Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Isabella Ngedzedeem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Isabella Ngedzedeem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Isabella Ngedzeyeem, PMHNP, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
My name is Isabella Ngedzeyeem, PMHNP, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
(443) 731-0558 View (443) 731-0558
Photo of Alicia Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alicia Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients! I have been helping adolescents and young adults navigate their mental health and I want to expand it through Thrive Tele-psychiatry. I hope being virtual can make it easier for patients to get the care they are looking for from the comfort of their own home.
I am currently accepting new patients! I have been helping adolescents and young adults navigate their mental health and I want to expand it through Thrive Tele-psychiatry. I hope being virtual can make it easier for patients to get the care they are looking for from the comfort of their own home.
(410) 883-5716 View (410) 883-5716
Photo of Danielle R Scott - Mental Health Baltimore, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Mental Health Baltimore, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Baltimore, MD 21218
Look no further you have found a provider that cares for the whole person. If you would like to become a new patient visit me on the web! Click become a patient and complete the new patient demographic form. This form is automatically emailed to me, and I will respond by email with the next steps
Look no further you have found a provider that cares for the whole person. If you would like to become a new patient visit me on the web! Click become a patient and complete the new patient demographic form. This form is automatically emailed to me, and I will respond by email with the next steps
(410) 904-6496 View (410) 904-6496
Photo of Juliana Ada Nwakamma - Prosper Health and Behavioral Care Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Prosper Health and Behavioral Care Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21202
I have been a nurse for more than 18 years, and I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Maryland. In my practice, we place a premium on a holistic strategy that considers a person's larger mental and social context in addition to their specific mental health symptoms. My main goal is to aid people in their transition to a healthier, more balanced way of life. I specialize in the treatment of a range of mental health issues, including depression, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
I have been a nurse for more than 18 years, and I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Maryland. In my practice, we place a premium on a holistic strategy that considers a person's larger mental and social context in addition to their specific mental health symptoms. My main goal is to aid people in their transition to a healthier, more balanced way of life. I specialize in the treatment of a range of mental health issues, including depression, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
(410) 695-4583 View (410) 695-4583
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 Grace Offor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Grace Offor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone over the age of 18 who may be struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or PTSD. They need a compassionate listener who prioritizes confidentiality and creates a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings. Their goals often include gaining a better understanding of their mental health, finding effective treatments, and feeling empowered to manage their condition. They want to feel heard and supported, leading to improved emotional well-being and a better quality of life.
My ideal client is someone over the age of 18 who may be struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or PTSD. They need a compassionate listener who prioritizes confidentiality and creates a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings. Their goals often include gaining a better understanding of their mental health, finding effective treatments, and feeling empowered to manage their condition. They want to feel heard and supported, leading to improved emotional well-being and a better quality of life.
(667) 297-6248 View (667) 297-6248
Photo of Ayoola Juliana Oyenuga - Alpha Recovery HealthCare Services Inc., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH-BC
Alpha Recovery HealthCare Services Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH-BC
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
At Alpha Recovery Healthcare Service Inc., we focus on promoting mental health recovery through patients' assessments, diagnosis, disease prevention, and medication management. Our psychiatric consultations are tailored to provide compassionate, holistic, thorough, and competent treatments aimed to improve individualized patients' mental health recovery, and the overall sense of well-being of our patients in a confidential, friendly, and therapeutic consulting environment.
At Alpha Recovery Healthcare Service Inc., we focus on promoting mental health recovery through patients' assessments, diagnosis, disease prevention, and medication management. Our psychiatric consultations are tailored to provide compassionate, holistic, thorough, and competent treatments aimed to improve individualized patients' mental health recovery, and the overall sense of well-being of our patients in a confidential, friendly, and therapeutic consulting environment.
(443) 501-2686 View (443) 501-2686
Photo of Dr. Marlene Reid - UliftingU Behavorial Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, BSN, PMHNP
UliftingU Behavorial Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, BSN, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21206
Recognizing the profound impact of mental health on living a fulfilling life, I am committed to guiding you through your journey with a patient-centered approach. It is crucial for clients dealing with mental health issues to feel supported and understood and to know that they are not alone. Seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward achieving balance and fulfillment in life, and investing in your mental health is a vital part of this journey.
