Psychiatrists in Maryland

View cities and counties in Maryland
Photo of Dhruv Patel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Dhruv Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Dhruv is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is deeply committed to building meaningful, trusting relationships with his patients. Dhruv believes that effective mental health care begins with understanding, which is why he takes the time to truly listen to each person’s unique story, challenges, and aspirations. By creating a safe, compassionate space for open conversation, he fosters a connection that empowers patients to feel heard, valued, and engaged in their own healing process.
Dhruv is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is deeply committed to building meaningful, trusting relationships with his patients. Dhruv believes that effective mental health care begins with understanding, which is why he takes the time to truly listen to each person’s unique story, challenges, and aspirations. By creating a safe, compassionate space for open conversation, he fosters a connection that empowers patients to feel heard, valued, and engaged in their own healing process.
(301) 328-1605 View (301) 328-1605
Photo of Dr. Chinelo Anadu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, -BC
Dr. Chinelo Anadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Dr. Chinelo Anadu, PhD, PMHNP-BC, is a Captain in the US Army, serving those who keep us safe. I am the owner of Messiah Health Center LLC. I received a BSN from Washington Adventist University, MSN from Virginia Commonwealth University, and PhD in Nursing Education from Liberty University, Virginia. I have over 20 years of progressive Clinical experience, caring for individuals with diverse Psychiatric, Mental, and Behavioral Health needs. I am actively making a tremendous difference in my clients' lives. I understand the impacts of Mental health challenges. My clients' safety and treatment adherence are my top priorities.
Dr. Chinelo Anadu, PhD, PMHNP-BC, is a Captain in the US Army, serving those who keep us safe. I am the owner of Messiah Health Center LLC. I received a BSN from Washington Adventist University, MSN from Virginia Commonwealth University, and PhD in Nursing Education from Liberty University, Virginia. I have over 20 years of progressive Clinical experience, caring for individuals with diverse Psychiatric, Mental, and Behavioral Health needs. I am actively making a tremendous difference in my clients' lives. I understand the impacts of Mental health challenges. My clients' safety and treatment adherence are my top priorities.
(301) 215-3794 View (301) 215-3794
Photo of Dr. Chiedozie O Ojimba, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Chiedozie O Ojimba
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Columbia, MD 21044
Dr. Ojimba is a board-certified psychiatrist in general adult and addiction psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Dr. Ojimba understands that patients with mental illness and substance use problems are a vulnerable population who have struggled through the stigma of looking for help and must be heard and supported. He uses empathy and understanding in collaborating with patients and their families to achieve agreed treatment plans and goals. He specializes in treating individual of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientation, ethnicities for a wide range of mental health conditions and addiction
Dr. Ojimba is a board-certified psychiatrist in general adult and addiction psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Dr. Ojimba understands that patients with mental illness and substance use problems are a vulnerable population who have struggled through the stigma of looking for help and must be heard and supported. He uses empathy and understanding in collaborating with patients and their families to achieve agreed treatment plans and goals. He specializes in treating individual of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientation, ethnicities for a wide range of mental health conditions and addiction
(240) 905-5168 View (240) 905-5168
Photo of John K Kamau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
John K Kamau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21214
Hello, my name is John. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about what I do. I have more than ten years of experience in healthcare. I provide Comprehensive Client-Focused Mental Health care to my clients using evidence-based practice. I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
Hello, my name is John. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about what I do. I have more than ten years of experience in healthcare. I provide Comprehensive Client-Focused Mental Health care to my clients using evidence-based practice. I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
(410) 886-6620 View (410) 886-6620
Photo of Dr. Janet Smith Stasiak - You Matter Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, ASDCS
You Matter Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, ASDCS
Towson, MD 21204
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, providing diagnosis and treatment for adults on the spectrum. As someone who is neurodivergent, I understand that adults have unique needs that differ from children, and your care should reflect that. I offer virtual Adult Autism testing and support for those who have aged out of pediatric care. With extensive experience managing complex medical conditions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more, I prioritize medication regimens that minimize side effects and interacts, as well as clarifying your treatment goals.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, providing diagnosis and treatment for adults on the spectrum. As someone who is neurodivergent, I understand that adults have unique needs that differ from children, and your care should reflect that. I offer virtual Adult Autism testing and support for those who have aged out of pediatric care. With extensive experience managing complex medical conditions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more, I prioritize medication regimens that minimize side effects and interacts, as well as clarifying your treatment goals.
