Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD
![Photo of TJ Park, DNP , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb607cf5-82fd-4b85-825f-3569e2993205/1/320x400.png)
Accepting new patients! I'm Dr. Tae Joon "TJ" Park, specializing in adult mental health for individuals aged 18 to 64. My expertise extends to anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, psychosis, and thought disorders. I provide adult psychiatry and medication management, with a focus on therapeutic modalities like Adlerian therapy, coaching, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, psychopharmacological treatment, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Accepting new patients! I'm Dr. Tae Joon "TJ" Park, specializing in adult mental health for individuals aged 18 to 64. My expertise extends to anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, psychosis, and thought disorders. I provide adult psychiatry and medication management, with a focus on therapeutic modalities like Adlerian therapy, coaching, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, psychopharmacological treatment, and solution-focused brief therapy.
![Photo of Benjamin Israel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a90f6b37-c999-4428-bce4-dcc14a54c073/1/320x400.jpeg)
Coping can be tough! If you've had difficulty feeling comfortable, connected, or present in your relationships, then we may be well-fitted to work together. I welcome patients who've struggled with shame, or even self-hatred, or who have not found other treatments helpful enough.
Coping can be tough! If you've had difficulty feeling comfortable, connected, or present in your relationships, then we may be well-fitted to work together. I welcome patients who've struggled with shame, or even self-hatred, or who have not found other treatments helpful enough.
![Photo of Kaye-De-Ann Rattray - Healing For Success, PMHNP, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cab0be95-04f8-4dcf-b7dc-f8cd5d16ef26/3/320x400.jpeg)
Healing For Success
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21281 (Online Only)
Licensed in DC, MD and NY. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Counseling. I offer holistic mental health services including, psychiatric evaluations, medication management. My area of specialty includes: ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma including narcissistic abuse recover.
Licensed in DC, MD and NY. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Counseling. I offer holistic mental health services including, psychiatric evaluations, medication management. My area of specialty includes: ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma including narcissistic abuse recover.
![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
![Photo of Adedoyin Sobowale - Ms.So, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2bed894-c915-4db1-ba4c-f51a987c7a8d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ms. So is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with wide range of experience in providing medication management for individuals in an out-patient clinic setting.
Ms. So is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with wide range of experience in providing medication management for individuals in an out-patient clinic setting.
![Photo of Alexa Burley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41553d84-4e6f-46d5-8abc-8d227a2a2071/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Burley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my clients are seeking a compassionate partner on their mental health journey. Many face challenges from mood disorders to complex psychiatric conditions, desiring a holistic approach beyond symptom relief, and seeking a safe space where their voice is heard and valued. They aspire to collaborate on a treatment plan aligned with life goals. They are motivated by open dialogue, they appreciate evidence-based interventions and a person-centered approach. Their goal extends beyond symptom relief to resilience, growth, and a meaningful life journey.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my clients are seeking a compassionate partner on their mental health journey. Many face challenges from mood disorders to complex psychiatric conditions, desiring a holistic approach beyond symptom relief, and seeking a safe space where their voice is heard and valued. They aspire to collaborate on a treatment plan aligned with life goals. They are motivated by open dialogue, they appreciate evidence-based interventions and a person-centered approach. Their goal extends beyond symptom relief to resilience, growth, and a meaningful life journey.
![Photo of Marlaine F. Registe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e82469eb-55c6-4998-820b-1184b21c890e/2/320x400.png)
Marlaine F. Registe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling anxious lately? Maybe you are Depressed? Tired and can’t concentrate? Or maybe you’re on a bunch of medications that aren’t working? Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help. My name is Marlaine Registe, and I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of combined nursing experience, with 12 years in advanced practice. I work with patients ages 10-100+ with psychiatric mental health disorders in the Washington DC metro area, seeing patients all across DC, Virginia, and Maryland.
