Psychiatrists in Washington, DC

Photo of Sana Chunara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Sana Chunara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I work with individuals who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—often battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood instability. My ideal clients are those who have tried therapy, medication, or other routes but still feel like something’s missing. They’re searching for real, lasting relief and a provider who listens deeply, understands their unique story, and offers compassionate, evidence-based care that goes beyond a prescription pad. What sets me apart is my holistic, client-centered approach.I don’t just treat symptoms—I look at the whole person: mind & body
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I work with individuals who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—often battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood instability. My ideal clients are those who have tried therapy, medication, or other routes but still feel like something’s missing. They’re searching for real, lasting relief and a provider who listens deeply, understands their unique story, and offers compassionate, evidence-based care that goes beyond a prescription pad. What sets me apart is my holistic, client-centered approach.I don’t just treat symptoms—I look at the whole person: mind & body
(202) 968-3104 View (202) 968-3104
Photo of Charles P Samenow, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Charles P Samenow
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
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 Anthony J. Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Anthony J. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
At Ascension Psychiatric Services we believe that emotional wellness is complex and often misunderstood. It is a result of the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. We employ the use of evidenced based therapeutic techniques along with judicious use of medication to address each of these components. It is our mission to Ascend above expectations by providing personalized and compassionate care to all, while building relationships and trust.
At Ascension Psychiatric Services we believe that emotional wellness is complex and often misunderstood. It is a result of the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. We employ the use of evidenced based therapeutic techniques along with judicious use of medication to address each of these components. It is our mission to Ascend above expectations by providing personalized and compassionate care to all, while building relationships and trust.
(202) 868-8617 View (202) 868-8617
Photo of Stella Okeke - Courage Behavioral Healthcare Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Courage Behavioral Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Washington, DC 20006
Are you or someone you love feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed at school or work? Is your child having a hard time fitting in school? Are they having issues with concentration and motivation? Do you feel depressed? Are you losing interest in everyday activities and pleasures? Are you having suicidal thoughts, thoughts of self harm or harming others? Do you have anxiety? Panic attacks? Or overall life disrupting PTSD? If this is you, please call us at Courage Behavioral Healthcare Services! Please call us, we will love to hear from you.
Are you or someone you love feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed at school or work? Is your child having a hard time fitting in school? Are they having issues with concentration and motivation? Do you feel depressed? Are you losing interest in everyday activities and pleasures? Are you having suicidal thoughts, thoughts of self harm or harming others? Do you have anxiety? Panic attacks? Or overall life disrupting PTSD? If this is you, please call us at Courage Behavioral Healthcare Services! Please call us, we will love to hear from you.
(202) 873-9165 View (202) 873-9165
Photo of Adijat Adeyemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Adijat Adeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Gregory Anyinam Obiwuma - New Era Recovery & Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
New Era Recovery & Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Washington, DC 20002
Greg Obiwuma is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of working in psychiatric and mental health care in the Washington, DC metro area. We perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, psychotic illnesses and other mental health issues in people of all ages. At New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC, we utilize a holistic approach to treat patients across the lifespan (Adults, Adolescents and Children). Applying evidence-based
Greg Obiwuma is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of working in psychiatric and mental health care in the Washington, DC metro area. We perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, psychotic illnesses and other mental health issues in people of all ages. At New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC, we utilize a holistic approach to treat patients across the lifespan (Adults, Adolescents and Children). Applying evidence-based
(202) 946-7827 View (202) 946-7827
Photo of Isabella Kenyeen Ngedzeyeem, Psychiatric Nurse, MS, PMHNP, BC
Isabella Kenyeen Ngedzeyeem
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Ms. Ngedzeyeem has experience diagnosing mental illnesses, providing client-centered care, and evidence-based mental healthcare and treatment. She performs psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, and other mental health issues. She has advanced her knowledge and skills over the years, working with diverse teams of all ages, races, ethnicities, and gender identities. Her objective is to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs, with a focus on providing support to those struggling.
