Psychiatrists in Eldersburg, MD

Photo of Miguel J Macaoay - Miguel Macaoay, MD, PA, MD, Psychiatrist
Miguel Macaoay, MD, PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784
Dr. Macaoay is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, Board-Certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. Dr. Macaoay's education/training and experience grounded in empathy and understanding have helped patients and their families improve their psychiatric symptoms and overall level of functioning. Dr. Macaoay provides individualized Diagnostic Assessments, constructing a Biopsychosocial formulation that helps understand the complex dimensions of each patient and incorporates mutual participation of a workable multimodal treatment plan that fosters a productive therapeutic alliance.
Dr. Macaoay is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, Board-Certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. Dr. Macaoay's education/training and experience grounded in empathy and understanding have helped patients and their families improve their psychiatric symptoms and overall level of functioning. Dr. Macaoay provides individualized Diagnostic Assessments, constructing a Biopsychosocial formulation that helps understand the complex dimensions of each patient and incorporates mutual participation of a workable multimodal treatment plan that fosters a productive therapeutic alliance.
(410) 803-3538 View (410) 803-3538
Photo of Melissa Richards, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have always had a keen interest in mental health and entered this field with a strong and purposeful desire to help facilitate the psychiatric wellbeing of others. In addition to my psychiatric training and experience, I previously served as a registered nurse for 12 years primarily in critical care and cardio-thoracic and surgical nursing units.
I have always had a keen interest in mental health and entered this field with a strong and purposeful desire to help facilitate the psychiatric wellbeing of others. In addition to my psychiatric training and experience, I previously served as a registered nurse for 12 years primarily in critical care and cardio-thoracic and surgical nursing units.
(410) 936-5562 View (410) 936-5562
Photo of Diane Lehmann Zabielski, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diane Lehmann Zabielski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Navigating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming without the right support. These challenges can bring intense emotions and behaviors that seem out of control, but you don’t have to face them alone. While medication isn't a cure-all, effective medication management can be a pivotal part of restoring your mental wellness and helping you reclaim your well-being.
Navigating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming without the right support. These challenges can bring intense emotions and behaviors that seem out of control, but you don’t have to face them alone. While medication isn't a cure-all, effective medication management can be a pivotal part of restoring your mental wellness and helping you reclaim your well-being.
(410) 205-1594 View (410) 205-1594
Photo of Sasha Nanji, DNP, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sasha Nanji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in medication management with an emphasis on holistic and patient centered care. I aim to develop therapeutic relationships with my patients in order to provide the best treatment for the patient. I am empathetic and work with patients to achieve their goals. I educated patients about all treatment options available to ensure they make informed decisions. I provide psychiatric care to patients ages 16 and older with a variety of mental health illnesses. I have practiced in an array of different settings including inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, and substance use.
I specialize in medication management with an emphasis on holistic and patient centered care. I aim to develop therapeutic relationships with my patients in order to provide the best treatment for the patient. I am empathetic and work with patients to achieve their goals. I educated patients about all treatment options available to ensure they make informed decisions. I provide psychiatric care to patients ages 16 and older with a variety of mental health illnesses. I have practiced in an array of different settings including inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, and substance use.
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Photo of Cordilia Njoku - Trinity Whole Health Care Services LLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trinity Whole Health Care Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eldersburg, MD 21784
NP Cordilia Njoku is a compassionated provider with vast experience in integrated medicine, diagnosing and medication management of various illnesses including Mental and behavioral health. She will provide you with a safe space, be it in person or telehealth on your phone, tablet or a computer device. NP Cordilia Njoku is a passionate about care delivery and will guide you in the right direction direction based on your care needs. Her years of experience working and treating clients using evidenced based approach to care will help streamline a personalized care for you.
NP Cordilia Njoku is a compassionated provider with vast experience in integrated medicine, diagnosing and medication management of various illnesses including Mental and behavioral health. She will provide you with a safe space, be it in person or telehealth on your phone, tablet or a computer device. NP Cordilia Njoku is a passionate about care delivery and will guide you in the right direction direction based on your care needs. Her years of experience working and treating clients using evidenced based approach to care will help streamline a personalized care for you.
(667) 239-8987 View (667) 239-8987
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(240) 226-3248 View (240) 226-3248
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(240) 557-8957 View (240) 557-8957
Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(240) 903-6203 View (240) 903-6203
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(240) 245-2807 View (240) 245-2807

