Psychiatrists in Hanover, MD

Photo of Sharon Price - Calming Care Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Calming Care Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP, my commitment to helping my clients is rooted in a holistic, compassionate and evidence base approach to mental care. I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and powered. I strive to develop in treatment plans that foster healing and growth.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP, my commitment to helping my clients is rooted in a holistic, compassionate and evidence base approach to mental care. I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and powered. I strive to develop in treatment plans that foster healing and growth.
(443) 781-6634 View (443) 781-6634
Photo of Toluwalope Olofi - Windows Of Light Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Windows Of Light Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Growing up in Nigeria, I was acutely aware of the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health, which often led individuals to suffer in silence or avoid seeking the care they needed. This realization sparked my passion for mental health, and I decided to dedicate my career to breaking down these barriers, providing compassionate care, and advocating for those whose voices were often overlooked. In my practice, I prioritize building trust with patients, understanding their individual needs, and involving their families in the care process to foster a more holistic approach to mental health.
Growing up in Nigeria, I was acutely aware of the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health, which often led individuals to suffer in silence or avoid seeking the care they needed. This realization sparked my passion for mental health, and I decided to dedicate my career to breaking down these barriers, providing compassionate care, and advocating for those whose voices were often overlooked. In my practice, I prioritize building trust with patients, understanding their individual needs, and involving their families in the care process to foster a more holistic approach to mental health.
(443) 329-5248 View (443) 329-5248
Photo of Michelle Tucker Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Michelle Tucker Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I started Serenity Heart Healthcare because I wanted to build an organization where I could provide care that focused on identifying the root cause of a person's health condition and provide care from a holistic perspective. I want Serenity Heart to be an organization that provides the tools, education and care that allows a person to cultivate a mentally, spiritually and physically healthy self.
I started Serenity Heart Healthcare because I wanted to build an organization where I could provide care that focused on identifying the root cause of a person's health condition and provide care from a holistic perspective. I want Serenity Heart to be an organization that provides the tools, education and care that allows a person to cultivate a mentally, spiritually and physically healthy self.
(443) 706-8779 View (443) 706-8779
Photo of Ololade Adekoya - Valor Health, Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Valor Health, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Valor Health, individualized client centered care is our top priority. We often feel alone, inadequate and challenged to be fully authentic with those we love. However, you do not need to suffer alone. Allow us at Valor Health help you. Your mental health needs will be addressed in a timely manner to get optimal results. We promote the healthy mental development of children, adolescents, adults, older adults, and families. We prioritize the things in your life that matter to you. We are accepting new patients!!! We offer telepsychiatry, which allows you to see a provider from home.
At Valor Health, individualized client centered care is our top priority. We often feel alone, inadequate and challenged to be fully authentic with those we love. However, you do not need to suffer alone. Allow us at Valor Health help you. Your mental health needs will be addressed in a timely manner to get optimal results. We promote the healthy mental development of children, adolescents, adults, older adults, and families. We prioritize the things in your life that matter to you. We are accepting new patients!!! We offer telepsychiatry, which allows you to see a provider from home.
(443) 594-7061 View (443) 594-7061
Photo of Stacy Mallare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Stacy Mallare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am Dr. Stacy Mallare, a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with expertise in medication management. On the first visit, we will discuss your expectations and goals for treatment and develop a care plan. My job is to provide education, guidance, advocacy and appropriate medications for your journey to wellness. I offer flexible hours including evenings and can accommodate short notice sessions as my schedule will allow.
Welcome! I am Dr. Stacy Mallare, a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with expertise in medication management. On the first visit, we will discuss your expectations and goals for treatment and develop a care plan. My job is to provide education, guidance, advocacy and appropriate medications for your journey to wellness. I offer flexible hours including evenings and can accommodate short notice sessions as my schedule will allow.
(240) 782-2257 View (240) 782-2257
Photo of Adanna Ikwuegbu - Mindful Balanced Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Mindful Balanced Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Adanna, board-certified CRNP-PMH. Accepting new patients and serving Maryland residents. Together, let's embark on a journey of hope and healing to achieve your mental health goals and thrive. My specialty lies in delivering personalized mental health care that meets your needs.I provide services,including psychiatric evaluation, med management, and therapy. My focus areas encompass depression, bipolar, and more. By blending evidence-based practices with compassionate support,my goal is to empower you to regain emotional control,enhance overall well-being,and cultivate effective coping strategies for a balanced, fulfilling life.
I'm Adanna, board-certified CRNP-PMH. Accepting new patients and serving Maryland residents. Together, let's embark on a journey of hope and healing to achieve your mental health goals and thrive. My specialty lies in delivering personalized mental health care that meets your needs.I provide services,including psychiatric evaluation, med management, and therapy. My focus areas encompass depression, bipolar, and more. By blending evidence-based practices with compassionate support,my goal is to empower you to regain emotional control,enhance overall well-being,and cultivate effective coping strategies for a balanced, fulfilling life.
