Psychiatrists in 21215

Photo of Berenice Mumbemsa Ngam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH
Berenice Mumbemsa Ngam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH
Online Only
Everyone needs a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment with an attentive and compassionate provider. You can be sure of a unique and holistic experience where you leave feeling supported, heard and motivated to face daily challenges. I work with patients of all backgrounds, religion, gender and ages, with a great multicultural experience from over 15 years of nursing. I will work with you at your pace and comfort, delving deeper into whatever challenge you are dealing with to create a plan for wellness and growth as treatment progresses.
Everyone needs a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment with an attentive and compassionate provider. You can be sure of a unique and holistic experience where you leave feeling supported, heard and motivated to face daily challenges. I work with patients of all backgrounds, religion, gender and ages, with a great multicultural experience from over 15 years of nursing. I will work with you at your pace and comfort, delving deeper into whatever challenge you are dealing with to create a plan for wellness and growth as treatment progresses.
(240) 816-3375 View (240) 816-3375
Photo of Dr. Victorine Ngang - Unique Minds Behavioral Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Unique Minds Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21215
Victorine (Vicky) Ngang is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialized in treating patients with mental illnesses in and Maryland. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center. After working as a registered nurse in several settings, she decided to further her education with a specialty in mental health. Her inspiration was driven by the stigma associated with mental health illnesses in the communities. She is a community advocate of mental illness and her grit is to bridge the gap between physical and mental health as well as reduce the stigma about mental health.
Victorine (Vicky) Ngang is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialized in treating patients with mental illnesses in and Maryland. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center. After working as a registered nurse in several settings, she decided to further her education with a specialty in mental health. Her inspiration was driven by the stigma associated with mental health illnesses in the communities. She is a community advocate of mental illness and her grit is to bridge the gap between physical and mental health as well as reduce the stigma about mental health.
(410) 941-6069 View (410) 941-6069
Photo of Esther Adeolu Ojo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Esther Adeolu Ojo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
You’re not just looking for a prescription—you’re looking for someone who truly gets what you’re going through. Whether you're battling anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, or navigating substance use challenges, you deserve care that treats you as a whole person—not just your symptoms. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience, I work with adults and children who are ready for compassionate, evidence-based support. My integrative, holistic approach considers your mental health, physical health, and lifestyle—because real healing happens when we care for every part of you.
You’re not just looking for a prescription—you’re looking for someone who truly gets what you’re going through. Whether you're battling anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, or navigating substance use challenges, you deserve care that treats you as a whole person—not just your symptoms. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience, I work with adults and children who are ready for compassionate, evidence-based support. My integrative, holistic approach considers your mental health, physical health, and lifestyle—because real healing happens when we care for every part of you.
(443) 331-9882 View (443) 331-9882
Photo of Grace Offor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Grace Offor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone over the age of 18 who may be struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or PTSD. They need a compassionate listener who prioritizes confidentiality and creates a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings. Their goals often include gaining a better understanding of their mental health, finding effective treatments, and feeling empowered to manage their condition. They want to feel heard and supported, leading to improved emotional well-being and a better quality of life.
My ideal client is someone over the age of 18 who may be struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or PTSD. They need a compassionate listener who prioritizes confidentiality and creates a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings. Their goals often include gaining a better understanding of their mental health, finding effective treatments, and feeling empowered to manage their condition. They want to feel heard and supported, leading to improved emotional well-being and a better quality of life.
(667) 297-6248 View (667) 297-6248
Photo of Dr. Ophilia Mbah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Ophilia Mbah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr Ophilia Mbah, PMHNP-BC is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialized in treating patients with mental illnesses across the life span. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association. She supports patients recover from mental illness and enhance physical, emotional, and social well-being through medication management. Her treatment approaches encompasses pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, Mindfulness-based Interventions as well as alternative therapies (Art, Music etc).
Dr Ophilia Mbah, PMHNP-BC is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialized in treating patients with mental illnesses across the life span. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association. She supports patients recover from mental illness and enhance physical, emotional, and social well-being through medication management. Her treatment approaches encompasses pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, Mindfulness-based Interventions as well as alternative therapies (Art, Music etc).
(410) 246-4635 View (410) 246-4635
Photo of Olayinka Omolabake Toby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Olayinka Omolabake Toby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21215
Homestead Mental health takes care of the mental wellness of clients across lifespan- Adults, adolescents, and children. Homestead is committed to the belief that a little guided perspective combined with appropriate medications and psychotherapy can help spark wellness opportunities in any individual, child, or family, including medication management of drugs and alcohol addiction.
Homestead Mental health takes care of the mental wellness of clients across lifespan- Adults, adolescents, and children. Homestead is committed to the belief that a little guided perspective combined with appropriate medications and psychotherapy can help spark wellness opportunities in any individual, child, or family, including medication management of drugs and alcohol addiction.
