Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD
Uche Ifeji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
I chose a career in the medical field because I enjoy building relationships with patients and partnering with them in their journey toward improved mental health. If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, feeling down, withdrawn, or having difficulty with sleep, I may be able to help you recover and improve your quality of life.
I chose a career in the medical field because I enjoy building relationships with patients and partnering with them in their journey toward improved mental health. If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, feeling down, withdrawn, or having difficulty with sleep, I may be able to help you recover and improve your quality of life.
Teleola Falilat Akanbi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Teleola. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan), with over 10 years experience in the mental healthcare field, mental healthcare is my passion. Seeing my patients grow and become their best self is what drives me.
Hello, my name is Teleola. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan), with over 10 years experience in the mental healthcare field, mental healthcare is my passion. Seeing my patients grow and become their best self is what drives me.
Brenda Pearson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in understanding how physical and psychological illness affect the mind and body. I have learned that no one treatment is always effective for every person and any one ailment. My focus is holistic and I welcome natural treatments that have proven to be effective in providing relief as well as pharmacologic treatments. I truly believe the best outcome and optimal level of wellness is achieved when the patient can concurrently participate in therapy and is an active participant in their mental health treatment.
I have extensive experience in understanding how physical and psychological illness affect the mind and body. I have learned that no one treatment is always effective for every person and any one ailment. My focus is holistic and I welcome natural treatments that have proven to be effective in providing relief as well as pharmacologic treatments. I truly believe the best outcome and optimal level of wellness is achieved when the patient can concurrently participate in therapy and is an active participant in their mental health treatment.
Kathryn Novak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
Congratulations! You are taking the first step in getting help. I admire your courage. We will work together with therapy and medications to improve the quality of your life. Our clinic believes in evidenced base practice with a collaborative approach.
Congratulations! You are taking the first step in getting help. I admire your courage. We will work together with therapy and medications to improve the quality of your life. Our clinic believes in evidenced base practice with a collaborative approach.
Shannon Kelso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified, doctorally-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I primarily provide medication management. I work with adults and adolescents, and provide care for a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I am LGBTQ-friendly.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified, doctorally-prepared psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I primarily provide medication management. I work with adults and adolescents, and provide care for a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I am LGBTQ-friendly.
Nadine Kakanou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Nadine Kakanou is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Nadine completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. A PMHNP is tasked with evaluating a patient’s mental health status by assessing their relevant medical background, conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and identifying potential issues that might negatively impact a patient's mental health.
Nadine Kakanou is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Nadine completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. A PMHNP is tasked with evaluating a patient’s mental health status by assessing their relevant medical background, conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and identifying potential issues that might negatively impact a patient's mental health.
Mindsense Serenity LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Mindsense Serenity LLC is a mental health practice located in Columbia, Maryland. Our clinic provides psychiatric and behavioral health services such as psychiatric consultations, evaluations, diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy 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 . We are accepting "New Patients".
Mindsense Serenity LLC is a mental health practice located in Columbia, Maryland. Our clinic provides psychiatric and behavioral health services such as psychiatric consultations, evaluations, diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy 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 . We are accepting "New Patients".
Brian West-Pearson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Dr. West-Pearson has a 25-year career in nursing, urgent care, and addiction treatment with a mental health specialty in addiction medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, both from Wilmington University. He additionally obtained a Post Certification (PMHNP) and Masters in Public Administration from Wilkes University and Wilmington University, followed by a Masters in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner) and a Doctoral in Nursing Practice from Walden University.
Dr. West-Pearson has a 25-year career in nursing, urgent care, and addiction treatment with a mental health specialty in addiction medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, both from Wilmington University. He additionally obtained a Post Certification (PMHNP) and Masters in Public Administration from Wilkes University and Wilmington University, followed by a Masters in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner) and a Doctoral in Nursing Practice from Walden University.
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.
I am an adult/ adolescent psychiatrist and founder of the THRIVE Center for ADHD and Comprehensive Mental Health Care (www.MyThrive.net). THRIVE's specialty programs include ADHD/ Executive Dysfunction; Failure to Launch Young Adults; Workplace Mental Health; and Thriving Families. I believe that the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of personal growth flow together. THRIVE's goal is to create opportunities for success and mastery. We are committed to providing compassionate care which includes: discovering the gifts of individuals; honoring the wisdom of all participating in the healing partnership; and validating the unique ways each person experiences the world.