(410) 642-5910 View (410) 642-5910
Photo of Blanche Kattie - Arise Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Arise Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new patients. Hello, I'm Dr. Blanche Kattie, a mental health provider dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empowerment and healing. With expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, I offer a holistic approach that encompasses medication management and psychotherapy. Through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy, I strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health concerns and empower my clients to achieve lasting positive change.
Accepting new patients. Hello, I'm Dr. Blanche Kattie, a mental health provider dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empowerment and healing. With expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, I offer a holistic approach that encompasses medication management and psychotherapy. Through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy, I strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health concerns and empower my clients to achieve lasting positive change.
(240) 307-5441 View (240) 307-5441
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
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) 647-9139 View (240) 647-9139
Photo of Chioma Daisy Okechukwu - Riechi Health Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN, BSN
Riechi Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Riechi Health Services LLC, our approach is driven by the fact that mental wellness is a personal journey. With degrees from Bowie State and Walden Universities, and DNP in view, I, Chioma Okechukwu is a compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that desires to assist you on this journey. Struggling to connect with people of little common interest? The burden of making others priority is eating you up? Under the pressure of living up to other people's expectation? Afraid you may relapse? These and more can get you stuck at a crossroad. I'm non-judgmental, patient, have a listening ear, and knows you are unique.
At Riechi Health Services LLC, our approach is driven by the fact that mental wellness is a personal journey. With degrees from Bowie State and Walden Universities, and DNP in view, I, Chioma Okechukwu is a compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that desires to assist you on this journey. Struggling to connect with people of little common interest? The burden of making others priority is eating you up? Under the pressure of living up to other people's expectation? Afraid you may relapse? These and more can get you stuck at a crossroad. I'm non-judgmental, patient, have a listening ear, and knows you are unique.
(410) 824-5393 View (410) 824-5393
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
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) 789-4357 View (240) 789-4357
Photo of Amoah Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Amoah Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
(240) 913-8711 View (240) 913-8711
Photo of Eric Barr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eric Barr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new patients. Hello, I'm Eric Barr, a mental health provider dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empowerment and healing. With expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD and more. I offer a holistic approach that encompasses medication management and psychotherapy. Through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy, I strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health concerns and empower my clients to achieve lasting positive change.
Accepting new patients. Hello, I'm Eric Barr, a mental health provider dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care with a focus on empowerment and healing. With expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD and more. I offer a holistic approach that encompasses medication management and psychotherapy. Through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy, I strive to address the underlying factors contributing to mental health concerns and empower my clients to achieve lasting positive change.
(240) 226-1365 View (240) 226-1365
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , MSN, PMHP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , MSN, PMHP
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) 913-6965 View (240) 913-6965
Photo of Selam Tekie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Selam Tekie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
(443) 205-7766 View (443) 205-7766
Photo of Kasheria West, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kasheria West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Clients. Kasheria West is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. Through comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support, she strive to empower her patients to thrive in all aspects of their lives. She aspire to be a trusted partner in her patients mental health journey, offering hope, guidance, and advocacy every step of the way.
Accepting New Clients. Kasheria West is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders. Through comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support, she strive to empower her patients to thrive in all aspects of their lives. She aspire to be a trusted partner in her patients mental health journey, offering hope, guidance, and advocacy every step of the way.
(240) 689-3171 View (240) 689-3171
Photo of Dr. Blanche Kattie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Dr. Blanche Kattie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new patient. Welcome. I'm Blanche Kattie, a compassionate psychiatrist committed to guiding individuals on their path to mental well-being and fulfillment. With specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, I offer a comprehensive range of services including medication management and psychotherapy.By integrating medication management with psychotherapy, I aim to not only alleviate symptoms but also address the underlying factors contributing to your mental health concerns.
Accepting new patient. Welcome. I'm Blanche Kattie, a compassionate psychiatrist committed to guiding individuals on their path to mental well-being and fulfillment. With specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, I offer a comprehensive range of services including medication management and psychotherapy.By integrating medication management with psychotherapy, I aim to not only alleviate symptoms but also address the underlying factors contributing to your mental health concerns.
(240) 557-3228 View (240) 557-3228

