Psychiatrists in Capitol Heights, MD

Photo of Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
(469) 517-2771 View (469) 517-2771
Photo of Adijat Adeyemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Adijat Adeyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong educational foundation and over 5 years of experience in the industry. My background spans across medical-surgical, oncology, and psychiatric nursing, with a deep commitment to delivering high-quality mental health care. I have extensive experience in managing a broad spectrum of mental health challenges, including depression, generalized anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and both mood and psychotic disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong educational foundation and over 5 years of experience in the industry. My background spans across medical-surgical, oncology, and psychiatric nursing, with a deep commitment to delivering high-quality mental health care. I have extensive experience in managing a broad spectrum of mental health challenges, including depression, generalized anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and both mood and psychotic disorders.
(240) 237-9971 View (240) 237-9971
Photo of Gladys Tombise Ekema Mosaso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gladys Tombise Ekema Mosaso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ms. Gladys Mosaso is a highly qualified Psychiatric Nurse Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University with over 18 years of clinical experience and 4 years of experience as a mental health nurse practitioner. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bowie State University. Her work experiences include treating patients in inpatient settings such as hospitals and outpatient clinics.
Ms. Gladys Mosaso is a highly qualified Psychiatric Nurse Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University with over 18 years of clinical experience and 4 years of experience as a mental health nurse practitioner. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bowie State University. Her work experiences include treating patients in inpatient settings such as hospitals and outpatient clinics.
(301) 701-3226 View (301) 701-3226
Photo of Gregory Anyinam Obiwuma - New Era Recovery & Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
New Era Recovery & Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Greg Obiwuma is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of working in psychiatric and mental health care in the Washington, DC metro area. We perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, psychotic illnesses and other mental health issues in people of all ages. At New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC, we utilize a holistic approach to treat patients across the lifespan (Adults, Adolescents and Children). Applying evidence-based
Greg Obiwuma is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of working in psychiatric and mental health care in the Washington, DC metro area. We perform psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients with mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, psychotic illnesses and other mental health issues in people of all ages. At New Era Recovery and Behavioral Health LLC, we utilize a holistic approach to treat patients across the lifespan (Adults, Adolescents and Children). Applying evidence-based
(202) 946-7827 View (202) 946-7827
Photo of Eric Kowshoh - Standard Healthcare Plus LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Standard Healthcare Plus LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello Eric Yenchi here .I have a wealth of experience and expertise in the mental health industry dating back to 2010. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in various roles and settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, as well as with ACT teams for individuals with severe mental illnesses. Our services encompass a wide range of mental health disorders, such as Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Personality disorders. Additionally, we offer Suboxone treatment, ADHD testing and treatment, medication management , Gene testing ,PRP services.
Hello Eric Yenchi here .I have a wealth of experience and expertise in the mental health industry dating back to 2010. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in various roles and settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, as well as with ACT teams for individuals with severe mental illnesses. Our services encompass a wide range of mental health disorders, such as Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Personality disorders. Additionally, we offer Suboxone treatment, ADHD testing and treatment, medication management , Gene testing ,PRP services.
(240) 213-7536 View (240) 213-7536
Photo of Precious Esene - Essene Behavioral Healthcare 2403347147, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Essene Behavioral Healthcare 2403347147
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a Doctor in Nursing Practice, I have been in healthcare for over ten years, which has prepared me to manage my patients with evidence-based treatment modalities. I bring compassion and commitment to my practice of caring for the holistic needs of my patients, which entails a comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the patient’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Also, creating a plan of care that will optimize a favorable outcome in a realistic goal-oriented length of time with the patient’s buy-in.
As a Doctor in Nursing Practice, I have been in healthcare for over ten years, which has prepared me to manage my patients with evidence-based treatment modalities. I bring compassion and commitment to my practice of caring for the holistic needs of my patients, which entails a comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the patient’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Also, creating a plan of care that will optimize a favorable outcome in a realistic goal-oriented length of time with the patient’s buy-in.
(301) 835-1478 View (301) 835-1478
Photo of Funmilayo Fashola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Funmilayo Fashola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who diagnoses, treats, and prescribes medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) Depression, Adjustment disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. Funmi's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) and psychotherapy. I believe in the mind/body/spiritual connection.
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who diagnoses, treats, and prescribes medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) Depression, Adjustment disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, and Bipolar disorder. Funmi's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) and psychotherapy. I believe in the mind/body/spiritual connection.
(301) 298-8671 View (301) 298-8671
Photo of Berenice Mumbemsa Ngam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH
Berenice Mumbemsa Ngam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH
Verified Verified
Online Only
Everyone needs a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment with an attentive and compassionate provider. You can be sure of a unique and holistic experience where you leave feeling supported, heard and motivated to face daily challenges. I work with patients of all backgrounds, religion, gender and ages, with a great multicultural experience from over 15 years of nursing. I will work with you at your pace and comfort, delving deeper into whatever challenge you are dealing with to create a plan for wellness and growth as treatment progresses.
Everyone needs a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment with an attentive and compassionate provider. You can be sure of a unique and holistic experience where you leave feeling supported, heard and motivated to face daily challenges. I work with patients of all backgrounds, religion, gender and ages, with a great multicultural experience from over 15 years of nursing. I will work with you at your pace and comfort, delving deeper into whatever challenge you are dealing with to create a plan for wellness and growth as treatment progresses.
(240) 816-3375 View (240) 816-3375
Photo of Cindy Hatley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Cindy Hatley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
(301) 409-5197 View (301) 409-5197
Photo of Cynthia Glover-Singleton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, MSN, RN
Cynthia Glover-Singleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Embrace a journey to wellness that transcends the ordinary with Cynthia “Cindy,” your Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over two decades of expertise in emergency care and mental health nursing, Cindy brings a wealth of knowledge and a Master of Nursing Degree from Walden University to your care. Her approach is not just about treating symptoms—it’s a comprehensive, integrative experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Cindy’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “No More Stigma.” She meets you exactly where you are, forging a powerful alliance in your path to mental wellness.
Embrace a journey to wellness that transcends the ordinary with Cynthia “Cindy,” your Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over two decades of expertise in emergency care and mental health nursing, Cindy brings a wealth of knowledge and a Master of Nursing Degree from Walden University to your care. Her approach is not just about treating symptoms—it’s a comprehensive, integrative experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Cindy’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “No More Stigma.” She meets you exactly where you are, forging a powerful alliance in your path to mental wellness.
(301) 281-6393 View (301) 281-6393

