Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD
![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 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 Dr. Sanjeev Singhal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d68e3741-a3b2-4bc6-9dcf-0b6ccf31429c/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Frederick Psychiatry we believe that those looking for services of therapist or a Psychiatrist find it hard to open themselves to others. Your experience with us would be with dignity, respect and empathy, regardless of your gender, ethnicity or other ways you identify yourself. Our focus is on traditional Medication Management in Expert Hands. Therapy at Frederick Psychiatry is integrated with Medication Management. It is result oriented therapy and coaching to improve day to day task of living. We offer Early Appointment availability for New patients. Evaluations 90 Minutes, Follow Up Appointments 30-45 Minutes.
At Frederick Psychiatry we believe that those looking for services of therapist or a Psychiatrist find it hard to open themselves to others. Your experience with us would be with dignity, respect and empathy, regardless of your gender, ethnicity or other ways you identify yourself. Our focus is on traditional Medication Management in Expert Hands. Therapy at Frederick Psychiatry is integrated with Medication Management. It is result oriented therapy and coaching to improve day to day task of living. We offer Early Appointment availability for New patients. Evaluations 90 Minutes, Follow Up Appointments 30-45 Minutes.
![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 Evelyn K Ogendi - Brookfield Health services, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5163b39b-d4d0-49e9-92a2-2ecf68244d00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brookfield Health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
At Brookfield health services, we seek to promote excellent, evidence based and compassionate care to every client we serve. We provide medication management and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health disorders i.e Anxiety, Bipolar, Major depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, ADHD, substance use disorders among others. We complete detailed assessments, evaluations and diagnosis before prescribing medication. We have extensive mental health experience in a variety of settings. Our primary goal is to partner and collaborate with clients to improve/restore levels of functioning. Contact use today for a free 15-minute consultation.
At Brookfield health services, we seek to promote excellent, evidence based and compassionate care to every client we serve. We provide medication management and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health disorders i.e Anxiety, Bipolar, Major depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, ADHD, substance use disorders among others. We complete detailed assessments, evaluations and diagnosis before prescribing medication. We have extensive mental health experience in a variety of settings. Our primary goal is to partner and collaborate with clients to improve/restore levels of functioning. Contact use today for a free 15-minute consultation.
![Photo of Paul Ackah - Headway, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1313c698-43f1-4e5b-bffe-3d4b3899bfcf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Headway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
My name is Paul Ackah, a Board Certified and licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with over 15 years of Psychiatric Nursing. I provide care for individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.It is important to seek professional help when dealing with mental health issues to ensure that the appropriate treatment is received. I am now accepting clients for Telehealth appointments. Looking forward to find solution to your problem.
My name is Paul Ackah, a Board Certified and licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with over 15 years of Psychiatric Nursing. I provide care for individuals facing a wide range of mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.It is important to seek professional help when dealing with mental health issues to ensure that the appropriate treatment is received. I am now accepting clients for Telehealth appointments. Looking forward to find solution to your problem.
![Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi - Newlife Aspiration Behavioural Health Services, PMHNP, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d32979b8-e6d1-49e3-8688-1cfb4d23218c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Newlife Aspiration Behavioural Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704
Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 14 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degree of mental illness. She has expertise in treating adolescent and adult patients.
Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 14 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degree of mental illness. She has expertise in treating adolescent and adult patients.
![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
Frederick, MD 21702 (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 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 Mary Ann Dameron, MSN, FNP, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9bfba64-756c-4c7a-bae6-c2e3184d26fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Ann Dameron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
We are dedicated to enhancing mental health care access in Frederick County and surrouning areas. We promote mental wellness, providing integrated care and support for all age groups. Your journey to well-being begins here.
We are dedicated to enhancing mental health care access in Frederick County and surrouning areas. We promote mental wellness, providing integrated care and support for all age groups. Your journey to well-being begins here.
![Photo of Jaclyn Daugherty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7b35375-d220-4867-9942-c7ad2a19d1b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Jackie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of experience as a NP and 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in settings including residential programs, acute psychiatric hospitals for both children and adults, outpatient offices, and a crisis walk-in clinic. I graduated in 2011 from UMD with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, in 2012 from Shenandoah University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and in 2019 from Shenandoah University with a Master of Science in Nursing.
Hi, I'm Jackie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of experience as a NP and 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in settings including residential programs, acute psychiatric hospitals for both children and adults, outpatient offices, and a crisis walk-in clinic. I graduated in 2011 from UMD with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, in 2012 from Shenandoah University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and in 2019 from Shenandoah University with a Master of Science in Nursing.
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Brunswick Psychiatry and Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
We are a team of holistic providers; holistic in that we view people as a whole, not a list of symptoms or boxes to check off. We take pride in working with our patients to find a plan of care that they are comfortable with. We hope that you will consider us approachable and flexible. Our nurse practitioners are working mothers, Frederick County residents and Maryland natives. We understand the demands of raising children and growing families in a post-COVID world and can relate to your worries and needs on a personal level.
We are a team of holistic providers; holistic in that we view people as a whole, not a list of symptoms or boxes to check off. We take pride in working with our patients to find a plan of care that they are comfortable with. We hope that you will consider us approachable and flexible. Our nurse practitioners are working mothers, Frederick County residents and Maryland natives. We understand the demands of raising children and growing families in a post-COVID world and can relate to your worries and needs on a personal level.
![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 Dana Nearman, PMHNP, BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9c83b0e-110b-4b40-94de-0d778e1feec4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dana is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with special interest in child and adolescent behavioral health. She has over 17 years of professional nursing experience in a variety of settings including Medicine and Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. She completed an internship at Johns Hopkins Children's Mental Health Center. In addition to her extensive clinical experience, Dana also has an outstanding academic background that includes two Bachelor's degrees (a BS in Psychology and a BSN in Nursing) and a Master of Science in Nursing.
Dana is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with special interest in child and adolescent behavioral health. She has over 17 years of professional nursing experience in a variety of settings including Medicine and Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. She completed an internship at Johns Hopkins Children's Mental Health Center. In addition to her extensive clinical experience, Dana also has an outstanding academic background that includes two Bachelor's degrees (a BS in Psychology and a BSN in Nursing) and a Master of Science in Nursing.
![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
Frederick, MD 21702
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 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 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 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 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 Ashley Lester, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5365553-7da2-47ae-857b-8ed29d403b26/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Lester
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I work with children and adolescents that struggle with behaviors related to autism, and children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, mood disorders, anxiety and depression. I am here to help and guide you by offering safe medication recommendations that can help to reduce symptoms and help with communicating your feelings in psychotherapy.
I work with children and adolescents that struggle with behaviors related to autism, and children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, mood disorders, anxiety and depression. I am here to help and guide you by offering safe medication recommendations that can help to reduce symptoms and help with communicating your feelings in psychotherapy.
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 |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | CareFirst |
78% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | 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.