Have you been feeling anxious lately? Maybe you are Depressed? Tired and can’t concentrate? Or maybe you’re on a bunch of medications that aren’t working? Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help. My name is Marlaine Registe, and I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of combined nursing experience, with 12 years in advanced practice. I work with patients ages 10-100+ with psychiatric mental health disorders in the Washington DC metro area, seeing patients all across DC, Virginia, and Maryland.
![Photo of Wakeelat Adeoye - Blossom Care and Behavioral Services Inc., PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f9eabb6-13b4-4bc6-a31e-c178ad4bc4e6/2/320x400.png)
Blossom Care and Behavioral Services Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21207
Wakeelat Adeoye, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across Maryland. She graduated with honors in 2016. I specialize in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, and more.
Wakeelat Adeoye, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across Maryland. She graduated with honors in 2016. I specialize in Psychiatric Evaluations, Medication Management, and more.
![Photo of Hotenesia Njoroge - Blue Spring Wellness Center (Mental Health Clinic), CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b00e00fc-e341-457d-aa7f-ec74a934afe9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blue Spring Wellness Center (Mental Health Clinic)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202
My goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care.
My goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care.
Reginald Eugene Degrafenreid II
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21234
I am an integrative psychiatrist specializing in a holistic approach to mental health. I combine evidence-based practices like CBT, Supportive Therapy, and Talk Therapy with complementary alternative medicine to create personalized treatment plans. By actively listening and understanding your unique needs, I effectively manage symptoms through medication administration and ongoing monitoring. My goal is to empower you with knowledge about your mental health condition and medications, fostering self-awareness and informed decision-making. Together, we'll work towards improved well-being and a balanced life.
I am an integrative psychiatrist specializing in a holistic approach to mental health. I combine evidence-based practices like CBT, Supportive Therapy, and Talk Therapy with complementary alternative medicine to create personalized treatment plans. By actively listening and understanding your unique needs, I effectively manage symptoms through medication administration and ongoing monitoring. My goal is to empower you with knowledge about your mental health condition and medications, fostering self-awareness and informed decision-making. Together, we'll work towards improved well-being and a balanced life.
![Photo of Angela Awuah - Dominion healthcare services inc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e52cc987-275f-4053-b7e2-bddcffff0434/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dominion healthcare services inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21229
Dominion healthcare services provides telehealth and in person psychiatric services in Maryland . We are an all inclusive practice and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step in their journey to their better self
Dominion healthcare services provides telehealth and in person psychiatric services in Maryland . We are an all inclusive practice and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step in their journey to their better self
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![Photo of Aderonke Omotade - Omi Psychiatry and TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b95642f8-904d-42af-bbc1-289773f63a70/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life knocks you off your feet. Not necessarily due to any innate deficiency but sometimes circumstances can get the best of you. Whether it be depression, anxiety, or just not feeling like yourself. I can help. I believe that you have what it takes but sometimes you may need help to remind you or to give you space to breath and reflect. I am here to facilitate discovery and healing. I believe in medications in certain circumstances but also that medications are only part of the treatment. In order to restore you
Sometimes life knocks you off your feet. Not necessarily due to any innate deficiency but sometimes circumstances can get the best of you. Whether it be depression, anxiety, or just not feeling like yourself. I can help. I believe that you have what it takes but sometimes you may need help to remind you or to give you space to breath and reflect. I am here to facilitate discovery and healing. I believe in medications in certain circumstances but also that medications are only part of the treatment. In order to restore you
![Photo of Rachel Bardos, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d27836c9-ba08-4ba2-b09d-63aa0ee5d82b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Bardos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21217 (Online Only)
My name is Rachel Bardos, PMHNP, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults. I only prescribe non-stimulants for ADHD. I do not conduct ADHD evaluations or prescribe controlled substances.
My name is Rachel Bardos, PMHNP, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults. I only prescribe non-stimulants for ADHD. I do not conduct ADHD evaluations or prescribe controlled substances.
