Psychiatrists in 21784
![Photo of Diane Lehmann Zabielski, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/642331b3-6ad0-487f-b0b5-ee4f475e050f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Lehmann Zabielski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784 (Online Only)
Navigating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming without the right support. These challenges can bring intense emotions and behaviors that seem out of control, but you don’t have to face them alone. While medication isn't a cure-all, effective medication management can be a pivotal part of restoring your mental wellness and helping you reclaim your life.
Navigating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming without the right support. These challenges can bring intense emotions and behaviors that seem out of control, but you don’t have to face them alone. While medication isn't a cure-all, effective medication management can be a pivotal part of restoring your mental wellness and helping you reclaim your life.
![Photo of Ikran Mohamud - Hopestone Health and Wellness, NP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e302fc2-ff9c-47a1-b01b-c0a44ea940f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hopestone Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sykesville, MD 21784
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent sadness, excessive worry, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, or impulsivity? At Hopestone Health and Wellness, we understand that mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood and behavioral disorders can significantly impact your daily life. We value your opinions, history, and past experiences, believing in a collaborative approach to your care. Together, we will work as a team to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent sadness, excessive worry, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, or impulsivity? At Hopestone Health and Wellness, we understand that mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood and behavioral disorders can significantly impact your daily life. We value your opinions, history, and past experiences, believing in a collaborative approach to your care. Together, we will work as a team to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Miguel J Macaoay - Miguel Macaoay, MD, PA, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48359e50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sasha Nanji, DNP, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6eb3626-9d66-4deb-ad65-001d524432ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sasha Nanji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in medication management with an emphasis on holistic and patient centered care. I aim to develop therapeutic relationships with my patients in order to provide the best treatment for the patient. I am empathetic and work with patients to achieve their goals. I educated patients about all treatment options available to ensure they make informed decisions. I provide psychiatric care to patients ages 16 and older with a variety of mental health illnesses. I have practiced in an array of different settings including inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, and substance use.
I specialize in medication management with an emphasis on holistic and patient centered care. I aim to develop therapeutic relationships with my patients in order to provide the best treatment for the patient. I am empathetic and work with patients to achieve their goals. I educated patients about all treatment options available to ensure they make informed decisions. I provide psychiatric care to patients ages 16 and older with a variety of mental health illnesses. I have practiced in an array of different settings including inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, and substance use.
![Photo of Melissa Richards, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62b26ae6-a2d5-431f-ae65-10e22f5e7556/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784 (Online Only)
I have always had a keen interest in mental health and entered this field with a strong and purposeful desire to help facilitate the psychiatric wellbeing of others. In addition to my psychiatric training and experience, I previously served as a registered nurse for 12 years primarily in critical care and cardio-thoracic and surgical nursing units.
I have always had a keen interest in mental health and entered this field with a strong and purposeful desire to help facilitate the psychiatric wellbeing of others. In addition to my psychiatric training and experience, I previously served as a registered nurse for 12 years primarily in critical care and cardio-thoracic and surgical nursing units.
![Photo of Shantiah Moore-Norfleet, CRNP, PMH, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83a9c973-026f-4854-9b59-cd4057586203/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shantiah Moore-Norfleet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, APRN
Verified Verified
Sykesville, MD 21784
Hi, my name is Shantiah Norfleet, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the field. As a CRNP, PMH, and APRN, I specialize in medication management for various mental health conditions including ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to my patients and believe in the importance of collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible treatment outcomes. I am dedicated to using cost-effective, evidence-based practices in my work.
Hi, my name is Shantiah Norfleet, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the field. As a CRNP, PMH, and APRN, I specialize in medication management for various mental health conditions including ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to my patients and believe in the importance of collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible treatment outcomes. I am dedicated to using cost-effective, evidence-based practices in my work.
![Photo of Harriett Neverdon-Fair - Hopestone Health and Wellness, NP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c376e7a0-69af-4148-b87b-895f26c36ab5/1/320x400.png)
Hopestone Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sykesville, MD 21784
The ideal client may be facing a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mood and behavioral difficulties. You may be encountering symptoms such as ongoing sadness, heightened anxiety, fluctuations in mood, trouble focusing, or impulsive behavior, all of which can have a substantial impact on your day-to-day life.
