Psychiatrists in 21093
![Photo of Frank Michael Copeli, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12baccde-f99b-402e-8c62-ad8548bcec8f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Copeli is a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and medication management for patients located in Massachusetts and Maryland via telemedicine. Dr. Copeli emphasizes collaborative care with patients to find a targeted treatment approach that emphasizes your well-being and physical health. Requests for consultation will be considered on a rolling basis as availability opens. Dr. Copeli has considerable experience in geriatric psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, and adult psychiatry.
Dr. Copeli is a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and medication management for patients located in Massachusetts and Maryland via telemedicine. Dr. Copeli emphasizes collaborative care with patients to find a targeted treatment approach that emphasizes your well-being and physical health. Requests for consultation will be considered on a rolling basis as availability opens. Dr. Copeli has considerable experience in geriatric psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, and adult psychiatry.
![Photo of David Mwangi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56f80762-c941-45f2-9aa3-1b17c2231445/2/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
![Photo of Mariel V Otter, DNP, , CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec66fc5b-9c43-4280-8836-a7edde90bbe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariel V Otter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
![Photo of Alfred W Forrester, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42aa24cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Most of my clinical time is spent in assessing patients, making pharmacologic recommendations in the management of major psychiatric disorders, and providing follow-up medication management. Areas of interest include the management of affective disorders - major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders, PTSD and OCD; adult ADHD; the interface of major medical illness and psychiatric response; and a variety of adjustment disorders resulting from lifestyle issues. I also have experience in the management of substance use disorders and am the Medical Director of a nationally acclaimed addiction program in Towson.
Most of my clinical time is spent in assessing patients, making pharmacologic recommendations in the management of major psychiatric disorders, and providing follow-up medication management. Areas of interest include the management of affective disorders - major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders, PTSD and OCD; adult ADHD; the interface of major medical illness and psychiatric response; and a variety of adjustment disorders resulting from lifestyle issues. I also have experience in the management of substance use disorders and am the Medical Director of a nationally acclaimed addiction program in Towson.
![Photo of Modinat (Ty) Fagbenro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c238aad-de15-4de6-8f75-97e6ad01b5e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Modinat (Ty) Fagbenro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
Are you feeling sad or lonely lately? Do you have problems with anxiety or issues with self-esteem? If you do, you may benefit from the services of our health professionals. I am well-experienced in providing behavioral health support for various disorders which may include medications and therapy sessions. This journey is client-driven, and I feel honored when clients invite me to be a part of their journey to renew and restore their mental health. I will not only treat your current and existing mental health conditions, but I will equally educate you on different ways to prevent other mental health conditions from occurring.
Are you feeling sad or lonely lately? Do you have problems with anxiety or issues with self-esteem? If you do, you may benefit from the services of our health professionals. I am well-experienced in providing behavioral health support for various disorders which may include medications and therapy sessions. This journey is client-driven, and I feel honored when clients invite me to be a part of their journey to renew and restore their mental health. I will not only treat your current and existing mental health conditions, but I will equally educate you on different ways to prevent other mental health conditions from occurring.
![Photo of Margaret Knight, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e14add0e-82d3-4655-8cae-b04106acf5f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
Your concerns matter! I provide a compassionate space to safely explore mental health matters for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 0-through 21 years. Let's work together to develop a personalized tool-kit for your life's journey. As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with Pediatric Mental Health speciality I'm licensed to care for Clients 0- through 21years; therefore can not take clients 22 years of age or older.
Your concerns matter! I provide a compassionate space to safely explore mental health matters for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 0-through 21 years. Let's work together to develop a personalized tool-kit for your life's journey. As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with Pediatric Mental Health speciality I'm licensed to care for Clients 0- through 21years; therefore can not take clients 22 years of age or older.
Celebramed LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
Our mental health issues are too frequently misdiagnosed when we fail to look an individual as a “whole”. Only with a true integrative approach, that is client centered that a return to optimal status can be achieved. As your provider, I will be your partner in this healing process. I take a conservative approach to medication management and strive to help clients consistently function at their best.
Our mental health issues are too frequently misdiagnosed when we fail to look an individual as a “whole”. Only with a true integrative approach, that is client centered that a return to optimal status can be achieved. As your provider, I will be your partner in this healing process. I take a conservative approach to medication management and strive to help clients consistently function at their best.
![Photo of Munachim Uyanwune, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/517da5be-b133-4bfd-ab4a-1d4986d80b44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel anxious, depressed, have difficulty concentrating, or feel you are not quite where you should be, difficulty functioning? If so, Dr. Uyanwune (popularly known as 'Dr. U') is who you need to see! Dr. Uyanwune brings a holistic approach in her treatment of behavioral health problems. She believes in wellness & uses both therapy and medication in treating clients. She believes "less is more" and strives to use medication only when needed and the minimal amount of it to best target symptoms. Dr. Uyanwune takes time to educate her clients as well.
