Psychiatrists in 20740
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ekaette Akpabio, MSN-PMHNP-BC, brings a wealth of experience to psychiatric mental health care. With advanced degrees from Walden University and years of nursing at prestigious facilities, she specializes in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management, ensuring each client receives tailored, empathetic care for their mental health, emotional, and substance use disorders.
Ekaette Akpabio, MSN-PMHNP-BC, brings a wealth of experience to psychiatric mental health care. With advanced degrees from Walden University and years of nursing at prestigious facilities, she specializes in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management, ensuring each client receives tailored, empathetic care for their mental health, emotional, and substance use disorders.
Jess Romeo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740
To reach out, please visit my website at www.integramentalhealth.com. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinical social worker who believes deeply that psychiatry should equal science plus soul. As a queer & trans person, I also know that it can be hard to find LGBTQIA-affirming care out there. My background informs a passion for helping you overcome shame, differentiate yourself from the environment around you, find and honor your true self, and navigate the middle path through struggle. If you are grappling with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or need affirming care, I am invested in helping you thrive.
To reach out, please visit my website at www.integramentalhealth.com. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinical social worker who believes deeply that psychiatry should equal science plus soul. As a queer & trans person, I also know that it can be hard to find LGBTQIA-affirming care out there. My background informs a passion for helping you overcome shame, differentiate yourself from the environment around you, find and honor your true self, and navigate the middle path through struggle. If you are grappling with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or need affirming care, I am invested in helping you thrive.
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
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.
Dr. Renata Nkeze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, CRNP, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
I accept patients all over the State of MD. Appointments are virtual through Tele-health and in person for those in the Largo area. Dr. Renata Nkeze perform psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, teenagers and adults experiencing mental health symptoms or suffering from various mental illness including ADHD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, PTSD and much more. Dr. Nkeze is an experienced Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In the past, she has worked with Patients both in inpatient and in outpatient settings. Call us to schedule a virtual visit or request through our website.
I accept patients all over the State of MD. Appointments are virtual through Tele-health and in person for those in the Largo area. Dr. Renata Nkeze perform psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, teenagers and adults experiencing mental health symptoms or suffering from various mental illness including ADHD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, PTSD and much more. Dr. Nkeze is an experienced Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In the past, she has worked with Patients both in inpatient and in outpatient settings. Call us to schedule a virtual visit or request through our website.
cityworld family practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, CRNP-BC
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
Dr. Miranda Mbutambe is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner treating physical and mental illness in Maryland and the District of Columbia. Dr. Mbutambe's goal is to empower her patients and provide solutions to their problems. One of the most important obligations for Dr. Mbutambe as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to give hope to their patients. Dr Mbutambe has been providing care for patients across the lifespan and is experienced in dealing with various medical and mental health disorders. Services provided are thorough diagnostic evaluations, medication management, collaborative treatment
Dr. Miranda Mbutambe is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner treating physical and mental illness in Maryland and the District of Columbia. Dr. Mbutambe's goal is to empower her patients and provide solutions to their problems. One of the most important obligations for Dr. Mbutambe as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to give hope to their patients. Dr Mbutambe has been providing care for patients across the lifespan and is experienced in dealing with various medical and mental health disorders. Services provided are thorough diagnostic evaluations, medication management, collaborative treatment
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
Amoah Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
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.
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.
The Fix Mental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740
The Fix Mental Wellness Center provides telehealth psychiatric services in Maryland, DC, and Florida, and treats a variety of mental health disorders via medication management. We are an inclusive practice, and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step toward bettering themselves. We will meet you where you are in your mental health journey, and help facilitate the change needed for you to live your best life.
The Fix Mental Wellness Center provides telehealth psychiatric services in Maryland, DC, and Florida, and treats a variety of mental health disorders via medication management. We are an inclusive practice, and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step toward bettering themselves. We will meet you where you are in your mental health journey, and help facilitate the change needed for you to live your best life.
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.