Recognizing the profound impact of mental health on living a fulfilling life, I am committed to guiding you through your journey with a patient-centered approach. It is crucial for clients dealing with mental health issues to feel supported and understood and to know that they are not alone. Seeking mental health support is a courageous step toward achieving balance and fulfillment in life, and investing in your mental health is a vital part of this journey.
(443) 522-8955 View (443) 522-8955
Photo of Dr. Oladipo Olaleye - Clear Mind Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Clear Mind Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Baltimore, MD 21225
We are a team of Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Psychiatrist with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Our providers work with clients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Over 12 years Experience with PSYCHOTROPIC MANAGEMENT, AND BRIEF PSYCHOTHERAPY. At Clear Mind Health we are here to help you get back to living, and being your very best self. TRY US
We are a team of Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Psychiatrist with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Our providers work with clients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Over 12 years Experience with PSYCHOTROPIC MANAGEMENT, AND BRIEF PSYCHOTHERAPY. At Clear Mind Health we are here to help you get back to living, and being your very best self. TRY US
(443) 201-7295 View (443) 201-7295
Photo of Rashidat Akinsanya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rashidat Akinsanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21209
Rashidat Akinsanya, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, and seniors in Maryland manage and overcome mental health challenges through thoughtful, individualized medication management. She combines clinical precision with deep empathy to support patients as they work toward emotional stability, improved daily functioning, and overall wellness. Rashidat treats a range of mental health concerns, with a focus on evidence-based psychopharmacological care for individuals aged 15 and up. At LifeStance Health, Rashidat offers specialized care for those navigating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Rashidat Akinsanya, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, and seniors in Maryland manage and overcome mental health challenges through thoughtful, individualized medication management. She combines clinical precision with deep empathy to support patients as they work toward emotional stability, improved daily functioning, and overall wellness. Rashidat treats a range of mental health concerns, with a focus on evidence-based psychopharmacological care for individuals aged 15 and up. At LifeStance Health, Rashidat offers specialized care for those navigating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
(410) 609-5097 View (410) 609-5097
Photo of Francisca Onyedum - New Era Professional Health Care. LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, BSN
New Era Professional Health Care. LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Baltimore, MD 21206
We understand the inevitable challenges of life that can affect your mental well-being. New Era Professional health care is here to support you on your journey to recovery. We strive to restore mental stability so that our client can regain control of their lives. We seek wellness for you, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental telehealth services for individuals from age 13 through adults. We are well-versed and highly knowledgeable in the management of crisis, medication management, Psychotherapy, and various psychiatric mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Alzheimer’s disease + Dement,
We understand the inevitable challenges of life that can affect your mental well-being. New Era Professional health care is here to support you on your journey to recovery. We strive to restore mental stability so that our client can regain control of their lives. We seek wellness for you, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental telehealth services for individuals from age 13 through adults. We are well-versed and highly knowledgeable in the management of crisis, medication management, Psychotherapy, and various psychiatric mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Alzheimer’s disease + Dement,
(410) 973-6830 View (410) 973-6830
Photo of Raphael E Gikonyo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Raphael E Gikonyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21234
Have you been struggling to find a provider that can help you find the right blend of treatment; yet you are still struggling with feeling sad, or anxious, insomnia, mood swings, attention deficit; or simply having trouble navigating major life transitions? I understand how these challenges can impact your daily life; and sometimes a combination of psychopharmacology along with psychotherapy works well to help you. We will identify your strengths, and develop strategies to manage your symptoms. My goal is to help you find balance and regain control over your life.
Have you been struggling to find a provider that can help you find the right blend of treatment; yet you are still struggling with feeling sad, or anxious, insomnia, mood swings, attention deficit; or simply having trouble navigating major life transitions? I understand how these challenges can impact your daily life; and sometimes a combination of psychopharmacology along with psychotherapy works well to help you. We will identify your strengths, and develop strategies to manage your symptoms. My goal is to help you find balance and regain control over your life.
(443) 843-0825 View (443) 843-0825
Photo of Chelsia Burkes-Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chelsia Burkes-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202
Chelsia Burkes-Brown is a Board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees clients in Oregon, Maryland, Washington, Maryland and Florida. She has over eleven years of nursing experience in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric care across the lifespan. She is committed to providing both competent and compassionate care to her clients. She places high value on a client’s full participation in the development of each treatment plan to encourage compliance and believes everyone deserves to have access to high-quality mental health care. She specializes in children, teenagers, and young adults.