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mekedes Mekonnen - Clearpoint Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Clearpoint Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707
Now Accepting New Clients – In-Person & Telehealth. Are you struggling with chronic low mood, persistent anxiety, or difficulty focusing on daily tasks? Do you experience intrusive thoughts, trauma-related flashbacks, or debilitating panic attacks? You are not alone. Mental health challenges affect one in five adults in the United States, and effective support is available. I specialize in working with individuals and families, from age 5 & up, navigating the complexities of: Depression Anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder, Alcohol use, & Schizophrenia.
Now Accepting New Clients – In-Person & Telehealth. Are you struggling with chronic low mood, persistent anxiety, or difficulty focusing on daily tasks? Do you experience intrusive thoughts, trauma-related flashbacks, or debilitating panic attacks? You are not alone. Mental health challenges affect one in five adults in the United States, and effective support is available. I specialize in working with individuals and families, from age 5 & up, navigating the complexities of: Depression Anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder, Alcohol use, & Schizophrenia.
(202) 519-6979 View (202) 519-6979
Photo of Kingsley Onuorah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kingsley Onuorah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I’m Kingsley Onuorah a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner /Doctor in Nursing Practice. DNP/ PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare is patient-centered, focusing on compassionate, holistic treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions through a combination of medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle interventions, always tailoring care to your individual needs and goals.
Hello, I’m Kingsley Onuorah a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner /Doctor in Nursing Practice. DNP/ PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare is patient-centered, focusing on compassionate, holistic treatment that addresses both the mind and body. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions through a combination of medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle interventions, always tailoring care to your individual needs and goals.
(443) 706-8460 View (443) 706-8460
Photo of Dr. Cynthia Folsome - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
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.
(667) 220-9619 View (667) 220-9619
Photo of Olivia Anaele-Nwogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Olivia Anaele-Nwogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you miss the casualness and thrill of your early relationship. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience I understand that good health cannot exist without mental health. I serve my patients by preventing, identifying, and treating psychiatric conditions through holistic approaches in many ways. I employ experience, culture, and history of patients to facilitate healing.
Do you miss the casualness and thrill of your early relationship. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience I understand that good health cannot exist without mental health. I serve my patients by preventing, identifying, and treating psychiatric conditions through holistic approaches in many ways. I employ experience, culture, and history of patients to facilitate healing.
(410) 883-8587 View (410) 883-8587
Photo of Dr. Jaymie Fields, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Jaymie Fields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Dr. Fields and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh & studied behavioral health and psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
Hello! My name is Dr. Fields and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh & studied behavioral health and psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
(410) 584-3629 View (410) 584-3629
Photo of Marinette Nyangono Zibi - My Wellness1 Mental Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Doctor, PMHNP, BC
My Wellness1 Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Doctor, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Riverdale, MD 20737
My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change, grappling with complex mental health concerns, or struggling with substance use disorder. He is eager for recovery and stability, recognizing the interconnectedness of his well-being and seeking a holistic approach to treatment. Empowered by collaboration and partnership, he is committed to long-term goals for sustained recovery, resilience, and personal growth. As a PMHNP and SUD provider, I aim to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that honors his autonomy, validates his experiences, and empowers him to take ownership of his journey toward healing and recovery.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change, grappling with complex mental health concerns, or struggling with substance use disorder. He is eager for recovery and stability, recognizing the interconnectedness of his well-being and seeking a holistic approach to treatment. Empowered by collaboration and partnership, he is committed to long-term goals for sustained recovery, resilience, and personal growth. As a PMHNP and SUD provider, I aim to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that honors his autonomy, validates his experiences, and empowers him to take ownership of his journey toward healing and recovery.