Do you feel anxious, depressed, have difficulty concentrating, or feel you are not quite where you should be, difficulty functioning? If so, Dr. Uyanwune (popularly known as 'Dr. U') is who you need to see! Dr. Uyanwune brings a holistic approach in her treatment of behavioral health problems. She believes in wellness & uses both therapy and medication in treating clients. She believes "less is more" and strives to use medication only when needed and the minimal amount of it to best target symptoms. Dr. Uyanwune takes time to educate her clients as well.
![Photo of Betty Githuku, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab71353c-57d6-46d8-92e5-dd081290f3f0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Betty Githuku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
My philosophy is centered around partnering with my patients in their healing journey, and I strongly believe that our mental health is the foundation of our overall being. When we prioritize our mental health, other aspects of our lives can thrive accordingly. That's why I practice a holistic approach to mental health with a personalized plan for each patient. My goal is to provide compassionate and judgment-free care to all of my patients. We strive to ensure that you feel comfortable, supported, and important throughout your treatment. If you're looking for a partner in your mental health journey, I'm here to help.
My philosophy is centered around partnering with my patients in their healing journey, and I strongly believe that our mental health is the foundation of our overall being. When we prioritize our mental health, other aspects of our lives can thrive accordingly. That's why I practice a holistic approach to mental health with a personalized plan for each patient. My goal is to provide compassionate and judgment-free care to all of my patients. We strive to ensure that you feel comfortable, supported, and important throughout your treatment. If you're looking for a partner in your mental health journey, I'm here to help.
![Photo of Miziana Raoofi, PMHNP, FNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/640ae533-fe60-47be-8252-5a2c68fa1a70/1/320x400.png)
Miziana Raoofi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Miziana and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Miziana strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, aiming to create open conversations. She pursued a specialization in mental health, further fueling her passion for compassionate care. Her mission is rooted in empathy, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to guide patients on their road to recovery, fostering a non-judgmental and caring environment every step of the way. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Miziana and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Miziana strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, aiming to create open conversations. She pursued a specialization in mental health, further fueling her passion for compassionate care. Her mission is rooted in empathy, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to guide patients on their road to recovery, fostering a non-judgmental and caring environment every step of the way. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Dr. Enrique B. Olivares, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c2fcd8b-1d41-427a-8d38-1aa776a4c72c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a University of Maryland trained psychiatrist, board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma issues, schizophrenia, substance use disorders and conditions associated to immigration. I treat individuals 18 years and older, and 16 years and older with parental permission. During my 23+ years in practice, I have worked at state psychiatric facilities, outpatient mental health centers, as a Chief Psychiatrist for an academic-affiliated medical center and as a Medical Director for a nationwide behavioral health company.
I am a University of Maryland trained psychiatrist, board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma issues, schizophrenia, substance use disorders and conditions associated to immigration. I treat individuals 18 years and older, and 16 years and older with parental permission. During my 23+ years in practice, I have worked at state psychiatric facilities, outpatient mental health centers, as a Chief Psychiatrist for an academic-affiliated medical center and as a Medical Director for a nationwide behavioral health company.
15 Second Videos
Modinat (Ty) Fagbenro
Gabriel Obu
Christine Kalu
Ranen Psychiatric Associates
![Photo of Azim Shahsavar M D, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/036a4c2f-4230-434a-aaa9-1658d2ecab6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shahsavar is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General as well as Addiction psychiatry. Dr. Shahsavar completed his psychiatry residency training at the Department of Mental Health, St. Elizabeths hospital in Washington, DC. He also completed an addiction fellowship at Yale University, School of Medicine. Presently, He is in private practice in Baltimore, Maryland. Prior to starting his private practice, Dr. Shahsavar was working at Sheppard Pratt Hospital in Towson, MD where he continues to have the hospital Privilage.
Dr. Shahsavar is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both General as well as Addiction psychiatry. Dr. Shahsavar completed his psychiatry residency training at the Department of Mental Health, St. Elizabeths hospital in Washington, DC. He also completed an addiction fellowship at Yale University, School of Medicine. Presently, He is in private practice in Baltimore, Maryland. Prior to starting his private practice, Dr. Shahsavar was working at Sheppard Pratt Hospital in Towson, MD where he continues to have the hospital Privilage.
![Photo of Gabriel Obu, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10259833-1e3d-449e-8b3f-2a889def3d3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville, MD 21093 (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.
