Psychiatrists in 21842

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 Adetimbo Adediran - Graceland Psychiatry LLC, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Graceland Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Graceland Psychiatry, Our mission is very simple. We provide hope to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, Attention deficit (ADHD), and Bipolar disorder.
At Graceland Psychiatry, Our mission is very simple. We provide hope to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, Attention deficit (ADHD), and Bipolar disorder.
(240) 775-1821 View (240) 775-1821
Photo of Theresa Uzoukwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Uzoukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At D & A Holdings, we understand that life can be rough and overwhelming, especially when juggling numerous things simultaneously. We can help address many daily mental health challenges people face using evidence-based approaches to better health. I am a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience with in-patient and out-patient mental health services. We provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, and teaching self-care activities, care coordination,
At D & A Holdings, we understand that life can be rough and overwhelming, especially when juggling numerous things simultaneously. We can help address many daily mental health challenges people face using evidence-based approaches to better health. I am a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience with in-patient and out-patient mental health services. We provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, and teaching self-care activities, care coordination,
(410) 989-4662 View (410) 989-4662
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 Kelli Kitts, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelli Kitts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kelli has over 30 years of nursing experience, including urgent care and emergency medicine, and has worked in the emergency room for six years as a family nurse practitioner. Her passion for mental health led her to pursue her Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, which she completed from Walden University in 2024. Her education and work experience has shaped her compassion for helping others.
Kelli has over 30 years of nursing experience, including urgent care and emergency medicine, and has worked in the emergency room for six years as a family nurse practitioner. Her passion for mental health led her to pursue her Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, which she completed from Walden University in 2024. Her education and work experience has shaped her compassion for helping others.
(443) 720-7462 View (443) 720-7462
Photo of Bobbi Kaye Simkins, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bobbi Kaye Simkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
She specializes in anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorders, Personality disorders, Intermittent explosive disorder, PTSD, ADHD, ADD, and Oppositional defiant disorder.
She specializes in anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorders, Personality disorders, Intermittent explosive disorder, PTSD, ADHD, ADD, and Oppositional defiant disorder.
(443) 390-7809 View (443) 390-7809

