Psychiatrists in Upper Marlboro, MD

Photo of Seth Owusu-Kwarteng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Seth Owusu-Kwarteng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Nice to meet you! I am Seth, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. With over 15 years of experience in healthcare and training in psychiatry, I provide comprehensive assessments, diagnoses, and treatment plans for patients across the lifespan. I am committed to improving the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities. I am passionate about truly listening and empowering patients to actively participate in their mental health journey, promoting resilience, and fostering overall well-being.
Nice to meet you! I am Seth, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. With over 15 years of experience in healthcare and training in psychiatry, I provide comprehensive assessments, diagnoses, and treatment plans for patients across the lifespan. I am committed to improving the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities. I am passionate about truly listening and empowering patients to actively participate in their mental health journey, promoting resilience, and fostering overall well-being.
(240) 502-0869 View (240) 502-0869
Photo of Philip Okhiria Oseghale, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Philip Okhiria Oseghale
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
My goal is to deliver comprehensive assessment, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment strategies to support individuals seeking mental health care.
My goal is to deliver comprehensive assessment, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment strategies to support individuals seeking mental health care.
(301) 478-8321 View (301) 478-8321
Photo of Risikat Afolabi-Zannu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Risikat Afolabi-Zannu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a Certified Registered Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CMNHP). I obtained my master's degree at Walden University with specialty in Mental Health, i have been practicing for 3 years. I worked with children, Adolescent, Young adult and Elderly with mental health challenges ranges from ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar, Insomnia, Bulimia... by providing adequate assessment and proper diagnosing of their symptoms, provision of counselling and medication management to maintain adequate livelihood functioning.
Hello, I am a Certified Registered Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CMNHP). I obtained my master's degree at Walden University with specialty in Mental Health, i have been practicing for 3 years. I worked with children, Adolescent, Young adult and Elderly with mental health challenges ranges from ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar, Insomnia, Bulimia... by providing adequate assessment and proper diagnosing of their symptoms, provision of counselling and medication management to maintain adequate livelihood functioning.
(240) 869-6534 View (240) 869-6534
Photo of Timika Goodson - Diverse Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Diverse Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Online Only
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
(240) 332-5071 View (240) 332-5071
Photo of Candice Caesar - Beautiful Mind Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Beautiful Mind Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Congratulations on taking the important steps towards prioritizing your mental wellness! I extend a heartfelt welcome to anyone seeking compassionate and non-judgmental care on their journey. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my commitment is to provide high-quality, personalized care within a safe and nurturing environment where you are truly seen and heard.
Congratulations on taking the important steps towards prioritizing your mental wellness! I extend a heartfelt welcome to anyone seeking compassionate and non-judgmental care on their journey. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my commitment is to provide high-quality, personalized care within a safe and nurturing environment where you are truly seen and heard.
(301) 507-1012 View (301) 507-1012
Photo of Joy Ellis-George - Dare to Care Too, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CCM
Dare to Care Too, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CCM
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Accepting new Clients. Offering in person visits. Seeking a provider who listens to your entire story and works with you to develop a recovery plan? Then you have come to the right place. Knowing your story is important because you are the expert on you. Your symptoms do not have to impact your functioning when you have the right resources and supports in place. While medications are sometimes needed they are not the only answer to managing symptoms. Often behavioral therapy and modification are effective in managing symptoms alone or in conjunction with medications at the lowest effective dosage.
Accepting new Clients. Offering in person visits. Seeking a provider who listens to your entire story and works with you to develop a recovery plan? Then you have come to the right place. Knowing your story is important because you are the expert on you. Your symptoms do not have to impact your functioning when you have the right resources and supports in place. While medications are sometimes needed they are not the only answer to managing symptoms. Often behavioral therapy and modification are effective in managing symptoms alone or in conjunction with medications at the lowest effective dosage.
(240) 201-2970 View (240) 201-2970
Photo of Olumide Akinwumi - Masterpiece Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, APRN
Masterpiece Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, APRN
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I'm accepting new patients. I have worked in both in-patent and out-patient settings. My practice is evidence-based, and it is provided on a compassionate and individualized basis to assist individuals with mental health needs to function optimally. You and I will work together to ensure that you get the best care you deserve. Working with you to navigate the complex mental healthcare arena is a privilege, and I am looking forward to working with you. Thank you so much for allowing me to meet your mental health needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I'm accepting new patients. I have worked in both in-patent and out-patient settings. My practice is evidence-based, and it is provided on a compassionate and individualized basis to assist individuals with mental health needs to function optimally. You and I will work together to ensure that you get the best care you deserve. Working with you to navigate the complex mental healthcare arena is a privilege, and I am looking forward to working with you. Thank you so much for allowing me to meet your mental health needs.
(301) 923-4853 View (301) 923-4853
Photo of Babatunde Olujobi - Suggero healthcare services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Suggero healthcare services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
