Psychiatrists in Halethorpe, MD

Photo of Erica Y Taylor, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Y Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Halethorpe, MD 21227  (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.
(301) 450-7075 View (301) 450-7075
Photo of Helen Kumolalo, PMHNPBC, ACNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Kumolalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, ACNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Halethorpe, MD 21227
Are you feeling tired, can't keep up with your daily routine, emotional for no reason? Are you unduly anxious and stressed out? Are you feeling emotionally run down and out of control? I am here to help because, "Caring is my passion, and your wholesome living is my goal". I will work with you to achieve the best outcome for your mental and physical wellbeing to function and live a full life.
Are you feeling tired, can't keep up with your daily routine, emotional for no reason? Are you unduly anxious and stressed out? Are you feeling emotionally run down and out of control? I am here to help because, "Caring is my passion, and your wholesome living is my goal". I will work with you to achieve the best outcome for your mental and physical wellbeing to function and live a full life.
(410) 457-9861 View (410) 457-9861
Photo of Matthew Hale Mauro, MSN, PMHMP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew Hale Mauro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHMP-B
Verified Verified
Halethorpe, MD 21227
****Accepting new clients of all ages from anywhere in the state of Maryland***It is his belief that mental health treatment is personal, and the best person to guide treatment is the individual seeking mental health services. Join him as you work together to develop the individualized treatment plan that best suits your needs.
****Accepting new clients of all ages from anywhere in the state of Maryland***It is his belief that mental health treatment is personal, and the best person to guide treatment is the individual seeking mental health services. Join him as you work together to develop the individualized treatment plan that best suits your needs.
(410) 324-6854 View (410) 324-6854

