Psychiatrists in Wilmington, DE

Janet Moriango
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19805
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, feeling overwhelmed and seeking relief. They need a supportive space to process emotions, gain clarity, and develop coping strategies. Their goal is to regain control, improve daily functioning, and build resilience. They want to feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools for lasting mental wellness. Whether facing life transitions, stress, or persistent mental health concerns, they seek guidance from a compassionate provider who values their unique journey.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, feeling overwhelmed and seeking relief. They need a supportive space to process emotions, gain clarity, and develop coping strategies. Their goal is to regain control, improve daily functioning, and build resilience. They want to feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools for lasting mental wellness. Whether facing life transitions, stress, or persistent mental health concerns, they seek guidance from a compassionate provider who values their unique journey.
(302) 208-9120 View (302) 208-9120
Photo of Nicole Tazewell - Nicole | Introspection Counseling Center, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN
Nicole | Introspection Counseling Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address mental health conditions through medication management services tailored to your specific needs. For those who prefer the convenience of care from their home or require flexible scheduling, I offer online psychiatric medication management services that are private, secure, and effective. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with clients from all walks of life, and I’ve seen firsthand how powerful the right combination of medication and support can be in helping individuals manage their mental health.
I provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address mental health conditions through medication management services tailored to your specific needs. For those who prefer the convenience of care from their home or require flexible scheduling, I offer online psychiatric medication management services that are private, secure, and effective. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with clients from all walks of life, and I’ve seen firsthand how powerful the right combination of medication and support can be in helping individuals manage their mental health.
(302) 618-4127 View (302) 618-4127
Photo of Monica Sam - Alpha Healthcare Associates, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Alpha Healthcare Associates, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19806
Hi! I am Dr. Monica Sam, DNP. If you are a patient who needs guidance in your journey to finding solutions to your mental health, I am your provider. I support my clients' goals of partnering with me to reach optimum mental health through psychotherapy and medication management. My client base include children six years and older, adolescents, adults and geriatric patients with mental health issues such as major depressive disorders, Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, insomnia and anger disorder. I look forward to navigating with you through your mental health journey.
Hi! I am Dr. Monica Sam, DNP. If you are a patient who needs guidance in your journey to finding solutions to your mental health, I am your provider. I support my clients' goals of partnering with me to reach optimum mental health through psychotherapy and medication management. My client base include children six years and older, adolescents, adults and geriatric patients with mental health issues such as major depressive disorders, Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, insomnia and anger disorder. I look forward to navigating with you through your mental health journey.
(302) 618-3707 View (302) 618-3707
Photo of Constantine A Azarcon, Psychiatrist, MD
Constantine A Azarcon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Our Practice is built on the principles of high quality care and providing the best care to our patients and their families. We try to individualize our treatment to our patients' unique and individual needs. Our unique practice has established our place in the healthcare field especially in the tristate area. This allows us to make a distinctive and substantial impact for our patients and their families. Dr Azarcon & Associates, LLC.
Our Practice is built on the principles of high quality care and providing the best care to our patients and their families. We try to individualize our treatment to our patients' unique and individual needs. Our unique practice has established our place in the healthcare field especially in the tristate area. This allows us to make a distinctive and substantial impact for our patients and their families. Dr Azarcon & Associates, LLC.
(302) 202-5405 View (302) 202-5405
Photo of Chanell Brooker-Knight, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Chanell Brooker-Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19809
Are you unhappy? Feeling withdrawn or irritable? Struggling to keep up at home and work? Often drained and overwhelmed? Sleep less than ideal? If this describes you, then you're in the right place. We can help! At Mindful Meds Psychiatry and Wellness, we take the time to understand your concerns. At our integrative psychiatric practice, we explore medical, psychological, and lifestyle factors contributing to your symptoms. We work with you to develop individualized, multifactored treatment plans to guide treatment.
Are you unhappy? Feeling withdrawn or irritable? Struggling to keep up at home and work? Often drained and overwhelmed? Sleep less than ideal? If this describes you, then you're in the right place. We can help! At Mindful Meds Psychiatry and Wellness, we take the time to understand your concerns. At our integrative psychiatric practice, we explore medical, psychological, and lifestyle factors contributing to your symptoms. We work with you to develop individualized, multifactored treatment plans to guide treatment.