(301) 389-6705 View (301) 389-6705
Photo of Aniekan Vincent - Anchor Behavioral and Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anchor Behavioral and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707
Today's world and it's demands can be overwhelming be it familial, financially or otherwise. This reality takes a toll on everyone of us and can present a psychological challenge with a psychiatric base. Presentation secondary to these stresses may be different. Some present as depressed, anxious or otherwise. Here is hope, here is home because here, with years of experience in prescribing and management of psychotropics, help is available.
Today's world and it's demands can be overwhelming be it familial, financially or otherwise. This reality takes a toll on everyone of us and can present a psychological challenge with a psychiatric base. Presentation secondary to these stresses may be different. Some present as depressed, anxious or otherwise. Here is hope, here is home because here, with years of experience in prescribing and management of psychotropics, help is available.
(240) 847-0188 View (240) 847-0188
Photo of Olumide Akinwumi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olumide Akinwumi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello there! My name is Olumide Akinwumi. I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My main objective is to provide exceptionally client-focused, culturally sensitive, evidence-based, and individualized interventions for my clients, with the simple goal of optimizing their functioning. Thank you. My approach simply to collaborate with my clients. I am here to help you with your mental and behavioral health needs through pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation. My environment is warm and welcoming. I am here always ready to listen and understand my patient's needs.
Hello there! My name is Olumide Akinwumi. I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My main objective is to provide exceptionally client-focused, culturally sensitive, evidence-based, and individualized interventions for my clients, with the simple goal of optimizing their functioning. Thank you. My approach simply to collaborate with my clients. I am here to help you with your mental and behavioral health needs through pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation. My environment is warm and welcoming. I am here always ready to listen and understand my patient's needs.
(443) 998-2803 View (443) 998-2803
Photo of Giovanna Happy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Giovanna Happy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Giovanna Happy, a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining medication management with therapeutic techniques to support your overall well-being. My focus areas include mood disorders, anxiety, and more. I prioritize creating a safe, empathetic environment where we can collaboratively develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your mental health goals.
Hello, I'm Giovanna Happy, a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining medication management with therapeutic techniques to support your overall well-being. My focus areas include mood disorders, anxiety, and more. I prioritize creating a safe, empathetic environment where we can collaboratively develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your mental health goals.
(443) 332-3581 View (443) 332-3581
Photo of Rhanee Perkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rhanee Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have sixteen years' experience working in the specialty of mental health. Mental health challenges have the potential to hold us back from our responsibilities, life fulfillments and looking towards the future. We have all been there. The good thing is that you don't have to stay there!
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have sixteen years' experience working in the specialty of mental health. Mental health challenges have the potential to hold us back from our responsibilities, life fulfillments and looking towards the future. We have all been there. The good thing is that you don't have to stay there!
(240) 623-2567 View (240) 623-2567

See more therapy options for Capitol Heights

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Capitol Heights, MD

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Capitol Heights, MD who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
90% ADHD
90% Trauma and PTSD
90% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
90% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Capitol Heights, MD see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Capitol Heights?

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.