Psychiatrists in Prince Frederick, MD

Photo of Melissa Shepard, Psychiatrist, MD
Melissa Shepard
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
I have openings for medication management, but unfortunately a waitlist for therapy at this time. I am in-network with some Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare plans. I am also happy to provide a superbill that can be submitted to insurance for any out-of-network benefits. Email preferred. Hi, I'm Melissa (aka Dr. Shepard)! Since deciding to pursue psychiatry, I've made it my mission to end mental health stigma and make mental health treatment less scary.
I have openings for medication management, but unfortunately a waitlist for therapy at this time. I am in-network with some Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare plans. I am also happy to provide a superbill that can be submitted to insurance for any out-of-network benefits. Email preferred. Hi, I'm Melissa (aka Dr. Shepard)! Since deciding to pursue psychiatry, I've made it my mission to end mental health stigma and make mental health treatment less scary.
(301) 265-2644 View (301) 265-2644
Photo of Dr. Venera R. Miller, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Dr. Venera R. Miller
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
1 Endorsed
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
I am a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist and Addiction Medicine Physician with a background in Internal Medicine and 20-plus years of experience. I am licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C.. I am affiliated with Sibley Memorial Hospital, Washington D.C., and Johns Hopkins Medicine.
I am a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist and Addiction Medicine Physician with a background in Internal Medicine and 20-plus years of experience. I am licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C.. I am affiliated with Sibley Memorial Hospital, Washington D.C., and Johns Hopkins Medicine.
(410) 535-6520 View (410) 535-6520
Photo of Les Binnix - Emotional Wellness Clinic, Holistic Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCPC
Emotional Wellness Clinic, Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCPC
Online Only
I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management specific to the person. I work with the patient on selecting the most appropriate medication. I ensure the patient is well informed on side effects, efficacy, and how the medication works. It is a team approach. I treat various emotional issues, addictive and mental health disorders. I utilize genetic testing that matches patients with medications appropriate for their specific neurological make-up. I assist patients with learning additional approaches including healthy sleep hygiene, better nutritional habits, & herbal supplements that enhance medication efficacy.
I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management specific to the person. I work with the patient on selecting the most appropriate medication. I ensure the patient is well informed on side effects, efficacy, and how the medication works. It is a team approach. I treat various emotional issues, addictive and mental health disorders. I utilize genetic testing that matches patients with medications appropriate for their specific neurological make-up. I assist patients with learning additional approaches including healthy sleep hygiene, better nutritional habits, & herbal supplements that enhance medication efficacy.
(443) 551-2490 View (443) 551-2490
CareMind Health
Psychiatrist, PMHNP, LCSW, LCPC, PA-C
Online Only
CareMind Health is redefining the service of psychiatry and transforming behavioral health care. As a patient-centered organization, we are focused on supporting people with their mental health. We create access to convenient, high quality services delivered by compassionate and skilled clinicians. Our goal is to provide our clients with an exceptional experience that improves overall wellbeing, and restores the foundations of healthy living.
CareMind Health is redefining the service of psychiatry and transforming behavioral health care. As a patient-centered organization, we are focused on supporting people with their mental health. We create access to convenient, high quality services delivered by compassionate and skilled clinicians. Our goal is to provide our clients with an exceptional experience that improves overall wellbeing, and restores the foundations of healthy living.
(301) 825-5004 View (301) 825-5004
Photo of Charlotte Ayuk Nkem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, DNP
Charlotte Ayuk Nkem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, DNP
Serves Area
At Oasis of Hope Behavioral Healthcare, I see children and adults with different mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, substance abuse etc. There is no waiting list, appointments are made at your earliest convenience. I love helping people, and I promise that you will be in safe hands. I also have 10 years of working experience in acute and outpatient mental health settings, including substance abuse. Some renowned hospitals where she gained work experience include the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Group, MedStar, and the Recovery Centers of America.
At Oasis of Hope Behavioral Healthcare, I see children and adults with different mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, substance abuse etc. There is no waiting list, appointments are made at your earliest convenience. I love helping people, and I promise that you will be in safe hands. I also have 10 years of working experience in acute and outpatient mental health settings, including substance abuse. Some renowned hospitals where she gained work experience include the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Group, MedStar, and the Recovery Centers of America.
(301) 786-5694 View (301) 786-5694
Photo of Careme Yago, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Careme Yago
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Careme Yago is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 14 years of dedicated experience working in various healthcare settings. This foundation has uniquely enabled her to integrate physical health considerations into psychiatric treatment, ensuring comprehensive care for each individual. She serves the DMV area, and brings a nuanced perspective that considers both physical, and psychological well-being, enhancing treatment outcomes and overall patient satisfaction.
Careme Yago is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 14 years of dedicated experience working in various healthcare settings. This foundation has uniquely enabled her to integrate physical health considerations into psychiatric treatment, ensuring comprehensive care for each individual. She serves the DMV area, and brings a nuanced perspective that considers both physical, and psychological well-being, enhancing treatment outcomes and overall patient satisfaction.
(301) 895-9843 View (301) 895-9843

