Psychiatrists in Hampstead, MD
I have extensive experience providing outpatient psychiatric medication management services to diverse populations across all age groups. My work with children and adolescents began at the start of my career. I have practiced as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychiatry since 2013 and as a master’s prepared nurse practitioner as of 2009. I am a proud graduate of Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland and Carlow University. I believe in a holistic approach to patient care and I encourage patients to incorporate complementary interventions such as therapy.
I have extensive experience providing outpatient psychiatric medication management services to diverse populations across all age groups. My work with children and adolescents began at the start of my career. I have practiced as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychiatry since 2013 and as a master’s prepared nurse practitioner as of 2009. I am a proud graduate of Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland and Carlow University. I believe in a holistic approach to patient care and I encourage patients to incorporate complementary interventions such as therapy.
Hello, my name is Sarah Langham. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 yrs experience. I have over 20 years experience in mental health as an RN. I am experienced in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and related disorders, as well as managing chronic mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders.
Hello, my name is Sarah Langham. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 yrs experience. I have over 20 years experience in mental health as an RN. I am experienced in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and related disorders, as well as managing chronic mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders.
Dr. Macaoay is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, Board-Certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. Dr. Macaoay's education/training and experience grounded in empathy and understanding have helped patients and their families improve their psychiatric symptoms and overall level of functioning. Dr. Macaoay provides individualized Diagnostic Assessments, constructing a Biopsychosocial formulation that helps understand the complex dimensions of each patient and incorporates mutual participation of a workable multimodal treatment plan that fosters a productive therapeutic alliance.
Dr. Macaoay is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, Board-Certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. Dr. Macaoay's education/training and experience grounded in empathy and understanding have helped patients and their families improve their psychiatric symptoms and overall level of functioning. Dr. Macaoay provides individualized Diagnostic Assessments, constructing a Biopsychosocial formulation that helps understand the complex dimensions of each patient and incorporates mutual participation of a workable multimodal treatment plan that fosters a productive therapeutic alliance.
Mental Health and Wellness requires individualized approach. My goal of treatment is to collaborate with the client, identify and improve client's strengths while working with them to identify and work on areas of weakness. There is no magic pill to take away stress, but it's effect on our mental health can be effectively managed using joint effort. Limitations exist solely within us; we can realize our full potential with adequate support and the right mind-set.
Mental Health and Wellness requires individualized approach. My goal of treatment is to collaborate with the client, identify and improve client's strengths while working with them to identify and work on areas of weakness. There is no magic pill to take away stress, but it's effect on our mental health can be effectively managed using joint effort. Limitations exist solely within us; we can realize our full potential with adequate support and the right mind-set.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Sound Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
We recognize that individuals seeking services might not always find comfort in a clinical environment. To cater to diverse preferences, we provide psychiatric health services via a secure telemedicine platform that complies with HIPAA regulations, as well as through in-person visits at our office. Valuing the distinctness of each person, we tailor treatment plans to your specific needs, considering you an integral part of the process. Your active participation enriches our understanding of your requirements, while our empathetic approach ensures compassionate care.
We recognize that individuals seeking services might not always find comfort in a clinical environment. To cater to diverse preferences, we provide psychiatric health services via a secure telemedicine platform that complies with HIPAA regulations, as well as through in-person visits at our office. Valuing the distinctness of each person, we tailor treatment plans to your specific needs, considering you an integral part of the process. Your active participation enriches our understanding of your requirements, while our empathetic approach ensures compassionate care.
Ashley Vickery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who works with adolescent and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I believe in collaboration with therapists, and other healthcare providers, for well-rounded care of the individual client. I believe that it is important to meet client's where they are to help them become who they want to be.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who works with adolescent and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I believe in collaboration with therapists, and other healthcare providers, for well-rounded care of the individual client. I believe that it is important to meet client's where they are to help them become who they want to be.
Christiana Olayera-Akinboye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, BC
Verified Verified
Finksburg, MD 21048
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified in Psychiatry. My training and experiences as a clinician allow me to provide comprehensive client-focused mental healthcare across the lifespan. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University Minnesota, and received my Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner .
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified in Psychiatry. My training and experiences as a clinician allow me to provide comprehensive client-focused mental healthcare across the lifespan. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University Minnesota, and received my Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner .
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of experience caring for clients with mental disorders in both acute and long-term settings.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of experience caring for clients with mental disorders in both acute and long-term settings.
Speakeasy Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNE-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157 (Online Only)
Support for your mental health and well-being can be accessible and personalized. I want my patients to feel heard and supported through their mental health journey. Children, teens, adults, and peripartum patients can come to Speakeasy for behavioral health needs, including medication management, therapy, holistic treatment, or medical cannabis. There is no “one size fits all” approach to taking care of you. Together, we will collaborate to find the best path for you to feel better.
Support for your mental health and well-being can be accessible and personalized. I want my patients to feel heard and supported through their mental health journey. Children, teens, adults, and peripartum patients can come to Speakeasy for behavioral health needs, including medication management, therapy, holistic treatment, or medical cannabis. There is no “one size fits all” approach to taking care of you. Together, we will collaborate to find the best path for you to feel better.
Crystal Leonard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157 (Online Only)
Seeking the right mental health provider can be overwhelming. Finding a provider who listens and hears what you are saying can be challenging. I am here to help guide and work with you to create a successful treatment plan that you are comfortable with, taking into account your personal experiences and history. My goal is to be a part of your journey to achieve a better quality of life, helping you to build on your strengths and overcome challenges.
Seeking the right mental health provider can be overwhelming. Finding a provider who listens and hears what you are saying can be challenging. I am here to help guide and work with you to create a successful treatment plan that you are comfortable with, taking into account your personal experiences and history. My goal is to be a part of your journey to achieve a better quality of life, helping you to build on your strengths and overcome challenges.