As a formal U.S Army soldier, I witnessed several mental health disorders that are debilitating to soldiers personal life. And rather than talk, and complain about it, I decided to pursue a career in healthcare after my first degree in accounting. I served in the military for 9 years. I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of inaccurate preconceptions about mental health. I am enthusiastic about people’s needs and my goal is to improve the quality and accessibility of health care services, not only to veterans, but my community.
As a formal U.S Army soldier, I witnessed several mental health disorders that are debilitating to soldiers personal life. And rather than talk, and complain about it, I decided to pursue a career in healthcare after my first degree in accounting. I served in the military for 9 years. I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of inaccurate preconceptions about mental health. I am enthusiastic about people’s needs and my goal is to improve the quality and accessibility of health care services, not only to veterans, but my community.
(301) 781-5011 View (301) 781-5011
Photo of Mettle Works Behavioral Health - Mettle Works, Psychiatrist, MD, MH-NP, LICSW-C, LCPC, CAC-AD
Mettle Works
Psychiatrist, MD, MH-NP, LICSW-C, LCPC, CAC-AD
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Mettle Works Behavioral Health is a full service Behavioral Health Clinic. We are staffed with a bi-lingual experienced psychiatrist as well as a group of capable and compassionate clinicians. Our dedicated team of compassionate and experienced mental health professionals provides comprehensive assessments, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support to empower clients on their journey toward mental wellness. We believe in focusing on the 8 aspects of wellness, including your mental, psychical, emotional, familial, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, financial, occupational and social wellbeing and health.
Mettle Works Behavioral Health is a full service Behavioral Health Clinic. We are staffed with a bi-lingual experienced psychiatrist as well as a group of capable and compassionate clinicians. Our dedicated team of compassionate and experienced mental health professionals provides comprehensive assessments, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support to empower clients on their journey toward mental wellness. We believe in focusing on the 8 aspects of wellness, including your mental, psychical, emotional, familial, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, financial, occupational and social wellbeing and health.
(240) 358-6492 View (240) 358-6492
Photo of Dr. Julaine Newell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Dr. Julaine Newell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
I offer therapy for Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Depression, and Communication Skills, focusing on symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, low motivation, and panic disorder, with a personalized approach. I aim to provide empathetic and effective interventions to help manage mental health symptoms and impairments. Together, we work to identify how, and which medications can support the effectiveness of your current talk therapy treatments.
I offer therapy for Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Depression, and Communication Skills, focusing on symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, low motivation, and panic disorder, with a personalized approach. I aim to provide empathetic and effective interventions to help manage mental health symptoms and impairments. Together, we work to identify how, and which medications can support the effectiveness of your current talk therapy treatments.
(301) 804-6849 View (301) 804-6849
All Time Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
As an experienced, psychiatric population for over 40 years, I take pride in ensuring my patients feel respected and valued. As their psychiatric Doctor, my patients' needs come first. I take the time to provide individual care with confidence and compassion, focusing on meeting their needs with every encounter.
As an experienced, psychiatric population for over 40 years, I take pride in ensuring my patients feel respected and valued. As their psychiatric Doctor, my patients' needs come first. I take the time to provide individual care with confidence and compassion, focusing on meeting their needs with every encounter.
(301) 507-1677 View (301) 507-1677
Photo of Meliora Davies, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Meliora Davies
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Ameliore derives from the Latin word Meliore, meaning to make better- and that speaks deeply to our primary goal at Ameliore Health. With over 20yrs of nursing experience, Meliora Davies, PMHNP-BC, has dedicated her private practice to bettering patients lives by caring for their mental health. Our mission is to enhance the mental health of our community through outstanding, clinical care, educational outreach and robust collaboration with other health providers. We focus on personalized psychiatric care and medication management, providing compassionate, holistic care to each patient.
Ameliore derives from the Latin word Meliore, meaning to make better- and that speaks deeply to our primary goal at Ameliore Health. With over 20yrs of nursing experience, Meliora Davies, PMHNP-BC, has dedicated her private practice to bettering patients lives by caring for their mental health. Our mission is to enhance the mental health of our community through outstanding, clinical care, educational outreach and robust collaboration with other health providers. We focus on personalized psychiatric care and medication management, providing compassionate, holistic care to each patient.
(301) 579-7863 View (301) 579-7863
Citadel Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
At Citadel Services, we understand that mental health can affect one's quality of life. As such, our behavioral healthcare programs in Bowie, Maryland, aim to address our patients' various needs in psychiatry. Using evidence-based interventions, we work to help vulnerable people regain their strength from chronic anxiety, depression, trauma, and build a vision for a better future.
At Citadel Services, we understand that mental health can affect one's quality of life. As such, our behavioral healthcare programs in Bowie, Maryland, aim to address our patients' various needs in psychiatry. Using evidence-based interventions, we work to help vulnerable people regain their strength from chronic anxiety, depression, trauma, and build a vision for a better future.
(301) 719-2728 View (301) 719-2728
Photo of Lauri Cody - Amity Mental Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Amity Mental Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Do you sometimes question whether the way you're feeling is normal? Do you ever wonder why you are so forgetful, find it difficult to concentrate, or become easily distracted? Or perhaps it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning; you've lost motivation to engage in life, and occasionally you cry for no apparent reason. Maybe you have trouble falling asleep or wake up frequently, leaving you fatigued the next day. Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling uneasy and on edge? Guess what? You do not have to confront these challenges alone! Get in touch with us today for support!