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sara Hayden, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sara Hayden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting a limited number of new clients for telehealth! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I bring together the art and science of psychiatry, nursing, and complementary therapies to provide patient-centered, personalized care that addresses not only the symptoms of mental disorders, but also the unique needs and aspirations of each individual. I approach my practice with a dedication to recognizing and addressing the root causes of mental health challenges, striving to empower individuals on their path to recovery and optimal mental health.
Now accepting a limited number of new clients for telehealth! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree in nursing practice. I bring together the art and science of psychiatry, nursing, and complementary therapies to provide patient-centered, personalized care that addresses not only the symptoms of mental disorders, but also the unique needs and aspirations of each individual. I approach my practice with a dedication to recognizing and addressing the root causes of mental health challenges, striving to empower individuals on their path to recovery and optimal mental health.
(667) 868-0372 View (667) 868-0372
Photo of Kristen Gialo, DO, Psychiatrist
Kristen Gialo
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am currently accepting new patients for telehealth mental health services in Maryland. I specialize in mental health medication management during the Pregnancy and Postpartum time frame. In addition to medication management, I am accepting patients for treatment using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine Treatment at Greenbrook Neurohealth Center.
I am currently accepting new patients for telehealth mental health services in Maryland. I specialize in mental health medication management during the Pregnancy and Postpartum time frame. In addition to medication management, I am accepting patients for treatment using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine Treatment at Greenbrook Neurohealth Center.
(240) 617-3889 View (240) 617-3889
Photo of Donna Martin, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salisbury, MD 21801
Now Accepting New Clients for immediate openings. Donna is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients of all ages. She received her graduate degree from Frostburg State University and is board certified as a PMHNP by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. After over 30 years of experience as a registered nurse, she decided to become a nurse practitioner. Donna is also a certified nurse case manager with expertise in assisting clients in navigating the healthcare system’s complexities and obtaining the care they need.
Now Accepting New Clients for immediate openings. Donna is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients of all ages. She received her graduate degree from Frostburg State University and is board certified as a PMHNP by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. After over 30 years of experience as a registered nurse, she decided to become a nurse practitioner. Donna is also a certified nurse case manager with expertise in assisting clients in navigating the healthcare system’s complexities and obtaining the care they need.
(443) 222-0340 x1 View (443) 222-0340 x1
Photo of Nadege Baptiste - Living Water Mental Health and Counseling, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Living Water Mental Health and Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a certified life coach, specialized in mental health and recovery. My sole desire is to help individuals to increase their emotional intelligence through a faith-based approach by developing meaningful coping strategies, so they can achieve sustainable success and fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.
I am a certified life coach, specialized in mental health and recovery. My sole desire is to help individuals to increase their emotional intelligence through a faith-based approach by developing meaningful coping strategies, so they can achieve sustainable success and fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.
(410) 584-3047 View (410) 584-3047
Photo of Chip Leonard, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chip Leonard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about mental health care. I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based treatment to individuals seeking support for their mental well-being. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from The University of Maryland in 2008. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from Walden University. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with all mental health concerns, including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, and adjustment difficulties.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about mental health care. I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based treatment to individuals seeking support for their mental well-being. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from The University of Maryland in 2008. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from Walden University. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with all mental health concerns, including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, and adjustment difficulties.
(443) 331-9347 View (443) 331-9347
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 Motunrayo Etteyit - MUSE Integrative Care, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MUSE Integrative Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with almost 20 years of experience in various healthcare settings. I believe that mental health is the foundation for happiness, stability, and well-being. Taking the first step to ask for help can be tough, and I admire your bravery. My expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and caregiver burnout. I’m here to provide compassionate support as you take meaningful steps toward healing and personal growth.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with almost 20 years of experience in various healthcare settings. I believe that mental health is the foundation for happiness, stability, and well-being. Taking the first step to ask for help can be tough, and I admire your bravery. My expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and caregiver burnout. I’m here to provide compassionate support as you take meaningful steps toward healing and personal growth.
(443) 241-2378 View (443) 241-2378
Photo of Leslie Bradley-Poff - Exhale, Baltimore, MS, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Exhale, Baltimore
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Leslie Poff is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in providing medication management for individuals in a wide variety of settings, from hospitals and prisons to private offices and churches. Her diagnostic skills and prescriptive privileges enable her to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety, depressive, psychotic, co-occurring and bipolar disorders, ADHD, substance abuse and dependence. Clients who may need psychotropic medication receive education and safe prescription of such medication.
Leslie Poff is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in providing medication management for individuals in a wide variety of settings, from hospitals and prisons to private offices and churches. Her diagnostic skills and prescriptive privileges enable her to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety, depressive, psychotic, co-occurring and bipolar disorders, ADHD, substance abuse and dependence. Clients who may need psychotropic medication receive education and safe prescription of such medication.
(443) 380-2729 View (443) 380-2729
Photo of Dr. Charleen Gonden, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Charleen Gonden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Berlin, MD 21811
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 Brandon A Burr - ADHD Aid Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ADHD Aid Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Salisbury, MD 21801
February is a time for renewal, self-care, and fresh starts. If you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, or Depression, now is the perfect time to prioritize your mental health and regain control of your life. Whether you’re a student feeling overwhelmed with deadlines, a professional struggling to focus, or simply exhausted from the daily battle with anxiety or low energy, you don’t have to go through it alone.
February is a time for renewal, self-care, and fresh starts. If you’re struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, or Depression, now is the perfect time to prioritize your mental health and regain control of your life. Whether you’re a student feeling overwhelmed with deadlines, a professional struggling to focus, or simply exhausted from the daily battle with anxiety or low energy, you don’t have to go through it alone.
(339) 220-4491 View (339) 220-4491
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 Megan Rowe Dingus - Tidewater Wellness, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tidewater Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our mission at Tidewater Wellness is to support our patients in reaching their full potential by helping them achieve optimal mental health. We take a holistic approach, integrating traditional and non-traditional therapies to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets each individual's unique needs. Our highly qualified and compassionate psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for every patient to ensure that every patient can live their best life. Let us partner with you on your journey towards mental wellness and a fulfilling life.
Our mission at Tidewater Wellness is to support our patients in reaching their full potential by helping them achieve optimal mental health. We take a holistic approach, integrating traditional and non-traditional therapies to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets each individual's unique needs. Our highly qualified and compassionate psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for every patient to ensure that every patient can live their best life. Let us partner with you on your journey towards mental wellness and a fulfilling life.
(410) 431-0040 View (410) 431-0040
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
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

See more therapy options for 21842

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 21842

< 10

Psychiatrists in 21842 who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
83% Anxiety
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Sleep or Insomnia
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Medication Management
67% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
60% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 21842 see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 21842?

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.