Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21202
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.
(443) 486-3987 View (443) 486-3987
Photo of Amoah Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Amoah Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Baltimore, MD 21202
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.
(443) 648-9803 View (443) 648-9803
Photo of Janina Bukowski, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Janina Bukowski
Physician Assistant, PA-C
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
I am excited to offer free initial, virtual consultations for psychiatric diagnosis and medication management. Both in-person and virtual services available. I am currently accepting new clients!
I am excited to offer free initial, virtual consultations for psychiatric diagnosis and medication management. Both in-person and virtual services available. I am currently accepting new clients!
(410) 840-7018 View (410) 840-7018
Photo of Desmond M Kaplan, Psychiatrist, MD
Desmond M Kaplan
Psychiatrist, MD
Baltimore, MD 21208
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
(443) 501-2155 View (443) 501-2155
Photo of Charlotte Nwogwugwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrPH, MPH MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Nwogwugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrPH, MPH MSN, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21201
As a seasoned mental health professional, I am dedicated to providing exceptional care to clients grappling with burnout, anxiety, performance anxiety, and depression. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing and wellness encompass both the mind and the body. Therefore, I offer a unique, integrative approach that blends advanced holistic strategies with traditional psychiatric methods. I employ a treatment models that includes functional nutrition, laboratory testing, ensuring a deep understanding of your unique physiological makeup, mind-body practices and the cultivation of healthy lifestyle habits.
As a seasoned mental health professional, I am dedicated to providing exceptional care to clients grappling with burnout, anxiety, performance anxiety, and depression. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing and wellness encompass both the mind and the body. Therefore, I offer a unique, integrative approach that blends advanced holistic strategies with traditional psychiatric methods. I employ a treatment models that includes functional nutrition, laboratory testing, ensuring a deep understanding of your unique physiological makeup, mind-body practices and the cultivation of healthy lifestyle habits.
(443) 393-7502 View (443) 393-7502
Photo of Tolulope Ige, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tolulope Ige
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Tolu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than six years of experience working with patients with mental health concerns across the lifespan. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Maryland. He worked as a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse in various settings, including inpatient psychiatry, Crisis Intervention, home health, Addiction, education, and outpatient psychiatry. Tolu received his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
Tolu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than six years of experience working with patients with mental health concerns across the lifespan. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Maryland. He worked as a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse in various settings, including inpatient psychiatry, Crisis Intervention, home health, Addiction, education, and outpatient psychiatry. Tolu received his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
(443) 222-1195 View (443) 222-1195
Photo of Florence Oriakhi - BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC
Baltimore, MD 21211
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC provides psychiatric and mental health services to individuals and families in a therapeutic and non-judgmental manner. BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC (BBHS) listens to patients with empathy and passion. Here at BBHS, we assess, evaluate and re-evaluate, perform diagnostic evaluation, diagnose, treat, assist patients to acquire, develop and, maintain therapeutic skills they need for self-empowerment. Our Mission is to assist our patients in managing their symptoms, providing them with the necessary treatments and supports geared toward achieving full remission. BirdView Cares!
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC provides psychiatric and mental health services to individuals and families in a therapeutic and non-judgmental manner. BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC (BBHS) listens to patients with empathy and passion. Here at BBHS, we assess, evaluate and re-evaluate, perform diagnostic evaluation, diagnose, treat, assist patients to acquire, develop and, maintain therapeutic skills they need for self-empowerment. Our Mission is to assist our patients in managing their symptoms, providing them with the necessary treatments and supports geared toward achieving full remission. BirdView Cares!
(410) 431-3863 View (410) 431-3863
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 Alexzandra Hillyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Alexzandra Hillyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, or PTSD and is ready to take the next step toward healing. They’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a provider who truly listens. I offer compassionate, patient-centered care through thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and tailored treatment plans. My goal is to help clients gain control, improve daily functioning, and live more fulfilling, balanced lives with the support they deserve.
