Psychiatrists in 21804

Photo of Vera Ngezem - Adequate Healthcare LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adequate Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
We are Doctoral Degree Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. We specializes in psychopharmacology and various forms of psychotherapies for individuals, couples and families.
We are Doctoral Degree Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. We specializes in psychopharmacology and various forms of psychotherapies for individuals, couples and families.
(410) 883-5302 View (410) 883-5302
Photo of Siana Brown, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Siana Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salisbury, MD 21804
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my special interests include neurodevelopmental disorders and I am committed to neurodivergent-affirming practices. My journey is both professional and personal, shaped by my own experiences with neurodevelopmental disorders and complex childhood trauma. Transparency is crucial in my approach, creating a safe space where clients feel seen and heard. I believe effective help comes from someone who understands from the inside out. Together, we explore underlying factors and develop strategies for healing and growth. I'm here to support your journey toward mental wellness!
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my special interests include neurodevelopmental disorders and I am committed to neurodivergent-affirming practices. My journey is both professional and personal, shaped by my own experiences with neurodevelopmental disorders and complex childhood trauma. Transparency is crucial in my approach, creating a safe space where clients feel seen and heard. I believe effective help comes from someone who understands from the inside out. Together, we explore underlying factors and develop strategies for healing and growth. I'm here to support your journey toward mental wellness!
(410) 927-6810 View (410) 927-6810
Photo of Staci Butler, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Staci Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe in a holistic approach to care. I carry two board certifications: one in psychiatry and the other in primary care. This enables me to target the root cause with clients, connecting the mind and body. I prefer an integrative approach to help clients with the goal of achieving serenity and balance in their lives.
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe in a holistic approach to care. I carry two board certifications: one in psychiatry and the other in primary care. This enables me to target the root cause with clients, connecting the mind and body. I prefer an integrative approach to help clients with the goal of achieving serenity and balance in their lives.
(667) 244-9988 View (667) 244-9988
Photo of Rani George, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rani George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you going through a hard time in life, unsure what to do, unable to sleep, racing thoughts, sadness, lack of motivation and energy affecting your daily activities such as work, school or family. Well I can help you, let's talk and work together in improving your mood. You need to communicate your problems, and I will help you through this hard time. We need to identify why you feel this way and what is the solution to the problem. My clinical approach includes medication management, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Are you going through a hard time in life, unsure what to do, unable to sleep, racing thoughts, sadness, lack of motivation and energy affecting your daily activities such as work, school or family. Well I can help you, let's talk and work together in improving your mood. You need to communicate your problems, and I will help you through this hard time. We need to identify why you feel this way and what is the solution to the problem. My clinical approach includes medication management, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
(667) 244-3985 View (667) 244-3985
Photo of Deanette James, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deanette James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Deanette James specializes in providing mental health medication management to women, especially those in the working-class group, who are experiencing the burdens of life. If you are a woman who is a wife, a homemaker, a mother, a professional, a daughter, has family responsibilities, or other factors contributing to a decline in your mental health, she is the person to see. Her services focus on women experiencing anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She understands that these disorders are very prevalent and act as determinants of the outcome of a woman's daily life.
Deanette James specializes in providing mental health medication management to women, especially those in the working-class group, who are experiencing the burdens of life. If you are a woman who is a wife, a homemaker, a mother, a professional, a daughter, has family responsibilities, or other factors contributing to a decline in your mental health, she is the person to see. Her services focus on women experiencing anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She understands that these disorders are very prevalent and act as determinants of the outcome of a woman's daily life.
(240) 875-6194 View (240) 875-6194
Photo of Dr. Marcel Fomotar, PhD , DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Marcel Fomotar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD , DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Your mental and physical well being is primordial to us. The mind and body are interconnected, and there is a great overlap between physical and mental health conditions. Mental healthcare includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. By exploring multiple treatment modalities with our clients, we strive to provide the most all-encompassing care to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. We promise to be there for you every step of your wellness journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and assist you in creating a meaningful life.
Your mental and physical well being is primordial to us. The mind and body are interconnected, and there is a great overlap between physical and mental health conditions. Mental healthcare includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. By exploring multiple treatment modalities with our clients, we strive to provide the most all-encompassing care to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. We promise to be there for you every step of your wellness journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and assist you in creating a meaningful life.
(559) 245-1444 View (559) 245-1444
Photo of Olayinka Omolabake Toby, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olayinka Omolabake Toby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury, MD 21804
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 Emelda Fri Njei, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emelda Fri Njei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Salisbury, MD 21804
Emelda Fri Njei is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over a decade-long experience in the nursing field with her experience ranging from mental health, substance abuse treatment, and long-term care. She graduated from Mountain State University with a Bachelor’s in Nursing, the University of Maryland with a Master’s of Science in Nursing with a Specialty in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her mission is to inspire hope, provide patient-centered care and contribute to health and well-being by providing the best care to every patient through prevention, intervention, treatmen
Emelda Fri Njei is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over a decade-long experience in the nursing field with her experience ranging from mental health, substance abuse treatment, and long-term care. She graduated from Mountain State University with a Bachelor’s in Nursing, the University of Maryland with a Master’s of Science in Nursing with a Specialty in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her mission is to inspire hope, provide patient-centered care and contribute to health and well-being by providing the best care to every patient through prevention, intervention, treatmen
(302) 599-6427 View (302) 599-6427
Photo of Elizabeth Akinyemi - Healing Hope Healthcare LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Hope Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
The ideal client actively participates in their treatment plan, asking questions when they have them, seeking to understand their condition and the role medication plays in managing it. The client understands that medication is just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may also include therapy, lifestyle changes, and other interventions, and are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which can complement the effects of medication.
The ideal client actively participates in their treatment plan, asking questions when they have them, seeking to understand their condition and the role medication plays in managing it. The client understands that medication is just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may also include therapy, lifestyle changes, and other interventions, and are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which can complement the effects of medication.
(443) 658-4308 View (443) 658-4308
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Alexa Burley - Mending Minds Psychiatric Services, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mending Minds Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or PTSD. These clients are often looking for a provider who can offer both medication management and therapeutic support to help them navigate their mental health challenges. At Mending Minds Psychiatric Services LLC, I am dedicated to helping clients reach these goals by providing compassionate, individualized care that addresses both their immediate needs and long-term aspirations.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or PTSD. These clients are often looking for a provider who can offer both medication management and therapeutic support to help them navigate their mental health challenges. At Mending Minds Psychiatric Services LLC, I am dedicated to helping clients reach these goals by providing compassionate, individualized care that addresses both their immediate needs and long-term aspirations.
(667) 220-6298 View (667) 220-6298
Photo of Avareitta Bailey Woollery, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Avareitta Bailey Woollery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As an experienced, empathetic nurse serving the psychiatric population for over 15 years, I take pride in ensuring my patients feel respected and valued. As their psychiatric practitioner, my patients' needs come first. I take the time to provide individual care with confidence and compassion, focusing on meeting their needs with every encounter.
As an experienced, empathetic nurse serving the psychiatric population for over 15 years, I take pride in ensuring my patients feel respected and valued. As their psychiatric practitioner, my patients' needs come first. I take the time to provide individual care with confidence and compassion, focusing on meeting their needs with every encounter.
(301) 479-6388 View (301) 479-6388
Photo of Dr. Charleen Gonden, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Charleen Gonden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Please call (667) 288-1566 or (410) 498-8724 to make an appointment! Psychiatric Evaluations and Medication Management Services; Board Certified to treat the Lifespan; Psychiatric-Mental Health
Please call (667) 288-1566 or (410) 498-8724 to make an appointment! Psychiatric Evaluations and Medication Management Services; Board Certified to treat the Lifespan; Psychiatric-Mental Health
(410) 498-8724 View (410) 498-8724
Photo of Alicia Medina - Greater Chesapeake, CRNP, LCSW-C, LCPC, RN, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Greater Chesapeake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, LCSW-C, LCPC, RN, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Now accepting adults and children in office or via telehealth. We offer medication management, therapy, and case management services. We treat a variety of mental health disorders including psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We also offer Suboxone/Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and other medications to treat addictions. We partner with other agencies such as Mental Health Court, IOPs, PRPs, and hospitals. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and can help patients with no insurance. Contact us: 443-438-6893 or email via the link on this page.
Now accepting adults and children in office or via telehealth. We offer medication management, therapy, and case management services. We treat a variety of mental health disorders including psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We also offer Suboxone/Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and other medications to treat addictions. We partner with other agencies such as Mental Health Court, IOPs, PRPs, and hospitals. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and can help patients with no insurance. Contact us: 443-438-6893 or email via the link on this page.
(410) 862-2975 View (410) 862-2975
Inspiration Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNPPMH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our goal is to help YOU be a better YOU
Our goal is to help YOU be a better YOU
(410) 343-4784 View (410) 343-4784