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Nimel Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740
Hello, we know that the Pandemic has been difficult for everyone! We are here to provide that needed support. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, excellent and compassionate services to all our clients regardless of age, gender, economic, racial or ethnic background. Our team believe in holistic and natural approach to achievement of an optimal health. As such, our clients are part of their treatment plan, and we collaborate to develop the best care for each client
Hello, we know that the Pandemic has been difficult for everyone! We are here to provide that needed support. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, excellent and compassionate services to all our clients regardless of age, gender, economic, racial or ethnic background. Our team believe in holistic and natural approach to achievement of an optimal health. As such, our clients are part of their treatment plan, and we collaborate to develop the best care for each client
Mindset Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740 (Online Only)
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.
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740 (Online Only)
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Lianna Bissell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740 (Online Only)
Hello! I work at Choice Clinical Services, located in Greenbelt. However, I can see patients remotely anywhere in MD. I work with patients of all ages and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have found that I really enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and adolescents. We will work as a team because ultimately, you know what will work best for you. Hope to hear from you! Please reach out via email or phone.
Hello! I work at Choice Clinical Services, located in Greenbelt. However, I can see patients remotely anywhere in MD. I work with patients of all ages and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have found that I really enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and adolescents. We will work as a team because ultimately, you know what will work best for you. Hope to hear from you! Please reach out via email or phone.
Berlinda Retland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740
My specialty is MEDICATION MANAGEMENT for the treatment of mood disorders like depression and bipolar, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and psychosis. I personally DO NOT offer therapy (but it is available at the practice). My motto is, meeting my clients where they are, but supporting them in getting to where they truly want to be! Life is challenging enough, finding a professional and personable clinician should not be. My goal is to assist you in achieving a more fulfilling life by successfully managing your mental health. I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience.
My specialty is MEDICATION MANAGEMENT for the treatment of mood disorders like depression and bipolar, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and psychosis. I personally DO NOT offer therapy (but it is available at the practice). My motto is, meeting my clients where they are, but supporting them in getting to where they truly want to be! Life is challenging enough, finding a professional and personable clinician should not be. My goal is to assist you in achieving a more fulfilling life by successfully managing your mental health. I am a Board Certified- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience.
Matobi Family Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
**Accepting new patients**. I am Dr. Sussan Ononaku, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-BC,. I have more than 30years experience in healthcare with varied experiences in medical and mental health care. My experience as a family nurse practitioner gave me added knowledge to manage your body, mind and spirit. every one is a unique individual with different sociocultural background and differences. I will take time to understand you and manage you as a whole individual with respect as well as maintain your dignity.
**Accepting new patients**. I am Dr. Sussan Ononaku, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-BC,. I have more than 30years experience in healthcare with varied experiences in medical and mental health care. My experience as a family nurse practitioner gave me added knowledge to manage your body, mind and spirit. every one is a unique individual with different sociocultural background and differences. I will take time to understand you and manage you as a whole individual with respect as well as maintain your dignity.
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Candice Caesar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client is someone facing various significant mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, etc., yet is motivated to improve their well-being. They show the courage and willingness to seek help and work towards a better life. They need a provider who can provide empathetic, personalized care and empower them with the tools and support necessary to achieve their goals and enhance their overall well-being. Together, we will develop an individualized treatment plan and gain effective coping strategies.
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client is someone facing various significant mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, etc., yet is motivated to improve their well-being. They show the courage and willingness to seek help and work towards a better life. They need a provider who can provide empathetic, personalized care and empower them with the tools and support necessary to achieve their goals and enhance their overall well-being. Together, we will develop an individualized treatment plan and gain effective coping strategies.
Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740 (Online Only)
****IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENTS FOR SELF PAY PATIENT---EASY, CONVENIENT AND AFFORDABLE PHONE OR VIDEO VISITS FOR MEDICATION AND/OR THERAPY IN THE STATE OF MARYLAND.** It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your HOME, CAR OR OFFICE with DAYTIME, EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. CALL OR EMAIL TODAY! Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future....it helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. As an experienced
****IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENTS FOR SELF PAY PATIENT---EASY, CONVENIENT AND AFFORDABLE PHONE OR VIDEO VISITS FOR MEDICATION AND/OR THERAPY IN THE STATE OF MARYLAND.** It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your HOME, CAR OR OFFICE with DAYTIME, EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. CALL OR EMAIL TODAY! Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future....it helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. As an experienced
See more therapy options for 20740
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 20740
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 20740 who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
87% | ADHD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
95% | Optum |
91% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 20740 see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
10% | Male | |
4% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 20740?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.