Psychiatrists in Baltimore County, MD
![Photo of Keysha Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5906f7c5-6271-4537-b888-ea7f43a4bb40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keysha Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric nurse practitioner with 19 years of experience in health care. I completed undergraduate studies at Stevenson University and then received an MSN from Simmons University. After working with individuals suffering with mental illness and other co-occurring disorders, I began to see how the care was fragmented and marginalized. I am very passionate about addressing an individual’s health in its entirety, so I decided to obtain a post-graduate Psychiatric Certification from Wilkes University.
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric nurse practitioner with 19 years of experience in health care. I completed undergraduate studies at Stevenson University and then received an MSN from Simmons University. After working with individuals suffering with mental illness and other co-occurring disorders, I began to see how the care was fragmented and marginalized. I am very passionate about addressing an individual’s health in its entirety, so I decided to obtain a post-graduate Psychiatric Certification from Wilkes University.
![Photo of Bolaji Olugboja, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1454d6e1-668f-4596-b1c8-1a6012df74c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
![Photo of Celeste Saunders, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/957ef240-57eb-42f4-90a7-3317b70ae4bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Celeste Saunders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middle River, MD 21220
Do you struggle with anxiety, mood swings, or difficulty making decisions that affect your ability to function in day-to-day life, relationships, or work? Do you feel alone, lost, overwhelmed, or exhausted by the thought that no one understands what it means to be you? Are you ready to make a change and take control of your life? My patients say they feel heard, understood, and respected. My singular goal is to help people achieve their maximum level of mental health through evidence-based interventions in a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere.
Do you struggle with anxiety, mood swings, or difficulty making decisions that affect your ability to function in day-to-day life, relationships, or work? Do you feel alone, lost, overwhelmed, or exhausted by the thought that no one understands what it means to be you? Are you ready to make a change and take control of your life? My patients say they feel heard, understood, and respected. My singular goal is to help people achieve their maximum level of mental health through evidence-based interventions in a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere.
![Photo of Mariel V Otter, DNP, , CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec66fc5b-9c43-4280-8836-a7edde90bbe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariel V Otter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
![Photo of Dominic J Maxwell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7db4eee4-5b6a-4292-942f-653b0c94c3ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment focus begins with a comprehensive evaluation with the explicit goal of making an accurate clinical diagnosis. A treatment plan that will address the underlying problem/s as well as the specific symptoms of the patient is then formulated. I use Psychopharmacology (medication management) and/or Psychotherapy to treat my patients - depending upon the condition and the your individual preference. I am currently offering treatment both via video link or in person.
My treatment focus begins with a comprehensive evaluation with the explicit goal of making an accurate clinical diagnosis. A treatment plan that will address the underlying problem/s as well as the specific symptoms of the patient is then formulated. I use Psychopharmacology (medication management) and/or Psychotherapy to treat my patients - depending upon the condition and the your individual preference. I am currently offering treatment both via video link or in person.
![Photo of Luisito Torregosa, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/000b7447-eaaf-45c5-b232-bd3b38a346fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients - I have a 30-year career in the health care field, starting as a nurse working in different areas, including emergency care, and currently practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My various and lengthy experiences caring for people gave me the skills to communicate with clients compassionately. My dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, I believe in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
Accepting New Clients - I have a 30-year career in the health care field, starting as a nurse working in different areas, including emergency care, and currently practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My various and lengthy experiences caring for people gave me the skills to communicate with clients compassionately. My dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, I believe in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
It has been a privilege to work with my patients and help them discover more about themselves than they had been aware of before. This has usually resulted in significant symptom reduction and improved relationships with those who are important in their lives. Freud discovered the unconscious and its power to control our lives without us being aware of it. By helping people achieve a better understanding of these impulses in themselves, they can work with them, and use them to achieve their goals rather than being caught in endless self-destructive ways.
It has been a privilege to work with my patients and help them discover more about themselves than they had been aware of before. This has usually resulted in significant symptom reduction and improved relationships with those who are important in their lives. Freud discovered the unconscious and its power to control our lives without us being aware of it. By helping people achieve a better understanding of these impulses in themselves, they can work with them, and use them to achieve their goals rather than being caught in endless self-destructive ways.
![Photo of Adonaca Barrett - Triumph Behavioral Health, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bdb8e77-8829-45d1-98f8-b6b8d76cad85/1/320x400.png)
Triumph Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
At Triumph Behavioral Health our goal is to help people find relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, poor attention/focus (ADHD), and mood swings/anger/irritability.