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Patrick K Nganga, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Patrick K Nganga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215  (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, and may also have co-existing conditions such as substance use or chronic illness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to achieve stability and improve their mental and emotional well-being. They want clear communication and collaborative care to guide them toward recovery, and they value a provider who understands the complexities of both mental and physical health.
My ideal client struggles with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, and may also have co-existing conditions such as substance use or chronic illness. They seek compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to achieve stability and improve their mental and emotional well-being. They want clear communication and collaborative care to guide them toward recovery, and they value a provider who understands the complexities of both mental and physical health.
(301) 205-5041 View (301) 205-5041
Photo of Morenike Olukoya, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morenike Olukoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21228
I am a Board Certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My Objective is to provide holistic care, which includes incorporating patient's emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual needs. In addition, i provide compassionate and patient-centered care using evidence-based practices. I am committed to working with every patient to ensure an individualized treatment plan to achieve good mental health and wellness. I look forward to working with you!
I am a Board Certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My Objective is to provide holistic care, which includes incorporating patient's emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual needs. In addition, i provide compassionate and patient-centered care using evidence-based practices. I am committed to working with every patient to ensure an individualized treatment plan to achieve good mental health and wellness. I look forward to working with you!
(443) 315-2454 View (443) 315-2454
Thomas E Allen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
It has been a privilege to work with my patients and help them discover more about themselves than they had been aware of before. This has usually resulted in significant symptom reduction and improved relationships with those who are important in their lives. Freud discovered the unconscious and its power to control our lives without us being aware of it. By helping people achieve a better understanding of these impulses in themselves, they can work with them, and use them to achieve their goals rather than being caught in endless self-destructive ways.
It has been a privilege to work with my patients and help them discover more about themselves than they had been aware of before. This has usually resulted in significant symptom reduction and improved relationships with those who are important in their lives. Freud discovered the unconscious and its power to control our lives without us being aware of it. By helping people achieve a better understanding of these impulses in themselves, they can work with them, and use them to achieve their goals rather than being caught in endless self-destructive ways.
(410) 821-8351 View (410) 821-8351
Photo of Paul Giannandrea, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul Giannandrea
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
For 20 years, I was a full-time faculty member at the University of Maryland, School of Medicine teaching medical students and training residents. I have 32 years experience in private practice assisting persons with substance use disorders, major psychiatric disturbances and behavioral addictions, including sexual addiction and gambling. As a Board certified psychiatrist in Addiction Medicine, Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatrist, I deal with the negative consequences of a variety of disorders alone and in combination, as well as relationship issues not related to addictions. I am particularly trained and experienced in the use of medication for these problems and their symptoms.
For 20 years, I was a full-time faculty member at the University of Maryland, School of Medicine teaching medical students and training residents. I have 32 years experience in private practice assisting persons with substance use disorders, major psychiatric disturbances and behavioral addictions, including sexual addiction and gambling. As a Board certified psychiatrist in Addiction Medicine, Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatrist, I deal with the negative consequences of a variety of disorders alone and in combination, as well as relationship issues not related to addictions. I am particularly trained and experienced in the use of medication for these problems and their symptoms.
(410) 709-3180 View (410) 709-3180
Photo of Nelly Kangethe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nelly Kangethe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
Hi there, I am Dr. Nelly. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, and unable to fit in the society? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I’m ready to help you manage anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and many other health problems to avoid losing the balance in your in your life. Together, we can identify what’s not working and get to back to balance. Will use the whole self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
Hi there, I am Dr. Nelly. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, and unable to fit in the society? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I’m ready to help you manage anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and many other health problems to avoid losing the balance in your in your life. Together, we can identify what’s not working and get to back to balance. Will use the whole self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
(410) 657-6707 View (410) 657-6707
Photo of Nneka Onuorah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nneka Onuorah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Nneka, a PMHNP-DNP. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to adolescents and adults with depression, Anxiety, Bipolar,ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. I engage in open and honest communication with my clients and help them understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires patience and effort. I am non-judgmental and strive to provide safe and empathetic care. My goal is to assist in facilitating overall wellness for my clients and their loved ones.
Hello! I am Nneka, a PMHNP-DNP. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to adolescents and adults with depression, Anxiety, Bipolar,ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. I engage in open and honest communication with my clients and help them understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires patience and effort. I am non-judgmental and strive to provide safe and empathetic care. My goal is to assist in facilitating overall wellness for my clients and their loved ones.
(443) 381-6380 View (443) 381-6380
Photo of Ashley Vickery, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Vickery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who works with adolescent and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I believe in collaboration with therapists, and other healthcare providers, for well-rounded care of the individual client. I believe that it is important to meet client's where they are to help them become who they want to be.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who works with adolescent and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I believe in collaboration with therapists, and other healthcare providers, for well-rounded care of the individual client. I believe that it is important to meet client's where they are to help them become who they want to be.
(410) 618-4071 View (410) 618-4071
Photo of Sweetie H Doychinov - Sweetie Doychinov, PMHNP, CRNP, PMH, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sweetie Doychinov, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
As a board-certified PMHNP with nearly a decade of experience, I provide comprehensive mental health care to diverse populations. I specialize in diagnosing and treating Mood Disorders (depression, bipolar), Anxiety Disorder (GAD, Panic, PTSD), Substance Use Disorder, and ADD/ADHD disorders using evidence-based interventions and psychopharmacology. My experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization settings. Currently, I serve as Medical Director at a mental health and substance abuse treatment center. I focus on medication management, therapy, and patient education to foster holistic care and improve outcomes.