My ideal client is someone struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, or PTSD and is ready to take the next step toward healing. They’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a provider who truly listens. I offer compassionate, patient-centered care through thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and tailored treatment plans. My goal is to help clients gain control, improve daily functioning, and live more fulfilling, balanced lives with the support they deserve.
(240) 776-7806 View (240) 776-7806
Photo of Chienyezuo Anaba - Transformation Healthcare INC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-BC, PMHNP
Transformation Healthcare INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-BC, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21212
You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck; struggling to manage symptoms of depression, ADHD, trauma, or a mood disorder. You might be a parent looking for support for your child or teen, or an adult navigating a difficult season. My ideal clients are seeking clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to improve their mental health. They want to feel understood and empowered, and to know that healing is possible with the right support.
You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck; struggling to manage symptoms of depression, ADHD, trauma, or a mood disorder. You might be a parent looking for support for your child or teen, or an adult navigating a difficult season. My ideal clients are seeking clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to improve their mental health. They want to feel understood and empowered, and to know that healing is possible with the right support.
(410) 936-3186 View (410) 936-3186
Photo of Irfan Saeed, Psychiatrist, MD
Irfan Saeed
Psychiatrist, MD
Baltimore, MD 21202
Are you suffering with substance abuse? Do you sometimes feel depressed or anxious? Do you need a reliable psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience? Are you in Columbia, MD or the surrounding areas? Dr. Irfan Saeed is now available and accepting insurance*. Conveniently located next to Columbia Mall with free on-site parking. We offer evening and weekend hours. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today. We can lead you to the road of recovery, happiness, and inner peace. Now we also offer TMS treatment for depression and other conditions.
Are you suffering with substance abuse? Do you sometimes feel depressed or anxious? Do you need a reliable psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience? Are you in Columbia, MD or the surrounding areas? Dr. Irfan Saeed is now available and accepting insurance*. Conveniently located next to Columbia Mall with free on-site parking. We offer evening and weekend hours. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today. We can lead you to the road of recovery, happiness, and inner peace. Now we also offer TMS treatment for depression and other conditions.
(410) 849-6343 View (410) 849-6343
Photo of Itoro Abatai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Itoro Abatai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21216
The Chance healthcare services is a Psychiatric and Mental health organization that provides psychiatric services to individuals and families with behavioral problems. We offer telehealth services to help meet clients’ needs for convenient, affordable, and readily-accessible mental health services.
The Chance healthcare services is a Psychiatric and Mental health organization that provides psychiatric services to individuals and families with behavioral problems. We offer telehealth services to help meet clients’ needs for convenient, affordable, and readily-accessible mental health services.
(410) 402-5646 View (410) 402-5646
Photo of Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21225
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, MSN, CRNP-PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8years of experience treating patients with mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global). she is the founder of Noble Health & Behavioral Cares Services, LLC. She provides mental health services for all age groups, all gender, and all ethnic groups. Her organization provides comprehensive services for persons experiencing behavioral and mental illness, in-person and telehealth.
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, MSN, CRNP-PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8years of experience treating patients with mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global). she is the founder of Noble Health & Behavioral Cares Services, LLC. She provides mental health services for all age groups, all gender, and all ethnic groups. Her organization provides comprehensive services for persons experiencing behavioral and mental illness, in-person and telehealth.
