Psychiatrists in 21209

Photo of Kenneth G Muthee, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kenneth G Muthee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
My name is Kenneth Muthee, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner dedicated to providing respectful, passionate and evidenced based care to my clients. I utilized a holistic approach in providing psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and treatment of disorders such as schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Panic attacks, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Eating disorders among others. I build therapeutic relationship with my clients and their families so that their needs can be well addressed. I partner with my clients to create individualized treatment plans that help those clients to achieve
My name is Kenneth Muthee, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner dedicated to providing respectful, passionate and evidenced based care to my clients. I utilized a holistic approach in providing psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and treatment of disorders such as schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Panic attacks, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Eating disorders among others. I build therapeutic relationship with my clients and their families so that their needs can be well addressed. I partner with my clients to create individualized treatment plans that help those clients to achieve
(443) 726-1273 View (443) 726-1273
Photo of Dinah Miller - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Groups, Baltimore, MD, Psychiatrist
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Groups, Baltimore
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Welcome, my name is Dinah Miller, M.D. and I am a psychiatrist in Baltimore. Are you in treatment but finding that your medications and psychotherapy are just not enough? Perhaps you are still depressed, anxious, or just very stuck in life and need a new perspective or reset. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy can help, and I love the connected nature of group treatment, especially for people who may be isolated by their illness. I am a psychiatrist who uses Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), an innovative psychedelic treatment, to help people when conventional treatments just aren't enough.
Welcome, my name is Dinah Miller, M.D. and I am a psychiatrist in Baltimore. Are you in treatment but finding that your medications and psychotherapy are just not enough? Perhaps you are still depressed, anxious, or just very stuck in life and need a new perspective or reset. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy can help, and I love the connected nature of group treatment, especially for people who may be isolated by their illness. I am a psychiatrist who uses Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), an innovative psychedelic treatment, to help people when conventional treatments just aren't enough.
(410) 927-1842 View (410) 927-1842
Photo of Natalie Marchione, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Marchione
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Let’s be honest, they don’t talk about how hard motherhood or ‘adulting’ really is. You love your family, but nobody said it would be this hard! You braced yourself for the sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and tantrums, but the emotional impact of being a mother has caught you off guard. You didn’t anticipate feeling a perpetual sense of unease due to persistent worries, overwhelming sadness from a perceived loss of your former self, and guilt or hopelessness for not living up to the mother (or person) you think you should be. No matter where you may currently be physically or emotionally, you are here seeking treatment!
Let’s be honest, they don’t talk about how hard motherhood or ‘adulting’ really is. You love your family, but nobody said it would be this hard! You braced yourself for the sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and tantrums, but the emotional impact of being a mother has caught you off guard. You didn’t anticipate feeling a perpetual sense of unease due to persistent worries, overwhelming sadness from a perceived loss of your former self, and guilt or hopelessness for not living up to the mother (or person) you think you should be. No matter where you may currently be physically or emotionally, you are here seeking treatment!
(443) 341-9379 View (443) 341-9379
Photo of Sara Jeurling, MD, Psychiatrist
Sara Jeurling
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Jeurling earned her medical degree from the University Of Maryland School Of Medicine and completed her residency training in psychiatry at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Health System. She completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Health System and stayed there after graduation as a Clinical Assistant Professor. Dr. Jeurling subsequently worked at the Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt treating both adult and child and adolescent patients with Eating Disorders.
Dr. Jeurling earned her medical degree from the University Of Maryland School Of Medicine and completed her residency training in psychiatry at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Health System. She completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Health System and stayed there after graduation as a Clinical Assistant Professor. Dr. Jeurling subsequently worked at the Center for Eating Disorders at Sheppard Pratt treating both adult and child and adolescent patients with Eating Disorders.
(410) 339-8670 View (410) 339-8670
Photo of Vonetta Davis, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vonetta Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Not accepting new clients
Vonetta is a Baltimore-native, graduated with a BS in Nursing from Coppin State University and an MS in Advanced Practice Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Adult-focused from the University of Maryland at Baltimore. Her early career was spent working at Sheppard Pratt Health System in Towson, MD, as lead/charge nurse before advancing to the nurse management role of the co-occurring (addictions) disorders unit. Since completing education as a psychiatric NP in 2013, Vonetta has worked in outpatient settings, including at the esteemed Kolmac Outpatient Recovery Center in Towson, MD.
Vonetta is a Baltimore-native, graduated with a BS in Nursing from Coppin State University and an MS in Advanced Practice Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Adult-focused from the University of Maryland at Baltimore. Her early career was spent working at Sheppard Pratt Health System in Towson, MD, as lead/charge nurse before advancing to the nurse management role of the co-occurring (addictions) disorders unit. Since completing education as a psychiatric NP in 2013, Vonetta has worked in outpatient settings, including at the esteemed Kolmac Outpatient Recovery Center in Towson, MD.
