Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD
Grace Medical Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Govans, MD 21212
Grace Medical Services LLC, is a community clinic. We strive to build a trusting relationship tailored in meeting the needs of all our clients.
Grace Medical Services LLC, is a community clinic. We strive to build a trusting relationship tailored in meeting the needs of all our clients.
![Photo of Florence B Akanbi - BISAK Healthcare Systems, LLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1d987d0-f788-4ac7-8392-8a0ff84661a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
BISAK Healthcare Systems, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Are you struggling with mental health concerns with ongoing signs and symptoms that cause frequent stress and affect your ability to function? Are you experiencing extreme mood changes, agitation, not being yourself, lack of sleep, lack of motivation, feeling sad, detachment from reality, excessive anger, lack of concentration, or suicidal thoughts? Are you finding it hard to hold a job or live the kind of life you envisage for yourself? Are you noticing life is difficult to live as others around you? If your answers are yes, then I can help you.
Are you struggling with mental health concerns with ongoing signs and symptoms that cause frequent stress and affect your ability to function? Are you experiencing extreme mood changes, agitation, not being yourself, lack of sleep, lack of motivation, feeling sad, detachment from reality, excessive anger, lack of concentration, or suicidal thoughts? Are you finding it hard to hold a job or live the kind of life you envisage for yourself? Are you noticing life is difficult to live as others around you? If your answers are yes, then I can help you.
![Photo of Amoah Asante, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/756e0591-560f-4716-91df-473459d9a684/1/320x400.png)
Amoah Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
![Photo of Amarachi Uzosike, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ece5e32-c81a-441a-89bf-821428410acd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amarachi Uzosike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201 (Online Only)
I am a dual-certified primary care and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management for adults and children. I incorporate clinical knowledge and best evidence to formulate appropriate diagnoses and treatment plans for patients. My patient-centered approach and appreciation of the link between physical and mental health enable me to work effectively with patients to achieve progress. I strive to be open-minded, empowering, and solution-oriented. I consider a patient's symptoms, goals, strengths, and best evidence throughout the patient care process.
I am a dual-certified primary care and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management for adults and children. I incorporate clinical knowledge and best evidence to formulate appropriate diagnoses and treatment plans for patients. My patient-centered approach and appreciation of the link between physical and mental health enable me to work effectively with patients to achieve progress. I strive to be open-minded, empowering, and solution-oriented. I consider a patient's symptoms, goals, strengths, and best evidence throughout the patient care process.
![Photo of Elizabeth Turin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dadce553-5b1d-4eda-bf36-eaa76b9e3f99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elizabeth Turin is a Christian Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who provides integrative treatment such as therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, diet, education, and coaching.
Dr. Elizabeth Turin is a Christian Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who provides integrative treatment such as therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, diet, education, and coaching.
![Photo of Somya Abubucker - Gestell Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92803ed-f437-47fe-9c9e-f1f5ced6d583/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - At Gestell Psychiatry, we take a holistic approach to mental health. We treat a broad spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, psychotic, dissociative, somatic, and neurodevelopmental. We see patients ages 18 and above for medication management. (Primarily virtual. Limited availability in-person.) For more information: www.GestellPsychiatry.com
Accepting New Patients - At Gestell Psychiatry, we take a holistic approach to mental health. We treat a broad spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, psychotic, dissociative, somatic, and neurodevelopmental. We see patients ages 18 and above for medication management. (Primarily virtual. Limited availability in-person.) For more information: www.GestellPsychiatry.com
![Photo of Sweetie H Doychinov, CRNP, PMH, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cae5ae9-2fcc-4037-84d6-d7e4486e642c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sweetie H Doychinov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with seven years of extensive experience in psychiatric nursing. My background includes working in both child and adult inpatient settings, as well as providing care in community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment programs. After earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, I immediately began my career in psychiatric nursing at an inpatient hospital. I am the Medical Director at a community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment center and the Outpatient Mental Health Center.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with seven years of extensive experience in psychiatric nursing. My background includes working in both child and adult inpatient settings, as well as providing care in community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment programs. After earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, I immediately began my career in psychiatric nursing at an inpatient hospital. I am the Medical Director at a community mental health crisis stabilization and substance abuse treatment center and the Outpatient Mental Health Center.
![Photo of Pamela Pierce - PierCentral Wellness Solutions, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2f66128-172e-450a-a133-a426d2ccab0e/1/320x400.png)
PierCentral Wellness Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
As the sole provider here at PierCentral Wellness Solutions, Pam serves to facilitate a nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore options available for the treatment of symptoms that may impact social and/or occupational functioning. Pam is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has amassed an abundance of experience and education including a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Georgia College & State University, clinical experience with Wellstar Health System in Georgia, and 10 years of experience as a registered nurse working in the mental health setting.
As the sole provider here at PierCentral Wellness Solutions, Pam serves to facilitate a nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore options available for the treatment of symptoms that may impact social and/or occupational functioning. Pam is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has amassed an abundance of experience and education including a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Georgia College & State University, clinical experience with Wellstar Health System in Georgia, and 10 years of experience as a registered nurse working in the mental health setting.
