to care and resources.
See more therapy options for 21207
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21207
20+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in 21207 who prioritize treating:
83% | Depression |
74% | Anxiety |
74% | ADHD |
70% | Medication Management |
65% | Bipolar Disorder |
57% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
57% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in 21207 see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
95% | Female | |
5% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21207?
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.