Do you sometimes question whether the way you're feeling is normal? Do you ever wonder why you are so forgetful, find it difficult to concentrate, or become easily distracted? Or perhaps it's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning; you've lost motivation to engage in life, and occasionally you cry for no apparent reason. Maybe you have trouble falling asleep or wake up frequently, leaving you fatigued the next day. Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling uneasy and on edge? Guess what? You do not have to confront these challenges alone! Get in touch with us today for support!
(301) 479-9503 View (301) 479-9503
Photo of Jennifer Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(240) 414-4435 View (240) 414-4435
Photo of Dr. Mbijeh Elizabeth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Mbijeh Elizabeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for Donavon Counseling Services LLC on a mission to normalize seeking mental health services. We all struggle with mental health challenges at some point in our existence. It is okay to talk about it and to seek help. You are not alone. It will be an honor to be your partner in this journey of rediscovery and recovery.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for Donavon Counseling Services LLC on a mission to normalize seeking mental health services. We all struggle with mental health challenges at some point in our existence. It is okay to talk about it and to seek help. You are not alone. It will be an honor to be your partner in this journey of rediscovery and recovery.
(301) 259-3147 View (301) 259-3147
Photo of Ebonique McClinnahan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Ebonique McClinnahan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
My ideal client is someone who may feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck—whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or mood instability. They may be navigating personal, professional, or relational stressors and are looking for a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Their goal is not just symptom relief but to regain a sense of clarity, balance, and control. They want to feel like themselves again—or perhaps discover who they truly are—and they're seeking the support of a provider who will listen, understand, and walk with them through that process.
My ideal client is someone who may feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck—whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or mood instability. They may be navigating personal, professional, or relational stressors and are looking for a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Their goal is not just symptom relief but to regain a sense of clarity, balance, and control. They want to feel like themselves again—or perhaps discover who they truly are—and they're seeking the support of a provider who will listen, understand, and walk with them through that process.
(240) 348-6911 View (240) 348-6911
Photo of Valmy Nkienyack Fotendong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Valmy Nkienyack Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Do you want to smile like the picture you see? My treatment style emphasizes collaboration, empowerment, a solution-oriented approach, being open- minded and holistic. I actively involve patients in their own care, recognizing their role as key contributors to their health journey, with a safe space for no judgement. Clients will leave with a sense of partnership, which, not only enhances their comfort but also fosters a sense of trust and security. I have devoted my career to understanding and treating a diverse range of mental conditions across all life span.
Do you want to smile like the picture you see? My treatment style emphasizes collaboration, empowerment, a solution-oriented approach, being open- minded and holistic. I actively involve patients in their own care, recognizing their role as key contributors to their health journey, with a safe space for no judgement. Clients will leave with a sense of partnership, which, not only enhances their comfort but also fosters a sense of trust and security. I have devoted my career to understanding and treating a diverse range of mental conditions across all life span.
(301) 298-3467 View (301) 298-3467
Awa Diakite
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
I'm Awa Diakite PMHNP, your psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care, including diagnosis, treatment, and therapy for a range of psychiatric conditions. I am dedicated to helping clients achieve mental wellness through personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs. I believe in a collaborative approach, ensuring you feel heard and empowered throughout your journey to better mental health.
I'm Awa Diakite PMHNP, your psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care, including diagnosis, treatment, and therapy for a range of psychiatric conditions. I am dedicated to helping clients achieve mental wellness through personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs. I believe in a collaborative approach, ensuring you feel heard and empowered throughout your journey to better mental health.
(240) 384-3976 View (240) 384-3976
Photo of Clementine Okie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Clementine Okie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Hello, nice to meet you. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric Evaluations, medication management, diagnosing, and treatment through virtual care. My priority is to respect and understand one's beliefs, be empathetic, build trust, listen attentively, and develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs. I am knowledgeable in evidence-based medication management to ensure my patients get the best care they seek. My goal is to guide and empower you to take control of your mental health and live a productive life.
Hello, nice to meet you. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric Evaluations, medication management, diagnosing, and treatment through virtual care. My priority is to respect and understand one's beliefs, be empathetic, build trust, listen attentively, and develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs. I am knowledgeable in evidence-based medication management to ensure my patients get the best care they seek. My goal is to guide and empower you to take control of your mental health and live a productive life.
(240) 759-2934 View (240) 759-2934

See more therapy options for Upper Marlboro

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Upper Marlboro, MD

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Upper Marlboro, MD who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
95% Anxiety
88% ADHD
82% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Upper Marlboro, MD see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Upper Marlboro?

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.