Ms. Ngedzeyeem has experience diagnosing mental illnesses, providing client-centered care, and evidence-based mental healthcare and treatment. She performs psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, and other mental health issues. She has advanced her knowledge and skills over the years, working with diverse teams of all ages, races, ethnicities, and gender identities. Her objective is to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs, with a focus on providing support to those struggling.
(202) 900-5344 View (202) 900-5344
Photo of Liz Comstock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MCJ, APRN, PMHNP, CFRC
Liz Comstock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MCJ, APRN, PMHNP, CFRC
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and certified first responder counselor, my role is to provide tailored, evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy that empowers individuals, fosters resilience, and supports overall emotional wellbeing. My area of expertise is working primarily with first responders, healthcare professionals, government personnel, executives, and young adults—individuals who all face unique stressors and high expectations—both from others and themselves.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and certified first responder counselor, my role is to provide tailored, evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy that empowers individuals, fosters resilience, and supports overall emotional wellbeing. My area of expertise is working primarily with first responders, healthcare professionals, government personnel, executives, and young adults—individuals who all face unique stressors and high expectations—both from others and themselves.
(202) 968-3886 View (202) 968-3886
Photo of Mekedes Mekonnen - Clearpoint Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Clearpoint Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Washington, DC 20016
Now Accepting New Clients – In-Person & Telehealth. Are you struggling with chronic low mood, persistent anxiety, or difficulty focusing on daily tasks? Do you experience intrusive thoughts, trauma-related flashbacks, or debilitating panic attacks? You are not alone. Mental health challenges affect one in five adults in the United States, and effective support is available. I specialize in working with individuals and families, from age 5 & up, navigating the complexities of: Depression Anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder, Alcohol use, & Schizophrenia.
Now Accepting New Clients – In-Person & Telehealth. Are you struggling with chronic low mood, persistent anxiety, or difficulty focusing on daily tasks? Do you experience intrusive thoughts, trauma-related flashbacks, or debilitating panic attacks? You are not alone. Mental health challenges affect one in five adults in the United States, and effective support is available. I specialize in working with individuals and families, from age 5 & up, navigating the complexities of: Depression Anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder, Alcohol use, & Schizophrenia.
(202) 519-6979 View (202) 519-6979
Photo of Clifford Sussman, Psychiatrist, MD
Clifford Sussman
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
I have a private practice in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and young adults in Washington, DC. I am one of the few specialists in the country in internet and video game addiction. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
I have a private practice in psychiatry for children, adolescents, and young adults in Washington, DC. I am one of the few specialists in the country in internet and video game addiction. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(202) 643-5962 View (202) 643-5962
Photo of Eugenia M Priddy, Psychiatrist, MD
Eugenia M Priddy
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20036
I have a unique approach in combining medication management with therapy to address the specific needs of each patient. I have advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy and insight oriented psychotherapy as well as medication management. For 22 years, I have successfully treated patients in private and community practice. I help patients struggling with life transitions, relationships, and anxiety, as well as depression, bipolar and thought disorders.
I have a unique approach in combining medication management with therapy to address the specific needs of each patient. I have advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy and insight oriented psychotherapy as well as medication management. For 22 years, I have successfully treated patients in private and community practice. I help patients struggling with life transitions, relationships, and anxiety, as well as depression, bipolar and thought disorders.
(202) 999-3755 View (202) 999-3755
Photo of Ralph Gemelli, Psychiatrist, MD
Ralph Gemelli
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Shyra Richards, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Shyra Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Shyra and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving clients in the state of Washington DC and Virginia, I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Bipolar, Life transitions, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Trauma. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Shyra and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving clients in the state of Washington DC and Virginia, I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Bipolar, Life transitions, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Trauma. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(202) 891-5476 View (202) 891-5476
Photo of Olubunmi Moses, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Olubunmi Moses
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with years of experience working with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and chronic stress. I have extensive experience caring for patients across different age groups and cultural backgrounds, and I also bring a strong clinical background from working with inpatient clients in a hospital setting.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with years of experience working with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and chronic stress. I have extensive experience caring for patients across different age groups and cultural backgrounds, and I also bring a strong clinical background from working with inpatient clients in a hospital setting.