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tessa Fletcher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Tessa Fletcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
It is my pleasure to welcome you. We are all likely to experience the excitement and challenges of life at some point. The part of my job I enjoy the most is building relationships to provide you with support throughout the process.
It is my pleasure to welcome you. We are all likely to experience the excitement and challenges of life at some point. The part of my job I enjoy the most is building relationships to provide you with support throughout the process.
(301) 205-5776 View (301) 205-5776
Photo of Latoya Victor - Mindful Haven , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mindful Haven
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Mindful Haven, I provide effective psychiatric care through a comprehensive approach to mental health. I am committed to collaborating with you to develop tailored treatment plans and fostering a supportive environment where you can achieve optimal well-being and personal growth. I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.
At Mindful Haven, I provide effective psychiatric care through a comprehensive approach to mental health. I am committed to collaborating with you to develop tailored treatment plans and fostering a supportive environment where you can achieve optimal well-being and personal growth. I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.
(443) 533-6786 View (443) 533-6786
Photo of Tamia Musgrave - Five Star Integrated Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP
Five Star Integrated Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
(443) 775-3699 View (443) 775-3699
Photo of Ayoola Juliana Oyenuga - Alpha Recovery HealthCare Services Inc., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH-BC
Alpha Recovery HealthCare Services Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH-BC
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
At Alpha Recovery Healthcare Service Inc., we focus on promoting mental health recovery through patients' assessments, diagnosis, disease prevention, and medication management. Our psychiatric consultations are tailored to provide compassionate, holistic, thorough, and competent treatments aimed to improve individualized patients' mental health recovery, and the overall sense of well-being of our patients in a confidential, friendly, and therapeutic consulting environment.
At Alpha Recovery Healthcare Service Inc., we focus on promoting mental health recovery through patients' assessments, diagnosis, disease prevention, and medication management. Our psychiatric consultations are tailored to provide compassionate, holistic, thorough, and competent treatments aimed to improve individualized patients' mental health recovery, and the overall sense of well-being of our patients in a confidential, friendly, and therapeutic consulting environment.
(443) 501-2686 View (443) 501-2686
Photo of Valmy Fotendong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMNHP
Valmy Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMNHP
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in nursing, I bring a dynamic approach to mental health care. My experience and interpersonal skills enable me to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing compassionate, confidential, and effective treatment.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in nursing, I bring a dynamic approach to mental health care. My experience and interpersonal skills enable me to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing compassionate, confidential, and effective treatment.
(667) 218-5713 View (667) 218-5713
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
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) 628-7673 View (240) 628-7673
Photo of Olubunmi Salami - Mindset Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC
Mindset Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC
Serves Area
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I offer personalized care for conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD and other mental health need. My approach integrates compassionate medication management with empathetic support, aiming to reduce mental health stigma and bridge the gap between mental and physical wellness. I work closely with you to understand your unique needs and create a tailored plan that respects your values. My goal is to empower you and ensure you feel supported throughout your journey to mental wellness.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I offer personalized care for conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD and other mental health need. My approach integrates compassionate medication management with empathetic support, aiming to reduce mental health stigma and bridge the gap between mental and physical wellness. I work closely with you to understand your unique needs and create a tailored plan that respects your values. My goal is to empower you and ensure you feel supported throughout your journey to mental wellness.
(240) 255-4198 View (240) 255-4198
Photo of Dr. Dorothy Mbellason, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Dr. Dorothy Mbellason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
At Compassionate Care Behavioral Health, we believe no two people are the same. That is why, as a well-established psychiatric nurse practitioner, we provide quality and compassionate care to individuals suffering from a variety of mental disorders. We believe that great overall health begins with good mental health. We have a special interest in treating children, adolescents, and adults and we develop individualized treatment plans based on each individual's mental health needs. You are not alone. Call us today. Help is available.
At Compassionate Care Behavioral Health, we believe no two people are the same. That is why, as a well-established psychiatric nurse practitioner, we provide quality and compassionate care to individuals suffering from a variety of mental disorders. We believe that great overall health begins with good mental health. We have a special interest in treating children, adolescents, and adults and we develop individualized treatment plans based on each individual's mental health needs. You are not alone. Call us today. Help is available.
(240) 534-1513 View (240) 534-1513
Photo of Titi Anjorin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Titi Anjorin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bowie, MD 20721
Hello there, I'm Dr. T. Do you feel stuck and trapped in yourself, unable to blend in? Are you wrestling to have friends at school or at work? Are you going through a life transition? Are you experiencing sleep, energy, appetite, work, school, and social functioning changes? Are you scared or concerned about hurting yourself or the people around you? Do you feel lonely, anxious, or run down easily when doing a task? Do you feel inadequate or struggling with relationships or lack thereof?
