Psychiatrists in Washington, DC

Photo of Yolanda R Cockerham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Yolanda R Cockerham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the District of Columbia area, who strives to provide an excellent level of care to the mental health population. Her services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and helping individuals towards becoming functioning people in their environment.
Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the District of Columbia area, who strives to provide an excellent level of care to the mental health population. Her services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and helping individuals towards becoming functioning people in their environment.
(202) 417-3209 View (202) 417-3209
Photo of Christian Linton, Psychiatrist, MD
Christian Linton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
Not accepting new clients
I believe listening - and being truly heard - is one of the most powerful therapeutic experiences. We are social beings, and if we have become isolated, or feel misunderstood, even ignored, we suffer deeply. I bring a high level of attentiveness to my work as a psychiatrist that provides the crucial foundation on which true growth and change can occur. I want to hear your story, to understand how your suffering, whatever its form, has come to be in the present day.
I believe listening - and being truly heard - is one of the most powerful therapeutic experiences. We are social beings, and if we have become isolated, or feel misunderstood, even ignored, we suffer deeply. I bring a high level of attentiveness to my work as a psychiatrist that provides the crucial foundation on which true growth and change can occur. I want to hear your story, to understand how your suffering, whatever its form, has come to be in the present day.
(202) 999-3811 View (202) 999-3811
Photo of Dorothy Akakem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dorothy Akakem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am based in the Washington DC Metro Area, and I am licensed in both Washington DC and the state of Maryland. I worked with most of my clients via Telehealth and occasionally saw them on a 1:1 basis with an appointment. I see patients from 13 years Upwards. I'm here to support my patients/clients with their mental health needs by providing comprehensive assessments, diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management, with a focus on creating a safe and collaborative space for them to discuss your concerns."
I am a board-certified Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am based in the Washington DC Metro Area, and I am licensed in both Washington DC and the state of Maryland. I worked with most of my clients via Telehealth and occasionally saw them on a 1:1 basis with an appointment. I see patients from 13 years Upwards. I'm here to support my patients/clients with their mental health needs by providing comprehensive assessments, diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management, with a focus on creating a safe and collaborative space for them to discuss your concerns."
(855) 596-3045 View (855) 596-3045
Photo of Benneth Ekwe - Balanced life behavioral health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
Balanced life behavioral health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
At balanced life our patients satisfaction is our number 1 priority. Our goal is to be able to create an environment, where people will be comfortable in sharing their feelings, experiences and mental health problems. What makes us unique is the Keen listening ability and also the ability of understanding all members stories. We focus on promoting wellness and prevention by educating patients on the importance of maintaining good mental health and developing healthy habits that promote mental wellness. We make diet, exercise, and social support an integral part of this education. And that is why we are winning this race.
At balanced life our patients satisfaction is our number 1 priority. Our goal is to be able to create an environment, where people will be comfortable in sharing their feelings, experiences and mental health problems. What makes us unique is the Keen listening ability and also the ability of understanding all members stories. We focus on promoting wellness and prevention by educating patients on the importance of maintaining good mental health and developing healthy habits that promote mental wellness. We make diet, exercise, and social support an integral part of this education. And that is why we are winning this race.
(202) 873-9332 View (202) 873-9332
Photo of Jeffrey L Seal, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey L Seal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I am a psychiatrist specializing in therapy and medication management for adults and late adolescents. My practice provides the time for an in-depth assessment of a patient's needs and the formulation of a detailed treatment plan. The initial assessment usually takes two meetings and forms the foundation for an ongoing therapeutic relationship. I primarily utilize psychodynamic approaches, within a holistic framework that considers diet, exercise, and work-life balance. I provide treatment in a warm, compassionate, and accepting environment.
I am a psychiatrist specializing in therapy and medication management for adults and late adolescents. My practice provides the time for an in-depth assessment of a patient's needs and the formulation of a detailed treatment plan. The initial assessment usually takes two meetings and forms the foundation for an ongoing therapeutic relationship. I primarily utilize psychodynamic approaches, within a holistic framework that considers diet, exercise, and work-life balance. I provide treatment in a warm, compassionate, and accepting environment.
