Psychiatrists in District Of Columbia, DC

Photo of Patricia G Kpolie - Caring Health LLC, PMHNP , BC, CRNP- C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caring Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC, CRNP- C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Hi dear, I am Patricia, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner and I can manage broad areas of psychiatry and medical health needs. Whether you're dealing with personality or Mood Disorders I'm here to help. Seeking treatment to help manage your mental health issue can feel scary but you're making the right choice. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion, evidence-based Practice medication management, counselling and therapy to better manage your mental health During our sessions together we will build trust, support and a welcoming and open environment
Hi dear, I am Patricia, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner and I can manage broad areas of psychiatry and medical health needs. Whether you're dealing with personality or Mood Disorders I'm here to help. Seeking treatment to help manage your mental health issue can feel scary but you're making the right choice. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion, evidence-based Practice medication management, counselling and therapy to better manage your mental health During our sessions together we will build trust, support and a welcoming and open environment
(301) 822-2482 View (301) 822-2482
Photo of Charles P Samenow, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Charles P Samenow
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has 20 years of experience teaching, researching and practicing in academic clinical psychiatry and the field of problematic sexual behaviors. I maintain an open and inclusive clinical psychiatric practice that focuses on most major psychiatric problems. While many of my adult patients are members of underrepresented sexual/gender minorities (LGBTQI+) or are seen for sexual problems, many are not.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has 20 years of experience teaching, researching and practicing in academic clinical psychiatry and the field of problematic sexual behaviors. I maintain an open and inclusive clinical psychiatric practice that focuses on most major psychiatric problems. While many of my adult patients are members of underrepresented sexual/gender minorities (LGBTQI+) or are seen for sexual problems, many are not.
(877) 618-5994 View (877) 618-5994
Photo of Ben L Bregman, MD, Psychiatrist
Ben L Bregman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
My approach to psychiatry is based on the principle that the human spirit is resilient and has the ability to heal when supported. With that in mind, I use an integrative approach to help my patients achieve greater mental health and well-being. I work with individuals who have depression, anxiety, unresolved traumas, concentration difficulties, unfulfilling relationships, and professional burnout and help them transform their challenges into personal growth and self-realization. I seek to help people live healthy and meaningful lives.
My approach to psychiatry is based on the principle that the human spirit is resilient and has the ability to heal when supported. With that in mind, I use an integrative approach to help my patients achieve greater mental health and well-being. I work with individuals who have depression, anxiety, unresolved traumas, concentration difficulties, unfulfilling relationships, and professional burnout and help them transform their challenges into personal growth and self-realization. I seek to help people live healthy and meaningful lives.
(202) 953-3790 View (202) 953-3790
Photo of Dr. Renee Diane Parisi - Dr. Renee Diane Parisi, CNP, MSN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Renee Diane Parisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, MSN, DNP
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Online Only
Specializing in Women's Mental Health, Pregnancy/Postpartum/Perimenopause, Sleep Disorders/Insomnia, Physical/Emotional/Sexual Trauma, OCD, Perfectionism, Chronic Pain, Relationships, Infertility, & Grief.
Specializing in Women's Mental Health, Pregnancy/Postpartum/Perimenopause, Sleep Disorders/Insomnia, Physical/Emotional/Sexual Trauma, OCD, Perfectionism, Chronic Pain, Relationships, Infertility, & Grief.
(202) 998-5549 View (202) 998-5549
Photo of Edward (Ed) Stern - Queer Ear Mental Health, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Queer Ear Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Do you want Queer care by queer folx? The LGBTQIA+ (we embrace "Queer") community has the right to seek mental health medication just as we are. Perhaps you or your child are seeking medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, or mood disorders. Maybe you're trans/non-binary/gender-nonconforming or gay/lesbian and are tired of explaining our lifestyle to prescribers. Perhaps you're anxious or depressed about app dating or a recent kink or OnlyFans effort. Maybe you're not out (or fully out) and need medication to help the anxiety. Then, you deserve affirming and competent care.