Hello there, I'm Dr. T. Do you feel stuck and trapped in yourself, unable to blend in? Are you wrestling to have friends at school or at work? Are you going through a life transition? Are you experiencing sleep, energy, appetite, work, school, and social functioning changes? Are you scared or concerned about hurting yourself or the people around you? Do you feel lonely, anxious, or run down easily when doing a task? Do you feel inadequate or struggling with relationships or lack thereof?
(240) 896-1145 View (240) 896-1145
Photo of Kofo Abiru-Adebambo - Kolossal Healthcare Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH-BC
Kolossal Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH-BC
Online Only
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a deep passion for mental health wellness and a commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. I specialize in Anxiety disorders, Depression, Adjustment disorders Eating disorders, Mood disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in teens and adults.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a deep passion for mental health wellness and a commitment to helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. I specialize in Anxiety disorders, Depression, Adjustment disorders Eating disorders, Mood disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in teens and adults.
(443) 251-3050 View (443) 251-3050
Photo of Maryann Chinasa Dennis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Maryann Chinasa Dennis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Waldorf, MD 20601
I am a caring, compassionate mental health nurse practitioner. I help people by supporting clients who suffer from various mental health conditions; this has given me a foundation to build upon my knowledge and skills in a professional manner as a healthcare assistant.
I am a caring, compassionate mental health nurse practitioner. I help people by supporting clients who suffer from various mental health conditions; this has given me a foundation to build upon my knowledge and skills in a professional manner as a healthcare assistant.
(240) 290-4343 View (240) 290-4343
Photo of Margaret Arotimi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Margaret Arotimi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Oxon Hill, MD 20745
I am a licensed Nurse Practitioner with credentials in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC. I earned my doctoral degree from Walden University in 2019 and my Bachelor's degree from George Mason University. I have over two years of experience as an independent nurse practitioner. Throughout my career, I have trained under several experienced psychiatrists and have amassed more than 20 years of behavioral health experience in various settings, including inpatient psychiatry, outpatient care, management, and direct patient care.
I am a licensed Nurse Practitioner with credentials in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC. I earned my doctoral degree from Walden University in 2019 and my Bachelor's degree from George Mason University. I have over two years of experience as an independent nurse practitioner. Throughout my career, I have trained under several experienced psychiatrists and have amassed more than 20 years of behavioral health experience in various settings, including inpatient psychiatry, outpatient care, management, and direct patient care.
(240) 221-7334 View (240) 221-7334
Photo of Akukeng Mba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Akukeng Mba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Maybe you’ve been feeling anxious, stuck, exhausted, or just not like yourself lately. Perhaps you’re struggling with mood swings, sleep issues, relationship stress, or the weight of past trauma. You might be juggling life, family, work, and wondering, “When will I feel like me again?” I work with individuals who are tired of just surviving and ready to heal, grow, and thrive. My clients want clarity, stability, and peace—but most of all, they want to feel empowered and heard. I’ll meet you exactly where you are, and walk beside you with compassion, respect, and practical support.
Maybe you’ve been feeling anxious, stuck, exhausted, or just not like yourself lately. Perhaps you’re struggling with mood swings, sleep issues, relationship stress, or the weight of past trauma. You might be juggling life, family, work, and wondering, “When will I feel like me again?” I work with individuals who are tired of just surviving and ready to heal, grow, and thrive. My clients want clarity, stability, and peace—but most of all, they want to feel empowered and heard. I’ll meet you exactly where you are, and walk beside you with compassion, respect, and practical support.
(240) 471-6738 View (240) 471-6738
Photo of Pamela Oriaifo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Pamela Oriaifo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Dr. Pamela Oriaifo is a Family Nurse Practitioner board certified (FNP-BC) and a Mental health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Dr. Oriaifo holds a Doctorate Degree from Liberty University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (across the life span). Dr. Oriaifo’s devotion to mental health care derives from an earlier patient encounter, about which she had a publication in the Liberty University website on Mental Health. The publication describes the motive force that strengthened my drive to provide help and support to all persons with mental health issues.
Dr. Pamela Oriaifo is a Family Nurse Practitioner board certified (FNP-BC) and a Mental health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Dr. Oriaifo holds a Doctorate Degree from Liberty University with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (across the life span). Dr. Oriaifo’s devotion to mental health care derives from an earlier patient encounter, about which she had a publication in the Liberty University website on Mental Health. The publication describes the motive force that strengthened my drive to provide help and support to all persons with mental health issues.
(240) 387-5547 View (240) 387-5547

See more therapy options for Prince Frederick

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Prince Frederick, MD

< 10

Psychiatrists in Prince Frederick, MD who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
83% ADHD
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Psychosis
83% Stress

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Prince Frederick, MD see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Prince Frederick?

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.