Psychiatrists in Washington, DC

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
Photo of Christopher Hoffman, Psychiatrist, MD
Christopher Hoffman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Christopher Hoffman is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist with three years experience. Dr. Hoffman provides patient-centered treatment using medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Typically, medication management appointments are 30 mins, and therapy appointments are 45 minutes. Psychotherapy slots with Dr. Hoffman are limited, so he often brings another therapist to the treatment team.
Dr. Christopher Hoffman is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist with three years experience. Dr. Hoffman provides patient-centered treatment using medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Typically, medication management appointments are 30 mins, and therapy appointments are 45 minutes. Psychotherapy slots with Dr. Hoffman are limited, so he often brings another therapist to the treatment team.
(202) 953-6764 View (202) 953-6764
Photo of Kate Pabai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kate Pabai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Kate Pabai is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with a huge passion for mental health, whose care is centered to incorporate the medical as well as the mental health needs of her clients. She provides extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacological treatment initiation, and monitoring for both acute and chronic mental health problems. Kate has worked in a variety of settings including medical, surgical, stroke, dialysis, behavioral units, and case management.
Kate Pabai is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with a huge passion for mental health, whose care is centered to incorporate the medical as well as the mental health needs of her clients. She provides extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacological treatment initiation, and monitoring for both acute and chronic mental health problems. Kate has worked in a variety of settings including medical, surgical, stroke, dialysis, behavioral units, and case management.
(202) 816-6568 View (202) 816-6568
Photo of Georgina Rose Chidaushe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
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 Ancella Will Fominyam - Sunflower Healthcare Resources LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Sunflower Healthcare Resources LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20012
My name is Dr. Ancella Will Fominyam, and I've worked as a nurse for more than 17 years. Throughout my career, I have gained insights into the complexities and challenges of mental health care, along with the knowledge and skills necessary to offer compassionate and effective support to patients dealing with mental health issues.
My name is Dr. Ancella Will Fominyam, and I've worked as a nurse for more than 17 years. Throughout my career, I have gained insights into the complexities and challenges of mental health care, along with the knowledge and skills necessary to offer compassionate and effective support to patients dealing with mental health issues.
(844) 224-6087 View (844) 224-6087
Photo of Mekedes Mekonnen - Clearpoint Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Clearpoint Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Accepting NEW clients BOTH in-person and Telehealth! Do you suffer from chronic low mood? Worry excessively about everything? Have difficulty concentrating and accomplishing everyday tasks? Experience flashbacks from trauma? Do you suffer from panic attacks? You are not alone, as 1 in 5 adults in America has some mental illness. I work with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and Bipolar disorder. Book your appointment today.
Accepting NEW clients BOTH in-person and Telehealth! Do you suffer from chronic low mood? Worry excessively about everything? Have difficulty concentrating and accomplishing everyday tasks? Experience flashbacks from trauma? Do you suffer from panic attacks? You are not alone, as 1 in 5 adults in America has some mental illness. I work with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and Bipolar disorder. Book your appointment today.
(202) 519-6979 View (202) 519-6979
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 Mohammed Basith, Psychiatrist, MD
Mohammed Basith
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(202) 750-4512 View (202) 750-4512
Photo of Patricia G Kpolie - Caring Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC, CRNP- C
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 Sharon L Bernier, Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, CNS
Sharon L Bernier
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, CNS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
I have an adult practice for persons over the age of 18. If you are seeking therapy, you are interested in improving your life in the areas of relationships, communications and any other areas causing emotional discomfort or pain such as: work, marital or couple issues, parenting differences, losses, life phase adaptations, body image and decision making. Effectiveness of therapy depends on your active participation. It requires time, effort and regularity. Therapy involves evaluating your thoughts and behaviors, identifying stresses and working to modify both. The therapy relationship is a collaborative effort with strict confidentiality and respect for the client.
I have an adult practice for persons over the age of 18. If you are seeking therapy, you are interested in improving your life in the areas of relationships, communications and any other areas causing emotional discomfort or pain such as: work, marital or couple issues, parenting differences, losses, life phase adaptations, body image and decision making. Effectiveness of therapy depends on your active participation. It requires time, effort and regularity. Therapy involves evaluating your thoughts and behaviors, identifying stresses and working to modify both. The therapy relationship is a collaborative effort with strict confidentiality and respect for the client.
(202) 609-8855 View (202) 609-8855
Photo of Jyotika Devi Vazirani, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, CRNP, CNS
Jyotika Devi Vazirani
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, CRNP, CNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
We often come into our personal behaviors, thoughts, & feelings because they have helped us survive our own anxieties. As adults, often habitual patterns of behavior inhibit us from growing into the effective human beings we expect ourselves to become. Freedom, in its broadest sense, can be limited, depending on our own thought patterns, emotions, and our personal responses/reactions to our emotions. Together, we can look at patterns of behavior, private thoughts and feelings with empathy and without judgment. We can explore how freedom of thought and emotional reactivity can help you achieve your personal goals of actualization.
We often come into our personal behaviors, thoughts, & feelings because they have helped us survive our own anxieties. As adults, often habitual patterns of behavior inhibit us from growing into the effective human beings we expect ourselves to become. Freedom, in its broadest sense, can be limited, depending on our own thought patterns, emotions, and our personal responses/reactions to our emotions. Together, we can look at patterns of behavior, private thoughts and feelings with empathy and without judgment. We can explore how freedom of thought and emotional reactivity can help you achieve your personal goals of actualization.
(202) 568-8185 View (202) 568-8185
Photo of Smita H Patel, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Smita H Patel