Do you want Queer care by queer folx? The LGBTQIA+ (we embrace "Queer") community has the right to seek mental health medication just as we are. Perhaps you or your child are seeking medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, or mood disorders. Maybe you're trans/non-binary/gender-nonconforming or gay/lesbian and are tired of explaining our lifestyle to prescribers. Perhaps you're anxious or depressed about app dating or a recent kink or OnlyFans effort. Maybe you're not out (or fully out) and need medication to help the anxiety. Then, you deserve affirming and competent care.
(202) 816-6667 View (202) 816-6667
Photo of R Curtis Bristol, MD, Psychiatrist
R Curtis Bristol
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My patients live and work in a global environment with complicated interpersonal problems compounded by economic, political, cultural and religious pressures. Through extensive education, experience and world travel I have built the capacity to provide a neutral, private and safe environment permitting the pursuit of solutions for acute mental health problems as well as longer term, intensive psychoanalytic treatment. I am a board certified psychiatrist with a medical degree from University of Southern California. As a psychoanalyst I completed the curriculum and treatment of cases through the Baltimore-Washington Institute for Psychoanalysis under the auspices of the American Psychoanalytic Association.
My patients live and work in a global environment with complicated interpersonal problems compounded by economic, political, cultural and religious pressures. Through extensive education, experience and world travel I have built the capacity to provide a neutral, private and safe environment permitting the pursuit of solutions for acute mental health problems as well as longer term, intensive psychoanalytic treatment. I am a board certified psychiatrist with a medical degree from University of Southern California. As a psychoanalyst I completed the curriculum and treatment of cases through the Baltimore-Washington Institute for Psychoanalysis under the auspices of the American Psychoanalytic Association.
(202) 470-1496 View (202) 470-1496
Photo of Vera Ngezem - Adequate Healthcare LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adequate Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Adequate Healthcare LLC. We are happy that you want to take the first step in seeking professional services for your mental health. Are you sad, depressed, anxious, angry, having ADHD symptoms? Are your symptoms interfering with your ability to function at work, with your family, and in your social life, or is causing you to contemplate or plan to commit suicide, it would be a very good idea for you to consult with us in order to improve your mental health. Having your mental health treated improves your productivity, allowing you to focus on daily tasks and gives you the motivation to get things done in a timely manner.
Welcome to Adequate Healthcare LLC. We are happy that you want to take the first step in seeking professional services for your mental health. Are you sad, depressed, anxious, angry, having ADHD symptoms? Are your symptoms interfering with your ability to function at work, with your family, and in your social life, or is causing you to contemplate or plan to commit suicide, it would be a very good idea for you to consult with us in order to improve your mental health. Having your mental health treated improves your productivity, allowing you to focus on daily tasks and gives you the motivation to get things done in a timely manner.
(202) 915-5632 View (202) 915-5632
Photo of Lazare Shadzeka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lazare Shadzeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Lazare Shadzeka and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner via the American Nurses Credentialing Center, with privileges in Maryland and Washington DC. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 2014, in the renowned Marymount University and while pursuing a calling of serving the adult, elderly and vulnerable communities, I decided to further my education, consequently receiving my Master of Science in Nursing Degree with honors from Walden University.
My name is Lazare Shadzeka and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner via the American Nurses Credentialing Center, with privileges in Maryland and Washington DC. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 2014, in the renowned Marymount University and while pursuing a calling of serving the adult, elderly and vulnerable communities, I decided to further my education, consequently receiving my Master of Science in Nursing Degree with honors from Walden University.
(833) 364-1687 View (833) 364-1687
Photo of Lisa S Tubman, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa S Tubman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client struggles with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed by life changes. They seek help to regain stability and control over their emotions. Their needs include effective coping strategies, a safe space for exploration, and a tailored treatment plan that respects their unique experiences. They aim to understand their distress and learn healthy management techniques. Ultimately, they want to achieve emotional well-being, confidence in handling stress, and a renewed sense of purpose, fostering resilience and hope for a fulfilling future.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal client struggles with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed by life changes. They seek help to regain stability and control over their emotions. Their needs include effective coping strategies, a safe space for exploration, and a tailored treatment plan that respects their unique experiences. They aim to understand their distress and learn healthy management techniques. Ultimately, they want to achieve emotional well-being, confidence in handling stress, and a renewed sense of purpose, fostering resilience and hope for a fulfilling future.
