Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD

Photo of Tarek Kronfli, Physician Assistant, PA
Tarek Kronfli
Physician Assistant, PA
Columbia, MD 21045
He works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults coping with a wide range of psychological conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, crisis management, suicidal ideation and behaviors, interpersonal difficulties, and loss and trauma. He adopts an integrative psychotherapy approach in order to shape each treatment experience to meet the needs of each person, and does psychological testing. Dr. Kronfli completed his Pre-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology at Canvas Health in Oakdale, Minnesota.
He works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults coping with a wide range of psychological conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, crisis management, suicidal ideation and behaviors, interpersonal difficulties, and loss and trauma. He adopts an integrative psychotherapy approach in order to shape each treatment experience to meet the needs of each person, and does psychological testing. Dr. Kronfli completed his Pre-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology at Canvas Health in Oakdale, Minnesota.
(410) 376-8319 View (410) 376-8319
Photo of Kasheria West, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kasheria West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
Accepting New Clients. Kasheria West is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. Through comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support, she strive to empower her patients to thrive in all aspects of their lives. She aspire to be a trusted partner in her patients mental health journey, offering hope, guidance, and advocacy every step of the way.
Accepting New Clients. Kasheria West is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. Through comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support, she strive to empower her patients to thrive in all aspects of their lives. She aspire to be a trusted partner in her patients mental health journey, offering hope, guidance, and advocacy every step of the way.
(240) 689-3171 View (240) 689-3171
Photo of Andy Mattai - Innovative Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist
Innovative Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist
Columbia, MD 21045
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT APPOINTMENTS FOR ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS! We believe that mental health and well-being can be achieved by addressing the myriad factors that contribute to psychological distress. Coping with stress, feelings of sadness, grief, or anger, changing behavior patterns, and medication management are all part of our comprehensive approach to treatment. At Innovative Psychiatry, we strive to meet our patients' individual needs through assessment, medication evaluation, and psychotherapy. The goal of our patient-centered approach is to ensure that your treatment plan is designed to meet your needs.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT APPOINTMENTS FOR ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS! We believe that mental health and well-being can be achieved by addressing the myriad factors that contribute to psychological distress. Coping with stress, feelings of sadness, grief, or anger, changing behavior patterns, and medication management are all part of our comprehensive approach to treatment. At Innovative Psychiatry, we strive to meet our patients' individual needs through assessment, medication evaluation, and psychotherapy. The goal of our patient-centered approach is to ensure that your treatment plan is designed to meet your needs.
(410) 457-7472 View (410) 457-7472
Photo of Gladys Alambi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Gladys Alambi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), My patients come to me with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, problems with attention and focus, work performance and academic difficulties, and relationship problems. focus on individuals and families understanding medication risks and benefits for their mental health needs.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), My patients come to me with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, problems with attention and focus, work performance and academic difficulties, and relationship problems. focus on individuals and families understanding medication risks and benefits for their mental health needs.
(443) 702-8803 View (443) 702-8803
Photo of Selam Tekie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Selam Tekie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
(443) 205-7766 View (443) 205-7766
Photo of Nadine Davis - Mid Atlantic Counseling Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Mid Atlantic Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing holistic, patient-centered care that addresses both the mental and emotional well-being of individuals. With a strong foundation in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I am equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy.
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing holistic, patient-centered care that addresses both the mental and emotional well-being of individuals. With a strong foundation in nursing and advanced training in psychiatric care, I am equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(443) 785-5330 View (443) 785-5330
Photo of Andy A Mattai, Psychiatrist, MD
Andy A Mattai
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Don't wait for an appointment! Are you looking for more personalized psychiatric care? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a strong interest in ADHD and mood disorders. My training includes completion of a clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Mental Health. As a result, I am a strong proponent of evidence-based psychiatric treatments and using innovative techniques to help the improve the quality of life for my patients. Please call our office for an appointment.
Don't wait for an appointment! Are you looking for more personalized psychiatric care? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a strong interest in ADHD and mood disorders. My training includes completion of a clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Mental Health. As a result, I am a strong proponent of evidence-based psychiatric treatments and using innovative techniques to help the improve the quality of life for my patients. Please call our office for an appointment.