![Photo of Gideon Jun Oberio, CRNPPMH, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfd3c217-1fc9-4e36-af08-943b6bd671aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gideon Jun Oberio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNPPMH, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I believe in being respectful of your mind and body while improving your quality of life through medication management. I enjoy working with patients to develop treatment goals to optimize their medication management plan. I am here to listen to you and make recommendations on our journey together. I love to work with people from age six through adulthood. I also work with many different diagnoses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, mood disorders, and schizophrenia.
I believe in being respectful of your mind and body while improving your quality of life through medication management. I enjoy working with patients to develop treatment goals to optimize their medication management plan. I am here to listen to you and make recommendations on our journey together. I love to work with people from age six through adulthood. I also work with many different diagnoses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, mood disorders, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Glenna Guthrie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bac1c5fb-b60b-436d-a7d8-8e1eb53e658f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Glenna Guthrie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practictioner (PMHNP). I recieved my Masters Degree from Walden University and have been practicing as a NP for the past year in an In-patient and Out-patient setting.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practictioner (PMHNP). I recieved my Masters Degree from Walden University and have been practicing as a NP for the past year in an In-patient and Out-patient setting.
![Photo of Alicia Medina - Greater Chesapeake, CRNP, LCSW-C, LCPC, RN, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22306745-9f8f-4e4a-b95a-ca447d364fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Greater Chesapeake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, LCSW-C, LCPC, RN, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21239
Now accepting adults and children in office or via telehealth. We offer medication management, therapy, and case management services. We treat a variety of mental health disorders including psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We also offer Suboxone/Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and other medications to treat addictions. We partner with other agencies such as Mental Health Court, IOPs, PRPs, and hospitals. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and can help patients with no insurance. Contact us: 443-438-6893 or email via the link on this page.
Now accepting adults and children in office or via telehealth. We offer medication management, therapy, and case management services. We treat a variety of mental health disorders including psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We also offer Suboxone/Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and other medications to treat addictions. We partner with other agencies such as Mental Health Court, IOPs, PRPs, and hospitals. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and can help patients with no insurance. Contact us: 443-438-6893 or email via the link on this page.
![Photo of Charlie Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bec8920-d290-4eba-b056-f25afc6e18d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-md
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-md
![Photo of Dr. Jaymie Fields, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3795103-a969-4cfd-9061-8218cfe292b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jaymie Fields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Fields and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh & studied behavioral health and psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
Hello! My name is Dr. Fields and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh & studied behavioral health and psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
![Photo of Pamela Johnson - Citywide Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecc3cbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
How Can We Help? Where does change begin? At some point in life, we all have challenges that cause us to seek change! Change begins with you selecting Citywide Behavioral Health (CBH). Citywide is a client-focused, culturally competent, strength-based, behavioral health program. We provide mental health and substance abuse services to adults. Citywide offers individualized care for our consumers including psychotherapy, medication management (also injections), psychiatric rehabilitation program (PRP), IOP and OP groups. In addition, we are a licensed residential housing program (3.5-3.1) for adults with dual diagnosis.
How Can We Help? Where does change begin? At some point in life, we all have challenges that cause us to seek change! Change begins with you selecting Citywide Behavioral Health (CBH). Citywide is a client-focused, culturally competent, strength-based, behavioral health program. We provide mental health and substance abuse services to adults. Citywide offers individualized care for our consumers including psychotherapy, medication management (also injections), psychiatric rehabilitation program (PRP), IOP and OP groups. In addition, we are a licensed residential housing program (3.5-3.1) for adults with dual diagnosis.
![Photo of Dr. Abdul Malik Fofanah, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87ca6e6d-b35d-4aba-b786-37e2ac4a09d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Abdul Malik Fofanah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218
I will be deeply committed to raising awareness about behavioral and mental health issues, I will actively engages in community outreach initiatives, advocating for destigmatization and promoting access to quality mental health services.
I will be deeply committed to raising awareness about behavioral and mental health issues, I will actively engages in community outreach initiatives, advocating for destigmatization and promoting access to quality mental health services.
See more therapy options for Baltimore
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD
400+
Average cost per session
$157
Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Aetna |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Baltimore?
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.