Psychiatrists in 22301

“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.

Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.

Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.

As an integrative mental health nurse practitioner, I offer ketamine & ketamine assisted psychotherapy in IV, Intramuscluar (IM) or lozenge form for treatment approach for depression, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and OCD work. I also offer Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT), Integration & harm reduction. Tranquil Healthcare is an Integrative Mental Health & Wellness practice focusing on anxiety & depression disorders as well as improving over all health, lifestyle & wellness. Practicing conventional medicine as well as integrative and functional medicine approaches to your mental health & overall health.
As an integrative mental health nurse practitioner, I offer ketamine & ketamine assisted psychotherapy in IV, Intramuscluar (IM) or lozenge form for treatment approach for depression, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and OCD work. I also offer Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT), Integration & harm reduction. Tranquil Healthcare is an Integrative Mental Health & Wellness practice focusing on anxiety & depression disorders as well as improving over all health, lifestyle & wellness. Practicing conventional medicine as well as integrative and functional medicine approaches to your mental health & overall health.

My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work. I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach!
My ideal patient is one with a motivation to improve their current mindset, situation, emotions, and lifestyle. I am specifically well-educated in managing depression, weight loss/obesity, time management, goal-setting initiatives and more! Come prepared to do the required work. I am not your "typical" provider, as I use a less "formal" and more personable approach!

Anyinkia Forteh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN, MSN, PMHNP – BC) licensed in the states of Virginia and Maryland with experience in mental health. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. She utilizes evidenced – based treatment guidelines in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health disorders not limited to Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar, PTSD, Psychosis, OCD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.
Anyinkia Forteh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN, MSN, PMHNP – BC) licensed in the states of Virginia and Maryland with experience in mental health. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. She utilizes evidenced – based treatment guidelines in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health disorders not limited to Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar, PTSD, Psychosis, OCD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.

I am Dr. Yeganeh “Anna” Jalaeian, a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I have 17 years of experience in the healthcare field, including over 8 years as a nurse practitioner in both family medicine and psychiatry. I specialize in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, postpartum mood disorder, prolonged grief, and anger management. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community and those with autism spectrum traits.
I am Dr. Yeganeh “Anna” Jalaeian, a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I have 17 years of experience in the healthcare field, including over 8 years as a nurse practitioner in both family medicine and psychiatry. I specialize in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, postpartum mood disorder, prolonged grief, and anger management. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, including the LGBTQIA+ community and those with autism spectrum traits.

Sarah is a highly skilled and compassionate dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She holds a deep commitment to providing comprehensive mental health care to children, adolescents and adults. With over seven years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, Sarah is dedicated to caring for the whole child and family. Her approach combines evidence-based practices with individualized care, utilizing a variety of therapeutic methods tailored to meet the specific needs of each person in her care.
Sarah is a highly skilled and compassionate dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She holds a deep commitment to providing comprehensive mental health care to children, adolescents and adults. With over seven years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, Sarah is dedicated to caring for the whole child and family. Her approach combines evidence-based practices with individualized care, utilizing a variety of therapeutic methods tailored to meet the specific needs of each person in her care.

Jennifer Campbell Grant was born and raised in South Florida. She obtained her undergraduate degree of Biology at University of Florida and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University. Jennifer comes to us from a community health center in NC where she gained experience in treating a variety of mental and psychiatric illnesses. Her current role also includes being the Director of Clinical Education at Wingate University Physician Assistant Program. She is fluent in both English and Spanish and is wholeheartedly determined to provide her patients with a safe space to navigate their journey.
Jennifer Campbell Grant was born and raised in South Florida. She obtained her undergraduate degree of Biology at University of Florida and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University. Jennifer comes to us from a community health center in NC where she gained experience in treating a variety of mental and psychiatric illnesses. Her current role also includes being the Director of Clinical Education at Wingate University Physician Assistant Program. She is fluent in both English and Spanish and is wholeheartedly determined to provide her patients with a safe space to navigate their journey.

MEM Scepter Home & Behavioral Health Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Serves Area
We are a certified team of mental health providers and therapists that aim to provide ethical and personable treatment to our patients and clients. Our location provides telehealth and in-person appointments to meet our consumers needs. We treat a multitude of psychiatric diagnosis, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, etc. We offer through our Outpatient Mental Health Clinic psychiatric medication, Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT), provide lab orders and complete routine urinalysis in the office, holistic coaching, therapy, and vivitrol. We treat all ages.
We are a certified team of mental health providers and therapists that aim to provide ethical and personable treatment to our patients and clients. Our location provides telehealth and in-person appointments to meet our consumers needs. We treat a multitude of psychiatric diagnosis, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, etc. We offer through our Outpatient Mental Health Clinic psychiatric medication, Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT), provide lab orders and complete routine urinalysis in the office, holistic coaching, therapy, and vivitrol. We treat all ages.

I understand how overwhelming it can be to share personal information with someone you have never met. I will do my best to create a safe and welcoming environment so that you can feel comfortable to share and ask for the help you need. Making you feel comfortable and informed is very important to me. You will leave the session with a good understanding of the treatment plan, the potential side effects of medications and alternative treatment options.
I understand how overwhelming it can be to share personal information with someone you have never met. I will do my best to create a safe and welcoming environment so that you can feel comfortable to share and ask for the help you need. Making you feel comfortable and informed is very important to me. You will leave the session with a good understanding of the treatment plan, the potential side effects of medications and alternative treatment options.

