Psychiatrists in 21045
![Photo of Andy Mattai - Innovative Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c40a9f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT APPOINTMENTS FOR ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS! We believe that mental health and well-being can be achieved by addressing the myriad factors that contribute to psychological distress. Coping with stress, feelings of sadness, grief, or anger, changing behavior patterns, and medication management are all part of our comprehensive approach to treatment. At Innovative Psychiatry, we strive to meet our patients' individual needs through assessment, medication evaluation, and psychotherapy. The goal of our patient-centered approach is to ensure that your treatment plan is designed to meet your needs.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT APPOINTMENTS FOR ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS! We believe that mental health and well-being can be achieved by addressing the myriad factors that contribute to psychological distress. Coping with stress, feelings of sadness, grief, or anger, changing behavior patterns, and medication management are all part of our comprehensive approach to treatment. At Innovative Psychiatry, we strive to meet our patients' individual needs through assessment, medication evaluation, and psychotherapy. The goal of our patient-centered approach is to ensure that your treatment plan is designed to meet your needs.
![Photo of Laurette Abunaw - Mindsense Serenity LLC, PMHNP, BC, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c944798-6f8d-486f-a53b-9bebdabb754b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindsense Serenity LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Mindsense Serenity LLC is a nurse practitioner-led mental health practice. Our clinic provides psychiatric and behavioral health services such as psychiatric consultations, evaluations, diagnostic assessments, medication management, and supportive therapy to children and adults. We are dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimum mental wellness through their everyday mental health struggles. We provide Virtual and In-person services. Please visit our "Website" to explore our services and book an appointment with Laurette Abunaw, PMHNP-BC . We are accepting "New Patients".
Mindsense Serenity LLC is a nurse practitioner-led mental health practice. Our clinic provides psychiatric and behavioral health services such as psychiatric consultations, evaluations, diagnostic assessments, medication management, and supportive therapy to children and adults. We are dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimum mental wellness through their everyday mental health struggles. We provide Virtual and In-person services. Please visit our "Website" to explore our services and book an appointment with Laurette Abunaw, PMHNP-BC . We are accepting "New Patients".
![Photo of Esteban Toledo-Carrion, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d44eed4-5230-4663-8101-bbff2fb83f80/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Esteban Toledo-Carrion is a bilingual, board certified adult and addiction psychiatrist with training in psychodynamic psychotherapy. He was born and raised in Ecuador and completed his medical training in his home country, where his interest and commitment to helping diverse populations began. He complemented his medical studies with a research fellowship through the International Research Initiative and the P.A.I.N. group at Boston Children's Hospital, studying and authoring the impact of traumatic brain injury in children.
Dr. Esteban Toledo-Carrion is a bilingual, board certified adult and addiction psychiatrist with training in psychodynamic psychotherapy. He was born and raised in Ecuador and completed his medical training in his home country, where his interest and commitment to helping diverse populations began. He complemented his medical studies with a research fellowship through the International Research Initiative and the P.A.I.N. group at Boston Children's Hospital, studying and authoring the impact of traumatic brain injury in children.
![Photo of Laurette Abunaw, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fd01eb0-4ede-4f24-804e-684d4453b2bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified -Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on assessments, diagnosis & interventions such as medication management and individual/supportive therapy. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience. I am well versed in providing mental health services through outpatient/tele-health, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, rehabilitation, and hospice related to mental health needs. My Inpatient/Hospital experience includes Contributing Nurse Practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric and mental health services on the behavioral, medical and emergency department units.
I am a Board Certified -Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on assessments, diagnosis & interventions such as medication management and individual/supportive therapy. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience. I am well versed in providing mental health services through outpatient/tele-health, in-patient/hospital, long-term care, rehabilitation, and hospice related to mental health needs. My Inpatient/Hospital experience includes Contributing Nurse Practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric and mental health services on the behavioral, medical and emergency department units.