(202) 946-5733 View (202) 946-5733
Photo of Dr. Renee Diane Parisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Renee Diane Parisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Online Only
The ideal client for me is someone who is seeking comprehensive and holistic mental health care to help them recover from past trauma, including disenfranchised grief (pet loss, perinatal loss, and others). This individual is open to exploring various treatment modalities beyond traditional Western medications and understands the importance of addressing all aspects of their well-being, including physical health, nutrition, sleep, and herbal supplements.
The ideal client for me is someone who is seeking comprehensive and holistic mental health care to help them recover from past trauma, including disenfranchised grief (pet loss, perinatal loss, and others). This individual is open to exploring various treatment modalities beyond traditional Western medications and understands the importance of addressing all aspects of their well-being, including physical health, nutrition, sleep, and herbal supplements.
(202) 831-9460 View (202) 831-9460
Photo of Stephanie D Walden Lilly - Stability & Wellness (Stephanie D. Walden Lilly), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC, FNPBC
Stability & Wellness (Stephanie D. Walden Lilly)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC, FNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
It is my goal to help clients obtain stability, wellness and maintain a good quality of life. I strive to gain trust and confidence, as well as help each person improve and grow in order to be the best version of themselves. We will take a holistic approach and build a treatment plan together that works for your individual needs.
It is my goal to help clients obtain stability, wellness and maintain a good quality of life. I strive to gain trust and confidence, as well as help each person improve and grow in order to be the best version of themselves. We will take a holistic approach and build a treatment plan together that works for your individual needs.
(304) 924-2218 View (304) 924-2218
Photo of Hope Achoronye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hope Achoronye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a highly skilled and patient-centered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, recognized for expertise in both acute and primary patient care and patient advocacy. I demonstrate a proven track record of delivering positive patient outcomes in dynamic, high-pressure settings while fostering strong, collaborative relationships. I am known for superior interpersonal and communication skills, adeptness in managing competing priorities and providing comprehensive, individualized mental health care that aligns with the unique needs of each patient.
I am a highly skilled and patient-centered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, recognized for expertise in both acute and primary patient care and patient advocacy. I demonstrate a proven track record of delivering positive patient outcomes in dynamic, high-pressure settings while fostering strong, collaborative relationships. I am known for superior interpersonal and communication skills, adeptness in managing competing priorities and providing comprehensive, individualized mental health care that aligns with the unique needs of each patient.
(202) 972-6712 View (202) 972-6712
Photo of Alex Rahimi, Psychiatrist
Alex Rahimi
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
Dr. Rahimi tailors his small private practice to high functioning professionals who stand to benefit from the right combination of talk therapy and medication management.
Dr. Rahimi tailors his small private practice to high functioning professionals who stand to benefit from the right combination of talk therapy and medication management.
View
Photo of Harriet Avedi - Ruththomas, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Ruththomas, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Hello my name is Harriet Avedi. A Psychiatric mental Health nurse practitioner with proven abilities based in Washinton DC. I have clinical expertise in mental health, and addiction medication management. My passion is to see adolescents and young adults excel in life. I provide support for clients struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, conduct disorder and PTSD. Through counselling, group, interpersonal therapy and medication management we work together to address your concerns. At Ruththomas LLC you will find a space to vent, talk and discuss issues related to your treatment.
Hello my name is Harriet Avedi. A Psychiatric mental Health nurse practitioner with proven abilities based in Washinton DC. I have clinical expertise in mental health, and addiction medication management. My passion is to see adolescents and young adults excel in life. I provide support for clients struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, conduct disorder and PTSD. Through counselling, group, interpersonal therapy and medication management we work together to address your concerns. At Ruththomas LLC you will find a space to vent, talk and discuss issues related to your treatment.