(302) 592-2578 View (302) 592-2578
Photo of Florence Akouegnon - Caring Minds Medical Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
Caring Minds Medical Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19808
We are experience in managing depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnia, and substance abuse. We are proud to provide a high-quality level in both psychiatry and medical care. We are committed to health and wellness to all. Our mission is to provide excellent medical and psychiatric care in a family centered environment. Our philosophy is shared by all our staff, from providers to the front desk. We value the relationships with our families, and enjoy caring for everyone.
We are experience in managing depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, insomnia, and substance abuse. We are proud to provide a high-quality level in both psychiatry and medical care. We are committed to health and wellness to all. Our mission is to provide excellent medical and psychiatric care in a family centered environment. Our philosophy is shared by all our staff, from providers to the front desk. We value the relationships with our families, and enjoy caring for everyone.
(302) 550-9415 View (302) 550-9415
Photo of Norman Broudy - Norman Broudy M.D and Associates, Psychiatrist, MD
Norman Broudy M.D and Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801
Norman Broudy, MD is a multidisciplinary, outpatient group practice dedicated to the evaluation and treatment of mental health problems in children, adolescents, adults and families. Our staff includes 5 experienced child adolescent and adult psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and 21 therapists including child and adult therapists, family therapists, psychologists, and other mental health practitioners. Established in Wilmington, Delaware in 1981, we are one of the largest group practices in the area. In Practice for 44 Years.
Norman Broudy, MD is a multidisciplinary, outpatient group practice dedicated to the evaluation and treatment of mental health problems in children, adolescents, adults and families. Our staff includes 5 experienced child adolescent and adult psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and 21 therapists including child and adult therapists, family therapists, psychologists, and other mental health practitioners. Established in Wilmington, Delaware in 1981, we are one of the largest group practices in the area. In Practice for 44 Years.
(302) 600-1953 x221 View (302) 600-1953 x221
Photo of Ngozi Theresa Chiekwu - Integrated Health & Wellness Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Integrated Health & Wellness Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19806
Integrated Health & Wellness Services (IHAWS) focuses on providing services to individuals and families struggling with mental illness including substance use. We provide services to children, adolescents and adults. We have providers with experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions and utilize different counseling methods to meet each individual need. Our goal at IHAWS is to provide the highest standard of individualized care to each of our patients.
Integrated Health & Wellness Services (IHAWS) focuses on providing services to individuals and families struggling with mental illness including substance use. We provide services to children, adolescents and adults. We have providers with experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions and utilize different counseling methods to meet each individual need. Our goal at IHAWS is to provide the highest standard of individualized care to each of our patients.
(302) 427-8000 View (302) 427-8000
Photo of Yvonne J. Owens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Yvonne J. Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with feeling down or lack of energy ? We provide care for individuals ages 5 and older suffering from mood and psychotic disorders, anxiety, trauma and ADHD. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy interventions.
Are you struggling with feeling down or lack of energy ? We provide care for individuals ages 5 and older suffering from mood and psychotic disorders, anxiety, trauma and ADHD. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy interventions.
(302) 329-3639 View (302) 329-3639
Photo of Jen Haller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Jen Haller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19801
Now Accepting New Clients! Jennifer is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Towson University. Jennifer has specialized training and experience in treating clients across the lifespan with various mental health conditions. She has psychiatric experience, including working in local hospitals, in the emergency room, and in outpatient clinics. Jennifer has been a nurse for over fourteen years with a background in critical care.
Now Accepting New Clients! Jennifer is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Towson University. Jennifer has specialized training and experience in treating clients across the lifespan with various mental health conditions. She has psychiatric experience, including working in local hospitals, in the emergency room, and in outpatient clinics. Jennifer has been a nurse for over fourteen years with a background in critical care.
(302) 581-7566 x1 View (302) 581-7566 x1
Photo of Kristen Ryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Kristen Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19808
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am so glad you found me and would be honored to work with you on your mental health journey. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience in the mental health field. Initially from Long Island, NY, I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Public Health, with a minor in Spanish from Stony Brook University. I returned to the University of Delaware to receive my Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. It has been working in both inpatient and outpatient dual-diagnosis psychiatry settings that I found my true passion, and pursued my MSN in psychiatry.
