Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD

Photo of Amoah Asante, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amoah Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
(667) 285-8493 View (667) 285-8493
Photo of Dana Foster, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Foster is a Family Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides holistic mental-health care. She provides care to individuals seeking medication management to manage their mental health. Healthcare has been her profession of choice since she was an adolescent, that has blossomed into a career of great commitment and compassion for the health and wellness of others. Combining her medical practice and mental health practice, she has provided symptom relief for individuals, seeking care for the mind and body.
Ms. Foster is a Family Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides holistic mental-health care. She provides care to individuals seeking medication management to manage their mental health. Healthcare has been her profession of choice since she was an adolescent, that has blossomed into a career of great commitment and compassion for the health and wellness of others. Combining her medical practice and mental health practice, she has provided symptom relief for individuals, seeking care for the mind and body.
(301) 689-4077 View (301) 689-4077
Photo of Raymond S Hoffman, MD, FIPA, Psychiatrist
Raymond S Hoffman
Psychiatrist, MD, FIPA
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21409
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in practice in the Cape St. Clair area of Annapolis, MD, downtown Easton, MD, and in northern Caroline County, MD. My experience spans many years in the medication management of major and minor psychiatric disorders, but also in in-depth psychotherapeutic treatment of depression, anxiety, inhibitions, trauma, dissociation, attachment issues, relational challenges, and addiction. I am also experienced in the supervision of therapists expanding their psychodynamic and psychoanalytic knowledge base and in providing personal psychotherapy and control analysis for students in these disciplines.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in practice in the Cape St. Clair area of Annapolis, MD, downtown Easton, MD, and in northern Caroline County, MD. My experience spans many years in the medication management of major and minor psychiatric disorders, but also in in-depth psychotherapeutic treatment of depression, anxiety, inhibitions, trauma, dissociation, attachment issues, relational challenges, and addiction. I am also experienced in the supervision of therapists expanding their psychodynamic and psychoanalytic knowledge base and in providing personal psychotherapy and control analysis for students in these disciplines.
(443) 233-0341 View (443) 233-0341
Photo of Brian Michael Zimnitzky, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian Michael Zimnitzky
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I have maintained an active clinical practice in Annapolis for over 15 years. I treat children and adults for a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, inattention and mood instability.
I have maintained an active clinical practice in Annapolis for over 15 years. I treat children and adults for a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, inattention and mood instability.
(667) 200-1291 View (667) 200-1291
Photo of Naomi Constantine - LifeStance Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(443) 241-2978 View (443) 241-2978
Photo of Bengi Biber Melton, MD, Psychiatrist
Bengi Biber Melton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I truly believe in the power of collaborative therapeutic work and informed decision-making process when it comes to co- creating an individualized treatment plan that will yield personalized goals and treatment outcomes that are meaningful for the person. I have decades of experience using psychotherapy modalities as well as medications. I have enjoyed helping and supporting adults with concerns such as post-traumatic stress disorder, women and LGBTQIA+ mental health, veterans, suicidal behaviors, anxiety, and mood disorders.
I truly believe in the power of collaborative therapeutic work and informed decision-making process when it comes to co- creating an individualized treatment plan that will yield personalized goals and treatment outcomes that are meaningful for the person. I have decades of experience using psychotherapy modalities as well as medications. I have enjoyed helping and supporting adults with concerns such as post-traumatic stress disorder, women and LGBTQIA+ mental health, veterans, suicidal behaviors, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(667) 288-0019 View (667) 288-0019
Photo of Naomi Constantine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Naomi Constantine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Naomi Constantine is a psychiactric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in mental health disorders across the lifespan. She granduated from the University of Cinncinatti with a post graduate certification in mental health in 2019. She graduated from the University of Maryland with a Masters of Science degree, family nurse prac- titioner in 2007. In addition, she has spent fourteen years in family practice, which enhances her knowledge of the mind-body connection and how underlying physical illness is intertwined with the mental health of an individual. She is a native Marylander and enjoys cooking and gardening.
Naomi Constantine is a psychiactric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in mental health disorders across the lifespan. She granduated from the University of Cinncinatti with a post graduate certification in mental health in 2019. She graduated from the University of Maryland with a Masters of Science degree, family nurse prac- titioner in 2007. In addition, she has spent fourteen years in family practice, which enhances her knowledge of the mind-body connection and how underlying physical illness is intertwined with the mental health of an individual. She is a native Marylander and enjoys cooking and gardening.
(410) 397-5220 View (410) 397-5220
Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, MSN, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health.
Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future. It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health.
(240) 200-0961 View (240) 200-0961
Photo of Jacqueline Burke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Burke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to help you lead your healthiest and happiest life. Together, we can find a solution that fits your needs, your lifestyle and your personal goals. I work with children, teenagers and young adults to help them overcome mental health challenges so that they can accomplish their dreams. Sometimes we have all the tools but we can't open the toolbox. Medication can sometimes be the key that helps us unlock the box.
My goal is to help you lead your healthiest and happiest life. Together, we can find a solution that fits your needs, your lifestyle and your personal goals. I work with children, teenagers and young adults to help them overcome mental health challenges so that they can accomplish their dreams. Sometimes we have all the tools but we can't open the toolbox. Medication can sometimes be the key that helps us unlock the box.
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Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(667) 220-0045 View (667) 220-0045
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(667) 372-5010 View (667) 372-5010
Photo of Kiara Lewis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kiara Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Hi there! My name is Kiara and I am a mental health nurse practitioner. With a career that has spanned seven years, five states (not to worry. I am in the DMV to stay) and various healthcare settings including a veterans hospital (if you are reading this and are a service member or the family member of a service member: thank you for your service and sacrifice), outpatient and inpatient mental health facilities, and partial hospitalization programs-I am dedicated to supporting those facing mental health challenges and would be honored to support you as you start or continue your mental wellness journey.