(202) 840-8714 View (202) 840-8714
Photo of Meena Kumar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, FNP-C
Meena Kumar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I am dual certified as Family and Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing in the healthcare industry for over 25 years. My healthcare journey began in 1989 as a registered nurse. My goal is to treat my clients suffering from mental illnesses as well as physical illnesses. Having been born and raised in India, my core values are based on humanity and giving back to my community. I have been providing care for patients across the lifespan and am well experienced with dealing with various medical and mental health disorders.
I am dual certified as Family and Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing in the healthcare industry for over 25 years. My healthcare journey began in 1989 as a registered nurse. My goal is to treat my clients suffering from mental illnesses as well as physical illnesses. Having been born and raised in India, my core values are based on humanity and giving back to my community. I have been providing care for patients across the lifespan and am well experienced with dealing with various medical and mental health disorders.
(202) 519-8543 View (202) 519-8543
Photo of Ngozi M Okudoh - Affect Optimum Behavioral Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Affect Optimum Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Dr. Ngozi M. Okudoh is an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides caring, effective, and evidence-based treatments to meet the needs of her patients. She strives to provide empathy and warmth when treating patients. Dr. Okudoh believes that trust in the clinical setting is fostered by taking the adequate time to meet the needs of her patients. She is a major proponent of psychotherapy and well versed in cognitive behavioral therapy. She believes in using psychiatric medications judiciously and when appropriate to treat the patient in the most effective and safe manner.
Dr. Ngozi M. Okudoh is an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides caring, effective, and evidence-based treatments to meet the needs of her patients. She strives to provide empathy and warmth when treating patients. Dr. Okudoh believes that trust in the clinical setting is fostered by taking the adequate time to meet the needs of her patients. She is a major proponent of psychotherapy and well versed in cognitive behavioral therapy. She believes in using psychiatric medications judiciously and when appropriate to treat the patient in the most effective and safe manner.
(202) 304-1031 View (202) 304-1031
Photo of Christina Pu, Psychiatrist, MD
Christina Pu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I am Dr. Christina Pu, an adult psychiatrist with previous experience working as faculty in a teaching hospital. My interests are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and reproductive psychiatry. I take time to listen, provide empathy and support, and collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that would work the best for you. I strongly believe in a combination of medications, psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal wellness. I am fulfilled by helping patients improve their quality of life and achieve their goals.
I am Dr. Christina Pu, an adult psychiatrist with previous experience working as faculty in a teaching hospital. My interests are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and reproductive psychiatry. I take time to listen, provide empathy and support, and collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that would work the best for you. I strongly believe in a combination of medications, psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal wellness. I am fulfilled by helping patients improve their quality of life and achieve their goals.
(202) 918-3239 View (202) 918-3239
Photo of Vincent Bet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vincent Bet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
Greetings! I am Vincent Bett, a dedicated psychiatric provider committed to enhancing the mental well-being of individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. With a profound understanding of the complexities of these conditions, I am driven by a passion to empower my clients on their journey toward mental health and overall fulfillment.
Greetings! I am Vincent Bett, a dedicated psychiatric provider committed to enhancing the mental well-being of individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. With a profound understanding of the complexities of these conditions, I am driven by a passion to empower my clients on their journey toward mental health and overall fulfillment.
(877) 618-5630 View (877) 618-5630
Photo of Edward (Ed) Stern - Queer Ear Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Queer Ear Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 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 Ralph Gemelli, Psychiatrist, MD
Ralph Gemelli
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and psychoanalyst providing individual psychotherapy, play therapy, couples therapy, pharmacotherapy and psychoanalysis to patients for the following presenting symptoms: anxiety, depression, poor school performance, stuttering, lack of motivation, and finding oneself in relationships with people who are devaluating and/or abusive. My interpersonal focus is to help each patient become aware of what he or she consciously or unconsciously does that prevents the patient from developing developmentally enhancing relationships with significant others.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and psychoanalyst providing individual psychotherapy, play therapy, couples therapy, pharmacotherapy and psychoanalysis to patients for the following presenting symptoms: anxiety, depression, poor school performance, stuttering, lack of motivation, and finding oneself in relationships with people who are devaluating and/or abusive. My interpersonal focus is to help each patient become aware of what he or she consciously or unconsciously does that prevents the patient from developing developmentally enhancing relationships with significant others.