(443) 225-4505 View (443) 225-4505
Photo of Ramona C White - Master Plan Health Concepts , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, BC
Master Plan Health Concepts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Our practice is based on Behavioral Health Treatment that focuses on depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. We lean towards a client centered, goal focused approach that gives people tools to effectively manage stressors and difficult life circumstances. We specialize in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, substance use, depression and bipolar. We will help to restore your mental stability which can help you maintain your physical health. We are here to help you through various challenges. You don't have to do it on your own. We can help you gain control of your life with various treatment and counseling options that are available.
Our practice is based on Behavioral Health Treatment that focuses on depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. We lean towards a client centered, goal focused approach that gives people tools to effectively manage stressors and difficult life circumstances. We specialize in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, substance use, depression and bipolar. We will help to restore your mental stability which can help you maintain your physical health. We are here to help you through various challenges. You don't have to do it on your own. We can help you gain control of your life with various treatment and counseling options that are available.
(443) 241-0377 View (443) 241-0377
Photo of Madison Lim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Madison Lim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Madison Lim is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with many years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She treats clients of all age groups and genders.
Madison Lim is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with many years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She treats clients of all age groups and genders.
(443) 390-5929 View (443) 390-5929
Photo of Shanya S Hardie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Shanya S Hardie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
3 Endorsed
Online Only
“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.
“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.
(240) 332-4133 View (240) 332-4133
Photo of Gladys Ekema, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gladys Ekema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Ms. Gladys is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) , who specializes in cases such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), behavioral problems, anger management, borderline personality disorder and many other psychiatric conditions.
Ms. Gladys is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) , who specializes in cases such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, sleep disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), behavioral problems, anger management, borderline personality disorder and many other psychiatric conditions.
(443) 647-8964 View (443) 647-8964
Photo of Favour Ofoegbu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CRNP
Favour Ofoegbu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CRNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Tehila Healthcare is owned and managed by Favour Ofoegbu, a highly experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with nearly two decades of combined clinical expertise in mental health care and general nursing. I have a strong background in delivering compassionate, patient-centered care, with a focus on helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and overall quality of life. As a dedicated mental health practitioner, I specialize in personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Vast in treating various challenges such as Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, Sleep d/o, ADHD, etc.
Tehila Healthcare is owned and managed by Favour Ofoegbu, a highly experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with nearly two decades of combined clinical expertise in mental health care and general nursing. I have a strong background in delivering compassionate, patient-centered care, with a focus on helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and overall quality of life. As a dedicated mental health practitioner, I specialize in personalized, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Vast in treating various challenges such as Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, Sleep d/o, ADHD, etc.
(240) 892-7142 View (240) 892-7142
Photo of Kathleen Swanson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Kathleen Swanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Columbia, MD 21046
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and work with teens and adults needing medications to treat psychiatric conditions, including: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, PTSD and other mood and anxiety-related conditions. I enjoy educating and collaborating with patients so they can be autonomous and informed participants in their treatment. My experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner includes working with those who suffer dementia and medical illnesses in assisted living and nursing facilities, working with teens and adults with developmental disabilities and collaborating with primary care providers to offer integrated mental health care.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and work with teens and adults needing medications to treat psychiatric conditions, including: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, PTSD and other mood and anxiety-related conditions. I enjoy educating and collaborating with patients so they can be autonomous and informed participants in their treatment. My experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner includes working with those who suffer dementia and medical illnesses in assisted living and nursing facilities, working with teens and adults with developmental disabilities and collaborating with primary care providers to offer integrated mental health care.
(443) 543-9120 View (443) 543-9120
Photo of Linh Register, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Linh Register
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Columbia, MD 21046
Mrs. Register immigrated to the United State at the age of 11 from Vietnam. She grew up in Garden City, KS. She is the oldest of 8 children. She graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University and worked for a short time in that field before deciding to stay home full time to raise her three children. After her last child started Kindergarten, she wanted to pursue a career in nursing. Her first nursing job was at a maximum security forensic psychiatric hospital in Maryland. It was there that she decided to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Earned a Master's degree from Walden.
Mrs. Register immigrated to the United State at the age of 11 from Vietnam. She grew up in Garden City, KS. She is the oldest of 8 children. She graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University and worked for a short time in that field before deciding to stay home full time to raise her three children. After her last child started Kindergarten, she wanted to pursue a career in nursing. Her first nursing job was at a maximum security forensic psychiatric hospital in Maryland. It was there that she decided to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Earned a Master's degree from Walden.