The ideal client may be facing a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mood and behavioral difficulties. You may be encountering symptoms such as ongoing sadness, heightened anxiety, fluctuations in mood, trouble focusing, or impulsive behavior, all of which can have a substantial impact on your day-to-day life.
![Photo of Sandra C Anoruo, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/908f3f45-c332-46bf-9ce1-fac9cb2f0cb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mosunmola Lake - Nimel Mental Health LLC, DNP, PMHNP, PhD, LCPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b4671d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nimel Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sykesville, MD 21784
Hello, we know that the Pandemic has been difficult for everyone! We are here to provide that needed support. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, excellent and compassionate services to all our clients regardless of age, gender, economic, racial or ethnic background. Our team believe in holistic and natural approach to achievement of an optimal health. As such, our clients are part of their treatment plan, and we collaborate to develop the best care for each client
Hello, we know that the Pandemic has been difficult for everyone! We are here to provide that needed support. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or you just want to pursue a new positive path in life, let us support you to achieve your goals. We provide high quality, excellent and compassionate services to all our clients regardless of age, gender, economic, racial or ethnic background. Our team believe in holistic and natural approach to achievement of an optimal health. As such, our clients are part of their treatment plan, and we collaborate to develop the best care for each client
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/777a1f8f-1053-44d8-8a43-e5088498db4d/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b02c6be-c3b8-41c9-b8c4-c7e10dbbec48/2/320x400.png)
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
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![Photo of Dr. Oladipo Olaleye - Clear Mind Health LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cad3fea9-0dcb-42ed-a45c-cfc2f51ebf39/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clear Mind Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Sykesville, MD 21784
We are a team of Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Psychiatrist with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Our providers work with clients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Over 12 years Experience with PSYCHOTROPIC MANAGEMENT, AND BRIEF PSYCHOTHERAPY. At Clear Mind Health we are here to help you get back to living, and being your very best self. TRY US
We are a team of Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Psychiatrist with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. Our providers work with clients to help tailor a personalized treatment plan. Over 12 years Experience with PSYCHOTROPIC MANAGEMENT, AND BRIEF PSYCHOTHERAPY. At Clear Mind Health we are here to help you get back to living, and being your very best self. TRY US
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19de9afd-09ee-4ca7-976b-88973e6e11b0/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Ashley Vickery, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/909b3401-e4bc-4d57-a010-b599606af85c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Vickery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sykesville, MD 21784
Waitlist for new clients
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.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba517290-d619-4acd-93c8-17de9dde87c1/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce47fcc3-2615-4c08-8b5e-8dc24a8c1868/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Maria Mbeboh, PMHNNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28f58735-1493-427e-92b5-27bba662520b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Mbeboh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sykesville, MD 21784 (Online Only)
Dr Maria Mbeboh has extensive experience in nursing care. She is driven by her thirst for knowledge and dedication to delivering exceptional care. She is passionate about assisting others and has been actively involved in community service through non-profit organizations. She has taken part in medical missions abroad, delivering healthcare services to underserved populations with various medical/mental health problems. She believes in healthy therapeutic relationships between the provider and client to deliver higher quality care and make informed shared decisions. She is committed to examining psycho-social factors that affect the
Dr Maria Mbeboh has extensive experience in nursing care. She is driven by her thirst for knowledge and dedication to delivering exceptional care. She is passionate about assisting others and has been actively involved in community service through non-profit organizations. She has taken part in medical missions abroad, delivering healthcare services to underserved populations with various medical/mental health problems. She believes in healthy therapeutic relationships between the provider and client to deliver higher quality care and make informed shared decisions. She is committed to examining psycho-social factors that affect the
![Photo of Christiana Olayera-Akinboye, CRNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e92f64c-4ebf-47a8-af6d-df18a8f35e71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christiana Olayera-Akinboye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sykesville, MD 21784
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 .
![Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caebcc4f-34c9-496a-8f6e-8b3a8e09ef60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sykesville, MD 21784
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.
See more therapy options for 21784
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21784
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 21784 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
89% | ADHD |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | Aetna |
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 21784 see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
7% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21784?
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.