![Photo of Elizabeth Omopariola, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2051456-4046-4a4e-a25e-a946af323ee0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Omopariola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to providing holistic and person-centered mental health care. With over 5 years of experience in the mental health field, I have developed a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the impact it has on individuals' lives. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I possess a unique blend of nursing expertise and advanced psychiatric knowledge.Through a comprehensive and collaborative approach, I strive to deliver exceptional care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspect. I am licensed in Maryland and Washington DC
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to providing holistic and person-centered mental health care. With over 5 years of experience in the mental health field, I have developed a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the impact it has on individuals' lives. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I possess a unique blend of nursing expertise and advanced psychiatric knowledge.Through a comprehensive and collaborative approach, I strive to deliver exceptional care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspect. I am licensed in Maryland and Washington DC
![Photo of Janet Adetola, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d89edbc6-e70f-4a28-8cb2-f6b416d89c2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Adetola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
![Photo of Ty Fagbenro - LivingWaters Integrative Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49de17d7-7fe5-4504-9023-7f66e8f2d374/2/320x400.jpeg)
LivingWaters Integrative Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
Are you feeling sad or lonely lately? Do you have problems with anxiety or issues with self-esteem? If you do, you may benefit from the services of our health professionals. They are well-experienced in providing behavioral health support for various disorders which may include medications and therapy sessions. This journey is client-driven and we feel honored when clients invite us to be a part of their journey to renew and restore their mental health. We will not only treat your current and existing mental health conditions, but we will also educate you on different ways to prevent other mental health conditions from occurring.
Are you feeling sad or lonely lately? Do you have problems with anxiety or issues with self-esteem? If you do, you may benefit from the services of our health professionals. They are well-experienced in providing behavioral health support for various disorders which may include medications and therapy sessions. This journey is client-driven and we feel honored when clients invite us to be a part of their journey to renew and restore their mental health. We will not only treat your current and existing mental health conditions, but we will also educate you on different ways to prevent other mental health conditions from occurring.
![Photo of Kristen Nagl, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3076f557-b45c-4111-b2d7-06c4d60df4d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated mental health provider and I have completed a fellowship at the University of Maryland focusing on children and adolescent psychiatry. Throughout my career, I have gained invaluable personal experience working with children diagnosed with autism, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. In my practice, I adopt a holistic approach to care, taking into consideration the individual's past traumas and how they impact their overall functioning, relationships, and well-being. By addressing these underlying factors, I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate support to each child and adolescent under my care.
I am a dedicated mental health provider and I have completed a fellowship at the University of Maryland focusing on children and adolescent psychiatry. Throughout my career, I have gained invaluable personal experience working with children diagnosed with autism, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. In my practice, I adopt a holistic approach to care, taking into consideration the individual's past traumas and how they impact their overall functioning, relationships, and well-being. By addressing these underlying factors, I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate support to each child and adolescent under my care.
![Photo of Tamara Pottillo, APRN, PMHNP, BC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c09b970c-f0ac-4144-a38a-1611c943f08d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Pottillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, CCM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
Welcome to a new era of mental health treatment! Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles or other mental health concerns? Do you feel like traditional therapy hasn't provided the relief you need. My clinical practice focuses on consultation, evaluation, and treatment selection; that includes psychotherapy, lab evaluation, medical rule-out, and pharmacotherapy when necessary for patients ages 6-60 years old . Call today to schedule an appointment and embark on a transformative journey towards improved mental health.
Welcome to a new era of mental health treatment! Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles or other mental health concerns? Do you feel like traditional therapy hasn't provided the relief you need. My clinical practice focuses on consultation, evaluation, and treatment selection; that includes psychotherapy, lab evaluation, medical rule-out, and pharmacotherapy when necessary for patients ages 6-60 years old . Call today to schedule an appointment and embark on a transformative journey towards improved mental health.
![Photo of Michael Nwandu - MNC Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13666679-c449-4fc5-b2d3-6cccc5eb1c30/3/320x400.jpeg)
MNC Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Michael Nwandu. Dedicated, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including ADHD, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, mood disorders and personality disorders. I believe successful medication management is based on open communication between myself and you. Strong focus on listening to you and addressing your concerns and answering all your questions.
My name is Dr. Michael Nwandu. Dedicated, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including ADHD, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, mood disorders and personality disorders. I believe successful medication management is based on open communication between myself and you. Strong focus on listening to you and addressing your concerns and answering all your questions.
![Photo of Sara Vieweg Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44f2f257-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide talk therapy and medication management, as needed. Together, we can learn about how your mind works and put words to feelings that you have. We can also work to identify patterns which may be holding you back and potential shifts which may improve your feelings of efficacy. As you increase your self-understanding, you can find a deeper sense of purpose in your life and more meaningful connections in social and professional relationships. I also provide a sliding scale fee for an intensive talk therapy.
I provide talk therapy and medication management, as needed. Together, we can learn about how your mind works and put words to feelings that you have. We can also work to identify patterns which may be holding you back and potential shifts which may improve your feelings of efficacy. As you increase your self-understanding, you can find a deeper sense of purpose in your life and more meaningful connections in social and professional relationships. I also provide a sliding scale fee for an intensive talk therapy.
See more therapy options for 21093
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21093
40+
Average cost per session
$205
Psychiatrists in 21093 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
81% | ADHD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Medication Management |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 21093 see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21093?
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.