(202) 998-5167 View (202) 998-5167
Photo of May Omoijuanfo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
May Omoijuanfo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is May Agoreyo-Omoijuanfo, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My areas of specialty include the treatment of Major Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Opoid and Alcohol addiction, and Insomnia.
Hello, my name is May Agoreyo-Omoijuanfo, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My areas of specialty include the treatment of Major Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Opoid and Alcohol addiction, and Insomnia.
(202) 937-2487 View (202) 937-2487
Photo of Mary Krawczewicz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Krawczewicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric family nurse practitioner who can evaluate and treat 4y/o clients up until elderly I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management follow-ups. I am a benzo reduction specialist so I do not start clients on benzodiazepines or z-sedative hypnotics and for clients who are currently being prescribed benzo's or z-sedative hypnotics we will slow taper off by decreasing the quantity to be dispensed by 2 tablets/month with the goal being benzo/z-sedative hypnotic free.
I'm a psychiatric family nurse practitioner who can evaluate and treat 4y/o clients up until elderly I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management follow-ups. I am a benzo reduction specialist so I do not start clients on benzodiazepines or z-sedative hypnotics and for clients who are currently being prescribed benzo's or z-sedative hypnotics we will slow taper off by decreasing the quantity to be dispensed by 2 tablets/month with the goal being benzo/z-sedative hypnotic free.
(877) 590-3618 View (877) 590-3618
Photo of Funmilayo Fashola, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Funmilayo Fashola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! My name is Funmilayo Fashola. I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who diagnoses, treats, and prescribes medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) Depression, Adjustment disorder, Parenting, Anxiety, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. Funmi's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) and psychotherapy. I believe in the mind/body/spiritual connection.
Hi! My name is Funmilayo Fashola. I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who diagnoses, treats, and prescribes medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) Depression, Adjustment disorder, Parenting, Anxiety, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. Funmi's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) and psychotherapy. I believe in the mind/body/spiritual connection.
(855) 624-5250 View (855) 624-5250
Photo of Samantha Hylton, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Hylton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Hello there! Are you looking for a patient-centered and culturally informed provider for your mental health needs? I am would like to offer you a safe place to explore treatment options, and empower you to vocalize your preferences and concerns when we develop your plan of care. I have experience treating people with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar and women's health issues. I am actively accepting new patients and have immediate availability.
Hello there! Are you looking for a patient-centered and culturally informed provider for your mental health needs? I am would like to offer you a safe place to explore treatment options, and empower you to vocalize your preferences and concerns when we develop your plan of care. I have experience treating people with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar and women's health issues. I am actively accepting new patients and have immediate availability.
(888) 711-5172 View (888) 711-5172
Photo of Theresa A Anokam, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa A Anokam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Theresa Anokam. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to provide high quality care to clients to meet their needs. I treat clients with varied mental illnesses, as Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, Panic Disorder, OCD, and many more by medication management and psychotherapy. I believe in the uniqueness of every client and I target their treatment plan on holistic individual bases using evidence-based practice. I am licensed to practice in the District of Columbia and the state of Maryland with over 3 decades of clinical experience.
Hello, my name is Dr. Theresa Anokam. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to provide high quality care to clients to meet their needs. I treat clients with varied mental illnesses, as Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, Panic Disorder, OCD, and many more by medication management and psychotherapy. I believe in the uniqueness of every client and I target their treatment plan on holistic individual bases using evidence-based practice. I am licensed to practice in the District of Columbia and the state of Maryland with over 3 decades of clinical experience.
(877) 796-2815 View (877) 796-2815
Photo of Michelle Denise Holder, MSN, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Denise Holder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Michelle D Holder is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of experience diagnosing and treating adults and young adults. Michelle treats various mental health issues, including ADHD, OCD, Depression, and Anxiety. She wants to best serve patient populations that have under-diagnosed conditions, including those who are high-functioning. Her goal is to work with you to find solutions to your greatest needs that will best work with your lifestyle. Open, honest communication and willingness to try various treatments is paramount to Michelle.
Michelle D Holder is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of experience diagnosing and treating adults and young adults. Michelle treats various mental health issues, including ADHD, OCD, Depression, and Anxiety. She wants to best serve patient populations that have under-diagnosed conditions, including those who are high-functioning. Her goal is to work with you to find solutions to your greatest needs that will best work with your lifestyle. Open, honest communication and willingness to try various treatments is paramount to Michelle.