Welcome! I am so glad you found me and would be honored to work with you on your mental health journey. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience in the mental health field. Initially from Long Island, NY, I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Public Health, with a minor in Spanish from Stony Brook University. I returned to the University of Delaware to receive my Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. It has been working in both inpatient and outpatient dual-diagnosis psychiatry settings that I found my true passion, and pursued my MSN in psychiatry.
(302) 303-6010 View (302) 303-6010
Photo of Dolapo Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Dolapo Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19805
If you are looking for a partner in your mental health journey who is dedicated to your overall well-being, please reach out, and let's discuss how I can support you! My practice is built on the belief that effective treatment extends beyond immediate psychological symptoms and must encompass the entire well-being of the individual. My approach to mental health care is patient-centered, focusing on tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. I integrate evidence-based practices with innovative strategies to support not only mental health but also emotional, physical, and social well-being.
If you are looking for a partner in your mental health journey who is dedicated to your overall well-being, please reach out, and let's discuss how I can support you! My practice is built on the belief that effective treatment extends beyond immediate psychological symptoms and must encompass the entire well-being of the individual. My approach to mental health care is patient-centered, focusing on tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. I integrate evidence-based practices with innovative strategies to support not only mental health but also emotional, physical, and social well-being.
(302) 251-1920 View (302) 251-1920
Photo of Priya Dubey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Priya Dubey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of healthcare experience. I earned my graduate degree from Wilmington University and completed my post-master’s psychiatry education at Wilkes University. My passion lies in mental health, and I strive to build strong, trusting relationships with my clients to foster effective treatment and lasting change. My background is in Community Mental Health, and I specialize in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorders, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, and mood disorders.
I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of healthcare experience. I earned my graduate degree from Wilmington University and completed my post-master’s psychiatry education at Wilkes University. My passion lies in mental health, and I strive to build strong, trusting relationships with my clients to foster effective treatment and lasting change. My background is in Community Mental Health, and I specialize in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorders, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, and mood disorders.
(302) 386-3973 View (302) 386-3973
Photo of Joana Gillett-Spio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Joana Gillett-Spio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective care. With nearly a decade of hands-on experience in managing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have had the privilege of supporting countless individuals on their journey toward better mental health. My approach is patient-centered, focusing on understanding and addressing the unique needs and experiences of each individual.
As a certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective care. With nearly a decade of hands-on experience in managing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have had the privilege of supporting countless individuals on their journey toward better mental health. My approach is patient-centered, focusing on understanding and addressing the unique needs and experiences of each individual.
(302) 924-2906 View (302) 924-2906
Photo of Tina Grossman - Goodwellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, NBCC
Goodwellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Accepting New Patients! At Goodwellness, we provide compassionate psychiatric care for children (12+), teens, and adults. Led by Tina Grossman, NP, we specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, ADHD, and more. Our services include comprehensive evaluations, personalized medication management, and counseling to help you navigate life’s challenges. We believe in a patient-centered approach, creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and empowered. Take the first step toward healing—contact us today to start your journey to better mental health.
Now Accepting New Patients! At Goodwellness, we provide compassionate psychiatric care for children (12+), teens, and adults. Led by Tina Grossman, NP, we specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, ADHD, and more. Our services include comprehensive evaluations, personalized medication management, and counseling to help you navigate life’s challenges. We believe in a patient-centered approach, creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and empowered. Take the first step toward healing—contact us today to start your journey to better mental health.
(302) 581-8251 View (302) 581-8251
Photo of Henry Noble Coffield - Henry N Coffield dba Coffield Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, CRNP-RN, LCSW, CAADC
Henry N Coffield dba Coffield Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, CRNP-RN, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Within 72 hours a patient can be seen if they are ready for change and have decided to contact Coffield Therapy looking to address conditions /concerns /issues. They will have an appointment and be seen within 72 hours. Whether the issue is mental illness/opiate substance abuse / medication management, if they are expressing the desire to improve the quality of life and regain control of life we are here.That is the process needed to achieve self actualization.