(202) 868-8114 View (202) 868-8114
Photo of Solomon Meltzer, Psychiatrist, MD
Solomon Meltzer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Through my training at Sheppard Pratt, I practice an integrated approach with consideration for the mind/body connection. While medications can play an important role in treatment of psychiatric illnesses, I endeavor to consider the whole person, paying careful attention to the individual and their internal world. Depressive and anxiety disorders are particularly suited to this holistic approach.
Through my training at Sheppard Pratt, I practice an integrated approach with consideration for the mind/body connection. While medications can play an important role in treatment of psychiatric illnesses, I endeavor to consider the whole person, paying careful attention to the individual and their internal world. Depressive and anxiety disorders are particularly suited to this holistic approach.
(410) 989-4937 x929 View (410) 989-4937 x929
Photo of Carlos E Sluzki, Psychiatrist, MD
Carlos E Sluzki
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I am a seasoned therapist for individuals, couples and families, with years of experience (and many presentations and publications --see my website www.sluzki.com). In therapy, I follow an empathic systemic/ narrative orientation, with occasional whiffs stemming from my prior psychoanalytic training. I am also a psychiatrist, with M.D. licenses in CA, DC and MA, and I offer medication management if needed. My multi-lingual, multi-cultural practice takes place in English, Spanish or Italian. Half of my current practice is by Skype/Zoom.
I am a seasoned therapist for individuals, couples and families, with years of experience (and many presentations and publications --see my website www.sluzki.com). In therapy, I follow an empathic systemic/ narrative orientation, with occasional whiffs stemming from my prior psychoanalytic training. I am also a psychiatrist, with M.D. licenses in CA, DC and MA, and I offer medication management if needed. My multi-lingual, multi-cultural practice takes place in English, Spanish or Italian. Half of my current practice is by Skype/Zoom.
(202) 517-2732 View (202) 517-2732
Photo of Joseph Michael Jeral, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph Michael Jeral
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
I use talk therapy and, when necessary, medications, to help people get to a place in which they can listen to their own voice, and use their own strengths, to cope with life's challenges, to establish a meaningful vision for their life, and to carry it out. I help people with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and career difficulties.
I use talk therapy and, when necessary, medications, to help people get to a place in which they can listen to their own voice, and use their own strengths, to cope with life's challenges, to establish a meaningful vision for their life, and to carry it out. I help people with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and career difficulties.
(202) 601-3747 View (202) 601-3747
Photo of Bruce S Hill, Psychiatrist, MD
Bruce S Hill
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Do you feel disconnected from close relationships, despite being surrounded by technology and social media 24/7? Are anxiety, trauma and low mood robbing you of the joy and spontaneity of life? Together, my clients and I walk through the biological, mental and emotional aspects of these conditions and gain an understanding of their origins as well as hidden strengths each of us has at our core. There is much to be discovered in all of us. With sensitive and timely use of medication and psychotherapy, these struggles and strengths begin to reveal themselves in fulfilling ways that restore meaning and function to our lives.
Do you feel disconnected from close relationships, despite being surrounded by technology and social media 24/7? Are anxiety, trauma and low mood robbing you of the joy and spontaneity of life? Together, my clients and I walk through the biological, mental and emotional aspects of these conditions and gain an understanding of their origins as well as hidden strengths each of us has at our core. There is much to be discovered in all of us. With sensitive and timely use of medication and psychotherapy, these struggles and strengths begin to reveal themselves in fulfilling ways that restore meaning and function to our lives.
(202) 759-8590 View (202) 759-8590
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See more therapy options for Washington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Washington, DC

300+

Average cost per session

$220

Psychiatrists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
92% Anxiety
75% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management
71% Bipolar Disorder
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
84% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Washington, DC see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Washington?

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.