Psychiatrists in Chevy Chase, MD

Photo of Harry Gill, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Harry Gill
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
My Physician Assistant and I are accepting new patients for medication management via telemedicine in DC, Maryland, Virginia and Georgia. I also see patients for psychotherapy independently. We strive to continuously optimize your treatment plan and minimize medication use. Most emotional problems are multi-determined; that is, they frequently stem from more than one source. To best address these problems first requires an understanding of early development and its effects on the brain as well as relational and environmental stressors that affect us all.
My Physician Assistant and I are accepting new patients for medication management via telemedicine in DC, Maryland, Virginia and Georgia. I also see patients for psychotherapy independently. We strive to continuously optimize your treatment plan and minimize medication use. Most emotional problems are multi-determined; that is, they frequently stem from more than one source. To best address these problems first requires an understanding of early development and its effects on the brain as well as relational and environmental stressors that affect us all.
(301) 822-2484 View (301) 822-2484
Photo of Titilayo Raji - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP/PMH
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP/PMH
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
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.
(240) 635-8282 View (240) 635-8282
Photo of Barbara Byers, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Barbara Byers
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I am an adult psychiatrist who also specializes in reproductive psychiatry. I work with women who have mood and anxiey issues related to reproductive changes including pregnancy, posptpartum, and infertility, as well as PMS and menopause. I also treat general patients who have mood and axiety symptoms as well.
I am an adult psychiatrist who also specializes in reproductive psychiatry. I work with women who have mood and anxiey issues related to reproductive changes including pregnancy, posptpartum, and infertility, as well as PMS and menopause. I also treat general patients who have mood and axiety symptoms as well.
(240) 366-2528 View (240) 366-2528
Photo of Robert M. Post, Psychiatrist, MD
Robert M. Post
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Post is world-renowned psychiatrist known for providing one-time consultations for children and adults with difficult-to-treat mood disorders such as unipolar depression and bipolar disorder. He has published over 1080 articles on these topics and continues to conduct research and publish work to contribute to the scientific advancement of treatments for these disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is providing consults via telemedicine.
Dr. Post is world-renowned psychiatrist known for providing one-time consultations for children and adults with difficult-to-treat mood disorders such as unipolar depression and bipolar disorder. He has published over 1080 articles on these topics and continues to conduct research and publish work to contribute to the scientific advancement of treatments for these disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is providing consults via telemedicine.
(240) 569-8174 View (240) 569-8174
Photo of Dr. Michael Dickson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Michael Dickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 8 years of experience in mental health. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or ADHD, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work on finding the right strategies and treatments to help you manage your emotions, improve your mental well-being, and move towards a more fulfilling future. You deserve a brighter tomorrow — and I’m here to help!
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and over 8 years of experience in mental health. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or ADHD, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard, understood, and empowered to take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work on finding the right strategies and treatments to help you manage your emotions, improve your mental well-being, and move towards a more fulfilling future. You deserve a brighter tomorrow — and I’m here to help!
(240) 213-6293 View (240) 213-6293
Photo of David E Scharff, Psychiatrist, MD, FABP
David E Scharff
Psychiatrist, MD, FABP
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I'm a psychoanalyst who works with adults, children, couples and families, and have a subspecialty in sexual difficulties. I have taught and written about issues across many areas of the life cycle, and am probably best known for my treatment and teaching about couple and family difficulties. Although I am a psychiatrist, I only prescribe for patients I treat with psychotherapy and psychoanalysis.
I'm a psychoanalyst who works with adults, children, couples and families, and have a subspecialty in sexual difficulties. I have taught and written about issues across many areas of the life cycle, and am probably best known for my treatment and teaching about couple and family difficulties. Although I am a psychiatrist, I only prescribe for patients I treat with psychotherapy and psychoanalysis.
(240) 209-9657 View (240) 209-9657
Photo of Falk W Lohoff, Psychiatrist, MD
Falk W Lohoff
Psychiatrist, MD
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I am double Board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine and specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD and addictions. I completed my training at the University of Pennsylvania and have special interest in neuropsychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My overall goal is to alleviate your symptoms and increase your quality of life.
