Psychiatrists in District of Columbia

Photo of Adijat Adeyemi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adijat Adeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Adijat Adeyemi, and I am a licensed Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to my patients and empowering them to achieve optimal health while actively engaging in their communities. My approach is rooted in empathy, care, knowledge, and patient-centered practices. I believe in fostering a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued while providing the guidance they need to thrive. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships, ensuring that my patients feel heard, respected, and understood.
Hello, my name is Adijat Adeyemi, and I am a licensed Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to my patients and empowering them to achieve optimal health while actively engaging in their communities. My approach is rooted in empathy, care, knowledge, and patient-centered practices. I believe in fostering a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued while providing the guidance they need to thrive. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships, ensuring that my patients feel heard, respected, and understood.
(833) 982-4011 View (833) 982-4011
Photo of Emily Nyange Floode, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Nyange Floode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
As a Doctoral psychiatric and family Nurse Practitioner, it is my objective to advocate for patients who fight to be heard or respected, as well as manage their treatment with understanding, empathy, and attention to holistic care. I am a very fortunate nurse practitioner to work in a growing age of healthcare and firmly believe that mental health and individuals living with chronic conditions needing care rely on a culture of acceptance and openness. I will work hard to foster a safe environment for all patients and plan to use my DNP care for patients with anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, and chronic conditions.
As a Doctoral psychiatric and family Nurse Practitioner, it is my objective to advocate for patients who fight to be heard or respected, as well as manage their treatment with understanding, empathy, and attention to holistic care. I am a very fortunate nurse practitioner to work in a growing age of healthcare and firmly believe that mental health and individuals living with chronic conditions needing care rely on a culture of acceptance and openness. I will work hard to foster a safe environment for all patients and plan to use my DNP care for patients with anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, and chronic conditions.
(202) 972-6998 View (202) 972-6998
Photo of Wilhem Rivera MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Wilhem Rivera MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
Dr. Rivera employs an integrative style that focuses on the individual's sleep, diet, physical and mental fitness. He enjoys working in particular with weight loss, men's wellness, de-prescription from psychotropic medications, and detox from long-term substance use: tobacco, alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines. Furthermore, he specializes in the diagnosis and management of attention, mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. You and Dr. Rivera will discuss available treatment modalities that may include lifestyle changes, meditation and mindfulness, exercise, medication management, and hormonal balancing.
Dr. Rivera employs an integrative style that focuses on the individual's sleep, diet, physical and mental fitness. He enjoys working in particular with weight loss, men's wellness, de-prescription from psychotropic medications, and detox from long-term substance use: tobacco, alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines. Furthermore, he specializes in the diagnosis and management of attention, mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. You and Dr. Rivera will discuss available treatment modalities that may include lifestyle changes, meditation and mindfulness, exercise, medication management, and hormonal balancing.
(202) 516-7680 View (202) 516-7680
Photo of Nicole Tazewell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Tazewell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Nicole Tazewell, APRN, PMHNP-BC, CARN is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the District of Columbia who has been practicing since 2021. She specializes in treating patients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorders.
Nicole Tazewell, APRN, PMHNP-BC, CARN is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the District of Columbia who has been practicing since 2021. She specializes in treating patients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorders.
(202) 849-9549 View (202) 849-9549
Photo of Dorothy Chatelier-Orelus - Virtual Psychiatric Care, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Virtual Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you looking for a more personal, culturally appropriate, holistic form of psychiatric care? Are you looking for a more natural yet integrative approach to your mental health? Then you come to the right place. My practice is more than a response to mental health symptoms—it's a partnership where we journey through all facets of your well-being. Our conversations will cover not just your mental state, but also your physical health including hormone balance, weight concerns, sexual wellness, environmental influences, and spiritual life. Telehealth Services in. DC, CO, MD, MN, WA.
Are you looking for a more personal, culturally appropriate, holistic form of psychiatric care? Are you looking for a more natural yet integrative approach to your mental health? Then you come to the right place. My practice is more than a response to mental health symptoms—it's a partnership where we journey through all facets of your well-being. Our conversations will cover not just your mental state, but also your physical health including hormone balance, weight concerns, sexual wellness, environmental influences, and spiritual life. Telehealth Services in. DC, CO, MD, MN, WA.
(202) 915-5294 View (202) 915-5294
Photo of Jimmy Ibikunle - Jimmy Ibikunle, MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Jimmy Ibikunle, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I hope to meet your emotional and behavioral health needs by providing excellent office based psychiatric services. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication monitoring services across age groups. Evaluations are scheduled for 60 minutes and medication follow up visits for 20 minutes. I do not routinely offer psychotherapy services.
