Psychiatrists in Braddock Heights, MD
There are no results for psychiatrists in Braddock Heights
Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Maryland below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702 (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.
Dr. Sharma is licensed in MD and VA. We are providing Telepsychiatry during this Pandemic situation to ensure safety of our patients- We also offer Initial Psychiatric Evaluation through Telepsychiatry within a week of your intake- Additional services we provide include: Esketamine ( Spravato) assisted psychotherapy for hard to treat ( treatment resistant) depression. If you are concerned about the cost, do not worry. We have been able to get Spravato approved through commercial insurance. Therefore the cost for Spravato is very affordable. We also offer Opioids and Alcohol addiciton treatment ( Vivitrol, Suboxone, Sublocade).
Dr. Sharma is licensed in MD and VA. We are providing Telepsychiatry during this Pandemic situation to ensure safety of our patients- We also offer Initial Psychiatric Evaluation through Telepsychiatry within a week of your intake- Additional services we provide include: Esketamine ( Spravato) assisted psychotherapy for hard to treat ( treatment resistant) depression. If you are concerned about the cost, do not worry. We have been able to get Spravato approved through commercial insurance. Therefore the cost for Spravato is very affordable. We also offer Opioids and Alcohol addiciton treatment ( Vivitrol, Suboxone, Sublocade).
Effulgence Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Effulgence Psychiatry. With a deep-rooted belief in the interconnectedness of spirit, body, and soul, I strive to be a guiding light for those navigating the complex journey of mental health. I approach mental wellness from a holistic perspective, recognizing that true healing occurs when all aspects of our being are in harmony. I believe that when the spirit, body, and soul are aligned, individuals can experience a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.
My name is Ifeoma Irokwe, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Effulgence Psychiatry. With a deep-rooted belief in the interconnectedness of spirit, body, and soul, I strive to be a guiding light for those navigating the complex journey of mental health. I approach mental wellness from a holistic perspective, recognizing that true healing occurs when all aspects of our being are in harmony. I believe that when the spirit, body, and soul are aligned, individuals can experience a profound sense of peace and fulfillment.
Dr. Stacey Lambour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Virginia. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluation, ongoing individual therapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation and monitoring to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you customize a plan that enables you to find lasting change. This plan may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Ultimately, developing a collaborative treatment plan with you is the best way to meet your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Virginia. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluation, ongoing individual therapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation and monitoring to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you customize a plan that enables you to find lasting change. This plan may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Ultimately, developing a collaborative treatment plan with you is the best way to meet your needs.
Maryland Wellness and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
Beata Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Beata Gilbert is passionate about helping individuals with mental health disorders, and about helping end the stigma related to psychiatric issues. She started her career in health care and continues to pursue her nursing degree. She has worked extensively in different areas of nursing and avidly helped individuals to achieve optimized progress in mental health. She finds delights in coaching, psychoeducation and medication management for teens and adults. She is an advocate for preventative interventions and shared decision making.
Beata Gilbert is passionate about helping individuals with mental health disorders, and about helping end the stigma related to psychiatric issues. She started her career in health care and continues to pursue her nursing degree. She has worked extensively in different areas of nursing and avidly helped individuals to achieve optimized progress in mental health. She finds delights in coaching, psychoeducation and medication management for teens and adults. She is an advocate for preventative interventions and shared decision making.
Chikaodi Kay Mba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
Hi, nice to meet you! I'm Dr. Kay, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with seven years of experience in mental health. I am passionate about improving mental health access, improving attitude to mental health, and treating mental health illness with respect. I dispense empathy, hope, and support and share with you a deeper understanding of mental health issues. My passion is to support you by creating a safe space to express yourself.
Hi, nice to meet you! I'm Dr. Kay, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with seven years of experience in mental health. I am passionate about improving mental health access, improving attitude to mental health, and treating mental health illness with respect. I dispense empathy, hope, and support and share with you a deeper understanding of mental health issues. My passion is to support you by creating a safe space to express yourself.
At Frederick Psychiatry we believe that those looking for services of therapist or a Psychiatrist find it hard to open themselves to others. Your experience with us would be with dignity, respect and empathy, regardless of your gender, ethnicity or other ways you identify yourself. Our focus is on traditional Medication Management in Expert Hands. Therapy at Frederick Psychiatry is integrated with Medication Management. It is result oriented therapy and coaching to improve day to day task of living. We offer Early Appointment availability for New patients. Evaluations 90 Minutes, Follow Up Appointments 30-45 Minutes.
At Frederick Psychiatry we believe that those looking for services of therapist or a Psychiatrist find it hard to open themselves to others. Your experience with us would be with dignity, respect and empathy, regardless of your gender, ethnicity or other ways you identify yourself. Our focus is on traditional Medication Management in Expert Hands. Therapy at Frederick Psychiatry is integrated with Medication Management. It is result oriented therapy and coaching to improve day to day task of living. We offer Early Appointment availability for New patients. Evaluations 90 Minutes, Follow Up Appointments 30-45 Minutes.