![Photo of Selam Tekie, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b622b7d8-bf98-4ee6-9ee0-9706b2f57e31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Selam Tekie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the impact of mental illness on you and your household? Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be challenging but you don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals aged 6 and above, dealing with a range of mental health conditions including(but not limited to) bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Break the silence surrounding your mental health to start/promote your healing journey through open conversation. My approach begins with active listening, where I will truly hear your concerns and experiences.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the impact of mental illness on you and your household? Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be challenging but you don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals aged 6 and above, dealing with a range of mental health conditions including(but not limited to) bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Break the silence surrounding your mental health to start/promote your healing journey through open conversation. My approach begins with active listening, where I will truly hear your concerns and experiences.
![Photo of Nicolas Kuiate Tekam - NKT Behavioral Health Services, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9b4bb1b-ff69-403c-82a6-25424b8f3ed1/1/320x400.jpeg)
NKT Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. I manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health ailments. I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. I am compassionate and dedicated to my patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. My motivation is to make a difference in people’s lives and in my community.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. I manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health ailments. I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. I am compassionate and dedicated to my patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. My motivation is to make a difference in people’s lives and in my community.
![Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/395385b4-2455-499e-885e-e4457aab288a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Olajumoke Rotimi - Better You Healthcare Services, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75fc62d-f9a5-44b6-bedf-f42307b3bcb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Better You Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
![Photo of Selam Tekie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cbfafd5-66ab-4e79-b6f3-c1ea4d64cf31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
![Photo of Suzzette Van-Lare, DMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb85fbe-10a3-41cc-a885-7f886a15c13e/1/320x400.png)
Suzzette Van-Lare
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Dr. Suzzette Van-Lare, DMSc, PA-C is a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Physician Associate in Maryland. She received her Doctorate in Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg and Masters in PA Practice from Campbell University. She has a decade of experience managing behavioral health conditions. She is very experienced with ketamine and offers ketamine treatment to qualified candidates. She has expertise in the management of a range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and more.
Dr. Suzzette Van-Lare, DMSc, PA-C is a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Physician Associate in Maryland. She received her Doctorate in Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg and Masters in PA Practice from Campbell University. She has a decade of experience managing behavioral health conditions. She is very experienced with ketamine and offers ketamine treatment to qualified candidates. She has expertise in the management of a range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and more.
![Photo of Dr. Biliki Douglas, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e59d0bc-f9d1-4b1d-a53b-e94c64e6f60f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Biliki Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
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![Photo of Shanya S Hardie, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bac59ad-f8cd-4d14-b9af-91b1dbf9653a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shanya S Hardie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.
“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.
![Photo of Ana C Duarte, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02b0ed11-5be2-4ef3-886b-f02e2bacb0db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Ana C. Duarte and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been in practice for over 14 years, providing medication management for individuals across the lifespan, focusing on adolescents through adults.
Hello! My name is Ana C. Duarte and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been in practice for over 14 years, providing medication management for individuals across the lifespan, focusing on adolescents through adults.
![Photo of Lighthouse Mental Health Services - Lighthouse Mental Health Services, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d0a8c45-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lighthouse Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients! Are you tired of trying one medication after another to get relief from your symptoms? Let us work together to get to the root cause of your problems and make your life healthier and happier with and without medications. Let's meet over a FREE 15 minute consultation to see what we can do together to improve your life. Ask for the Deep Dive consultation.
Currently accepting new patients! Are you tired of trying one medication after another to get relief from your symptoms? Let us work together to get to the root cause of your problems and make your life healthier and happier with and without medications. Let's meet over a FREE 15 minute consultation to see what we can do together to improve your life. Ask for the Deep Dive consultation.
![Photo of Andy A Mattai, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd18283-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Don't wait for an appointment! Are you looking for more personalized psychiatric care? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a strong interest in ADHD and mood disorders. My training includes completion of a clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Mental Health. As a result, I am a strong proponent of evidence-based psychiatric treatments and using innovative techniques to help the improve the quality of life for my patients. Please call our office for an appointment.
Don't wait for an appointment! Are you looking for more personalized psychiatric care? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a strong interest in ADHD and mood disorders. My training includes completion of a clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Mental Health. As a result, I am a strong proponent of evidence-based psychiatric treatments and using innovative techniques to help the improve the quality of life for my patients. Please call our office for an appointment.