(443) 294-8916 View (443) 294-8916
WemiHealth Center for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression Tx
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Columbia, MD 21045
Managing ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Psychosis is my dedicated specialty for the last 5 years. I am Yetunde Fakinlede, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have many years of experience in providing diverse mental health care to individuals across all age groups in emergency units, inpatient, and outpatient settings.
Managing ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Psychosis is my dedicated specialty for the last 5 years. I am Yetunde Fakinlede, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have many years of experience in providing diverse mental health care to individuals across all age groups in emergency units, inpatient, and outpatient settings.
(443) 331-9809 View (443) 331-9809
Photo of Selam Tekie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Selam Tekie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the impact of mental illness on you and your household? Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be challenging but you don’t have to face it alone. We specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals aged 6 and above, dealing with a range of mental health conditions including(but not limited to) bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Break the silence, let us be part of your mental wellness journey.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the impact of mental illness on you and your household? Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be challenging but you don’t have to face it alone. We specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals aged 6 and above, dealing with a range of mental health conditions including(but not limited to) bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Break the silence, let us be part of your mental wellness journey.
(443) 429-1412 View (443) 429-1412
Photo of Angela Onwuanibe, Psychiatrist, MD
Angela Onwuanibe
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbia, MD 21046
Solutions for Mindfulness is committed to providing the latest treatment options and world class psychiatric services to Maryland and Pennsylvania residents. As a team,our focus is on collaboration, and partnering with our patients to work with treatment plans that focus on our patients needs. We also discuss all options available to the patient. We offer non- medication options, these Include therapy and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation ( TMS). We realize that the clients we serve have a right to determine their best treatment options for themselves and their families.
Solutions for Mindfulness is committed to providing the latest treatment options and world class psychiatric services to Maryland and Pennsylvania residents. As a team,our focus is on collaboration, and partnering with our patients to work with treatment plans that focus on our patients needs. We also discuss all options available to the patient. We offer non- medication options, these Include therapy and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation ( TMS). We realize that the clients we serve have a right to determine their best treatment options for themselves and their families.
(410) 992-3796 View (410) 992-3796
Photo of Iram Qazi - Emotion Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Emotion Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
I am a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing the highest quality of care, personalized to each individual. My methods of treatment are both psychodynamic and rooted in the evidence-based medicine technique. have had experience in the treatment of Children, Adolescents and Adults for the last 15 years. I am comfortable treating Childhood conditions including ADHD, Autism, Developmental disabilities, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I also sucessfully treat Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Mood & Psychotic disorders
I am a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing the highest quality of care, personalized to each individual. My methods of treatment are both psychodynamic and rooted in the evidence-based medicine technique. have had experience in the treatment of Children, Adolescents and Adults for the last 15 years. I am comfortable treating Childhood conditions including ADHD, Autism, Developmental disabilities, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I also sucessfully treat Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Mood & Psychotic disorders
(270) 751-6174 View (270) 751-6174
Photo of Dr. Alejandra Ivey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, DNP
Dr. Alejandra Ivey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, DNP
Online Only
Dr. Ivey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master’s and Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Ivey has previously worked in inpatient treatment of mood disorders at Sheppard Pratt and has over 2 years clinical experience in outpatient care. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions across the human lifespan.
Dr. Ivey is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master’s and Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Ivey has previously worked in inpatient treatment of mood disorders at Sheppard Pratt and has over 2 years clinical experience in outpatient care. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions across the human lifespan.
(240) 255-9467 View (240) 255-9467
Photo of Katie Barrick-Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katie Barrick-Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Columbia, MD 21046
Synergy Strive is a diverse team of solution-focused clinicians with the goal of helping adults, teens, adolescents, and children uncover their true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can help you get on a path of healthy discovery. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we’re ready to work with you to achieve your goals.
Synergy Strive is a diverse team of solution-focused clinicians with the goal of helping adults, teens, adolescents, and children uncover their true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can help you get on a path of healthy discovery. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we’re ready to work with you to achieve your goals.
(443) 898-4870 View (443) 898-4870

See more therapy options for Columbia

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Trauma and PTSD
62% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Columbia?

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.