I am double Board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine and specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD and addictions. I completed my training at the University of Pennsylvania and have special interest in neuropsychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My overall goal is to alleviate your symptoms and increase your quality of life.
(301) 761-4191 View (301) 761-4191
Photo of Elspeth Dwyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Elspeth Dwyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in psychopharmacology. I received both a Bachelors and Master’s Degree in nursing from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked as a psychotherapist and have my MSW from Boston College. I have extensive experience working in inpatient, partial hospital, outpatient and college health settings. I have a special interest in women's mental health across the lifespan, including the perinatal and postpartum period. I also especially enjoy working with young adults and college students.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in psychopharmacology. I received both a Bachelors and Master’s Degree in nursing from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked as a psychotherapist and have my MSW from Boston College. I have extensive experience working in inpatient, partial hospital, outpatient and college health settings. I have a special interest in women's mental health across the lifespan, including the perinatal and postpartum period. I also especially enjoy working with young adults and college students.
(301) 720-1119 View (301) 720-1119
Photo of Douglas A Chavis, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Douglas A Chavis
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I can work with you on your struggles with anxiety, depression, or issues around intimacy, relationships, and sexuality. Or. I can work with your child or adolescent who may by overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, drug use, school difficulties, social difficulties, or conflicts with parents. If you are a couple I can help you resolve the intense pain of a difficult and conflicted relationship. I can also help if your family is struggling with loss, a disruptive parent or child, sibling squabbles or parent-child conflict.
I can work with you on your struggles with anxiety, depression, or issues around intimacy, relationships, and sexuality. Or. I can work with your child or adolescent who may by overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, drug use, school difficulties, social difficulties, or conflicts with parents. If you are a couple I can help you resolve the intense pain of a difficult and conflicted relationship. I can also help if your family is struggling with loss, a disruptive parent or child, sibling squabbles or parent-child conflict.
(301) 710-0483 View (301) 710-0483
Photo of June Ottley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
June Ottley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
June Ottley is certified as an Adult, Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2015. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner from the University of Maryland. She later returned to advance her education and clinical expertise, by obtaining a Post Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
June Ottley is certified as an Adult, Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2015. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner from the University of Maryland. She later returned to advance her education and clinical expertise, by obtaining a Post Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(240) 523-4470 View (240) 523-4470
Photo of Eric Taswell, Psychiatrist, MD
Eric Taswell
Psychiatrist, MD
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
"No man is an island...", John Donne wrote. No woman, either. From birth, we depend upon relationships to give life meaning. But life sometimes leaves us feeling alone with our troubles. We may feel misunderstood, sad, worried, scared or angry. We may struggle with our direction, fall short of our hopes, suffer a loss. Yet our social connections are at the core of our humanity. That is why I believe talking can help to relieve suffering and create new directions. I strive to help by listening carefully and reflecting with you to better understand obstacles to a more fulfilling life.
"No man is an island...", John Donne wrote. No woman, either. From birth, we depend upon relationships to give life meaning. But life sometimes leaves us feeling alone with our troubles. We may feel misunderstood, sad, worried, scared or angry. We may struggle with our direction, fall short of our hopes, suffer a loss. Yet our social connections are at the core of our humanity. That is why I believe talking can help to relieve suffering and create new directions. I strive to help by listening carefully and reflecting with you to better understand obstacles to a more fulfilling life.
(301) 685-0781 View (301) 685-0781
Photo of Jeanne Holzgrefe, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Jeanne Holzgrefe
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I am a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and transitions in life. I also have extensive experience with a variety of other mental health issues. Therapy, I believe, is a collaborative exploration of important aspects of one's present and past, in order to develop alternative coping mechanisms and strategies for growth, to relieve suffering, to foster healthy relationships, and to attain one's personal goals. I have had much success in helping patients along a path to better mental health and functioning.