I hope to meet your emotional and behavioral health needs by providing excellent office based psychiatric services. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication monitoring services across age groups. Evaluations are scheduled for 60 minutes and medication follow up visits for 20 minutes. I do not routinely offer psychotherapy services.
(202) 759-3979 View (202) 759-3979
Photo of Okey Ofodile, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Okey Ofodile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and adult gerontology NP that specializes in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, diagnosing, and treatment of individuals needing mental health services.
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and adult gerontology NP that specializes in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, diagnosing, and treatment of individuals needing mental health services.
(844) 619-9314 View (844) 619-9314
Photo of Vincent Bet, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vincent Bet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
Greetings! I am Vincent Bett, a dedicated psychiatric provider committed to enhancing the mental well-being of individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. With a profound understanding of the complexities of these conditions, I am driven by a passion to empower my clients on their journey toward mental health and overall fulfillment.
Greetings! I am Vincent Bett, a dedicated psychiatric provider committed to enhancing the mental well-being of individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. With a profound understanding of the complexities of these conditions, I am driven by a passion to empower my clients on their journey toward mental health and overall fulfillment.
(877) 618-5630 View (877) 618-5630
Photo of Charles P Samenow, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Charles P Samenow
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has 20 years of experience teaching, researching and practicing in academic clinical psychiatry and the field of problematic sexual behaviors. I maintain an open and inclusive clinical psychiatric practice that focuses on most major psychiatric problems. While many of my adult patients are members of underrepresented sexual/gender minorities (LGBTQI+) or are seen for sexual problems, many are not.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has 20 years of experience teaching, researching and practicing in academic clinical psychiatry and the field of problematic sexual behaviors. I maintain an open and inclusive clinical psychiatric practice that focuses on most major psychiatric problems. While many of my adult patients are members of underrepresented sexual/gender minorities (LGBTQI+) or are seen for sexual problems, many are not.
(877) 618-5994 View (877) 618-5994
Photo of Theresa A Anokam, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa A Anokam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Theresa Anokam. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to provide high quality care to clients to meet their needs. I treat clients with varied mental illnesses, as Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, Panic Disorder, OCD, and many more by medication management and psychotherapy. I believe in the uniqueness of every client and I target their treatment plan on holistic individual bases using evidence-based practice. I am licensed to practice in the District of Columbia and the state of Maryland with over 3 decades of clinical experience.
Hello, my name is Dr. Theresa Anokam. As a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to provide high quality care to clients to meet their needs. I treat clients with varied mental illnesses, as Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, Panic Disorder, OCD, and many more by medication management and psychotherapy. I believe in the uniqueness of every client and I target their treatment plan on holistic individual bases using evidence-based practice. I am licensed to practice in the District of Columbia and the state of Maryland with over 3 decades of clinical experience.
(877) 796-2815 View (877) 796-2815
Photo of Dr. Celia Regina Oliveira, MD, , MPH, Psychiatrist
Dr. Celia Regina Oliveira
Psychiatrist, MD, , MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Washington, DC and treat adults, young and older adolescents. As I was a pediatrician prior to becoming a psychiatrist, I am particularly interested in working with older adolescents and young adults who face a multitude of challenges as they progress into adulthood. Unlike many psychiatrists who prescribe medication only, I work with my clients through understanding and helping them in psychotherapy as well as providing expert treatment with the latest psychiatric medications.
I am a psychiatrist in private practice in Washington, DC and treat adults, young and older adolescents. As I was a pediatrician prior to becoming a psychiatrist, I am particularly interested in working with older adolescents and young adults who face a multitude of challenges as they progress into adulthood. Unlike many psychiatrists who prescribe medication only, I work with my clients through understanding and helping them in psychotherapy as well as providing expert treatment with the latest psychiatric medications.
(866) 968-2084 View (866) 968-2084
Photo of Funmilayo Fashola, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Funmilayo Fashola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! My name is Funmilayo Fashola. I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who diagnoses, treats, and prescribes medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) Depression, Adjustment disorder, Parenting, Anxiety, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. Funmi's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) and psychotherapy. I believe in the mind/body/spiritual connection.
Hi! My name is Funmilayo Fashola. I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who diagnoses, treats, and prescribes medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) Depression, Adjustment disorder, Parenting, Anxiety, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. Funmi's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) and psychotherapy. I believe in the mind/body/spiritual connection.