(443) 501-2553 View (443) 501-2553
Photo of Jessica Ogunye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Jessica Ogunye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Online Only
As a first-generation Nigerian raised in the vibrant DMV area, Jessica Ogunye is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a holistic approach tailored to her client’s needs. She brings a unique cultural perspective to mental health care, enriched by her military service and a deep understanding of cultural beliefs and values. As a prescriber, she is here to educate you, manage your psychiatric medication, and facilitate comprehensive mental health assessments
As a first-generation Nigerian raised in the vibrant DMV area, Jessica Ogunye is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a holistic approach tailored to her client’s needs. She brings a unique cultural perspective to mental health care, enriched by her military service and a deep understanding of cultural beliefs and values. As a prescriber, she is here to educate you, manage your psychiatric medication, and facilitate comprehensive mental health assessments
(240) 981-5805 View (240) 981-5805
Photo of Susan Ouellette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Susan Ouellette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Towson, MD 21204
I have worked in healthcare for over forty years, twenty of which working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I love working with folks of all ages with short and long-term mental and physical conditions. I also enjoy helping those who are going through a rough patch that, as we all know, life tends to throw unexpectedly. I recognize that staying healthy requires a more complex treatment plan than simply prescribing a pill; although I can do that, I also offer tools to help you communicate, to feel better about yourself and your life, and to find your purpose and what brings you true, internal happiness.
I have worked in healthcare for over forty years, twenty of which working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I love working with folks of all ages with short and long-term mental and physical conditions. I also enjoy helping those who are going through a rough patch that, as we all know, life tends to throw unexpectedly. I recognize that staying healthy requires a more complex treatment plan than simply prescribing a pill; although I can do that, I also offer tools to help you communicate, to feel better about yourself and your life, and to find your purpose and what brings you true, internal happiness.
(443) 665-8173 View (443) 665-8173
Photo of Joy Odinammadu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Joy Odinammadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Columbia, MD 21046
Joy Odinammadu has been working in the field of psychiatry for over 27yrs. She received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science degrees from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Her training in Psychiatry Mental Health-Family focus allows her to serve diverse clientele from various age groups. Earlier in her nursing career, she worked in acute inpatient medical/surgical/PCU floors as well as long-term facilities.
Joy Odinammadu has been working in the field of psychiatry for over 27yrs. She received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science degrees from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Her training in Psychiatry Mental Health-Family focus allows her to serve diverse clientele from various age groups. Earlier in her nursing career, she worked in acute inpatient medical/surgical/PCU floors as well as long-term facilities.
(443) 708-5856 View (443) 708-5856
Photo of Augusta Nnawuba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Augusta Nnawuba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Augusta Nnawuba. I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for all the client across lifespan. As a Psych NP, l Assess/Evaluate, Diagnose, Prescribe Medication, Treat and render therapy as well. I am available to assist, support and participate in the healing of all my clients with their various life challenges and experiences they are going through.
Hello, my name is Augusta Nnawuba. I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for all the client across lifespan. As a Psych NP, l Assess/Evaluate, Diagnose, Prescribe Medication, Treat and render therapy as well. I am available to assist, support and participate in the healing of all my clients with their various life challenges and experiences they are going through.
(240) 730-4053 View (240) 730-4053
Photo of Dina M Sztein, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dina M Sztein
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Columbia, MD 21046
Not accepting new clients
I'm a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and work with young children through young adults needing medications to treat psychiatric conditions, including: developmental disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, PTSD and other mood and anxiety-related conditions. I believe close collaboration with parents and other treatment providers is necessary to ensure children and adolescents get the best psychiatric care possible.
I'm a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and work with young children through young adults needing medications to treat psychiatric conditions, including: developmental disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, PTSD and other mood and anxiety-related conditions. I believe close collaboration with parents and other treatment providers is necessary to ensure children and adolescents get the best psychiatric care possible.
(443) 708-5856 View (443) 708-5856
Photo of Mary Warrah Tarawalie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN
Mary Warrah Tarawalie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Hello, I'm Mary. Are you down, unable to focus or feel like your head is scattered with thoughts? Are you unable to get things done or get along with family and friends?
Hello, I'm Mary. Are you down, unable to focus or feel like your head is scattered with thoughts? Are you unable to get things done or get along with family and friends?
(301) 691-4621 View (301) 691-4621
Photo of Dr. Sonia Elizabeth Jacob, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Sonia Elizabeth Jacob
Psychiatrist, DO
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I'm a Children's National Hospital-trained, board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing at Capital Mental Health in Chevy Chase, MD. I offer both in-person and virtual services, including both medication management as well as an array of psychotherapy approaches (CBT, DBT, insight-oriented, supportive therapy) to guide my patients in achieving their goals and optimize their wellness. I treat a broad array of concerns, including mood, anxiety, gender, ADHD, ASD, behavioral, relationship and any additional life challenges.
I'm a Children's National Hospital-trained, board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing at Capital Mental Health in Chevy Chase, MD. I offer both in-person and virtual services, including both medication management as well as an array of psychotherapy approaches (CBT, DBT, insight-oriented, supportive therapy) to guide my patients in achieving their goals and optimize their wellness. I treat a broad array of concerns, including mood, anxiety, gender, ADHD, ASD, behavioral, relationship and any additional life challenges.
(240) 534-1194 View (240) 534-1194
Photo of Veronica Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Veronica Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I evaluate and treat patients with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders.
I evaluate and treat patients with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders.
(240) 896-3459 View (240) 896-3459
Photo of Alice Ukaegbu - Dr. Alice Ukaegbu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Dr. Alice Ukaegbu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
My goal is to help the patients function at their full capacity by addressing factors, including environmental, that may lead to mental illnesses such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Patients' physical and mental health is my priority and I am here to work with them through collaborative treatment. Excellent service with respect, compassion, and integrity is also our goal.