(443) 323-0033 View (443) 323-0033
Photo of Dr. Anita David, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, FNP
Dr. Anita David
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, FNP
Online Only
At Focus Wellness we believe every individual is unique, special and deserves kind compassionate and personalized care. Situations, moments, or sometimes just nothing could make us feel anxious, depressed, fearful, angry, uncomfortable with mixed emotions.
At Focus Wellness we believe every individual is unique, special and deserves kind compassionate and personalized care. Situations, moments, or sometimes just nothing could make us feel anxious, depressed, fearful, angry, uncomfortable with mixed emotions.
(667) 249-7252 View (667) 249-7252
Homestead Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, RN
Baltimore, MD 21215
I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with inpatient and oupatient including ACT mental health experience. I am passionate about behavioral health practice having familiar with various mental health issues. In addition, the ongoing COVID 19 related mental health issues trigger clients' anxiety and depressive episode thus require immediate attention through psychiatric evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with inpatient and oupatient including ACT mental health experience. I am passionate about behavioral health practice having familiar with various mental health issues. In addition, the ongoing COVID 19 related mental health issues trigger clients' anxiety and depressive episode thus require immediate attention through psychiatric evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy.
(443) 424-6008 View (443) 424-6008
Photo of Dolapo F Ayodele - Oasis Wellness Center MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oasis Wellness Center MD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Joy has worked for 12 years as Psychiatric Nurse with all ages and in different settings. These include inpatient, community, nursing home and group home settings. Joy is a culturally sensitive provider, a good listener, empathetic and always ready to help. Joy has a passion for serving those who need mental health services such as Mental Health Assessments, providing appropriate psychiatric diagnoses, providing therapy, medication management, developing treatment plans with a multidisciplinary team, and utilizing evidence-based approach in her practice.
Joy has worked for 12 years as Psychiatric Nurse with all ages and in different settings. These include inpatient, community, nursing home and group home settings. Joy is a culturally sensitive provider, a good listener, empathetic and always ready to help. Joy has a passion for serving those who need mental health services such as Mental Health Assessments, providing appropriate psychiatric diagnoses, providing therapy, medication management, developing treatment plans with a multidisciplinary team, and utilizing evidence-based approach in her practice.
(410) 936-4730 View (410) 936-4730
Photo of Ingrid Ntiege, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH
Ingrid Ntiege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21215
Ingrid Ntiege, CRNP-PMH, is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings extensive clinical experience. Diligent and resourceful,I bring a craving for knowledge and a passion for improving the mental health and wellness of her patients. I earned my degree from the University of Maryland School of Nursing, a program that ranks nationally in the top 25. Past experience includes Sheppard Pratt, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Beebe Health (DE) and Saint Vincent’s Villa. Warm, friendly and personable, I have a natural ability to make strong therapeutic connections with the young and grown-up, alike
Ingrid Ntiege, CRNP-PMH, is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings extensive clinical experience. Diligent and resourceful,I bring a craving for knowledge and a passion for improving the mental health and wellness of her patients. I earned my degree from the University of Maryland School of Nursing, a program that ranks nationally in the top 25. Past experience includes Sheppard Pratt, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Beebe Health (DE) and Saint Vincent’s Villa. Warm, friendly and personable, I have a natural ability to make strong therapeutic connections with the young and grown-up, alike
(443) 940-6487 View (443) 940-6487
Photo of Anastasia Burns, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anastasia Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anastasia Burns, Board-Certified PMHNP, intimately understands the complex journey of mental health. Her journey, illuminated by the profound impact of compassionate care, sparked a deep commitment to guiding others toward their own wellness. This drive led her to specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Anastasia connects deeply with those feeling overwhelmed by sadness, paralyzed by worry, or trapped in cycles of mood swings and intrusive thoughts. She recognizes the frustration of scattered focus, the weight of unmet responsibilities, and the pain of strained relationships.
Anastasia Burns, Board-Certified PMHNP, intimately understands the complex journey of mental health. Her journey, illuminated by the profound impact of compassionate care, sparked a deep commitment to guiding others toward their own wellness. This drive led her to specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Anastasia connects deeply with those feeling overwhelmed by sadness, paralyzed by worry, or trapped in cycles of mood swings and intrusive thoughts. She recognizes the frustration of scattered focus, the weight of unmet responsibilities, and the pain of strained relationships.
(202) 963-7982 View (202) 963-7982
Photo of Abena Achiaa Ofori-Atta - Abena -Oasis Health Ventures Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Abena -Oasis Health Ventures Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Baltimore, MD 21215
Our office is a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your mental health challenges and find practical solutions. At our clinic, we welcome individuals who are ready to address issues such as anxiety, depression, Mood disorders, Schizophrenia, all forms of addictions, and many more. Our ideal client values open communication and is committed to their journey of healing and growth. Whether you are struggling with daily stressors or looking for tools to manage long-term mental health concerns, our compassionate team is here to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. You don't have to navigate alone.
Our office is a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your mental health challenges and find practical solutions. At our clinic, we welcome individuals who are ready to address issues such as anxiety, depression, Mood disorders, Schizophrenia, all forms of addictions, and many more. Our ideal client values open communication and is committed to their journey of healing and growth. Whether you are struggling with daily stressors or looking for tools to manage long-term mental health concerns, our compassionate team is here to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. You don't have to navigate alone.
(410) 324-6420 View (410) 324-6420
Photo of Tessa S Perry - TSG Mental Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(410) 724-1637 View (410) 724-1637
