Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD
![Photo of Melissa Ward, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/183bfc74-6854-4baa-a2fd-0eeb8c5e3e72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
![Photo of 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.
![Photo of josyane M Kengni - Kema Health Services, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2133ffdf-d502-4436-a2dd-38ca4f836ebc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kema Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Josyane Kengni, CRNP, PMH is a board-certified nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. She has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in nursing with years of nursing experience in a variety of settings. Our prescriber will work with you in the way that works best for you because her outcome is to find the right solution to your problem. Josyane draws on her experience as a medical nurse to rule out any possible medical conditions that could be affecting a patient’s mental health before treating a psychiatric condition. "Being our patient means that you have found the right fit"
Josyane Kengni, CRNP, PMH is a board-certified nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. She has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in nursing with years of nursing experience in a variety of settings. Our prescriber will work with you in the way that works best for you because her outcome is to find the right solution to your problem. Josyane draws on her experience as a medical nurse to rule out any possible medical conditions that could be affecting a patient’s mental health before treating a psychiatric condition. "Being our patient means that you have found the right fit"
![Photo of Chouchouna Kalamba, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1083291c-c516-47fa-9ca1-e7f53b93b8c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of healthcare settings. I am currently licensed to provide mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in the state of Maryland. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, diagnose psychiatric illnesses, provide medication management, and supportive psychotherapy to individuals across the lifespan. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADH, schizophrenia, etc…
I am a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of healthcare settings. I am currently licensed to provide mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in the state of Maryland. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, diagnose psychiatric illnesses, provide medication management, and supportive psychotherapy to individuals across the lifespan. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADH, schizophrenia, etc…
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba517290-d619-4acd-93c8-17de9dde87c1/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Daphne Bolden, APRN, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebbc9ad5-e183-4b28-873b-183875565ac8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have over thirty years of mental health experience in a variety of clinical settings including psychiatric nursing and behavioral health. My specialties include treating anxiety and mood disorders including bipolar disorder, and I have extensive experience working with trauma and substance abuse.
I have over thirty years of mental health experience in a variety of clinical settings including psychiatric nursing and behavioral health. My specialties include treating anxiety and mood disorders including bipolar disorder, and I have extensive experience working with trauma and substance abuse.
![Photo of Nkechi Achinanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07fa8898-5e24-45db-9dd5-8f05edba5a83/1/320x400.jpeg)
I like to treat each client as an individual to assess their needs for medication management as well as psychotherapy. I work with all types of clients but specialize with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and autism spectrum.
I like to treat each client as an individual to assess their needs for medication management as well as psychotherapy. I work with all types of clients but specialize with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD and autism spectrum.
![Photo of 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 Nadine A Smith - Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b38f5518-5b91-4d21-b50d-b7bc11d4a7fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701 (Online Only)
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Kimberly Braden, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25afdb6a-bb11-4c62-a114-fd40b4da7b00/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Braden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Everyone deserves the opportunity to live their life to the fullest. My goal is to help those struggling with the situations keeping them from finding the best life possible. Whether you need help finding the right medication, coping with mental illness, or having trouble navigating life’s challenges, I want to be there. My hope is to not simply reach symptom management, but to move past it into your ideal life. I want your daily experience to be as rich and rewarding as possible. Not everyone is going to be "happy" all day every day (that would be amazing, though) any step closer to the ideal should be celebrated!
Everyone deserves the opportunity to live their life to the fullest. My goal is to help those struggling with the situations keeping them from finding the best life possible. Whether you need help finding the right medication, coping with mental illness, or having trouble navigating life’s challenges, I want to be there. My hope is to not simply reach symptom management, but to move past it into your ideal life. I want your daily experience to be as rich and rewarding as possible. Not everyone is going to be "happy" all day every day (that would be amazing, though) any step closer to the ideal should be celebrated!
![Photo of Samantha Sudano, PMH, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50aefbcd-c112-4372-80fe-7e498c7316f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Samantha Sudano and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Stevenson University, and attended Graduate School through Maryville University. I was a Surgical ICU/trauma nurse for 8 years at Johns Hopkins, where I had experience treating a multitude of psychiatric conditions. My current focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and chronic mental illness through psychiatric assessment, medication management, and brief psychotherapeutic intervention.
My name is Samantha Sudano and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Stevenson University, and attended Graduate School through Maryville University. I was a Surgical ICU/trauma nurse for 8 years at Johns Hopkins, where I had experience treating a multitude of psychiatric conditions. My current focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and chronic mental illness through psychiatric assessment, medication management, and brief psychotherapeutic intervention.
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![Photo of Sarah Gumpert, CRNPPMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/219d5220-4a43-4129-9e97-24c6bf38c56c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Gumpert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNPPMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I provide medication management to teen and adult clients who feel as if they need something more. I am here to provide options, education and to listen to your concerns. Together we will formulate a medication plan that you are comfortable with and that improves your overall functioning.
I provide medication management to teen and adult clients who feel as if they need something more. I am here to provide options, education and to listen to your concerns. Together we will formulate a medication plan that you are comfortable with and that improves your overall functioning.
![Photo of Jennifer Sims, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75fbe74a-9a3d-4451-a3e7-dfc0e6de9c5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Allyson Lawson, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e22e90-9be6-4aed-9704-d8b80ed143fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan.
![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 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 Caroline Anderson, MSN, CRNP-, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f59216c-c867-4987-8208-9746e1fae040/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP-, PMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
If you have ever felt like you tried everything and that therapy just isn't enough, I welcome you to our practice. You may already have a medication that has worked in the past, or maybe you just want to talk through some new options. If you are hesitant, I am committed to providing care to those who seek medications but also for those who may be skeptical and hesitant. I enjoy working with anyone struggling with relationship issues, work/life balance, and life transitions/stressors as well as those with mood/anxiety disorders and previous trauma.
If you have ever felt like you tried everything and that therapy just isn't enough, I welcome you to our practice. You may already have a medication that has worked in the past, or maybe you just want to talk through some new options. If you are hesitant, I am committed to providing care to those who seek medications but also for those who may be skeptical and hesitant. I enjoy working with anyone struggling with relationship issues, work/life balance, and life transitions/stressors as well as those with mood/anxiety disorders and previous trauma.
![Photo of Dr. Apurva Makadiya, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0506f5b4-2098-4f97-8792-737d7860c45e/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Medpsych Health Services, our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
At Medpsych Health Services, our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b02c6be-c3b8-41c9-b8c4-c7e10dbbec48/2/320x400.png)
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![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.
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.