![Photo of Florence Oriakhi - BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b79bba69-11d5-4986-9912-1df7c242b95b/1/320x400.jpeg)
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC provides psychiatric and mental health services to individuals and families in a therapeutic and non-judgmental manner. BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC (BBHS) listens to patients with empathy and passion. Here at BBHS, we assess, evaluate and re-evaluate, perform diagnostic evaluation, diagnose, treat, assist patients to acquire, develop and, maintain therapeutic skills they need for self-empowerment. Our Mission is to assist our patients in managing their symptoms, providing them with the necessary treatments and supports geared toward achieving full remission. BirdView Cares!
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC provides psychiatric and mental health services to individuals and families in a therapeutic and non-judgmental manner. BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC (BBHS) listens to patients with empathy and passion. Here at BBHS, we assess, evaluate and re-evaluate, perform diagnostic evaluation, diagnose, treat, assist patients to acquire, develop and, maintain therapeutic skills they need for self-empowerment. Our Mission is to assist our patients in managing their symptoms, providing them with the necessary treatments and supports geared toward achieving full remission. BirdView Cares!
![Photo of Nicole Leistikow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d14f34bf-fc51-4290-9cbc-b959bb0a5edd/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in treating and protecting women’s mental health throughout the reproductive life cycle with both medications and psychotherapy. I help women make the best decisions for themselves and their families by giving evidence-based recommendations informed by research. As a therapist who can also prescribe medications, I am in a unique position to monitor symptoms and help you make a decision about when they can be helped with therapy, sleep, exercise, communication, and other modalities and when the volume is simply too high for these first line treatments to be effective.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in treating and protecting women’s mental health throughout the reproductive life cycle with both medications and psychotherapy. I help women make the best decisions for themselves and their families by giving evidence-based recommendations informed by research. As a therapist who can also prescribe medications, I am in a unique position to monitor symptoms and help you make a decision about when they can be helped with therapy, sleep, exercise, communication, and other modalities and when the volume is simply too high for these first line treatments to be effective.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/209c853a-eb30-4a8d-84c3-517c9997af1f/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
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.
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![Photo of Blessing Gabriel, DNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4080708a-ba68-4c30-948e-63c1f2bc0fa9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new patients. I am Dr. Blessing Gabriel DNP, CRNP, PMHNP. I have more than 10 years’ experience in healthcare with varied experiences including medical and mental health care. My experience as an adult nurse practitioner gave me extra knowledge to be able to manage your body, mind, and spirit. each person is a unique individual with different background and differences socio-cultural. I am here to listen, understand, and treat you as whole person. Giving holistic care, maintain respect and dignity.
I am accepting new patients. I am Dr. Blessing Gabriel DNP, CRNP, PMHNP. I have more than 10 years’ experience in healthcare with varied experiences including medical and mental health care. My experience as an adult nurse practitioner gave me extra knowledge to be able to manage your body, mind, and spirit. each person is a unique individual with different background and differences socio-cultural. I am here to listen, understand, and treat you as whole person. Giving holistic care, maintain respect and dignity.
![Photo of Family Intervention, DNP, PMHNP, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70b79e1c-a4ae-436e-8d32-daca270cb938/1/320x400.png)
Family Intervention
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21213
Our practice consists of a team of licensed Drs, therapists, and social workers working together to provide the best mental healthcare services to our patients. We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, and psychotherapy in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. They will evaluate your current and past symptoms, provide information about your diagnosis, explain the possible side effects of your medication, and ensure the medication does not interfere with others you take. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
Our practice consists of a team of licensed Drs, therapists, and social workers working together to provide the best mental healthcare services to our patients. We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, and psychotherapy in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. They will evaluate your current and past symptoms, provide information about your diagnosis, explain the possible side effects of your medication, and ensure the medication does not interfere with others you take. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
![Photo of Hara Oyedeji, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, MSEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c5ed228-1b41-4938-8dd4-0f3ae86db65a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hara Oyedeji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, MSEd
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21239
Fortitude Behavioral Health is a comprehensive mental and behavioral health practice offering psychiatric services to children, adolescents, and adults. We believe in “Forging the Path to a Healthier Mind and Body” an offer proactive, quality healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. Our practice is led by board certified psychiatric nurse practitioners treating all ages across the lifespan from children to adults.
Fortitude Behavioral Health is a comprehensive mental and behavioral health practice offering psychiatric services to children, adolescents, and adults. We believe in “Forging the Path to a Healthier Mind and Body” an offer proactive, quality healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. Our practice is led by board certified psychiatric nurse practitioners treating all ages across the lifespan from children to adults.