I am a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and transitions in life. I also have extensive experience with a variety of other mental health issues. Therapy, I believe, is a collaborative exploration of important aspects of one's present and past, in order to develop alternative coping mechanisms and strategies for growth, to relieve suffering, to foster healthy relationships, and to attain one's personal goals. I have had much success in helping patients along a path to better mental health and functioning.
(301) 298-2836 View (301) 298-2836
Photo of Emee Ta, Psychiatrist, MD
Emee Ta
Psychiatrist, MD
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Board-certified psychiatrist specializing in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma/stressor-related disorders in emerging adults, young professionals, and college students. I see patients age 15 and above. I practice with a comprehensive and holistic biopsychosocial model of psychiatry that closely intertwines a thoughtful and informed approach to prescribing with psychotherapy. Outside of private practice, I also work as a staff psychiatrist at the student health center at George Washington University.
Board-certified psychiatrist specializing in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma/stressor-related disorders in emerging adults, young professionals, and college students. I see patients age 15 and above. I practice with a comprehensive and holistic biopsychosocial model of psychiatry that closely intertwines a thoughtful and informed approach to prescribing with psychotherapy. Outside of private practice, I also work as a staff psychiatrist at the student health center at George Washington University.
(240) 219-6017 x9 View (240) 219-6017 x9
Photo of Carrie Colson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Carrie Colson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Your mental health matters, and you do not have to navigate it alone. I provide comprehensive care for all mental health concerns, specializing in medication management and personalized treatment. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other challenges, I take an evidence-based, compassionate approach. By integrating holistic care, including the mind-body connection, lifestyle factors, and genetics, I help you achieve balance and well-being. Together, we’ll create a plan that supports and empowers you on your path to mental wellness.
Your mental health matters, and you do not have to navigate it alone. I provide comprehensive care for all mental health concerns, specializing in medication management and personalized treatment. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other challenges, I take an evidence-based, compassionate approach. By integrating holistic care, including the mind-body connection, lifestyle factors, and genetics, I help you achieve balance and well-being. Together, we’ll create a plan that supports and empowers you on your path to mental wellness.
(240) 852-1348 View (240) 852-1348
Photo of Dr. Mariam Kashani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Mariam Kashani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Mental healthcare does not need to be complicated. Compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care is achievable for every patient. I am a doctorally prepared Nurse Practitioner, board-certified in both Psychiatry and Primary Care, with 23 years of experience. As an alumna of Johns Hopkins University, I provide diagnosis, medication management and psychotherapy to adult patients suffering from mood disorders, anxiety, depression, insomnia, postpartum depression, and trauma.
Mental healthcare does not need to be complicated. Compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care is achievable for every patient. I am a doctorally prepared Nurse Practitioner, board-certified in both Psychiatry and Primary Care, with 23 years of experience. As an alumna of Johns Hopkins University, I provide diagnosis, medication management and psychotherapy to adult patients suffering from mood disorders, anxiety, depression, insomnia, postpartum depression, and trauma.
(240) 474-0899 x112 View (240) 474-0899 x112
Photo of Brandon A Burr - ADHD Aid Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
ADHD Aid Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to break the stigma and prioritize your well-being. As spring blossoms around us, it’s a reminder that growth is possible—even after long seasons of struggle. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, or emotionally drained, you’re not alone. ADHD, anxiety, and depression are more common than you think—and more manageable than you might believe. Whether you're navigating academic stress, workplace burnout, or long-standing patterns that keep you stuck, now is the perfect time to bring those challenges to light and take the first step toward change. Awareness is powerful—and so are you.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to break the stigma and prioritize your well-being. As spring blossoms around us, it’s a reminder that growth is possible—even after long seasons of struggle. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, or emotionally drained, you’re not alone. ADHD, anxiety, and depression are more common than you think—and more manageable than you might believe. Whether you're navigating academic stress, workplace burnout, or long-standing patterns that keep you stuck, now is the perfect time to bring those challenges to light and take the first step toward change. Awareness is powerful—and so are you.