Hi there! My name is Kiara and I am a mental health nurse practitioner. With a career that has spanned seven years, five states (not to worry. I am in the DMV to stay) and various healthcare settings including a veterans hospital (if you are reading this and are a service member or the family member of a service member: thank you for your service and sacrifice), outpatient and inpatient mental health facilities, and partial hospitalization programs-I am dedicated to supporting those facing mental health challenges and would be honored to support you as you start or continue your mental wellness journey.
(667) 256-7703 View (667) 256-7703
Photo of Jokotola Ayoajayi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jokotola Ayoajayi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with a strong background in nursing and a passion for helping individuals achieve and maintain their optimal psychological well-being. With a Bachelor of Nursing from Coppin State University, where I was honored as the Dean awardee and graduated in the top 5% of my class in 2014, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my practice. Professional Credentials: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with a strong background in nursing and a passion for helping individuals achieve and maintain their optimal psychological well-being. With a Bachelor of Nursing from Coppin State University, where I was honored as the Dean awardee and graduated in the top 5% of my class in 2014, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my practice. Professional Credentials: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
(410) 834-8496 View (410) 834-8496
Photo of Kandice King, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kandice King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Kandice King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with children and adults with various struggles like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral health concerns. She works with the patient to give them the reassurance and support they need to establish a medication regimen that helps them cope with different mental health concerns. She understands the importance of being one’s best self in today's world and works hard to customize the most effective individualized treatment plan.
Kandice King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with children and adults with various struggles like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral health concerns. She works with the patient to give them the reassurance and support they need to establish a medication regimen that helps them cope with different mental health concerns. She understands the importance of being one’s best self in today's world and works hard to customize the most effective individualized treatment plan.
(410) 936-3163 View (410) 936-3163
Photo of Tamia Musgrave - Five Star Integrated Health Services, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Five Star Integrated Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
(443) 775-3699 View (443) 775-3699
Photo of Stephanie Streb, DNP, MHS, PMNHPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Streb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MHS, PMNHPBC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
No parent likes to see their child sad or suffering. I understand these concerns from my experience as a mental health practitioner and from being a parent. I am Stephanie Streb, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I am a psychiatric mental health provider who focuses on treating children, adolescents, and the family unit. I treat medication responsive psychiatric disorders (e.g. ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar, OCD). I am well liked for my ability to quickly and sincerely connect with, educate, and treat both children and parents, by providing medication and behavior management approaches which make a difference for the entire family.
No parent likes to see their child sad or suffering. I understand these concerns from my experience as a mental health practitioner and from being a parent. I am Stephanie Streb, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I am a psychiatric mental health provider who focuses on treating children, adolescents, and the family unit. I treat medication responsive psychiatric disorders (e.g. ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar, OCD). I am well liked for my ability to quickly and sincerely connect with, educate, and treat both children and parents, by providing medication and behavior management approaches which make a difference for the entire family.
(410) 346-3853 View (410) 346-3853
Photo of Pamela Oriaifo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Oriaifo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Pamela Oriaifo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. I specialize in supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, OCD, trauma, stress, and bipolar disorder, among other concerns. My devotion to mental health care stems from an early patient encounter during which my strength was redirected to the support of all persons with mental health issues. I bring to my practice the totality of my professional experiences in other healthcare areas such as general nursing and family care.
I am Dr. Pamela Oriaifo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. I specialize in supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, OCD, trauma, stress, and bipolar disorder, among other concerns. My devotion to mental health care stems from an early patient encounter during which my strength was redirected to the support of all persons with mental health issues. I bring to my practice the totality of my professional experiences in other healthcare areas such as general nursing and family care.
(443) 940-5040 View (443) 940-5040
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Osereme Nora Agboifo - Royalty Health Services, LLC, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, ADN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Royalty Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, ADN
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Royalty Health Care Delivery states - Maryland, I believe in you! I believe we can journey together to find the right individualized plan that best suit your needs. Through a proper diagnosis, medication management, psychoeducation, treating you with dignity and respect, an individualistic care provision can be attained to restore your mental health status.
Royalty Health Care Delivery states - Maryland, I believe in you! I believe we can journey together to find the right individualized plan that best suit your needs. Through a proper diagnosis, medication management, psychoeducation, treating you with dignity and respect, an individualistic care provision can be attained to restore your mental health status.
(240) 985-8458 View (240) 985-8458
Photo of Danielle Mitsch, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Mitsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I sincerely believe that we all have the power to be the person we want to be. I work with parents and children to diagnose and manage anxiety, depression, ADHD and behavioral issues. I take pride in helping adults with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD and ADHD to feel more confident, strong, and peaceful managing the demands of everyday life. I am trained in perinatal psychopharmacology and can help manage your treatment from pregnancy through your post-partum period. You can get through this and we will work together to make that happen!
I sincerely believe that we all have the power to be the person we want to be. I work with parents and children to diagnose and manage anxiety, depression, ADHD and behavioral issues. I take pride in helping adults with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD and ADHD to feel more confident, strong, and peaceful managing the demands of everyday life. I am trained in perinatal psychopharmacology and can help manage your treatment from pregnancy through your post-partum period. You can get through this and we will work together to make that happen!
(667) 242-8712 View (667) 242-8712
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD

70+

Average cost per session

$170

Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
96% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
84% ADHD
77% Medication Management
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
76% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Annapolis?

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.