(202) 791-4635 View (202) 791-4635
Photo of Ogechukwu Igbo - Kairos Healthcare Services LLC, P-MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kairos Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P-MSN, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Emotional problems and psychiatric conditions are like any other medical illness. We know that dealing with mental illness can be weakening and asking for help when dealing with these problems can be challenging. Kairos Healthcare services is here to help alleviate these challenges by creating a therapeutic relationship with you to manage the conditions in a most caring, compassionate, and understanding manner while ensuring your privacy. Psychiatric illness can complicate underlying medical conditions if left untreated; they are real and prevalent in every society and in all age groups, regardless of a person's economic status.
Emotional problems and psychiatric conditions are like any other medical illness. We know that dealing with mental illness can be weakening and asking for help when dealing with these problems can be challenging. Kairos Healthcare services is here to help alleviate these challenges by creating a therapeutic relationship with you to manage the conditions in a most caring, compassionate, and understanding manner while ensuring your privacy. Psychiatric illness can complicate underlying medical conditions if left untreated; they are real and prevalent in every society and in all age groups, regardless of a person's economic status.
(202) 915-7554 View (202) 915-7554
Photo of Adijat Adeyemi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adijat Adeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Adijat Adeyemi, and I am a licensed Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to my patients and empowering them to achieve optimal health while actively engaging in their communities. My approach is rooted in empathy, care, knowledge, and patient-centered practices. I believe in fostering a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued while providing the guidance they need to thrive. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships, ensuring that my patients feel heard, respected, and understood.
Hello, my name is Adijat Adeyemi, and I am a licensed Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to my patients and empowering them to achieve optimal health while actively engaging in their communities. My approach is rooted in empathy, care, knowledge, and patient-centered practices. I believe in fostering a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued while providing the guidance they need to thrive. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships, ensuring that my patients feel heard, respected, and understood.
(833) 982-4011 View (833) 982-4011
Photo of Liz Comstock, MSN, MACJ, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liz Comstock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MACJ, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has spent over a decade working closely with healthcare professionals, firefighters, police & detectives, government officials, paramedics & EMTs, and military personnel. This has has provided me with an intimate understanding of the mental health struggles and unique treatment needs of those who have dedicated their lives to public service. Whether addressing acute symptoms or managing ongoing mental health needs, treatment focuses on the optimization of professional obligations and personnel well-being.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has spent over a decade working closely with healthcare professionals, firefighters, police & detectives, government officials, paramedics & EMTs, and military personnel. This has has provided me with an intimate understanding of the mental health struggles and unique treatment needs of those who have dedicated their lives to public service. Whether addressing acute symptoms or managing ongoing mental health needs, treatment focuses on the optimization of professional obligations and personnel well-being.
(202) 968-3886 View (202) 968-3886
Photo of Georgina Rose Chidaushe, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Georgina Rose Chidaushe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Rose! I’m currently accepting new patients! I am board-certified and licensed in Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC. Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, children and adolescents to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD. Prior to graduating as a nurse practitioner, I had 12 years nursing experience working in neurology, psychiatry, hospice and pain management.
Hello, I'm Rose! I’m currently accepting new patients! I am board-certified and licensed in Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC. Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, children and adolescents to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD. Prior to graduating as a nurse practitioner, I had 12 years nursing experience working in neurology, psychiatry, hospice and pain management.
(202) 952-5645 View (202) 952-5645
Photo of Jason M Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist
Jason M Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
The unique nature of my practice and approach to therapy stem from my medical training and advanced training in insight-oriented psychotherapy. Although I have a strong background in psychiatric diagnosis and medical management, I believe strongly in a holistic approach to therapy.
The unique nature of my practice and approach to therapy stem from my medical training and advanced training in insight-oriented psychotherapy. Although I have a strong background in psychiatric diagnosis and medical management, I believe strongly in a holistic approach to therapy.
(202) 559-1102 View (202) 559-1102
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See more therapy options for District Of Columbia

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in District Of Columbia, DC

300+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in District Of Columbia, DC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
76% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
71% Medication Management
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in District Of Columbia, DC see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
28% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in District Of Columbia?

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.