(855) 624-5250 View (855) 624-5250
Photo of Alexa Andewelt, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexa Andewelt
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma.... I am here to help you feel better! Initially we have a 2 hour intake I can get a good understanding of who you are and help identify symptoms that can then be the target of treatment. Treatment is cooperative- I educate patients as to what is going on in their brain, how treatments will affect their brain, body, and symptoms. I encourage patients to ask questions. Together as a team we work towards alleviating symptoms so you can feel better! PLEASE reach out with questions via EMAIL: AndeweltMD gmail.com
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma.... I am here to help you feel better! Initially we have a 2 hour intake I can get a good understanding of who you are and help identify symptoms that can then be the target of treatment. Treatment is cooperative- I educate patients as to what is going on in their brain, how treatments will affect their brain, body, and symptoms. I encourage patients to ask questions. Together as a team we work towards alleviating symptoms so you can feel better! PLEASE reach out with questions via EMAIL: AndeweltMD gmail.com
(202) 759-8837 View (202) 759-8837
Photo of Dr. Agatha Ifeyinwa Nwangwu - Divine Mental Health Services, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Divine Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My clients may have different types of mental disorders and may be looking for help lessening their symptoms of it. The goal is to lessen the symptoms of their mental disorder enough so they can live happy, fulfilling, and enjoyable lives. Living with these mental problems are not easy on them and their family, so resolving them with a good plan is probably what they are looking for.
My clients may have different types of mental disorders and may be looking for help lessening their symptoms of it. The goal is to lessen the symptoms of their mental disorder enough so they can live happy, fulfilling, and enjoyable lives. Living with these mental problems are not easy on them and their family, so resolving them with a good plan is probably what they are looking for.
(202) 831-9473 View (202) 831-9473
Photo of Seth Gabriel Rosenblatt, MD, MPH, MA, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Seth Gabriel Rosenblatt
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MA, FAPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and dual-diagnosis substance use disorders and mental health. I use compassionate talk therapy and medication management for my clients with a strong emphasis on relationship building and trust in our sessions. I am now accepting in-person patients at my new in person practice Vive Treatment Centers in Washington, DC! For telehealth, I am licensed to conduct intakes and follow ups in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. I completed my residency in Adult Psychiatry at George Washington University and am on staff at several area hospitals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and dual-diagnosis substance use disorders and mental health. I use compassionate talk therapy and medication management for my clients with a strong emphasis on relationship building and trust in our sessions. I am now accepting in-person patients at my new in person practice Vive Treatment Centers in Washington, DC! For telehealth, I am licensed to conduct intakes and follow ups in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. I completed my residency in Adult Psychiatry at George Washington University and am on staff at several area hospitals.
(202) 831-4902 View (202) 831-4902
Photo of Navin Reddy - Washington Interventional Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
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 Dr. Cynthia B McNeill, PhD, PMHNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Cynthia B McNeill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. McNeill is a dedicated PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner) specializing in family medicine and psychiatry, with expertise in treating anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services with a focus on Healthcare Administration from Capella University, an MSN from the University of South Alabama, and a BSN from Emory University.
Dr. McNeill is a dedicated PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner) specializing in family medicine and psychiatry, with expertise in treating anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services with a focus on Healthcare Administration from Capella University, an MSN from the University of South Alabama, and a BSN from Emory University.
(678) 324-3007 View (678) 324-3007
Photo of Sharon L Bernier, PhD, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse
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 Eindra Khin - Eindra Khin, M.D., PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Eindra Khin Khin, M.D., PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
After serving in academic psychiatry at George Washington University for the eleven years, I opened my own private practice in August 2022. My office is located at 1519 Connecticut Avenue NW, conveniently across from the DuPont Metro Station. Street parking and on-site underground garage parking are available.
After serving in academic psychiatry at George Washington University for the eleven years, I opened my own private practice in August 2022. My office is located at 1519 Connecticut Avenue NW, conveniently across from the DuPont Metro Station. Street parking and on-site underground garage parking are available.
(202) 759-5873 View (202) 759-5873
Photo of Clifford Sussman, MD, Psychiatrist
Clifford Sussman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 am currently accepting new clients who seek help with problematic technology use. -Please visit my website www.cliffordsussmanmd.com for many free resources on internet and video game addiction including FAQ and videos. - I am not in any insurance network but can provide billing codes.
-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 am currently accepting new clients who seek help with problematic technology use. -Please visit my website www.cliffordsussmanmd.com for many free resources on internet and video game addiction including FAQ and videos. - I am not in any insurance network but can provide billing codes.
(202) 643-5962 View (202) 643-5962
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See more therapy options for District of Columbia

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in District of Columbia who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in District of Columbia see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in District of Columbia?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.