(202) 831-2439 View (202) 831-2439
Photo of Dr. Tai Ajani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Dr. Tai Ajani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Tai Ajani, DNP, PMHNP-BC is doctoral-prepared, dual board-certified in psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology nurse practitioner. She has more than 20 years of experience as a healthcare provider and has delivered high-quality health care to multicultural patients in outpatient and inpatient settings. At MindBodyPinnacle Health in Maryland, she offers holistic psychiatric care to individuals over the age 10 years.
Dr. Tai Ajani, DNP, PMHNP-BC is doctoral-prepared, dual board-certified in psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology nurse practitioner. She has more than 20 years of experience as a healthcare provider and has delivered high-quality health care to multicultural patients in outpatient and inpatient settings. At MindBodyPinnacle Health in Maryland, she offers holistic psychiatric care to individuals over the age 10 years.
(202) 952-2573 View (202) 952-2573
Photo of Joseph Michael Jeral, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph Michael Jeral
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
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 Matt Leshchiner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Matt Leshchiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I diagnose and treat adults and adolescents with all psychiatric illnesses. However, I don’t get hung up on labels and diagnoses. My patients describe me as authentic because I treat each person as an individual with their own specific symptoms and needs. I am committed to providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have worked in psychiatry for over six years. I earned my BSN and MSN from The George Washington University. While I primarily do medication management, I am also trained in DBT and existential therapy.
I diagnose and treat adults and adolescents with all psychiatric illnesses. However, I don’t get hung up on labels and diagnoses. My patients describe me as authentic because I treat each person as an individual with their own specific symptoms and needs. I am committed to providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and have worked in psychiatry for over six years. I earned my BSN and MSN from The George Washington University. While I primarily do medication management, I am also trained in DBT and existential therapy.
(202) 932-9745 View (202) 932-9745
Photo of Jason Wexler, Psychiatrist, MD
Jason Wexler
Psychiatrist, MD
Washington, DC 20009
Life is far from perfect. Everyone experiences loss, unforeseen change, and anxiety provoking stress. When these stresses become so powerful that they interfere with our work, self-care, or relationships, it is important to remember that we are not alone and help is available. With bravery, you can seek help and begin to heal. My goal is to help those who are facing these difficulties. I received my psychiatric training at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Adult Psychiatry. With this experience, I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric illnesses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Life is far from perfect. Everyone experiences loss, unforeseen change, and anxiety provoking stress. When these stresses become so powerful that they interfere with our work, self-care, or relationships, it is important to remember that we are not alone and help is available. With bravery, you can seek help and begin to heal. My goal is to help those who are facing these difficulties. I received my psychiatric training at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Adult Psychiatry. With this experience, I am able to diagnose and treat a broad range of psychiatric illnesses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
(443) 247-0385 View (443) 247-0385
Photo of Dr. Nauf Latef Azad - Mental Wealth By Dr. Azad, Psychiatrist, DO, MSc
Mental Wealth By Dr. Azad
Psychiatrist, DO, MSc
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental Wealth provides premier psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults in DC, MD, and VA. We believe that seeing a mental health professional is a powerful tool to help you reach your maximum potential. While we aren’t about labeling or focusing on weaknesses, we are about identifying what you want out of life and working together to create a path that will enable you to start getting closer to reaching personal and professional goals. We help you understand the nature of your difficulties and make lasting progress towards achieving the life you have always wanted.
Mental Wealth provides premier psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults in DC, MD, and VA. We believe that seeing a mental health professional is a powerful tool to help you reach your maximum potential. While we aren’t about labeling or focusing on weaknesses, we are about identifying what you want out of life and working together to create a path that will enable you to start getting closer to reaching personal and professional goals. We help you understand the nature of your difficulties and make lasting progress towards achieving the life you have always wanted.
(202) 791-4892 View (202) 791-4892
Photo of Lisa S Tubman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-BC
Lisa S Tubman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-BC
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

See more therapy options for Washington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Washington, DC

400+

Average cost per session

$185

Psychiatrists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
76% ADHD
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% Medication Management
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Washington, DC see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% 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.