Chelsia Burkes-Brown is a Board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees clients in Oregon, Maryland, Washington, Maryland and Florida. She has over eleven years of nursing experience in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric care across the lifespan. She is committed to providing both competent and compassionate care to her clients. She places high value on a client’s full participation in the development of each treatment plan to encourage compliance and believes everyone deserves to have access to high-quality mental health care. She specializes in children, teenagers, and young adults.
(443) 232-9503 View (443) 232-9503
Photo of Moses Ekemezie Ikejiofor - PrimeHealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-PMH
PrimeHealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-PMH
Baltimore, MD 21209
Primehealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC (PBH) was born out of compassion to help Maryland residents access psychiatric and Mental Health Services that are tailored to their individual needs. The mission of PHB Services is to provide the prime and highest quality of care to all our clients’ psychiatric and mental health needs with empathy, commitment, and compassion. Our vision is to provide the highest quality of psychiatric and mental health care to individuals and their families, fostering a healthy society and creating social change. We believe that health is the sine qua non and inalienable right of all individuals.
Primehealth Behavioral Healthcare Services, LLC (PBH) was born out of compassion to help Maryland residents access psychiatric and Mental Health Services that are tailored to their individual needs. The mission of PHB Services is to provide the prime and highest quality of care to all our clients’ psychiatric and mental health needs with empathy, commitment, and compassion. Our vision is to provide the highest quality of psychiatric and mental health care to individuals and their families, fostering a healthy society and creating social change. We believe that health is the sine qua non and inalienable right of all individuals.
(410) 498-7405 View (410) 498-7405
Photo of Ann N Okenkpa - Remac Behavioral Health Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Remac Behavioral Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Here at Remac Behavioral Health we ensure that all and every client is welcomed with open arms regardless of sexuality, gender, race or ethnicity. We offer personal top of the line care guaranteed to show you support in anyway needed. We offer telehealth and in-person care so we can meet you where you need in whatever way is more comfortable with you and your schedule. Being a part of our family we promise you, understanding, a judgement free zone, personal and family care and overall satisfaction in anyway you might need. Here you are welcome to come as you are with no fear or judgement or hate.
Here at Remac Behavioral Health we ensure that all and every client is welcomed with open arms regardless of sexuality, gender, race or ethnicity. We offer personal top of the line care guaranteed to show you support in anyway needed. We offer telehealth and in-person care so we can meet you where you need in whatever way is more comfortable with you and your schedule. Being a part of our family we promise you, understanding, a judgement free zone, personal and family care and overall satisfaction in anyway you might need. Here you are welcome to come as you are with no fear or judgement or hate.
(667) 660-4932 View (667) 660-4932
Photo of Jennifer Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(301) 396-7258 View (301) 396-7258
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Baltimore, MD 21202
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(443) 720-7538 View (443) 720-7538
Photo of Francis Oduah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Francis Oduah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Online Only
At Breakthrough Behavioral Health Services, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. Since the beginning of our practice, we have had the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues come second. No matter why you’re visiting us, we provide comprehensive and excellent care. Find out more about our provider and let us take care of you.
At Breakthrough Behavioral Health Services, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. Since the beginning of our practice, we have had the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues come second. No matter why you’re visiting us, we provide comprehensive and excellent care. Find out more about our provider and let us take care of you.
(240) 332-1976 View (240) 332-1976
Photo of Joseph T Andrews, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph T Andrews
Psychiatrist, MD
Baltimore, MD 21209
I am a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and director of a group private practice, Via Clinic. We have expertise in diagnosis, medical management and psychotherapy. We treat a variety of conditions, such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. All patients receive a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Our approach starts with knowing the whole person and understanding their affliction within the context of their life story, dispositions and behaviors.
I am a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and director of a group private practice, Via Clinic. We have expertise in diagnosis, medical management and psychotherapy. We treat a variety of conditions, such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. All patients receive a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Our approach starts with knowing the whole person and understanding their affliction within the context of their life story, dispositions and behaviors.
(410) 390-0610 View (410) 390-0610
Photo of Augusta Williams - CoreHealthPsych, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
CoreHealthPsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
We are a virtual-psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient tele-health and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgemental environment.
We are a virtual-psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient tele-health and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgemental environment.
(410) 397-7212 View (410) 397-7212

See more therapy options for Baltimore

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
84% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
68% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Baltimore?

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.