I am an adult/ adolescent psychiatrist and founder of the THRIVE Center for ADHD and Comprehensive Mental Health Care (www.MyThrive.net). THRIVE's specialty programs include ADHD/ Executive Dysfunction; Failure to Launch Young Adults; Workplace Mental Health; and Thriving Families. I believe that the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of personal growth flow together. THRIVE's goal is to create opportunities for success and mastery. We are committed to providing compassionate care which includes: discovering the gifts of individuals; honoring the wisdom of all participating in the healing partnership; and validating the unique ways each person experiences the world.
Mrs. Register immigrated to the United State at the age of 11 from Vietnam. She grew up in Garden City, KS. She is the oldest of 8 children. She graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University and worked for a short time in that field before deciding to stay home full time to raise her three children. After her last child started Kindergarten, she wanted to pursue a career in nursing. Her first nursing job was at a maximum security forensic psychiatric hospital in Maryland. It was there that she decided to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Earned a Master's degree from Walden.
Mrs. Register immigrated to the United State at the age of 11 from Vietnam. She grew up in Garden City, KS. She is the oldest of 8 children. She graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University and worked for a short time in that field before deciding to stay home full time to raise her three children. After her last child started Kindergarten, she wanted to pursue a career in nursing. Her first nursing job was at a maximum security forensic psychiatric hospital in Maryland. It was there that she decided to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Earned a Master's degree from Walden.
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I am dedicated to listening to and understanding my patients while providing excellent evidence based medical care. Please let me know if I can help you.
I am dedicated to listening to and understanding my patients while providing excellent evidence based medical care. Please let me know if I can help you.
Solutions For Mindfulness Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046
Solutions for Mindfulness remains committed to providing the latest treatment options and world class psychiatric services to Maryland residents. As a team our focus is on collaboration, and partnering with our patients to work with treatment plans that focus on our patients needs. we also discuss all options available to the patient. We offer non- medication options. these Include therapy and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation ( TMS) We realize that the clients we serve have a right to determine their best treatment options for themselves and their families.
Solutions for Mindfulness remains committed to providing the latest treatment options and world class psychiatric services to Maryland residents. As a team our focus is on collaboration, and partnering with our patients to work with treatment plans that focus on our patients needs. we also discuss all options available to the patient. We offer non- medication options. these Include therapy and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation ( TMS) We realize that the clients we serve have a right to determine their best treatment options for themselves and their families.
Crystal Daniels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046 (Online Only)
I originally started a career in clinical psychology. Once I completed an APA internship in psychology, I decided to return to school to study advanced nursing in psychiatry.
I originally started a career in clinical psychology. Once I completed an APA internship in psychology, I decided to return to school to study advanced nursing in psychiatry.
She was honored as a fellow in APA, reflecting her dedication and contribution to the field of psychiatry. She earned her PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Austin and completed a postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School in Boston. She served as chief resident during her psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC, and as chief fellow during her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship training at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.
She was honored as a fellow in APA, reflecting her dedication and contribution to the field of psychiatry. She earned her PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Austin and completed a postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School in Boston. She served as chief resident during her psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC, and as chief fellow during her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship training at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.
Nicolas Kuiate Tekam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Nicolas Kuiate Tekam is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. Nicolas manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health issues. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. Nicolas is compassionate and dedicated to his patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. His aim is to make a difference in people’s lives and community.
Nicolas Kuiate Tekam is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. Nicolas manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health issues. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. Nicolas is compassionate and dedicated to his patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. His aim is to make a difference in people’s lives and community.
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.
Oak Tree Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, HSLM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.
As a child psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, I have a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health issues in children and adolescents. With advanced training and expertise in both psychiatry and psychoanalysis, I offer a unique blend of treatment approaches to help my patients achieve their full potential.
As a child psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, I have a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health issues in children and adolescents. With advanced training and expertise in both psychiatry and psychoanalysis, I offer a unique blend of treatment approaches to help my patients achieve their full potential.
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.
See more therapy options for Columbia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD
100+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | Aetna |
81% | CareFirst |
How Psychiatrists in Columbia, MD see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Columbia?
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.