As a board-certified PMHNP with nearly a decade of experience, I provide comprehensive mental health care to diverse populations. I specialize in diagnosing and treating Mood Disorders (depression, bipolar), Anxiety Disorder (GAD, Panic, PTSD), Substance Use Disorder, and ADD/ADHD disorders using evidence-based interventions and psychopharmacology. My experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization settings. Currently, I serve as Medical Director at a mental health and substance abuse treatment center. I focus on medication management, therapy, and patient education to foster holistic care and improve outcomes.
(443) 533-6821 View (443) 533-6821
Photo of Olivia Anaele-Nwogu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivia Anaele-Nwogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
Do you miss the casualness and thrill of your early relationship. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience I understand that good health cannot exist without mental health. I serve my patients by preventing, identifying, and treating psychiatric conditions through holistic approaches in many ways. I employ experience, culture, and history of patients to facilitate healing.
Do you miss the casualness and thrill of your early relationship. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience I understand that good health cannot exist without mental health. I serve my patients by preventing, identifying, and treating psychiatric conditions through holistic approaches in many ways. I employ experience, culture, and history of patients to facilitate healing.
(410) 883-8587 View (410) 883-8587
Photo of My Care Clinic Llc- Hamida Majili, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
My Care Clinic Llc- Hamida Majili
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21207
I am Hamida Majili, a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 13 years. Throughout my personal and career life, I have embraced diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, diagnosis, race/ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My Care Clinic (MCC) team focuses on person-centered care approaches and helping patients and families bridge the gap in mental health services, such as providing individualized therapy sessions, medication management, reducing mental health stigma, and providing access to care and resources.
I am Hamida Majili, a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 13 years. Throughout my personal and career life, I have embraced diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, diagnosis, race/ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My Care Clinic (MCC) team focuses on person-centered care approaches and helping patients and families bridge the gap in mental health services, such as providing individualized therapy sessions, medication management, reducing mental health stigma, and providing access to care and resources.
(410) 970-6507 View (410) 970-6507
Photo of Janet Adetola, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Adetola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
(410) 692-8453 View (410) 692-8453
Photo of Obinna Obiejemba - Esno Health Group LLC, DrPH, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esno Health Group LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrPH, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Obinna Obiejemba, DrPH, APN., has always wanted to be a hand and a voice — a hand to help the infirmed, and a voice for the most vulnerable. This led him to academic pursuits and careers in clinical medicine and public health. He has spent nearly two decades working in Managed Care and with vulnerable and complex populations. Prior to his graduate studies in family practice, psychiatry, and public health, Dr. Obi led a variety of projects at Baltimore city jails and prisons to improve access to care. He has special interest in adult and geriatric psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, thought disorders, and dementia.
Obinna Obiejemba, DrPH, APN., has always wanted to be a hand and a voice — a hand to help the infirmed, and a voice for the most vulnerable. This led him to academic pursuits and careers in clinical medicine and public health. He has spent nearly two decades working in Managed Care and with vulnerable and complex populations. Prior to his graduate studies in family practice, psychiatry, and public health, Dr. Obi led a variety of projects at Baltimore city jails and prisons to improve access to care. He has special interest in adult and geriatric psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, thought disorders, and dementia.
(410) 609-9694 View (410) 609-9694
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21287
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across Maryland. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. Insurance is accepted and please use our website to make an appointment.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across Maryland. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists offer same day appointments. Insurance is accepted and please use our website to make an appointment.
(443) 329-9824 View (443) 329-9824
Photo of Belinda Okoruwa - St Rita's Behavioral Health Care Services, MSN, CRNP, FNP-BC, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
St Rita's Behavioral Health Care Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-BC, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
Are you currently struggling with anxiety, low mood, addiction, or difficulty focusing on everyday tasks at work or school? If that is the case, I am here to help you regain good mental health. I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of diverse experience working in the health care area both in the field of Family Medicine, leadership as well as Mental Health.
Are you currently struggling with anxiety, low mood, addiction, or difficulty focusing on everyday tasks at work or school? If that is the case, I am here to help you regain good mental health. I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of diverse experience working in the health care area both in the field of Family Medicine, leadership as well as Mental Health.
(443) 390-5838 View (443) 390-5838
Photo of Meredith West, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meredith West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230
Hi! My name is Meredith West and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic mental health care. I deeply value the importance of active listening and understanding each person's journey. If you aren't sure where to start, aren't sure about taking medication, or if you feel stuck and like you've "tried everything," we can spend time working through past treatments and come up with a plan to move forward. My approach is characterized by warmth, empathy, and a commitment to comprehensive care that addresses your spiritual, mental and physical health.
Hi! My name is Meredith West and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic mental health care. I deeply value the importance of active listening and understanding each person's journey. If you aren't sure where to start, aren't sure about taking medication, or if you feel stuck and like you've "tried everything," we can spend time working through past treatments and come up with a plan to move forward. My approach is characterized by warmth, empathy, and a commitment to comprehensive care that addresses your spiritual, mental and physical health.
(443) 412-8653 View (443) 412-8653
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
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.
(443) 486-3987 View (443) 486-3987
Photo of Vicky Deuboue - Trumedis Healthcare Services, DNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trumedis Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
Hi there, my name is Dr. Vicky Marie Deuboue, welcome to my page on Trumedis website. I have a Doctorate degree in Nurse Practitioner (DNP), with specialty in Family Nursing (FNP) I provide continuing and comprehensive healthcare for the individual and family across all ages, genders, diseases, and body systems. I have well over 15 years’ experience in my practice and I am looking forward to working with you.
Hi there, my name is Dr. Vicky Marie Deuboue, welcome to my page on Trumedis website. I have a Doctorate degree in Nurse Practitioner (DNP), with specialty in Family Nursing (FNP) I provide continuing and comprehensive healthcare for the individual and family across all ages, genders, diseases, and body systems. I have well over 15 years’ experience in my practice and I am looking forward to working with you.
(443) 960-7847 View (443) 960-7847

See more therapy options for Halethorpe

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Halethorpe, MD

< 10

Psychiatrists in Halethorpe, MD who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Alcohol Use

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Halethorpe, MD see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Halethorpe?

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.