(443) 331-9472 x1001 View (443) 331-9472 x1001
Photo of Ingrid Ntiege, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH
Ingrid Ntiege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21215
Ingrid Ntiege, CRNP-PMH, is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings extensive clinical experience. Diligent and resourceful,I bring a craving for knowledge and a passion for improving the mental health and wellness of her patients. I earned my degree from the University of Maryland School of Nursing, a program that ranks nationally in the top 25. Past experience includes Sheppard Pratt, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Beebe Health (DE) and Saint Vincent’s Villa. Warm, friendly and personable, I have a natural ability to make strong therapeutic connections with the young and grown-up, alike
Ingrid Ntiege, CRNP-PMH, is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who brings extensive clinical experience. Diligent and resourceful,I bring a craving for knowledge and a passion for improving the mental health and wellness of her patients. I earned my degree from the University of Maryland School of Nursing, a program that ranks nationally in the top 25. Past experience includes Sheppard Pratt, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Beebe Health (DE) and Saint Vincent’s Villa. Warm, friendly and personable, I have a natural ability to make strong therapeutic connections with the young and grown-up, alike
(443) 940-6487 View (443) 940-6487
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 Desmond M. Kaplan, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Desmond M. Kaplan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Baltimore, MD 21208
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is my speciality, though I see individuals of all ages. Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability is something I am nationally recognized for. I have recently entered private practice in Pikesville, MD.
(443) 998-8524 View (443) 998-8524
Photo of Tiffany Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffany Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Baltimore, MD 21209
Hello, my name is Tiffany. I am a Board - Certified Psychiatric nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of health care experience and is nationally certified by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Been working with Children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. Very dedicated and compassionate practitioner who is committed to providing exceptional health to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
Hello, my name is Tiffany. I am a Board - Certified Psychiatric nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of health care experience and is nationally certified by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Been working with Children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. Very dedicated and compassionate practitioner who is committed to providing exceptional health to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
(443) 708-5856 View (443) 708-5856
Photo of Janice L Miller, Psychiatrist, MD
Janice L Miller
Psychiatrist, MD
Baltimore, MD 21208
You are not alone in the face of multiple or severe stressors in your life. No PhD psychologist or social worker in the state of Maryland is allowed to prescribe medications to help such conditions as stress, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, and multiple other conditions which even your Internist or OB/Gyn are not adequately trained to diagnose and treat. I sometimes will do psychotherapy and medication management myself or alternatively I am happy to work collaberatively with a psychotherapist you may already have.
You are not alone in the face of multiple or severe stressors in your life. No PhD psychologist or social worker in the state of Maryland is allowed to prescribe medications to help such conditions as stress, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, and multiple other conditions which even your Internist or OB/Gyn are not adequately trained to diagnose and treat. I sometimes will do psychotherapy and medication management myself or alternatively I am happy to work collaberatively with a psychotherapist you may already have.
(410) 484-2447 View (410) 484-2447
Photo of Julaine Newell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Julaine Newell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21244
I offer therapy for Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Depression, and Communication Skills, focusing on symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, low motivation, and panic disorder, with a personalized approach. I aim to provide empathetic and effective interventions to help manage mental health symptoms and impairments. Together, we work to identify how, and which medications can support the effectiveness of your current talk therapy treatments.
I offer therapy for Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Depression, and Communication Skills, focusing on symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, low motivation, and panic disorder, with a personalized approach. I aim to provide empathetic and effective interventions to help manage mental health symptoms and impairments. Together, we work to identify how, and which medications can support the effectiveness of your current talk therapy treatments.
(443) 781-8584 View (443) 781-8584
Photo of Tywanna Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PFNP-DC
Tywanna Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PFNP-DC
Online Only
I am Tywanna Hamilton, a dual-certified Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner (PFNP-DC) with over 9 years of experience treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and PTSD. In my role, I conduct comprehensive assessments, giving patients the opportunity to discuss their current symptoms and concerns about their mental health. I work with teens, adults, and seniors, providing education about mental health conditions and helping both patients and their families understand the disease processes. My mission is to educate, treat, celebrate, encourage, and support my client
I am Tywanna Hamilton, a dual-certified Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner (PFNP-DC) with over 9 years of experience treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and PTSD. In my role, I conduct comprehensive assessments, giving patients the opportunity to discuss their current symptoms and concerns about their mental health. I work with teens, adults, and seniors, providing education about mental health conditions and helping both patients and their families understand the disease processes. My mission is to educate, treat, celebrate, encourage, and support my client
(443) 400-7923 View (443) 400-7923

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
85% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% 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.