Rehoboth Healthcare and Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
Hello, my name is Dr. Njideka Emenyi “ Dr. E”. I am a doctoral prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for someone to hold your hands as you navigate the challenges of mental health?. If your answer is yes, I welcome you to my practice, Rehoboth Healthcare and Behavioral Services. At Rehoboth, we are committed to providing comprehensive, individualized and empathic treatment for individuals struggling with mental health disorders. We combine psychiatric evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication management.
Hello, my name is Dr. Njideka Emenyi “ Dr. E”. I am a doctoral prepared dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Are you looking for someone to hold your hands as you navigate the challenges of mental health?. If your answer is yes, I welcome you to my practice, Rehoboth Healthcare and Behavioral Services. At Rehoboth, we are committed to providing comprehensive, individualized and empathic treatment for individuals struggling with mental health disorders. We combine psychiatric evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication management.
Nguyen Faith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
FreshAir Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
At FreshAir Health Services, we believe in fostering meaningful relationships with our clients and their families. We are exceptional in providing individualized, patient-centered care. We take pride in listening to your problems and tailoring your treatment to your unique needs. Utilizing the best available evidence, we aim to provide our clients with results-oriented care.
At FreshAir Health Services, we believe in fostering meaningful relationships with our clients and their families. We are exceptional in providing individualized, patient-centered care. We take pride in listening to your problems and tailoring your treatment to your unique needs. Utilizing the best available evidence, we aim to provide our clients with results-oriented care.
Apex Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
Apex Behavioral Services is committed to providing evidence-based and patient-centered psychiatric services that meet the needs of our clients across the lifespan in an efficient, friendly, compassionate, and supportive approach. As a team at Apex Behavioral Services, we focus on collaboration with our clients, families, and other healthcare teams directly involved in improving our clients' wellness and quality of life.
Apex Behavioral Services is committed to providing evidence-based and patient-centered psychiatric services that meet the needs of our clients across the lifespan in an efficient, friendly, compassionate, and supportive approach. As a team at Apex Behavioral Services, we focus on collaboration with our clients, families, and other healthcare teams directly involved in improving our clients' wellness and quality of life.
Accepting New Patients - At Gestell Psychiatry, we take a holistic approach to mental health. We treat a broad spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, psychotic, dissociative, somatic, and neurodevelopmental. We see patients ages 18 and above for medication management. (Primarily virtual. Limited availability in-person.) For more information: www.GestellPsychiatry.com
Accepting New Patients - At Gestell Psychiatry, we take a holistic approach to mental health. We treat a broad spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, psychotic, dissociative, somatic, and neurodevelopmental. We see patients ages 18 and above for medication management. (Primarily virtual. Limited availability in-person.) For more information: www.GestellPsychiatry.com
Optimal Point Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
Mental Health and Wellness requires individualized approach. My goal of treatment is to collaborate with the client, identify and improve client's strengths while working with them to identify and work on areas of weakness. There is no magic pill to take away stress, but it's effect on our mental health can be effectively managed using joint effort. Limitations exist solely within us, we can realize our full potential with adequate support and the right mind-set.
Mental Health and Wellness requires individualized approach. My goal of treatment is to collaborate with the client, identify and improve client's strengths while working with them to identify and work on areas of weakness. There is no magic pill to take away stress, but it's effect on our mental health can be effectively managed using joint effort. Limitations exist solely within us, we can realize our full potential with adequate support and the right mind-set.
Mariah Vorce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157 (Online Only)
Mariah is a Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Mariah specializes in mental health and works with individuals ranging from 4 years old to 21 years old. She provides medication management for those with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, mood disorders, eating disorders, anger, OCD, ODD, trauma, and PTSD.
Mariah is a Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Mariah specializes in mental health and works with individuals ranging from 4 years old to 21 years old. She provides medication management for those with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, mood disorders, eating disorders, anger, OCD, ODD, trauma, and PTSD.
Christine Kalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
Are you a teenager who is feeling sad or lonely? Or do you have school-age children struggling with anxiety and low self-esteem? With a deep passion for helping children and teenagers navigate the complexities of mental health issues, I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides comprehensive care that encompasses both pharmacological interventions and psychotherapeutic approaches.
Are you a teenager who is feeling sad or lonely? Or do you have school-age children struggling with anxiety and low self-esteem? With a deep passion for helping children and teenagers navigate the complexities of mental health issues, I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides comprehensive care that encompasses both pharmacological interventions and psychotherapeutic approaches.
Lighthouse Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157 (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.
Comprehensive Healthcare Services.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Reisterstown, MD 21136
Taking a step today for a better tomorrow . Struggling to get emotional balance due to multi factorial psycho-social and psychiatric issues?, having difficulties living a high quality life as a result of depression, anxiety, phobias, paranoia, PTSD, ADHD, and a host of other mental health disorders?. then come, let’s address and develop a customized evidence based individualized care using a range of therapy programs that are family centered. We aim to discover, identify, and address the root causes of our clients’ life challenges, helping them set realistic and achievable goals to improve their quality of life holistically.
Taking a step today for a better tomorrow . Struggling to get emotional balance due to multi factorial psycho-social and psychiatric issues?, having difficulties living a high quality life as a result of depression, anxiety, phobias, paranoia, PTSD, ADHD, and a host of other mental health disorders?. then come, let’s address and develop a customized evidence based individualized care using a range of therapy programs that are family centered. We aim to discover, identify, and address the root causes of our clients’ life challenges, helping them set realistic and achievable goals to improve their quality of life holistically.
See more therapy options for Hampstead
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hampstead, MD
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hampstead, MD who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Child |
75% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Hampstead, MD see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hampstead?
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.