Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD
******EASY, CONVENIENT AND AFFORDABLE PHONE OR VIDEO VISITS FOR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT AND/OR THERAPY IN THE STATE OF MARYLAND. *** It's easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office with daytime, evening and weekend appointments. I strive to make visits easy and affordable. CALL OR EMAIL TODAY!! Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future....It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health.
******EASY, CONVENIENT AND AFFORDABLE PHONE OR VIDEO VISITS FOR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT AND/OR THERAPY IN THE STATE OF MARYLAND. *** It's easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office with daytime, evening and weekend appointments. I strive to make visits easy and affordable. CALL OR EMAIL TODAY!! Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future....It helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health.
![Photo of Chidinma Onyegwu - IC Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3deb630c-ac5d-41bd-bbb4-3c18108e9d19/1/320x400.png)
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-620-3616
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-620-3616
![Photo of Christopher Bertsch - Baltimore Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b04116d2-b66a-46ba-b3e0-7c74f59723d8/1/320x400.png)
Baltimore Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701 (Online Only)
FAST new patient appointments across Maryland! We can work with ALL private insurance policies. Baltimore Psychiatry provides medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other disorders. Our practice was designed with an emphasis on quality, convenience, and affordability for our patients. Our evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes to ensure thorough treatment. We want our patients to be comfortable with their questions answered and needs met. Low cash pricing is available to those not using insurance. We offer evening and weekend hours to complement our patients busy schedules, rather than disrupt them.
FAST new patient appointments across Maryland! We can work with ALL private insurance policies. Baltimore Psychiatry provides medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other disorders. Our practice was designed with an emphasis on quality, convenience, and affordability for our patients. Our evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes to ensure thorough treatment. We want our patients to be comfortable with their questions answered and needs met. Low cash pricing is available to those not using insurance. We offer evening and weekend hours to complement our patients busy schedules, rather than disrupt them.
![Photo of Uche Ijeji - Outreach Recovery, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6267ed38-cfc3-4f0f-a729-e0baade39cb3/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Outreach Recovery, we are passionate about providing a helping hand to those struggling with mental health issues. Our comprehensive treatment plans are designed to cater to each individual's unique needs with compassion, respect, and the highest standard of care. Our programs include personalized therapy, medication management, and holistic approaches to healing, aiding individuals to combat and overcome various mental health disorders. Our dedicated team of professionals offers a highly effective, evidence-based approach to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions.
At Outreach Recovery, we are passionate about providing a helping hand to those struggling with mental health issues. Our comprehensive treatment plans are designed to cater to each individual's unique needs with compassion, respect, and the highest standard of care. Our programs include personalized therapy, medication management, and holistic approaches to healing, aiding individuals to combat and overcome various mental health disorders. Our dedicated team of professionals offers a highly effective, evidence-based approach to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions.
![Photo of Nkechi Achinanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07fa8898-5e24-45db-9dd5-8f05edba5a83/1/320x400.jpeg)
I like to treat each client as an individual to assess their needs for medication management as well as psychotherapy. I work with all types of clients but specialize with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and autism spectrum.
I like to treat each client as an individual to assess their needs for medication management as well as psychotherapy. I work with all types of clients but specialize with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and autism spectrum.
![Photo of Marie Sheila Tate, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfc7454a-58fc-429e-8be6-2187b5e9940a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marie Sheila Tate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Are you tired of not being able to live your best life? Your mental health matters to me. Call me today for issues related to inattention, lack of focus and motivation, fatigue, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, OCD, etc... Listen to my podcast on 10/9/2023 at Open For Business: Unscripted - Listen Frederick so you can get a feel for my style. Read my blog posts. Visit my website www.lakelinganorepsychiatry.com and make appointments directly from there.
Are you tired of not being able to live your best life? Your mental health matters to me. Call me today for issues related to inattention, lack of focus and motivation, fatigue, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, OCD, etc... Listen to my podcast on 10/9/2023 at Open For Business: Unscripted - Listen Frederick so you can get a feel for my style. Read my blog posts. Visit my website www.lakelinganorepsychiatry.com and make appointments directly from there.
![Photo of Sara Singh, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9ac56a-b960-4fae-9788-092b13719c8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Singh, works with a multidisciplinary group practice, where our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider and use evidence-based latest techniques to treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
Dr. Singh, works with a multidisciplinary group practice, where our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider and use evidence-based latest techniques to treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
![Photo of Dr. Apurva Makadiya, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0506f5b4-2098-4f97-8792-737d7860c45e/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Medpsych Health Services, our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
At Medpsych Health Services, our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
![Photo of Oluwatosin O Arowosegbe - Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC, MSN, CRNP, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63b73814-c891-41fc-a326-507b02be29c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, APNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts, eating disorder, substance abuse, compulsions, and many more? If yes, it’s time to seek professional help. Would you like to participate in meaningful guided interactions? I believe that our regular one-on-one detailed psychiatric evaluation is what you need. Reflect on it. You are in the best position to assess your needs. At Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC, Our goal is to find the cause of a problem and find a way to neutralize its influence on our clients.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts, eating disorder, substance abuse, compulsions, and many more? If yes, it’s time to seek professional help. Would you like to participate in meaningful guided interactions? I believe that our regular one-on-one detailed psychiatric evaluation is what you need. Reflect on it. You are in the best position to assess your needs. At Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC, Our goal is to find the cause of a problem and find a way to neutralize its influence on our clients.