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jason R. Brody, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Jason R. Brody
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Online Only
Jason is a licensed physician assistant who performs psychiatric evaluations and prescribes psychiatric medications. He has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar d/o, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and others. He grew up in Queens NY and completed his BA at Yale University, his MDiv at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and medical training at Chatham University's Physician Assistant Program. He believes in collaborative decision making when prescribing medications and caring for people. He is also involved in Clinical Trial Research for new psychiatric and neurological medications.
Jason is a licensed physician assistant who performs psychiatric evaluations and prescribes psychiatric medications. He has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar d/o, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and others. He grew up in Queens NY and completed his BA at Yale University, his MDiv at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and medical training at Chatham University's Physician Assistant Program. He believes in collaborative decision making when prescribing medications and caring for people. He is also involved in Clinical Trial Research for new psychiatric and neurological medications.
(410) 357-1429 View (410) 357-1429
Photo of Christine Barmoy, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Barmoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Seeking mental health care can be daunting. Finding a provider who truly listens and appreciates your mental health journey can be challenging. I believe that I am here to help guide and work with you to create a successful treatment plan. You know yourself and your experiences better than anyone. I want to be a part of your journey and work with you to help your build on your strengths and develop the skills to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
Seeking mental health care can be daunting. Finding a provider who truly listens and appreciates your mental health journey can be challenging. I believe that I am here to help guide and work with you to create a successful treatment plan. You know yourself and your experiences better than anyone. I want to be a part of your journey and work with you to help your build on your strengths and develop the skills to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
(443) 234-8643 View (443) 234-8643
Photo of Crystal Leonard, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Leonard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
Seeking the right mental health provider can be overwhelming. Finding a provider who listens and hears what you are saying can be challenging. I am here to help guide and work with you to create a successful treatment plan that you are comfortable with, taking into account your personal experiences and history. My goal is to be a part of your journey to achieve a better quality of life, helping you to build on your strengths and overcome challenges.
Seeking the right mental health provider can be overwhelming. Finding a provider who listens and hears what you are saying can be challenging. I am here to help guide and work with you to create a successful treatment plan that you are comfortable with, taking into account your personal experiences and history. My goal is to be a part of your journey to achieve a better quality of life, helping you to build on your strengths and overcome challenges.
(443) 332-3676 View (443) 332-3676
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Dr. Oladipo Olaleye - Clear Mind Health LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clear Mind Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21225
We are a team of Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Psychiatrist with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Our providers work with clients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Over 12 years Experience with PSYCHOTROPIC MANAGEMENT, AND BRIEF PSYCHOTHERAPY. At Clear Mind Health we are here to help you get back to living, and being your very best self. TRY US
We are a team of Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Psychiatrist with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Our providers work with clients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Over 12 years Experience with PSYCHOTROPIC MANAGEMENT, AND BRIEF PSYCHOTHERAPY. At Clear Mind Health we are here to help you get back to living, and being your very best self. TRY US
(443) 201-7295 View (443) 201-7295
Photo of Kamal Bhatia, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Kamal Bhatia
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Accepting NEW Patients- Welcome! I know reaching out for help can feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s a courageous step, and I’m here to walk alongside you. As a board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, I’d love to get to know you and create a treatment plan that truly fits your needs. My focus is on providing care that’s compassionate, ethical, and grounded in what works best for you. I enjoy working with high functioning professionals and have a special interest in helping people with anxiety, insomnia, executive dysfunction, OCD, and more.
Accepting NEW Patients- Welcome! I know reaching out for help can feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s a courageous step, and I’m here to walk alongside you. As a board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, I’d love to get to know you and create a treatment plan that truly fits your needs. My focus is on providing care that’s compassionate, ethical, and grounded in what works best for you. I enjoy working with high functioning professionals and have a special interest in helping people with anxiety, insomnia, executive dysfunction, OCD, and more.
(301) 485-5883 View (301) 485-5883
Photo of Neal Ranen - Ranen Psychiatric Associates, MD, Psychiatrist