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Clearis Anujeh - Hope For All LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN
Hope For All LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Clients. Hope For All LLC is a general adult psychiatry practice located in Raleigh, NC. Currently, all services are provided via telehealth. Accepting clients ages 10-65 for psychiatric consultation and evaluation, individual psychotherapy, and/or medication management. our goal is to provide care for patients who struggle with mental illness or mental disorders to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, a non-judgemental approach, and focus on holistic care
Accepting New Clients. Hope For All LLC is a general adult psychiatry practice located in Raleigh, NC. Currently, all services are provided via telehealth. Accepting clients ages 10-65 for psychiatric consultation and evaluation, individual psychotherapy, and/or medication management. our goal is to provide care for patients who struggle with mental illness or mental disorders to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, a non-judgemental approach, and focus on holistic care
(667) 247-8732 View (667) 247-8732
Photo of Kristin Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Kristin Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, it's nice to meet you. I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience working in mental healthcare. I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in psychiatric mental health nursing at the University of Minnesota. I really enjoy working virtually so that my patients can be comfortable in their own space when we meet.
Hello, it's nice to meet you. I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience working in mental healthcare. I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in psychiatric mental health nursing at the University of Minnesota. I really enjoy working virtually so that my patients can be comfortable in their own space when we meet.
(443) 241-5264 View (443) 241-5264
Photo of Laurette Abunaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Laurette Abunaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
My name is Laurette Abunaw. I am your dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at Mindsense Serenity. My goal is to provide you with comprehensive quality mental health services and personalized care. I treat conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD management, PTSD, Bipolar and Mood Disorders. At Mindsense Serenity LLC, our services include mental health assessments, psychiatric evaluations, medication management and adjunct psychotherapy. We provide "In-person" and virtual appointments. Visit our website to learn more about how you can request an appointment.
My name is Laurette Abunaw. I am your dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at Mindsense Serenity. My goal is to provide you with comprehensive quality mental health services and personalized care. I treat conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD management, PTSD, Bipolar and Mood Disorders. At Mindsense Serenity LLC, our services include mental health assessments, psychiatric evaluations, medication management and adjunct psychotherapy. We provide "In-person" and virtual appointments. Visit our website to learn more about how you can request an appointment.
(443) 365-2551 View (443) 365-2551
Photo of Lawrencia Addo Darko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Lawrencia Addo Darko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
The choice to seek mental health services can be challenging. At Journey to Wellness Mental Health Services, we recognize that everyone may experience normal and unexpected highs and lows of life. No matter what stage you are at, we are committed to meeting you on the pathway to wellness. Listening to understand is a primary principle that we follow to give you the most individualized and collaborative experience. Additional time is given to ensure your needs and goals are thoroughly communicated before making clinically appropriate treatment recommendations. We specialize in taking a holistic approach with medication management.
(240) 932-5163 View (240) 932-5163

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hanover, MD

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Hanover, MD who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% ADHD
88% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
81% Sleep or Insomnia
81% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
94% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Hanover, MD see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hanover?

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.