At Triumph Behavioral Health our goal is to help people find relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, poor attention/focus (ADHD), and mood swings/anger/irritability.
![Photo of Tom Dennis Gates - GMH Psychiatry, LLC, FPMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb1b9437-8552-48a4-a84c-210bd6a6fc42/2/320x400.jpeg)
GMH Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I am a family psychiatric nurse practitioner treating a variety of patients across the lifespan. I perform diagnostic evaluations and or medication management. I see children to elderly treating diagnosis such as; depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am experienced in seeing children as well as adults. Culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality. Goal is to get client to optimum mental health. Now a Cannabis Certification Provider!
I am a family psychiatric nurse practitioner treating a variety of patients across the lifespan. I perform diagnostic evaluations and or medication management. I see children to elderly treating diagnosis such as; depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am experienced in seeing children as well as adults. Culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality. Goal is to get client to optimum mental health. Now a Cannabis Certification Provider!
![Photo of Michael Nwandu - MNC Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13666679-c449-4fc5-b2d3-6cccc5eb1c30/3/320x400.jpeg)
MNC Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Michael Nwandu. Dedicated, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including ADHD, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, mood disorders and personality disorders. I believe successful medication management is based on open communication between myself and you. Strong focus on listening to you and addressing your concerns and answering all your questions.
My name is Dr. Michael Nwandu. Dedicated, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including ADHD, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, mood disorders and personality disorders. I believe successful medication management is based on open communication between myself and you. Strong focus on listening to you and addressing your concerns and answering all your questions.
![Photo of Natalie Beaty, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48353379-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
15 Second Videos
Janet Smith Stasiak
Chantal Tchoumba
Jessica Henderson
Christy Abumere
Holismind Behavioral Health LLC
Recovery at GFC
Mary Otugo
Similade Adetunji
Mental Health Concepts
Margaret Rajnic
Angel Mbome
Iyobosa Joan Obasogie
Pamelas Pierce
Modinat (Ty) Fagbenro
Sara Israel
Olajumoke Rotimi
Giovanna Happy
Sabina Bonfadini
Mind At Peace Psychotherapy, LLC
Be Well Mental Health Services LLC
Camila Lavalle Cammarota
Grace Olaleye-Anisere
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Patrick K Nganga
Desmond Marc Kaplan
Sirahcr Okoluku
Chinwe Okudo
Jami Hicks-Townes
Jessica Ditto
Eva Ogbuokiri
Restoration LLC (Behavioral Health Clinic)
Sound Wellness Center
Dorothy M. Kalyanapu
Erika Stewart
Gabriel Obu
ADHD, Anxiety, Depression
Sarah Langham
Aaron Padron
Neal G Ranen
Robert Byron Lehman
Sandrine Noutchia
Cecilia Parker
Christine Kalu
Derek Walcker
Ariel Nickerson
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Destiny Shugrue
Beverly Bye
Talia Griffin
Olivier Djoumessi
![Photo of Lisa Kebejian, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f74e404-458f-4d52-855d-e6c6b25ca51e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Kebejian
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Towson. My practice emphasizes a collaborative process of exploration and understanding. I would seek to help you to understand yourself better, including your feelings and conflicts that may drive behaviors or get in the way. I believe that insight has the potential to lead to change. I see adults who may seek treatment for symptoms of depression or anxiety, for support as they work through life transitions or stressors in their lives, or for a variety of other reasons.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Towson. My practice emphasizes a collaborative process of exploration and understanding. I would seek to help you to understand yourself better, including your feelings and conflicts that may drive behaviors or get in the way. I believe that insight has the potential to lead to change. I see adults who may seek treatment for symptoms of depression or anxiety, for support as they work through life transitions or stressors in their lives, or for a variety of other reasons.
![Photo of Brittany Ullman, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4d7a67e-91f9-495a-b406-a28a1f768bf4/1/320x400.png)
Brittany Ullman is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her years of experience, she faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. Brittany has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Her mission is to help and advocate for patients who struggle to be heard and understood, and to manage their treatment with empathy and compassion. In addition to her practical experience, Brittany has a unique ability to connect with individuals, a capacity to understand them, and the empathy to meet them where they are.
Brittany Ullman is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her years of experience, she faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. Brittany has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Her mission is to help and advocate for patients who struggle to be heard and understood, and to manage their treatment with empathy and compassion. In addition to her practical experience, Brittany has a unique ability to connect with individuals, a capacity to understand them, and the empathy to meet them where they are.