![Photo of Siphra Mukoro - Grace Healthcare INC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3dd04f5-601a-46ab-a835-1c26e1a5c885/1/320x400.jpeg)
We provide competent and compassionate care empowers individuals to address mental health challenges with resilience, fostering well-being for all. Grace healthcare provide; Initial and follow up assessment, Medication management, gradual dose reduction (GDR), Emergency Petition to hospitals, Inpatient and Telehealth Mental Health services
We provide competent and compassionate care empowers individuals to address mental health challenges with resilience, fostering well-being for all. Grace healthcare provide; Initial and follow up assessment, Medication management, gradual dose reduction (GDR), Emergency Petition to hospitals, Inpatient and Telehealth Mental Health services
![Photo of Nguyen Faith, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cfe8959-5efc-4c8e-925f-76bbc5cdd624/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nguyen Faith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
15 Second Videos
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![Photo of Sarah-Catherine Martins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d8997f-3f3b-40ab-acf3-008df14ee352/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah-Catherine Martins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Sarah is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner committed to meticulously providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. Her approach is deeply rooted in her core belief that the mind, body, and spirit are all interconnected. As such, she values the role of faith in the healing process and engages in open, respectful discussions with her patients about their spiritual needs. This comprehensive perspective ensures that her patients receive care that addresses all aspects of their well-being.
Sarah is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner committed to meticulously providing holistic care to individuals across the lifespan. Her approach is deeply rooted in her core belief that the mind, body, and spirit are all interconnected. As such, she values the role of faith in the healing process and engages in open, respectful discussions with her patients about their spiritual needs. This comprehensive perspective ensures that her patients receive care that addresses all aspects of their well-being.
![Photo of Ritu Goel - Maryland Wellness and Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b55e30a-e20e-4019-9b04-7546e53593c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maryland Wellness and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
![Photo of Sarah Gumpert, CRNPPMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/219d5220-4a43-4129-9e97-24c6bf38c56c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Gumpert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNPPMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I provide medication management to teen and adult clients who feel as if they need something more. I am here to provide options, education and to listen to your concerns. Together we will formulate a medication plan that you are comfortable with and that improves your overall functioning.
I provide medication management to teen and adult clients who feel as if they need something more. I am here to provide options, education and to listen to your concerns. Together we will formulate a medication plan that you are comfortable with and that improves your overall functioning.
![Photo of Melissa Ward, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/183bfc74-6854-4baa-a2fd-0eeb8c5e3e72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
![Photo of Beata Gilbert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58ca8137-d95a-4ab4-ba25-e1b8afcb0662/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beata Gilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Beata Gilbert is passionate about helping individuals with mental health disorders, and about helping end the stigma related to psychiatric issues. She started her career in health care and continues to pursue her nursing degree. She has worked extensively in different areas of nursing and avidly helped individuals to achieve optimized progress in mental health. She finds delights in coaching, psychoeducation and medication management for teens and adults. She is an advocate for preventative interventions and shared decision making.
Beata Gilbert is passionate about helping individuals with mental health disorders, and about helping end the stigma related to psychiatric issues. She started her career in health care and continues to pursue her nursing degree. She has worked extensively in different areas of nursing and avidly helped individuals to achieve optimized progress in mental health. She finds delights in coaching, psychoeducation and medication management for teens and adults. She is an advocate for preventative interventions and shared decision making.
![Photo of Adetimbo Adediran - Graceland Psychiatry LLC, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6264abf-a0c6-4c01-bd01-cf918184f55c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Graceland Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704 (Online Only)
At Graceland Psychiatry, Our mission is very simple. We provide hope to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, Attention deficit (ADHD), and Bipolar disorder.
At Graceland Psychiatry, Our mission is very simple. We provide hope to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, Attention deficit (ADHD), and Bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Shannon Sozzi - Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry, PMHNP, MSN, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5115c9a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Sozzi - Keeley Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704 (Online Only)
Timely, convenient and affordable appointments by video for medication management and psychiatric services. It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office. We offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments. Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future....it helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. Call or email our office to schedule your initial appointment.
Timely, convenient and affordable appointments by video for medication management and psychiatric services. It is easy to fit in a visit from the privacy of your home, car or office. We offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments. Now, more than ever we are suffering from anxiety, sadness/depression and uncertainty regarding our health and world. Lost wages, worry over bills, unemployment, fear of the unknown and unclear future....it helps to talk to someone that is a safe, dedicated person for your mental and emotional health. Call or email our office to schedule your initial appointment.
![Photo of Elionore Nkwemou, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c72ed2d1-6864-429b-97ab-1dc34942009e/1/320x400.png)
Elionore Nkwemou
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704 (Online Only)
Elionore is a multilicense, compassionate Doctorate of Nurse Practice Student, Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner.
Elionore is a multilicense, compassionate Doctorate of Nurse Practice Student, Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner.
![Photo of Paul Ackah, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3830f017-361d-4ddc-8b11-fd106bfaedbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health issues are conditions that affect a person's thinking, mood, behavior, and overall well-being. These issues can range from mild to severe and can impact a person's ability to function in their daily life. Some common mental health issues include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Mental health issues can also co-occur with other medical conditions, such as substance abuse or chronic pain. Meeting the needs of individuals with mental health issues can involve a range of approaches, including medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support from friends and family.
Mental health issues are conditions that affect a person's thinking, mood, behavior, and overall well-being. These issues can range from mild to severe and can impact a person's ability to function in their daily life. Some common mental health issues include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Mental health issues can also co-occur with other medical conditions, such as substance abuse or chronic pain. Meeting the needs of individuals with mental health issues can involve a range of approaches, including medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support from friends and family.
See more therapy options for Frederick
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD
100+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
90% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | CareFirst |
79% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Frederick?
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.