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and have provided Comprehensive Psychiatric treatment to the Washington Metropolitan area for the past three decades. My unique nature of the practice and approach to healing the emotional storm stems from my training at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. I believe strongly in a holistic approach of mindfulness technique of relaxation combined with medication management for a particular disorder. I provide most cost effective comprehensive treatment by coordinating patient care with other mental health professional and Primary Care Physician.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and have provided Comprehensive Psychiatric treatment to the Washington Metropolitan area for the past three decades. My unique nature of the practice and approach to healing the emotional storm stems from my training at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. I believe strongly in a holistic approach of mindfulness technique of relaxation combined with medication management for a particular disorder. I provide most cost effective comprehensive treatment by coordinating patient care with other mental health professional and Primary Care Physician.
(202) 729-9504 View (202) 729-9504
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 Navin Reddy - Washington Interventional Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Washington Interventional Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
At Washington Interventional Psychiatry, we are dedicated to offering cutting-edge and evidence-based treatments that cater to a diverse range of mental health needs. Our practice is built on the foundation of providing effective, efficient, and safe interventions that truly make a difference in the lives of our patients. We take pride in being a leading psychiatric practice that embraces a comprehensive approach to mental health care. Our range of services includes medication management, interventional therapies, and even groundbreaking psychedelic treatments like ketamine and spravato.
At Washington Interventional Psychiatry, we are dedicated to offering cutting-edge and evidence-based treatments that cater to a diverse range of mental health needs. Our practice is built on the foundation of providing effective, efficient, and safe interventions that truly make a difference in the lives of our patients. We take pride in being a leading psychiatric practice that embraces a comprehensive approach to mental health care. Our range of services includes medication management, interventional therapies, and even groundbreaking psychedelic treatments like ketamine and spravato.
(202) 759-8751 View (202) 759-8751
Photo of May Omoijuanfo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Alexander Beard, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Beard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, and seeking relief and understanding. They are looking to make a change in their lives but feeling stuck. They want to gain better emotional regulation, improve coping skills, and build healthier relationships. Ultimately, they desire long-term mental well-being, personal growth, and a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment in their everyday experiences.
My ideal client is someone struggling with emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, and seeking relief and understanding. They are looking to make a change in their lives but feeling stuck. They want to gain better emotional regulation, improve coping skills, and build healthier relationships. Ultimately, they desire long-term mental well-being, personal growth, and a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment in their everyday experiences.
(855) 748-1690 View (855) 748-1690
Photo of Renata Nkeze - Comprehensive Health and Behavioral services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Comprehensive Health and Behavioral services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Renata Nkeze is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Washington D.C. She has worked in inpatient and out-patient mental health settings. ​She is qualified to diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health illness across the lifespan. She has experience treating patients with Bipolar disorder and mood disorders, Schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD, Trauma and PTSD. through active listening, Dr Nkeze is able to evaluate, diagnosed and treat patient. Appointments are mostly through Tele-health
Dr. Renata Nkeze is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Washington D.C. She has worked in inpatient and out-patient mental health settings. ​She is qualified to diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health illness across the lifespan. She has experience treating patients with Bipolar disorder and mood disorders, Schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD, Trauma and PTSD. through active listening, Dr Nkeze is able to evaluate, diagnosed and treat patient. Appointments are mostly through Tele-health
(202) 964-9248 View (202) 964-9248
Photo of Michael Bogrov, Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Michael Bogrov
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Dr. Michael Bogrov is a Johns Hopkins trained child psychiatrist with expertise in ADHD across the age spectrum. His leadership positions while a member of the faculty at Hopkins included leading the ADHD clinic, and serving as medical director of the Children’s Mental Health Center. Over his 18 year career at Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital in Baltimore, one of the top ten rated psychiatric hospitals in the country, he served in a number of positions. He has been practicing in Washington, DC since 2015.
Dr. Michael Bogrov is a Johns Hopkins trained child psychiatrist with expertise in ADHD across the age spectrum. His leadership positions while a member of the faculty at Hopkins included leading the ADHD clinic, and serving as medical director of the Children’s Mental Health Center. Over his 18 year career at Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital in Baltimore, one of the top ten rated psychiatric hospitals in the country, he served in a number of positions. He has been practicing in Washington, DC since 2015.
(202) 525-5123 View (202) 525-5123
Photo of Solomon Adekola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Solomon Adekola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi. I'm a licensed and board-certified psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner based in the state of Maryland. I received my master's from Walden University and have been practicing for years now. I help young adult and older adult struggling with mental health overcome and become the best versions of themselves. Effective communication. As a psychiatrist I'm able to listen actively and attentively to my patients, asking the right questions to encourage self-reflection and understanding.
Hi. I'm a licensed and board-certified psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner based in the state of Maryland. I received my master's from Walden University and have been practicing for years now. I help young adult and older adult struggling with mental health overcome and become the best versions of themselves. Effective communication. As a psychiatrist I'm able to listen actively and attentively to my patients, asking the right questions to encourage self-reflection and understanding.
(855) 340-1729 View (855) 340-1729
Photo of Olufunke Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Olufunke Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Enthusiastic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 3 years of experience dedicated to enhancing mental health outcomes. Proficient in delivering exceptional patient care, utilizing tele-psychiatry, and providing mental health education. My experience across diverse healthcare settings has sharpened my clinical skills and my ability to drive digital health transitions. Recognized for leadership in advancing mental health services through innovative digital solutions
Enthusiastic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 3 years of experience dedicated to enhancing mental health outcomes. Proficient in delivering exceptional patient care, utilizing tele-psychiatry, and providing mental health education. My experience across diverse healthcare settings has sharpened my clinical skills and my ability to drive digital health transitions. Recognized for leadership in advancing mental health services through innovative digital solutions
(888) 364-8418 View (888) 364-8418
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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

$225

Psychiatrists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% 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
83% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Washington, DC see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% 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.