Licensed CA & VA
YouTube PsychtalkwithDrWendla.
Dr Schwartz is a seasoned physician and accomplished adult/child psychiatrist, renowned for her holistic approach to treatment that acknowledges the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. With over 25 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Schwartz specializes in addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Psychosis, Somatic disorders, Trauma/PTSD, DMDD, Autism, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders. She possesses a deep understanding of children, teenagers and adults
Licensed CA & VA
YouTube PsychtalkwithDrWendla.
Dr Schwartz is a seasoned physician and accomplished adult/child psychiatrist, renowned for her holistic approach to treatment that acknowledges the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. With over 25 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Schwartz specializes in addressing a diverse range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Psychosis, Somatic disorders, Trauma/PTSD, DMDD, Autism, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders. She possesses a deep understanding of children, teenagers and adults

Have you been in therapy since you were a child or young adult? Processing is the key. My name is Scarlet. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in psychedelics, and have extensive training in Ketamine use. If you have anxiety or depression, OCD or trauma that has not resolved via the traditional way with prescribed psychiatric medications and therapy, let’s talk and see if Ketamine is right for you. Note: I do not provide IV Ketamine. I am a provider of INharmony and SoundSelf therapy. More information by phone or website.
Have you been in therapy since you were a child or young adult? Processing is the key. My name is Scarlet. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in psychedelics, and have extensive training in Ketamine use. If you have anxiety or depression, OCD or trauma that has not resolved via the traditional way with prescribed psychiatric medications and therapy, let’s talk and see if Ketamine is right for you. Note: I do not provide IV Ketamine. I am a provider of INharmony and SoundSelf therapy. More information by phone or website.

Anyinkia Forteh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN, MSN, PMHNP – BC) licensed in the states of Maryland, DC, and Virginia with experience in mental health. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. She utilizes evidence-based treatment guidelines in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health disorders not limited to Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar, PTSD, Psychosis, OCD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.
Anyinkia Forteh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN, MSN, PMHNP – BC) licensed in the states of Maryland, DC, and Virginia with experience in mental health. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. She utilizes evidence-based treatment guidelines in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health disorders not limited to Depression, Anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar, PTSD, Psychosis, OCD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD.

I'm a board certified adult psychiatrist with clinical interests in OCD, anxiety, depression, and ADD, and my approach is defined by careful listening, clinical expertise, and a strong belief in your innate capacity to heal and grow. I provide personalized medication management grounded in evidence-based practice and delivered in a supportive setting. What sets me apart is my physician training, option for in-person sessions, unhurried visits, small patient panel, and years of experience. I will partner with you to understand your story and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
I'm a board certified adult psychiatrist with clinical interests in OCD, anxiety, depression, and ADD, and my approach is defined by careful listening, clinical expertise, and a strong belief in your innate capacity to heal and grow. I provide personalized medication management grounded in evidence-based practice and delivered in a supportive setting. What sets me apart is my physician training, option for in-person sessions, unhurried visits, small patient panel, and years of experience. I will partner with you to understand your story and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

My approach to medication management is collaborative, thorough, and tailored to your unique needs, always with a focus on empowering you to build resilience and achieve lasting wellness. I believe, when thoughtfully integrated with psychotherapy, mindfulness practices, and family-based interventions, medication can help stabilize mood, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhance overall functioning.
My approach to medication management is collaborative, thorough, and tailored to your unique needs, always with a focus on empowering you to build resilience and achieve lasting wellness. I believe, when thoughtfully integrated with psychotherapy, mindfulness practices, and family-based interventions, medication can help stabilize mood, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhance overall functioning.

Dr. Mo Basith is a board-certified psychiatrist in the field of general adult psychiatry. He offers a mix of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with psychotherapy. Dr. Basith’s approach to clinical practice is rooted in fostering a safe atmosphere in which to explore biological and psychosocial factors that affect mental health. He views medication as a tool that patients can use while also engaging in psychotherapy and making lifestyle changes to optimize their mental health. Dr. Basith may occasionally believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Mo Basith is a board-certified psychiatrist in the field of general adult psychiatry. He offers a mix of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with psychotherapy. Dr. Basith’s approach to clinical practice is rooted in fostering a safe atmosphere in which to explore biological and psychosocial factors that affect mental health. He views medication as a tool that patients can use while also engaging in psychotherapy and making lifestyle changes to optimize their mental health. Dr. Basith may occasionally believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.

Gabrielle is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of experience in behavioral health. Her expertise includes psychiatric evaluation, psychopharmacology, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care across the lifespan. Gabrielle has served in clinical leadership roles in both inpatient psychiatric units and outpatient crisis stabilization programs.
Gabrielle is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of experience in behavioral health. Her expertise includes psychiatric evaluation, psychopharmacology, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care across the lifespan. Gabrielle has served in clinical leadership roles in both inpatient psychiatric units and outpatient crisis stabilization programs.

Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info

Dr. Tonisha Melvin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, CRRN, ANP-C, PMHNPBC, RYT-200
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Tonisha Melvin is the President and Co-CEO of DMV Medical Group, LLC located in Kensington, MD. She is an advocate for her clients. Her goal is to provide a safe space working with, encouraging, and supporting you so that you reach your optimal mental health goals. She provides healing and hope in a holistic way while utilizing evidence-based strategies along the way.
Dr. Tonisha Melvin is the President and Co-CEO of DMV Medical Group, LLC located in Kensington, MD. She is an advocate for her clients. Her goal is to provide a safe space working with, encouraging, and supporting you so that you reach your optimal mental health goals. She provides healing and hope in a holistic way while utilizing evidence-based strategies along the way.
See more therapy options for 22301
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 22301
30+
Average cost per session
$177
Psychiatrists in 22301 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | Medication Management |
74% | ADHD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | Aetna |
82% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 22301 see their clients
57% | Online Only | |
43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 22301?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.