(410) 457-9896 View (410) 457-9896
Photo of Anthony Massey - Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness , LSCW, MD, CRNP, Psychiatrist
Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatrist, LSCW, MD, CRNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Mental Health Care – For Everyone. At Gladstone Psychiatry, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care. We use an individualized approach to help clients get their lives back on track. Our treatment approach is more than just medicine. Our psychiatrists work with you to provide evidence-based treatments, unique to your lifestyle and challenges. We believe in a holistic view of medicine and provide personalized care to each patient, while making it affordable, inclusive and easy to access.
Mental Health Care – For Everyone. At Gladstone Psychiatry, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care. We use an individualized approach to help clients get their lives back on track. Our treatment approach is more than just medicine. Our psychiatrists work with you to provide evidence-based treatments, unique to your lifestyle and challenges. We believe in a holistic view of medicine and provide personalized care to each patient, while making it affordable, inclusive and easy to access.
(443) 708-5856 View (443) 708-5856
Photo of Mohammed Younus, MD, Psychiatrist
Mohammed Younus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
If you suffer from Anxiety, Social phobia, Depression or ADHD, you are not alone, these are treatable illnesses and I have expertise to help you. Whether, you have never been treated or not totally satisfied with current treatment, there is help available. I treat Adults, Adolescents and Children
If you suffer from Anxiety, Social phobia, Depression or ADHD, you are not alone, these are treatable illnesses and I have expertise to help you. Whether, you have never been treated or not totally satisfied with current treatment, there is help available. I treat Adults, Adolescents and Children
(443) 963-3546 View (443) 963-3546
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 Coleen Schrepher, MD, Psychiatrist
Coleen Schrepher
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Not accepting new clients
Dr Coleen has over 16 years of clinical experience evaluating the pediatric population. Prior to becoming a physician, she worked as a physical therapist treating infants and children in varying critical care and rehabilitation settings. After completing her medical degree at Drexel College of Medicine, she attended Mt. Sinai, NYC and the University of Maryland for her residency and fellowship training.
Dr Coleen has over 16 years of clinical experience evaluating the pediatric population. Prior to becoming a physician, she worked as a physical therapist treating infants and children in varying critical care and rehabilitation settings. After completing her medical degree at Drexel College of Medicine, she attended Mt. Sinai, NYC and the University of Maryland for her residency and fellowship training.
(443) 390-5716 View (443) 390-5716
Photo of Thecla Asoluka, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thecla Asoluka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Thecla Asoluka as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings empathy, an easygoing communication style, and a sweet sense of humor, making it easy for her to talk to patients and family members. A typical day for Thecla includes assessing and diagnosing patients on mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, or those who struggle with substance abuse or the heartbreak of dementia.
Thecla Asoluka as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings empathy, an easygoing communication style, and a sweet sense of humor, making it easy for her to talk to patients and family members. A typical day for Thecla includes assessing and diagnosing patients on mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, or those who struggle with substance abuse or the heartbreak of dementia.
(410) 709-7647 View (410) 709-7647
Photo of Moses Ekemezie Ikejiofor - PrimeHealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC, DNP-PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
PrimeHealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-PMH
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Primehealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC (PBH) was born out of compassion to help Maryland residents access psychiatric and Mental Health Services that are tailored to their individual needs. The mission of PHB Services is to provide the prime and highest quality of care to all our clients’ psychiatric and mental health needs with empathy, commitment, and compassion. Our vision is to provide the highest quality of psychiatric and mental health care to individuals and their families, fostering a healthy society and creating social change. We believe that health is the sine qua non and inalienable right of all individuals.
Primehealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC (PBH) was born out of compassion to help Maryland residents access psychiatric and Mental Health Services that are tailored to their individual needs. The mission of PHB Services is to provide the prime and highest quality of care to all our clients’ psychiatric and mental health needs with empathy, commitment, and compassion. Our vision is to provide the highest quality of psychiatric and mental health care to individuals and their families, fostering a healthy society and creating social change. We believe that health is the sine qua non and inalienable right of all individuals.
(410) 498-7405 View (410) 498-7405
Photo of Nazli Emadi, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Nazli Emadi
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Dr. Emadi is board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Emadi has been working in the field of Cognitive Neuroscience and psychiatry since 2005. She has done extensive research on brain function during her PhD in cognitive neuroscience and her postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University, CA. She did her psychiatry residency at Yale school of medicine, CT. She enjoys applying her knowledge of the human brain in clinical practice of psychiatry. Dr. Emadi worked at Psych Associates of Maryland as a clinical director for two years (2020-2022) before starting her own private practice.
Dr. Emadi is board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Emadi has been working in the field of Cognitive Neuroscience and psychiatry since 2005. She has done extensive research on brain function during her PhD in cognitive neuroscience and her postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University, CA. She did her psychiatry residency at Yale school of medicine, CT. She enjoys applying her knowledge of the human brain in clinical practice of psychiatry. Dr. Emadi worked at Psych Associates of Maryland as a clinical director for two years (2020-2022) before starting her own private practice.