(240) 817-1877 View (240) 817-1877
Photo of Hedy Howard, Psychiatrist, MD
Hedy Howard
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I work with my patients in an individualized collaborative process to understand the roots of the problem they are having and to design the best treatment plan. The goal is to restore health and alleviate pain but also to achieve the insight and self understanding that provides the freedom to be one's best self, to make the best choices in all aspects of life.
I work with my patients in an individualized collaborative process to understand the roots of the problem they are having and to design the best treatment plan. The goal is to restore health and alleviate pain but also to achieve the insight and self understanding that provides the freedom to be one's best self, to make the best choices in all aspects of life.
(240) 377-0919 View (240) 377-0919
Photo of Jill Savege Scharff, Psychiatrist, MD, FABP
Jill Savege Scharff
Psychiatrist, MD, FABP
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I offer psychoanalysis and psychotherapy and I do not prescribe medication. Together, we focus on understanding your symptoms and mastering your upsetting impulses, conflicts, and relationships. You will learn to modify the way that early relationships affect current relationships. You’ll make links between your thoughts, feelings, and experiences now and in the past, decode your dreams, recognize your ways of protecting yourself, and acknowledge how you have been held back so you can then move forward in career, friendship, and love.
I offer psychoanalysis and psychotherapy and I do not prescribe medication. Together, we focus on understanding your symptoms and mastering your upsetting impulses, conflicts, and relationships. You will learn to modify the way that early relationships affect current relationships. You’ll make links between your thoughts, feelings, and experiences now and in the past, decode your dreams, recognize your ways of protecting yourself, and acknowledge how you have been held back so you can then move forward in career, friendship, and love.
(240) 635-8818 View (240) 635-8818
Photo of Mekeshia D. Bates - Gift of Dreams Wellness and Consulting, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MDiv, MPH, MSN
Gift of Dreams Wellness and Consulting, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MDiv, MPH, MSN
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
At The Gift of Dreams, you will have your specific needs met in a way that is collaborative, comfortable, and conscientious. Dr. Mekeshia Bates will work with you and for you to ensure that you are meeting your individual therapeutic goals and becoming the person you have always been capable of being. In unison, you and Dr. Bates will work to remove negative behavioral and thought patterns that give rise to problems in your life, helping you to become a happier, more fulfilled person. She will always help you to make your dreams your reality!
At The Gift of Dreams, you will have your specific needs met in a way that is collaborative, comfortable, and conscientious. Dr. Mekeshia Bates will work with you and for you to ensure that you are meeting your individual therapeutic goals and becoming the person you have always been capable of being. In unison, you and Dr. Bates will work to remove negative behavioral and thought patterns that give rise to problems in your life, helping you to become a happier, more fulfilled person. She will always help you to make your dreams your reality!
(301) 327-2817 View (301) 327-2817
Photo of Dr. Sonia Elizabeth Jacob, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Sonia Elizabeth Jacob
Psychiatrist, DO
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I'm a Children's National Hospital-trained, board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing at Capital Mental Health in Chevy Chase, MD. I offer both in-person and virtual services, including both medication management as well as an array of psychotherapy approaches (CBT, DBT, insight-oriented, supportive therapy) to guide my patients in achieving their goals and optimize their wellness. I treat a broad array of concerns, including mood, anxiety, gender, ADHD, ASD, behavioral, relationship and any additional life challenges.
I'm a Children's National Hospital-trained, board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing at Capital Mental Health in Chevy Chase, MD. I offer both in-person and virtual services, including both medication management as well as an array of psychotherapy approaches (CBT, DBT, insight-oriented, supportive therapy) to guide my patients in achieving their goals and optimize their wellness. I treat a broad array of concerns, including mood, anxiety, gender, ADHD, ASD, behavioral, relationship and any additional life challenges.
(240) 534-1194 View (240) 534-1194
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Chevy Chase, MD

50+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Chevy Chase, MD who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
84% Anxiety
74% ADHD
72% Medication Management
70% Bipolar Disorder
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
56% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Cigna and Evernorth
71% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Chevy Chase, MD see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Female
45% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Chevy Chase?

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.