Kimberly Braden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Everyone deserves the opportunity to live their life to the fullest. My goal is to help those struggling with the situations keeping them from finding the best life possible. Whether you need help finding the right medication, coping with mental illness, or having trouble navigating life’s challenges, I want to be there. My hope is to not simply reach symptom management, but to move past it into your ideal life. I want your daily experience to be as rich and rewarding as possible. Not everyone is going to be "happy" all day every day (that would be amazing, though) any step closer to the ideal should be celebrated!
Everyone deserves the opportunity to live their life to the fullest. My goal is to help those struggling with the situations keeping them from finding the best life possible. Whether you need help finding the right medication, coping with mental illness, or having trouble navigating life’s challenges, I want to be there. My hope is to not simply reach symptom management, but to move past it into your ideal life. I want your daily experience to be as rich and rewarding as possible. Not everyone is going to be "happy" all day every day (that would be amazing, though) any step closer to the ideal should be celebrated!
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.
Valmy Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMNHP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in nursing, I bring a dynamic approach to mental health care. My experience and interpersonal skills enable me to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing compassionate, confidential, and effective treatment.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in nursing, I bring a dynamic approach to mental health care. My experience and interpersonal skills enable me to connect with patients from all walks of life, providing compassionate, confidential, and effective treatment.
Sarah Gumpert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNPPMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I provide medication management to teen and adult clients who feel as if they need something more. I am here to provide options, education and to listen to your concerns. Together we will formulate a medication plan that you are comfortable with and that improves your overall functioning.
I provide medication management to teen and adult clients who feel as if they need something more. I am here to provide options, education and to listen to your concerns. Together we will formulate a medication plan that you are comfortable with and that improves your overall functioning.
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21703 (Online Only)
I diagnose and treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep disorder, PTSD, Social anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, and offer laboratory testing to rule out any organic cause. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. I am currently accepting new patients from Texas, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maryland, and New Mexico. You can self-schedule at I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
I diagnose and treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep disorder, PTSD, Social anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, and offer laboratory testing to rule out any organic cause. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. I am currently accepting new patients from Texas, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maryland, and New Mexico. You can self-schedule at I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
Renew Psychiatric Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients: Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though I practice exclusively in psychiatry. My background and clinical experience in family practice and psychiatry gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5-64. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you to improve your mental health.
Accepting New Patients: Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though I practice exclusively in psychiatry. My background and clinical experience in family practice and psychiatry gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5-64. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you to improve your mental health.
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
Wisechoice Multispecialty clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Ms. Gwaabe is the founder and medical director of Wisechoice M.C. She is certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2016. She values lives and listens to her clients. Her services are collaborative and integrative with the patient, therapists, PCP and families. She highly believes in everyone's right to high quality healthcare. Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic is ready to welcome you in a safe space. Together we can make a difference!
Ms. Gwaabe is the founder and medical director of Wisechoice M.C. She is certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2016. She values lives and listens to her clients. Her services are collaborative and integrative with the patient, therapists, PCP and families. She highly believes in everyone's right to high quality healthcare. Wisechoice Multispecialty Clinic is ready to welcome you in a safe space. Together we can make a difference!
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.
I am board certified dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in delivering competent and compassionate care with a nursing career spanning over 13 years. My practice philosophy centers on treating the patient as whole and not just based on their symptoms. I believe in empowering my patients to be active participants in matters concerning their own health and tailoring their treatment plans according to their own preference and individual needs and informed by evidence-based practice guidelines.
I am board certified dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in delivering competent and compassionate care with a nursing career spanning over 13 years. My practice philosophy centers on treating the patient as whole and not just based on their symptoms. I believe in empowering my patients to be active participants in matters concerning their own health and tailoring their treatment plans according to their own preference and individual needs and informed by evidence-based practice guidelines.
IC Health Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-837-7511
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-837-7511
Dr. Ihuoma Marvelous Udeagha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Dr. Marv. Udeagha is a highly skilled Dual Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, specializing in the intersection of psychiatry and chronic pain management. With years of experience in both fields, she understands how chronic pain can impact an individual's mental health and well-being. Her approach to patient care is holistic, combining her psychiatry and pain management expertise to provide individualized treatment plans. Dr. Marv. is committed to improving her patient's quality of life. She uses advanced genetic testing to find the medications that will work for you.
Dr. Marv. Udeagha is a highly skilled Dual Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, specializing in the intersection of psychiatry and chronic pain management. With years of experience in both fields, she understands how chronic pain can impact an individual's mental health and well-being. Her approach to patient care is holistic, combining her psychiatry and pain management expertise to provide individualized treatment plans. Dr. Marv. is committed to improving her patient's quality of life. She uses advanced genetic testing to find the medications that will work for you.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Braddock Heights, MD
< 10
Psychiatrists in Braddock Heights, MD who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Braddock Heights, MD see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Braddock Heights?
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.