(667) 206-5751 View (667) 206-5751
Photo of Tiffany Barnes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Hello, my name is Tiffany. I am a Board - Certified Psychiatric nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of health care experience and is nationally certified by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Been working with Children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. Very dedicated and compassionate practitioner who is committed to providing exceptional health to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
Hello, my name is Tiffany. I am a Board - Certified Psychiatric nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of health care experience and is nationally certified by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Been working with Children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. Very dedicated and compassionate practitioner who is committed to providing exceptional health to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
(443) 708-5856 View (443) 708-5856
Photo of Dr. David Censits - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
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.
(866) 916-5369 View (866) 916-5369
Renee C Feller
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, APRN, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
Are you interested in an integrated, holistic approach to coping with life's problems that feel overwhelming? Need help dealing with anxiety, depression, or spiritual issues? Deeper issues may include trauma, PTSD, panic, aging, loss, cancer, physical disorders, sensitive to life (HSP), and relationship issues. Treatments involve a range of psychodynamic modalities, EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, and meditation. These may be coupled with spiritual direction to help someone who is spiritually depressed or depleted. Helping you to achieve wholeness of body/mind/spirit/soul so that you can come alive to being your best self.
Are you interested in an integrated, holistic approach to coping with life's problems that feel overwhelming? Need help dealing with anxiety, depression, or spiritual issues? Deeper issues may include trauma, PTSD, panic, aging, loss, cancer, physical disorders, sensitive to life (HSP), and relationship issues. Treatments involve a range of psychodynamic modalities, EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, and meditation. These may be coupled with spiritual direction to help someone who is spiritually depressed or depleted. Helping you to achieve wholeness of body/mind/spirit/soul so that you can come alive to being your best self.
(410) 701-0961 View (410) 701-0961
Photo of Erin McAndrew, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin McAndrew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
My name is Erin McAndrew (pronouns: she/her) and I am an adult psychiatric/mental health Nurse Practitioner. I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Pennsylvania. Prior to being an NP, I worked as an RN in the Pediatric Intensive Care, Postpartum, and Labor and Delivery units in various hospitals around the United States. As a NP, I believe that my patients and I are a team that is built on a foundation of mutual respect. Through a holistic approach, we work to minimize undesirable symptoms and maximize the patient’s ability to live a healthy, full life.
My name is Erin McAndrew (pronouns: she/her) and I am an adult psychiatric/mental health Nurse Practitioner. I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Pennsylvania. Prior to being an NP, I worked as an RN in the Pediatric Intensive Care, Postpartum, and Labor and Delivery units in various hospitals around the United States. As a NP, I believe that my patients and I are a team that is built on a foundation of mutual respect. Through a holistic approach, we work to minimize undesirable symptoms and maximize the patient’s ability to live a healthy, full life.
(410) 453-8915 View (410) 453-8915
Photo of Victoria Adaramaja, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Adaramaja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. 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 you where you are in life.
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. 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 you where you are in life.
(443) 578-3804 View (443) 578-3804
Photo of Benjamin Israel, MD, Psychiatrist
Benjamin Israel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Coping can be tough! If you've had difficulty feeling comfortable, connected, or present in your relationships, then we may be well-fitted to work together. I welcome patients who've struggled with shame, or even self-hatred, or who have not found other treatments helpful enough.
Coping can be tough! If you've had difficulty feeling comfortable, connected, or present in your relationships, then we may be well-fitted to work together. I welcome patients who've struggled with shame, or even self-hatred, or who have not found other treatments helpful enough.
(410) 835-4938 View (410) 835-4938
Photo of Laura R Gaffney, MD, Psychiatrist
Laura R Gaffney
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Mental illness often makes life harder and it can feel like walking through mud just to do normal activities. I have seen people improve dramatically with simple solutions, such as medication and therapy. For some, the solutions are not so easy but it is never hopeless. If you are ready for the journey to wellness, I will be there to help you move forward step by step
Mental illness often makes life harder and it can feel like walking through mud just to do normal activities. I have seen people improve dramatically with simple solutions, such as medication and therapy. For some, the solutions are not so easy but it is never hopeless. If you are ready for the journey to wellness, I will be there to help you move forward step by step
(410) 401-0943 View (410) 401-0943
Photo of Joseph T Andrews, MD, Psychiatrist
Joseph T Andrews
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
I am a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and director of a group private practice, Via Clinic. We have expertise in diagnosis, medical management and psychotherapy. We treat a variety of conditions, such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. All patients receive a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Our approach starts with knowing the whole person and understanding their affliction within the context of their life story, dispositions and behaviors.
I am a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and director of a group private practice, Via Clinic. We have expertise in diagnosis, medical management and psychotherapy. We treat a variety of conditions, such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. All patients receive a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Our approach starts with knowing the whole person and understanding their affliction within the context of their life story, dispositions and behaviors.
(410) 390-0610 View (410) 390-0610
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 21209

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 21209 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
77% ADHD
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Bipolar Disorder
74% Trauma and PTSD
64% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
86% CareFirst
83% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 21209 see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 21209?

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.