Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD
Sarah Langham is a Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2016. Sarah provides compassionate, person centered care and individualized treatment plans incorporating the patient’s desires. Sarah has experience in treating a wide range of mental health issues. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys traveling, reading, and community service.
Sarah Langham is a Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2016. Sarah provides compassionate, person centered care and individualized treatment plans incorporating the patient’s desires. Sarah has experience in treating a wide range of mental health issues. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys traveling, reading, and community service.
Ethel Elad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114 (Online Only)
Ms. Elad is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio University where she graduated with honors. She also obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Akron. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she worked as a Registered Nurse for over seven years in different disciplines to include but not limited to psychiatric, neuro, cardiac, and surgical intensive care units. While working in psychiatric units she developed more compassion and empathy for her patients suffering from mental health problems as she understood their concerns and how the
Ms. Elad is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio University where she graduated with honors. She also obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Akron. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she worked as a Registered Nurse for over seven years in different disciplines to include but not limited to psychiatric, neuro, cardiac, and surgical intensive care units. While working in psychiatric units she developed more compassion and empathy for her patients suffering from mental health problems as she understood their concerns and how the
She has put into practice not only her clinical, but also her bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural skills, working in community mental health, school-based programs, an international eating disorders clinic, an immigration program, treatment-oriented foster care, private practice, and inpatient medical and mental health care at Walter Reed Military Medical Center. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, geriatric care, couples, and families.
She has put into practice not only her clinical, but also her bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural skills, working in community mental health, school-based programs, an international eating disorders clinic, an immigration program, treatment-oriented foster care, private practice, and inpatient medical and mental health care at Walter Reed Military Medical Center. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, geriatric care, couples, and families.
My treatment approach is holistic. I focus on providing personalized care that incorporates biological, psychological and social factors that may impact one's ability to function at their best. I believe treatment is a collaborative process and work with patients to find the best approach to suit their needs as they journey toward emotional wellness. My experience includes employment in private, public and government sectors. I have worked with people from all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and have treated conditions across the mental health spectrum. I specialize in depressive, anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
My treatment approach is holistic. I focus on providing personalized care that incorporates biological, psychological and social factors that may impact one's ability to function at their best. I believe treatment is a collaborative process and work with patients to find the best approach to suit their needs as they journey toward emotional wellness. My experience includes employment in private, public and government sectors. I have worked with people from all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and have treated conditions across the mental health spectrum. I specialize in depressive, anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
Ugo O Azuewah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114 (Online Only)
My ideal clients are clients with depression, Anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorder and panic attack. I will ensure that my patients understand all the pathophysiology behind their diagnoses. I will listen to every client to understand their needs, through utilizing individualized patient approach. At this practice, I understand that no two persons are the same, therefore, every one will be treated as such. We will set a measurable, realistic goal and will always reassess goals for possible change and adjustment as needed.
My ideal clients are clients with depression, Anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorder and panic attack. I will ensure that my patients understand all the pathophysiology behind their diagnoses. I will listen to every client to understand their needs, through utilizing individualized patient approach. At this practice, I understand that no two persons are the same, therefore, every one will be treated as such. We will set a measurable, realistic goal and will always reassess goals for possible change and adjustment as needed.
Capital Multi Health Group INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
We are professionals dedicated to providing optimal patient care at all times. We provide services at affordable rates in a customer friendly and stigma free environment. We value our patients by showing them our commitment to their individualized needs in a culturally competent fashion.
We are professionals dedicated to providing optimal patient care at all times. We provide services at affordable rates in a customer friendly and stigma free environment. We value our patients by showing them our commitment to their individualized needs in a culturally competent fashion.
Proximity Health Care Services is a mental health clinic supporting kids, teen, young adults, caregivers and parents struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. At our practice, we provide different kinds of mental health services at your comfort. We work to enhance the quality of life of our patients by enabling them to maintain their health, well-being, independence, and participation in the community.
Proximity Health Care Services is a mental health clinic supporting kids, teen, young adults, caregivers and parents struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. At our practice, we provide different kinds of mental health services at your comfort. We work to enhance the quality of life of our patients by enabling them to maintain their health, well-being, independence, and participation in the community.
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.
Kimberly Vargo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
Accepting NEW Patients 13+. Trained in the newest and most advanced treatments available, Kim Vargo provides specifically tailored treatment options to clients ages 13 through adulthood with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. She approaches every case in a calming and professional manner and nurtures supportive relationships with clients and families. She works closely with referring providers and psychotherapists to not only improve overall mental health and well-being, but to help clients live their best lives.
Accepting NEW Patients 13+. Trained in the newest and most advanced treatments available, Kim Vargo provides specifically tailored treatment options to clients ages 13 through adulthood with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. She approaches every case in a calming and professional manner and nurtures supportive relationships with clients and families. She works closely with referring providers and psychotherapists to not only improve overall mental health and well-being, but to help clients live their best lives.
Zenith Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, MSc, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
Dr. Olukemi Omogoke is a doctoral-prepared Board-certified Psychiatric NP with over 8 years of psych/mental healthcare experience. She is a graduate of Bowie State University and she received her MSN and DNP at Walden University.
Dr. Olukemi Omogoke is a doctoral-prepared Board-certified Psychiatric NP with over 8 years of psych/mental healthcare experience. She is a graduate of Bowie State University and she received her MSN and DNP at Walden University.