![Photo of Laurette Abunaw, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc900047-7219-4d01-ad5b-a96b49289c08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurette Abunaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience as a nurse and nurse practitioner working in acute care and outpatient clinical settings such as hospitals, day treatment centers, home care, rehabilitation centers, hospice and long-term care facilities. With this diverse background, I have served as a contributing nurse practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric and mental health services on the behavioral, medical and emergency department units. I provide psychiatric consultations/evaluations and medication management services.
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience as a nurse and nurse practitioner working in acute care and outpatient clinical settings such as hospitals, day treatment centers, home care, rehabilitation centers, hospice and long-term care facilities. With this diverse background, I have served as a contributing nurse practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric and mental health services on the behavioral, medical and emergency department units. I provide psychiatric consultations/evaluations and medication management services.
![Photo of Favour Ofoegbu Tehila Healthcare Llc, PMHNP, BC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/387472b4-6c1c-47e5-a325-611ac8aa7205/1/320x400.jpeg)
Favour Ofoegbu Tehila Healthcare Llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CRNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Tehila Healthcare LLC is a telehealth, psychiatric, mental, and behavioral health outpatient clinic serving Maryland and the District of Columbia (DC). It is managed by Favour Ofoegbu, a board-certified, detail-oriented psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with almost two decades of combined clinical experience. I have a niche for therapeutic listening as I care for age groups 12 and above. I specialize in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Insomnia, Psychosis, etc. At Tehila Healthcare, your total wellness is our goal because your health is an invaluable investment. Our slogan is "Health is Wealth".
Tehila Healthcare LLC is a telehealth, psychiatric, mental, and behavioral health outpatient clinic serving Maryland and the District of Columbia (DC). It is managed by Favour Ofoegbu, a board-certified, detail-oriented psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with almost two decades of combined clinical experience. I have a niche for therapeutic listening as I care for age groups 12 and above. I specialize in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Insomnia, Psychosis, etc. At Tehila Healthcare, your total wellness is our goal because your health is an invaluable investment. Our slogan is "Health is Wealth".
![Photo of Dr. Veronica Kwegyir-Afful, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da5bb501-6eb9-4548-8e85-eb1bc24db8b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Veronica Kwegyir-Afful
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Dr. Veronica is now accepting new patients virtually located in the Districts of Columbia (DC), Maryland (MD), and Delaware (DE). Most of commercial insurance accepted. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, addiction, or other psychiatric conditions, I am here to be your partner in healing. As a doctorate-prepared and Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric/Mental Health with over 15 years of experience, I prioritize not only symptom relief but also the enhancement of overall quality of life.
Dr. Veronica is now accepting new patients virtually located in the Districts of Columbia (DC), Maryland (MD), and Delaware (DE). Most of commercial insurance accepted. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, addiction, or other psychiatric conditions, I am here to be your partner in healing. As a doctorate-prepared and Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric/Mental Health with over 15 years of experience, I prioritize not only symptom relief but also the enhancement of overall quality of life.
![Photo of Jacqueline Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee693c61-79c8-4bd1-b1ff-8fccd2a0f2de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Jacqueline Williams is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She Graduated with a Master's in Science in Nursing, is currently practicing in Maryland, and sees patients mainly via telemedicine.
Jacqueline Williams is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She Graduated with a Master's in Science in Nursing, is currently practicing in Maryland, and sees patients mainly via telemedicine.
![Photo of Kayla Scrandis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a22e11c7-9251-4aa2-a598-da0b86303bbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Scrandis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Are you depressed, anxious, have difficulty focusing, or have mood swings? Are you wondering if medicine is right for you? Together we can explore that option. During our first meeting you and I can come up with a plan that is right for you.
Are you depressed, anxious, have difficulty focusing, or have mood swings? Are you wondering if medicine is right for you? Together we can explore that option. During our first meeting you and I can come up with a plan that is right for you.
See more therapy options for 21045
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21045
60+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 21045 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Medication Management |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
86% | CareFirst |
How Psychiatrists in 21045 see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21045?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.