![Photo of Janet Smith Stasiak, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc558c92-9484-4d8e-9ee3-d163f1abc4db/1/320x400.png)
Janet Smith Stasiak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Nottingham, MD 21236 (Online Only)
Janet Smith has a Doctorate in Nursing and as both a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She strongly believes in the mind-body connection and a holistic approach to mental health. She specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorder, diagnosing Autism in adults and teens, and high-functioning or Asperger’s Syndrome. She also is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, and many other conditions. Janet welcomes diversity and is an ally for LGBTQIA+ as well as a lifelong supporter of all minorities, religious beliefs, and backgrounds.
Janet Smith has a Doctorate in Nursing and as both a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She strongly believes in the mind-body connection and a holistic approach to mental health. She specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorder, diagnosing Autism in adults and teens, and high-functioning or Asperger’s Syndrome. She also is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, and many other conditions. Janet welcomes diversity and is an ally for LGBTQIA+ as well as a lifelong supporter of all minorities, religious beliefs, and backgrounds.
![Photo of Chantal Tchoumba, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57f8e63f-8554-498a-a104-71f135fd9c69/1/320x400.png)
My name is Dr. Chantal. I am a dedicated, highly motivated Family Nurse Practitioner / Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in clinical nursing field. Committed to practice nursing using a holistic approach. My approach is to provide a holistic, patient-centered to mental healthcare, emphasizing the integration of mind, body, and spirit. My focus is to develop a comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of mental health. The first session typically begins with the provider introduction. Followed by a thorough patient assessment.
My name is Dr. Chantal. I am a dedicated, highly motivated Family Nurse Practitioner / Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in clinical nursing field. Committed to practice nursing using a holistic approach. My approach is to provide a holistic, patient-centered to mental healthcare, emphasizing the integration of mind, body, and spirit. My focus is to develop a comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of mental health. The first session typically begins with the provider introduction. Followed by a thorough patient assessment.
![Photo of David Mwangi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56f80762-c941-45f2-9aa3-1b17c2231445/2/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
![Photo of Paula Ison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/577e54c0-1940-4fb1-a236-b761a3d9d14b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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? 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. I want to be a part of your journey in living the life you deserve. Every person in the world deserves that.
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? 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. I want to be a part of your journey in living the life you deserve. Every person in the world deserves that.
![Photo of Lawretta Jinadu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f95ae0e-cc62-4a5e-9f07-d5eee088f1ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lawretta Jinadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who acknowledges each client's individuality and provides a holistic remedy based on personal needs. I am specialized in treating, Depressive disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Adult psychiatry using an evidence-based approach.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who acknowledges each client's individuality and provides a holistic remedy based on personal needs. I am specialized in treating, Depressive disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Adult psychiatry using an evidence-based approach.
![Photo of Jessica Henderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41c8ed46-c472-4412-a716-7e060501c6b9/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parkville, MD 21234 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Jessica Henderson. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CRNP, PMHNP-BC) based in Maryland. I work with all ages (6+ years old) and specialize in diagnosing and treating patients with complex and dual psychiatric diagnoses to include Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders, Bipolar and Related Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, and Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders.
Hi, I'm Jessica Henderson. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CRNP, PMHNP-BC) based in Maryland. I work with all ages (6+ years old) and specialize in diagnosing and treating patients with complex and dual psychiatric diagnoses to include Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders, Bipolar and Related Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, and Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Evangeline Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8fdae2c-faf2-4296-9acd-bca9241d1f22/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Evangeline Okechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP
Verified Verified
Cockeysville, MD 21030
Paragon Health understands that navigating the path to mental wellness is a unique journey, and so, we are here to guide, support, and empower every step of the way. Our dedication lies in offering comprehensive care that resonates with the individual needs and goals of those we serve. Through a harmonious blend of expertise, empathy, and innovation, we create a supportive space where healing and transformation are not just possibilities, but realities that flourish through each interaction. Here, you will find an ally in your journey toward mental wellness, recovery, and a balanced, fulfilling life.
Paragon Health understands that navigating the path to mental wellness is a unique journey, and so, we are here to guide, support, and empower every step of the way. Our dedication lies in offering comprehensive care that resonates with the individual needs and goals of those we serve. Through a harmonious blend of expertise, empathy, and innovation, we create a supportive space where healing and transformation are not just possibilities, but realities that flourish through each interaction. Here, you will find an ally in your journey toward mental wellness, recovery, and a balanced, fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Baltimore County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Baltimore County, MD
400+
Average cost per session
$170
Psychiatrists in Baltimore County, MD who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | ADHD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Aetna |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Baltimore County, MD see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Baltimore 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.