Ranen Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
After training at Hopkins and then serving as full-time staff/faculty at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine for many years, I am now in private practice where I treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, irritability, OCD, mood swings, Bipolar, and life stressors. I am double Board-Certified, and both a Psychopharmacologist (medication expert) and Psychotherapist (using Cognitive-Behavioral therapy and other approaches). You deserve expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach to understanding you and your circumstances.
After training at Hopkins and then serving as full-time staff/faculty at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine for many years, I am now in private practice where I treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, irritability, OCD, mood swings, Bipolar, and life stressors. I am double Board-Certified, and both a Psychopharmacologist (medication expert) and Psychotherapist (using Cognitive-Behavioral therapy and other approaches). You deserve expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach to understanding you and your circumstances.
(410) 413-2145 View (410) 413-2145
Photo of Nguyen Faith, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nguyen Faith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
(240) 209-9781 View (240) 209-9781
Photo of Kristy Johal, PMHMP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristy Johal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, MD 21102
My experience in pediatric intensive care sparked my passion for behavioral health, and today, I am honored to serve adults and children of all ages. I am deeply committed to each client’s well-being, offering personalized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based pharmacologic practices. I make sure to take my time with each client, providing thorough psychoeducation and discussing all available treatment options to ensure clients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in our collaborative plan for mental wellness and a fulfilling quality of life. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to mental well-being.
My experience in pediatric intensive care sparked my passion for behavioral health, and today, I am honored to serve adults and children of all ages. I am deeply committed to each client’s well-being, offering personalized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based pharmacologic practices. I make sure to take my time with each client, providing thorough psychoeducation and discussing all available treatment options to ensure clients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in our collaborative plan for mental wellness and a fulfilling quality of life. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to mental well-being.
(667) 247-9078 View (667) 247-9078
Photo of Maria Mbeboh, PMHNNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Mbeboh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr Maria Mbeboh has extensive experience in nursing care. She is driven by her thirst for knowledge and dedication to delivering exceptional care. She is passionate about assisting others and has been actively involved in community service through non-profit organizations. She has taken part in medical missions abroad, delivering healthcare services to underserved populations with various medical/mental health problems. She believes in healthy therapeutic relationships between the provider and client to deliver higher quality care and make informed shared decisions. She is committed to examining psycho-social factors that affect the
Dr Maria Mbeboh has extensive experience in nursing care. She is driven by her thirst for knowledge and dedication to delivering exceptional care. She is passionate about assisting others and has been actively involved in community service through non-profit organizations. She has taken part in medical missions abroad, delivering healthcare services to underserved populations with various medical/mental health problems. She believes in healthy therapeutic relationships between the provider and client to deliver higher quality care and make informed shared decisions. She is committed to examining psycho-social factors that affect the
(240) 873-1893 View (240) 873-1893
Christopher Bertsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
We can accept patients FAST and can work with ALL private insurance policies! No gimmicky or ridiculously brief telehealth appointments here; to ensure our patients are comfortable with their questions answered and needs met, our medication management evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes and follow-ups for 30 minutes. We offer low cash pricing, accept some insurance in-network, can submit claims on your behalf for out-of-network reimbursement (for any private policy with out-of-network benefits), and accept HSA/FSA cards to reduce your cost further.
We can accept patients FAST and can work with ALL private insurance policies! No gimmicky or ridiculously brief telehealth appointments here; to ensure our patients are comfortable with their questions answered and needs met, our medication management evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes and follow-ups for 30 minutes. We offer low cash pricing, accept some insurance in-network, can submit claims on your behalf for out-of-network reimbursement (for any private policy with out-of-network benefits), and accept HSA/FSA cards to reduce your cost further.
(443) 706-8431 View (443) 706-8431

See more therapy options for Eldersburg

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Eldersburg, MD

< 10

Psychiatrists in Eldersburg, MD who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
78% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD
67% Medication Management
56% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
56% Stress

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Eldersburg, MD see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Eldersburg?

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.