Photo of Vincent Renna, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Vincent Renna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients with appointments available within 48 hours, serving Maryland through telepsychiatry. Offering both medication management and therapy to provide comprehensive care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress management, life changes, or a chronic mental illness, support is tailored to address your overall well-being.
Accepting new patients with appointments available within 48 hours, serving Maryland through telepsychiatry. Offering both medication management and therapy to provide comprehensive care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress management, life changes, or a chronic mental illness, support is tailored to address your overall well-being.
(443) 781-8674 View (443) 781-8674
Photo of Hannah L Ngale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, C, PMHN, BC
Hannah L Ngale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, C, PMHN, BC
Online Only
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner who is able to manage both mental health and medical conditions. Are you desperate, feeling sad, scared, anxious or nervous. Do you need someone to talk to and a person that can listen to you, I am here to help and listen to you patiently. I have worked with mental health patients for about twenty years, I will listen to you and we will work together to come up with a treatment plan that works best for you. I am passionately dedicated in taking care of patients with mental health conditions such as Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar and psychotic disorders.
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner who is able to manage both mental health and medical conditions. Are you desperate, feeling sad, scared, anxious or nervous. Do you need someone to talk to and a person that can listen to you, I am here to help and listen to you patiently. I have worked with mental health patients for about twenty years, I will listen to you and we will work together to come up with a treatment plan that works best for you. I am passionately dedicated in taking care of patients with mental health conditions such as Schizophrenia, Insomnia, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar and psychotic disorders.
(301) 968-6339 View (301) 968-6339
Photo of Mercy Ijoma, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Mercy Ijoma
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Baltimore, MD 21215
I’ve been practicing medicine for 8 years, and my passion for helping people improve their health and well-being continues to grow every day. I specialize in Primary and Urgent Care, Mental Health, Opioid Addiction Treatment, and Medical Weight Loss, and I’m deeply committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
I’ve been practicing medicine for 8 years, and my passion for helping people improve their health and well-being continues to grow every day. I specialize in Primary and Urgent Care, Mental Health, Opioid Addiction Treatment, and Medical Weight Loss, and I’m deeply committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
(410) 656-4151 View (410) 656-4151
Photo of Sharon Pugh, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sharon Pugh
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
I believe one of the most important ways a medical clinician can support others with mental health challenges is by first creating a trusting and comfortable connection with patients. Healing begins with patients feeling welcome, safe, and heard.
I believe one of the most important ways a medical clinician can support others with mental health challenges is by first creating a trusting and comfortable connection with patients. Healing begins with patients feeling welcome, safe, and heard.
(410) 784-4688 View (410) 784-4688
Photo of Sirahcr Okoluku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sirahcr Okoluku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Sirah Okoluku is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and an American Psychiatric Nurses Association Medication-Assisted Treatment certified nurse practitioner (APNA). As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring a holistic approach to assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
Sirah Okoluku is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and an American Psychiatric Nurses Association Medication-Assisted Treatment certified nurse practitioner (APNA). As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring a holistic approach to assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
(443) 706-8899 View (443) 706-8899
Photo of Sabina Bonfadini, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sabina Bonfadini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm Sabina Bonfadini, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Maryland, providing telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults. My specialties include depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress management, OCD, and ADHD. I'm dedicated to helping every client achieve optimal mental and emotional well-being through personalized care and support. I am looking forward to working with you! I use a comprehensive approach to help my clients embrace and promote their long-term well-being.
I'm Sabina Bonfadini, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) located in Maryland, providing telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults. My specialties include depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress management, OCD, and ADHD. I'm dedicated to helping every client achieve optimal mental and emotional well-being through personalized care and support. I am looking forward to working with you! I use a comprehensive approach to help my clients embrace and promote their long-term well-being.
(410) 835-9708 View (410) 835-9708
Photo of Labake G Ogunnupe - Universality Mental Health Care , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Universality Mental Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I want to be able to assess my ideal client and infer a diagnosis that helps me make accurate decisions and allows me to decide the necessary medications that help my client to feel better and live a purposefully and meaningful life. I want to help to improve their activities of Daily living by enhancing a better interaction with the society, family and people.
I want to be able to assess my ideal client and infer a diagnosis that helps me make accurate decisions and allows me to decide the necessary medications that help my client to feel better and live a purposefully and meaningful life. I want to help to improve their activities of Daily living by enhancing a better interaction with the society, family and people.
(410) 210-4809 View (410) 210-4809

See more therapy options for 21215

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 21215

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 21215 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
96% Depression
91% Bipolar Disorder
89% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
53% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 21215 see their clients

59% Online Only
41% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 21215?

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.