My goal is to help the patients function at their full capacity by addressing factors, including environmental, that may lead to mental illnesses such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. Patients' physical and mental health is my priority and I am here to work with them through collaborative treatment. Excellent service with respect, compassion, and integrity is also our goal.
(240) 213-9418 View (240) 213-9418
Photo of Nashae H. Handy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Nashae H. Handy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Online Only
Nashae Handy is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and family nurse practitioner (FNP), from Bel Air Maryland. Who works with adults, geriatrics, and adolescents to provide care for patients that suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, cognitive impairments, substance use disorder and mood disorders. Certified registered nurse practitioner (CRNP) Nashae Handy, has extensive experience with psychotropic medication management and has been a board-certified nurse practitioner for 7 years with focus on mental health for over 4 years.
Nashae Handy is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and family nurse practitioner (FNP), from Bel Air Maryland. Who works with adults, geriatrics, and adolescents to provide care for patients that suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, cognitive impairments, substance use disorder and mood disorders. Certified registered nurse practitioner (CRNP) Nashae Handy, has extensive experience with psychotropic medication management and has been a board-certified nurse practitioner for 7 years with focus on mental health for over 4 years.
(410) 734-5012 View (410) 734-5012
Photo of Patrick McDonald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNPPMH
Patrick McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNPPMH
1 Endorsed
Cockeysville, MD 21030
Anthem Behavioral Health is a small practice that is many years of preparation and dreams come to life. The whole goal of Anthem was to create a flexible welcoming treatment opportunity for all peoples. I like to connect where people are and provide insight, humor and real conversation. I aim to provide client centered treatment that combines behavioral modification and (if needed) medication management. I work with several amazing therapists whom we collaborate to create the best experience to assist the desired outcome of treatment.
Anthem Behavioral Health is a small practice that is many years of preparation and dreams come to life. The whole goal of Anthem was to create a flexible welcoming treatment opportunity for all peoples. I like to connect where people are and provide insight, humor and real conversation. I aim to provide client centered treatment that combines behavioral modification and (if needed) medication management. I work with several amazing therapists whom we collaborate to create the best experience to assist the desired outcome of treatment.
(443) 201-7103 View (443) 201-7103
Photo of Cynthia Glover-Singleton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cynthia Glover-Singleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) provides a range of treatments to assist patients with their mental health. As a PMHNP, I have the authority to prescribe and manage medication, aiding in the control of symptoms associated with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. Treating patients is immensely rewarding for me. It enables me to build and maintain trust, fostering strong relationships with my clients.
A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) provides a range of treatments to assist patients with their mental health. As a PMHNP, I have the authority to prescribe and manage medication, aiding in the control of symptoms associated with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. Treating patients is immensely rewarding for me. It enables me to build and maintain trust, fostering strong relationships with my clients.
(443) 870-5974 View (443) 870-5974
Photo of Suemi Oliveira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Suemi Oliveira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Suemi Oliveira, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 5 years of experience. I believe in creating a supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to prescribe medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. My focus is on understanding your unique experiences and helping you find effective, personalized strategies to manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
Hello, my name is Suemi Oliveira, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 5 years of experience. I believe in creating a supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to prescribe medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. My focus is on understanding your unique experiences and helping you find effective, personalized strategies to manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
(443) 647-8146 View (443) 647-8146
Photo of Emelia Asamoah Agyei, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APRN
Emelia Asamoah Agyei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Emelia is passionate about providing compassionate care and support to clients with diverse psychiatric and mental health needs across the lifespan. With 23 years of nursing experience, she takes a holistic approach that considers how one’s overall health and wellbeing contribute to mental health.
Emelia is passionate about providing compassionate care and support to clients with diverse psychiatric and mental health needs across the lifespan. With 23 years of nursing experience, she takes a holistic approach that considers how one’s overall health and wellbeing contribute to mental health.
(301) 888-8941 View (301) 888-8941
Photo of Justin Leahy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Justin Leahy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Online Only
Justin Leahy is trained in treating anxiety, depression, social phobias, bipolar disorders, trauma, anger issues, OCD, and sleep disorders. He believes in a holistic approach towards treatment for adolescents and adults addressing the overall health of an individual instead of just treating the symptoms. Mr. Leahy's open and collaborative approach towards treatment helps people feel comfortable and focuses on each person's unique needs to help them improve their health and wellness.
Justin Leahy is trained in treating anxiety, depression, social phobias, bipolar disorders, trauma, anger issues, OCD, and sleep disorders. He believes in a holistic approach towards treatment for adolescents and adults addressing the overall health of an individual instead of just treating the symptoms. Mr. Leahy's open and collaborative approach towards treatment helps people feel comfortable and focuses on each person's unique needs to help them improve their health and wellness.
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See more therapy options for Maryland

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$161

Psychiatrists in Maryland who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
82% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
74% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Maryland see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Maryland?

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.