Within 72 hours a patient can be seen if they are ready for change and have decided to contact Coffield Therapy looking to address conditions /concerns /issues. They will have an appointment and be seen within 72 hours. Whether the issue is mental illness/opiate substance abuse / medication management, if they are expressing the desire to improve the quality of life and regain control of life we are here.That is the process needed to achieve self actualization.
(302) 205-1081 View (302) 205-1081
Photo of Ema M Ndi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Ema M Ndi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19808
I have great passion and experience in offering unique individualized treatment/management of varying mental health conditions including Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, Schizophrenia, Disruptive mood disregulatory disorder, ASD, Insomia and more. I am dual board certified in Family and mental health specialties thus I have great insight in treating the above conditions with excellent knowledge base on how the mental health informs the medical/physical health. I love to not only treat and support my patients but also love to empower and inspire them through out their care.
I have great passion and experience in offering unique individualized treatment/management of varying mental health conditions including Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, Schizophrenia, Disruptive mood disregulatory disorder, ASD, Insomia and more. I am dual board certified in Family and mental health specialties thus I have great insight in treating the above conditions with excellent knowledge base on how the mental health informs the medical/physical health. I love to not only treat and support my patients but also love to empower and inspire them through out their care.
(302) 202-9633 View (302) 202-9633
Med Psych Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19808
Our practice philosophy is rooted in a deep commitment to providing individualized, evidence-based, and comprehensive psychiatric care. For individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression, we offer hope through modalities like Spravato (esketamine) and TMS. We believe that mental wellness is a cornerstone of overall health, and we strive to empower our patients on their journeys to recovery. We recognize that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we prioritize building collaborative, therapeutic relationships where patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their treatment planning
Our practice philosophy is rooted in a deep commitment to providing individualized, evidence-based, and comprehensive psychiatric care. For individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression, we offer hope through modalities like Spravato (esketamine) and TMS. We believe that mental wellness is a cornerstone of overall health, and we strive to empower our patients on their journeys to recovery. We recognize that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we prioritize building collaborative, therapeutic relationships where patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their treatment planning
(302) 532-4537 x123 View (302) 532-4537 x123
Photo of John William Dougherty III - Initia Nova Delaware- Ketamine Treatment Center , Psychiatrist, DO , MS
Initia Nova Delaware- Ketamine Treatment Center
Psychiatrist, DO , MS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Initia Nova is a comprehensive treatment team using advanced medical solutions to treat common problems, specializing in depression, PTSD, and bipolar depression. Dr. Dougherty and his team utilize ketamine infusions and will be adding ketamine assisted psychotherapy in the near future along with other novel treatment tools to help those who have not found relief from their mental health struggles with standard treatment options.
Initia Nova is a comprehensive treatment team using advanced medical solutions to treat common problems, specializing in depression, PTSD, and bipolar depression. Dr. Dougherty and his team utilize ketamine infusions and will be adding ketamine assisted psychotherapy in the near future along with other novel treatment tools to help those who have not found relief from their mental health struggles with standard treatment options.
(302) 329-3585 View (302) 329-3585
Photo of Fatimah K Boone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fatimah K Boone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Does anxiety give you racing and overwhelming thoughts? Are you lacking all motivation and feeling sadness? Does the memory of trauma overshadow your daily life and interactions with other people? Do you go through long periods of sadness and have days or weeks of amazing energy, sleeplessness, and impulsive behavior? I can help you change your life from emotionally burdened or unpredictable to even-keeled. I am a Vanderbilt University educated, Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who helps through medication management and EMDR and person-centered psychotherapy.
Does anxiety give you racing and overwhelming thoughts? Are you lacking all motivation and feeling sadness? Does the memory of trauma overshadow your daily life and interactions with other people? Do you go through long periods of sadness and have days or weeks of amazing energy, sleeplessness, and impulsive behavior? I can help you change your life from emotionally burdened or unpredictable to even-keeled. I am a Vanderbilt University educated, Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who helps through medication management and EMDR and person-centered psychotherapy.
(302) 321-2973 View (302) 321-2973
1

See more therapy options for Wilmington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wilmington, DE

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Wilmington, DE who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
85% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
69% Trauma and PTSD
65% Medication Management
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
76% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Wilmington, DE see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wilmington?

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.