![Photo of Natalie Marchione, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/642e7b8b-58c4-4843-bbd0-f90a3b410b3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Let’s be honest, they don’t talk about how hard motherhood or ‘adulting’ really is. You love your family, but nobody said it would be this hard! You braced yourself for the sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and tantrums, but the emotional impact of being a mother has caught you off guard. You didn’t anticipate feeling a perpetual sense of unease due to persistent worries, overwhelming sadness from a perceived loss of your former self, and guilt or hopelessness for not living up to the mother (or person) you think you should be. No matter where you may currently be physically or emotionally, you are here seeking treatment!
Let’s be honest, they don’t talk about how hard motherhood or ‘adulting’ really is. You love your family, but nobody said it would be this hard! You braced yourself for the sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and tantrums, but the emotional impact of being a mother has caught you off guard. You didn’t anticipate feeling a perpetual sense of unease due to persistent worries, overwhelming sadness from a perceived loss of your former self, and guilt or hopelessness for not living up to the mother (or person) you think you should be. No matter where you may currently be physically or emotionally, you are here seeking treatment!
![Photo of Valencia Fairley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5400b41-7ae7-4a0d-ac94-76433412caaf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valencia Fairley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
Icompleted my undergraduate studies at William Carey University in Mississippi where I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2013. I have since graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2021 with my master’s degree in nursing with a specialty concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified to evaluate and treat mental health disorders for patients across the lifespan.
Icompleted my undergraduate studies at William Carey University in Mississippi where I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2013. I have since graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2021 with my master’s degree in nursing with a specialty concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am board certified to evaluate and treat mental health disorders for patients across the lifespan.
![Photo of Abdulhafiz Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f7d4e9b-f73b-4e0e-a0cc-86023d1ec718/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ahmed is a seasoned psychiatrist with an extensive background in treating psychiatric disorders. He has been providing compassionate psychiatric care for more than 20 years. He specializes in managing psychiatric crisis cases such as suicidal ideations, mania and psychosis. In addition, has served as a specialist consultant in different branches of medical services in the inpatient setting—including intensive care, primary care and maternity care—treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia and more.
Dr. Ahmed is a seasoned psychiatrist with an extensive background in treating psychiatric disorders. He has been providing compassionate psychiatric care for more than 20 years. He specializes in managing psychiatric crisis cases such as suicidal ideations, mania and psychosis. In addition, has served as a specialist consultant in different branches of medical services in the inpatient setting—including intensive care, primary care and maternity care—treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia and more.
![Photo of Ozan Toy, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91696325-7ad4-4a78-aa9f-d23c6ef09c5d/1/320x400.png)
Ideal client is someone who desires a partner in addressing their mental health. I view the patient-doctor relationship as a shared decision making process that will facilitate an individually tailored approach to achieve optimal mental health. I use a holistic approach and consider biological, psychological, and social aspects of a client's life to determine the best treatment paradigms. Whether you are looking for a skilled talk therapist or need assistance with medications, I am confident that I can help you achieve your goals.
Ideal client is someone who desires a partner in addressing their mental health. I view the patient-doctor relationship as a shared decision making process that will facilitate an individually tailored approach to achieve optimal mental health. I use a holistic approach and consider biological, psychological, and social aspects of a client's life to determine the best treatment paradigms. Whether you are looking for a skilled talk therapist or need assistance with medications, I am confident that I can help you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Lindsay R Standeven, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5679e692-60cb-447f-bc27-9865dd16d7b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, with advanced training from Johns Hopkins Hospital. Earlier in my career I worked as the Clinical and Education Director at the Johns Hopkins Reproductive Mental Health Center, where I oversaw clinical staff and taught residents. I’m passionate about teaching and advocating for women’s mental health.
I’m a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, with advanced training from Johns Hopkins Hospital. Earlier in my career I worked as the Clinical and Education Director at the Johns Hopkins Reproductive Mental Health Center, where I oversaw clinical staff and taught residents. I’m passionate about teaching and advocating for women’s mental health.
![Photo of Tanveer A Padder, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed6a641-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Padder is a Triple boarded Psychiatrist - Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Diplomat American Board of Addiction Medicine and added Certification in Clinical Psycho-Pharmacology. He is a preeminent expert in psychopharmacology and has been awarded a Master Psycho-pharmacologist certification. He has received numerous awards, including America's Top Psychiatrists, Patient choice award, Health grades honor roll, Top doctor award, Maryland, and many more. We also offer Ketamine therapy at the comfort of your home. For appointment for ketamine therapy, visit ketamineonline.us
Dr Padder is a Triple boarded Psychiatrist - Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Diplomat American Board of Addiction Medicine and added Certification in Clinical Psycho-Pharmacology. He is a preeminent expert in psychopharmacology and has been awarded a Master Psycho-pharmacologist certification. He has received numerous awards, including America's Top Psychiatrists, Patient choice award, Health grades honor roll, Top doctor award, Maryland, and many more. We also offer Ketamine therapy at the comfort of your home. For appointment for ketamine therapy, visit ketamineonline.us
See more therapy options for Baltimore City County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD
300+
Average cost per session
$157
Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | Aetna |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Baltimore City County?
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.