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Titilayo Ilori - Altruist Healthcare Inc, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Altruist Healthcare Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Prioritizing mental health and providing the highest quality person-centered care services is our approach to improving a client’s mental wellbeing. We manage and treat various mental health concerns, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and sleep/insomnia.
Prioritizing mental health and providing the highest quality person-centered care services is our approach to improving a client’s mental wellbeing. We manage and treat various mental health concerns, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and sleep/insomnia.
(240) 973-4461 View (240) 973-4461
Photo of Dr. Michael Dickson, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Michael Dickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 8 years of experience in mental health. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or ADHD, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work on finding the right strategies and treatments to help you manage your emotions, improve your mental well-being, and move towards a more fulfilling future. You deserve a brighter tomorrow — and I’m here to help
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 8 years of experience in mental health. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or ADHD, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work on finding the right strategies and treatments to help you manage your emotions, improve your mental well-being, and move towards a more fulfilling future. You deserve a brighter tomorrow — and I’m here to help
(240) 213-6293 View (240) 213-6293
Inspired 2
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Fruitland, MD 21826
I assess each client for what their needs and concerns are and what they are looking for in their situation. I meet them where they are and assist them in becoming the person they wish to be by dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety and other issues. Ours is a person centered practice.
I assess each client for what their needs and concerns are and what they are looking for in their situation. I meet them where they are and assist them in becoming the person they wish to be by dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety and other issues. Ours is a person centered practice.
(667) 222-2669 View (667) 222-2669
Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, MSN, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health.
Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health.
(240) 200-0961 View (240) 200-0961
Photo of Constance Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Constance Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm an ABPN board certified psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Yale, and NIMH. I have extensive experience using scientifically proven methods to treat depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, trauma, women’s reproductive mental health, and sleep-related issues. Our feelings are determined by complex factors, let us spend time to understand your health, your life, and your challenges. Psychiatric medications should be used careful and gently. Let me help you with making an informed and safe decision.
Welcome! I'm an ABPN board certified psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Yale, and NIMH. I have extensive experience using scientifically proven methods to treat depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, trauma, women’s reproductive mental health, and sleep-related issues. Our feelings are determined by complex factors, let us spend time to understand your health, your life, and your challenges. Psychiatric medications should be used careful and gently. Let me help you with making an informed and safe decision.
(240) 730-4104 View (240) 730-4104

See more therapy options for 21804

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 21804

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 21804 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
93% Anxiety
93% Bipolar Disorder
87% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Psychosis
73% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
87% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 21804 see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 21804?

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.