Psychiatrists in Clinton, MD

Completely Centered Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Completely Centered Health (CCH) provides affordable mental health care where every voice is valued. We offer medication management, evaluations, and holistic services tailored to individual needs. Our approach addresses behavioral challenges, family dynamics, and life circumstances. By identifying root causes, we guide clients toward lasting wellness and balance. CCH prioritizes compassionate care and consistent relationships, empowering individuals to achieve fulfillment and improved well-being. Let us help you find your path to a centered, healthier life.
Completely Centered Health (CCH) provides affordable mental health care where every voice is valued. We offer medication management, evaluations, and holistic services tailored to individual needs. Our approach addresses behavioral challenges, family dynamics, and life circumstances. By identifying root causes, we guide clients toward lasting wellness and balance. CCH prioritizes compassionate care and consistent relationships, empowering individuals to achieve fulfillment and improved well-being. Let us help you find your path to a centered, healthier life.

Standard Healthcare Plus LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Clinton, MD 20735
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.

Ability Healthcare Plus LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Clinton, MD 20735
Hello, my name is Eric Yenchi and I possess extensive experience and expertise in the mental health field, with a career spanning since 2010. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my professional journey has taken me through a variety of roles and environments, including both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, as well as working with Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams dedicated to assisting individuals with severe mental illnesses. My practice covers a broad spectrum of mental health disorders, including Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders.
Hello, my name is Eric Yenchi and I possess extensive experience and expertise in the mental health field, with a career spanning since 2010. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my professional journey has taken me through a variety of roles and environments, including both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, as well as working with Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams dedicated to assisting individuals with severe mental illnesses. My practice covers a broad spectrum of mental health disorders, including Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders.

Collette Odibo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, MD 20735
Many people with serious mental illness are challenged doubly. On one hand, they struggle with the symptoms and disabilities that result from the disease. On the other, they are challenged by the stereotypes and prejudice that result from misconceptions about mental illness. As a result of both, people with mental illness are robbed of the opportunities that define a quality life: good jobs, healthy relationships, safe housing, satisfactory health care, and affiliation with a diverse group of people. Fear leads to avoidance, Treatment can provide relief. We are at your service to help you reach your optimum mental health wellness.
Many people with serious mental illness are challenged doubly. On one hand, they struggle with the symptoms and disabilities that result from the disease. On the other, they are challenged by the stereotypes and prejudice that result from misconceptions about mental illness. As a result of both, people with mental illness are robbed of the opportunities that define a quality life: good jobs, healthy relationships, safe housing, satisfactory health care, and affiliation with a diverse group of people. Fear leads to avoidance, Treatment can provide relief. We are at your service to help you reach your optimum mental health wellness.

As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is actively seeking help and support for their mental well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes in their life and recognize the importance of addressing their mental health concerns. Here are some key characteristics and needs of my ideal client: Recognizes Mental Health Importance: My ideal client understands the significance of mental health and how it can impact their overall well-being. They acknowledge that mental health is just as important as physical health. Openness to Treatment:
As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is actively seeking help and support for their mental well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes in their life and recognize the importance of addressing their mental health concerns. Here are some key characteristics and needs of my ideal client: Recognizes Mental Health Importance: My ideal client understands the significance of mental health and how it can impact their overall well-being. They acknowledge that mental health is just as important as physical health. Openness to Treatment:

Berenice Mumbemsa Anjeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Clinton, MD 20735
Berenice is a board-certified Nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry. She is licensed to diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychotropic medications, and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working with patients with conditions like, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, and insomnia. Berenice has over 14 years of experience as a healthcare practitioner starting off as a Licensed Practical Nurse and working her way up to a master’s degree as a nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health on course to graduate with a DNP.
Berenice is a board-certified Nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry. She is licensed to diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychotropic medications, and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working with patients with conditions like, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, and insomnia. Berenice has over 14 years of experience as a healthcare practitioner starting off as a Licensed Practical Nurse and working her way up to a master’s degree as a nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health on course to graduate with a DNP.

Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clinton, MD 20735
Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health, located in Clinton, MD, utilizes experienced psychiatric practitioners to deliver high-quality psychiatric care throughout Maryland. Our professional team offers a range of collaborative-based approaches and the highest standard of mental health care for individuals of all ages, including teens, children, and adults, with flexible treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Our behavioral treatment supports those facing challenges with substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Altitude Behavioral Care and Integrative Health, located in Clinton, MD, utilizes experienced psychiatric practitioners to deliver high-quality psychiatric care throughout Maryland. Our professional team offers a range of collaborative-based approaches and the highest standard of mental health care for individuals of all ages, including teens, children, and adults, with flexible treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Our behavioral treatment supports those facing challenges with substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Innovo Life Mental Health Practice - Telehealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, CRNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
In 2013, Innovo Life, LLC opened to service individuals in the Maryland area and now in Virginia too. Over the past 2 decades plus, the owners and staff combined, have been in involved in the lives of many and are now using these experiences to empower, support, educate, and treat individuals who cross the entryway of Innovo Life. We offer to the community: Psychiatric Diagnosis and Medication Management. Life Coaching is also available to get on track with your goals, be accountable with your goals and see achievement (In Spanish and English)
In 2013, Innovo Life, LLC opened to service individuals in the Maryland area and now in Virginia too. Over the past 2 decades plus, the owners and staff combined, have been in involved in the lives of many and are now using these experiences to empower, support, educate, and treat individuals who cross the entryway of Innovo Life. We offer to the community: Psychiatric Diagnosis and Medication Management. Life Coaching is also available to get on track with your goals, be accountable with your goals and see achievement (In Spanish and English)

Leighton Kennedy - Telehealth Only
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, CRNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have over 20 years in psychiatric mental health care, from an RN through being an NP. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am certified to prescribe medications and treat people with mental health challenges from youth through late adulthood. Working with people from a variety of ethnic and economic backgrounds gives me deeper understanding of you. I would love to see how I can help you feel more like you can accomplish your day to day tasks and goals without you feeling overwhelmed by your mood symptoms, anxiety, or challenges managing your behaviors. I am rendering services remotely in Maryland and in Virginia.
I have over 20 years in psychiatric mental health care, from an RN through being an NP. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am certified to prescribe medications and treat people with mental health challenges from youth through late adulthood. Working with people from a variety of ethnic and economic backgrounds gives me deeper understanding of you. I would love to see how I can help you feel more like you can accomplish your day to day tasks and goals without you feeling overwhelmed by your mood symptoms, anxiety, or challenges managing your behaviors. I am rendering services remotely in Maryland and in Virginia.

I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.

I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

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.

Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.

Fara Medical Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Greetings! My name is Dr. Faramade (Fara) Eruanga DNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry. I am dedicated to providing compassionate mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from a reputable institution where I developed a strong foundation in holistic patient care.I have worked in various clinical settings, gaining invaluable insights.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Faramade (Fara) Eruanga DNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry. I am dedicated to providing compassionate mental health care. With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for helping others, I strive to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from a reputable institution where I developed a strong foundation in holistic patient care.I have worked in various clinical settings, gaining invaluable insights.

My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.

Prudent Behavioral and Wellness Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Ngozi Amadi-Obi, but you can call me Ngozi. I work at Prudent Behavioral and Wellness Health as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My responsibilities include helping individuals with mental health problems and their families find support and solutions to their mental health concerns. My practice is driven by empathy, value, trust and respect for person and culture. I encourage and empower my clients to participate in the decision-making process as we focus on the positive outcome.
My name is Ngozi Amadi-Obi, but you can call me Ngozi. I work at Prudent Behavioral and Wellness Health as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My responsibilities include helping individuals with mental health problems and their families find support and solutions to their mental health concerns. My practice is driven by empathy, value, trust and respect for person and culture. I encourage and empower my clients to participate in the decision-making process as we focus on the positive outcome.

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.

Accepting new Clients. Offering in person visits. Seeking a provider who listens to your entire story and works with you to develop a recovery plan? Then you have come to the right place. Knowing your story is important because you are the expert on you. Your symptoms do not have to impact your functioning when you have the right resources and supports in place. While medications are sometimes needed they are not the only answer to managing symptoms. Often behavioral therapy and modification are effective in managing symptoms alone or in conjunction with medications at the lowest effective dosage.
Accepting new Clients. Offering in person visits. Seeking a provider who listens to your entire story and works with you to develop a recovery plan? Then you have come to the right place. Knowing your story is important because you are the expert on you. Your symptoms do not have to impact your functioning when you have the right resources and supports in place. While medications are sometimes needed they are not the only answer to managing symptoms. Often behavioral therapy and modification are effective in managing symptoms alone or in conjunction with medications at the lowest effective dosage.

Adeline Lum Azong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Clinton, MD 20735
More Psychiatrists Nearby

As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and similar disorders.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and similar disorders.
See more therapy options for Clinton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Clinton, MD
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Clinton, MD who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
79% | ADHD |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Bipolar Disorder |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
94% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Clinton, MD see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Clinton?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.