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.
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
Remarkable Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114 (Online Only)
We are a provider of behavioral healthcare services through telehealth. We take pride and joy in supporting every individual by providing them with the tools and imparting to them the skills to cope with their behavioral health issues. Remarkable Behavioral Health believes in the combined efforts with its clients, their families, and other healthcare providers in managing the presented behavioral health concern. You can trust our behavioral health experts to lead you to live better and healthier lives because they are all licensed, proficient professionals in their field.
We are a provider of behavioral healthcare services through telehealth. We take pride and joy in supporting every individual by providing them with the tools and imparting to them the skills to cope with their behavioral health issues. Remarkable Behavioral Health believes in the combined efforts with its clients, their families, and other healthcare providers in managing the presented behavioral health concern. You can trust our behavioral health experts to lead you to live better and healthier lives because they are all licensed, proficient professionals in their field.
Five Star Integrated Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crofton, MD 21114
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
Metrix Healthcare llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH-BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Hello, I am Ogo Tunde-Sanya and I am dual-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children and adults. With a deep understanding of pharmacology and psychological conditions, I can carefully evaluate patients' needs and provide them with appropriate treatment options. By staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in the field, I strive to offer the best possible care to my patients, ensuring their well-being and optimal health outcomes.
Hello, I am Ogo Tunde-Sanya and I am dual-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children and adults. With a deep understanding of pharmacology and psychological conditions, I can carefully evaluate patients' needs and provide them with appropriate treatment options. By staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in the field, I strive to offer the best possible care to my patients, ensuring their well-being and optimal health outcomes.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Erica Y Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401 (Online Only)
At MindFlo Psychiatry, an ideal client would be any client who is struggling with a psychiatric disorder. Erica is licensed in Georgia, Maryland, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Arizona. She provides telehealth psychiatric care to all clients.
At MindFlo Psychiatry, an ideal client would be any client who is struggling with a psychiatric disorder. Erica is licensed in Georgia, Maryland, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Arizona. She provides telehealth psychiatric care to all clients.
Gabtel Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, MD 21037 (Online Only)
Perpetua Anthony PMHNP -BC, FNP- C, MSN, CRNP, is a dual board certified Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of excellent experience as healthcare professional. She is certified as a Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. She can provide you with both medical and mental need services. She is knowledgeable in evaluating and treating psychiatric/ behavioral disorders, substance/alcohol/ Opioid/ addiction in inpatient and Outpatient settings, Memory Care/Long Term care/Assisted Living Facilities.
Perpetua Anthony PMHNP -BC, FNP- C, MSN, CRNP, is a dual board certified Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of excellent experience as healthcare professional. She is certified as a Psychiatric nurse practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. She can provide you with both medical and mental need services. She is knowledgeable in evaluating and treating psychiatric/ behavioral disorders, substance/alcohol/ Opioid/ addiction in inpatient and Outpatient settings, Memory Care/Long Term care/Assisted Living Facilities.
Do you feel down, depressed, changes in appetite, feel anxious, can’t stop worrying about things, have low motivation, can’t get out of bed? Is it hard to pay attention and complete tasks? Do you suffer from nightmares due to past trauma? Does your heart race and do you have panic attacks? I am here to tell you that you are not alone in your journey. I will listen to your concerns in a safe and positive space and, working together in partnership, help you find the solutions you are looking for. As an experienced professional, I will support you with the best quality care you deserve through medication management.
Do you feel down, depressed, changes in appetite, feel anxious, can’t stop worrying about things, have low motivation, can’t get out of bed? Is it hard to pay attention and complete tasks? Do you suffer from nightmares due to past trauma? Does your heart race and do you have panic attacks? I am here to tell you that you are not alone in your journey. I will listen to your concerns in a safe and positive space and, working together in partnership, help you find the solutions you are looking for. As an experienced professional, I will support you with the best quality care you deserve through medication management.
Baltimore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Severna Park, MD 21146 (Online Only)
FAST evaluations as early as same-day (when available) and we can work with ALL private insurance! Fast: Book on our website www.BaltimorePsychiatry.com 24/7. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with e-prescriptions. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with appointment lengths 50% longer than the typical public practice (and without added cost). Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can help you submit out-of-network claims, or offer you our low cash pricing - whichever is most beneficial for you.
FAST evaluations as early as same-day (when available) and we can work with ALL private insurance! Fast: Book on our website www.BaltimorePsychiatry.com 24/7. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with e-prescriptions. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with appointment lengths 50% longer than the typical public practice (and without added cost). Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can help you submit out-of-network claims, or offer you our low cash pricing - whichever is most beneficial for you.
Hopestone Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Odenton, MD 21113
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent sadness, excessive worry, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, or impulsivity? At Hopestone Health and Wellness, we understand that mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood and behavioral disorders can significantly impact your daily life. We value your opinions, history, and past experiences, believing in a collaborative approach to your care. Together, we will work as a team to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent sadness, excessive worry, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, or impulsivity? At Hopestone Health and Wellness, we understand that mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood and behavioral disorders can significantly impact your daily life. We value your opinions, history, and past experiences, believing in a collaborative approach to your care. Together, we will work as a team to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals.
See more therapy options for Crofton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD
10+
Average cost per session
$125
Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD who prioritize treating:
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
53% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Crofton, MD see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
91% | Female | |
9% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Crofton?
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.