Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD
![Photo of Bergina Brickhouse Isbell, MD, MHS, DipABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53607863-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of being depression, again?!? Is your loved one suffering and you don't know what else to do? Dr. Bergina and the Led Life team believe that there is a cure for hard to treat depression, which can be like cancer of the soul. With our proprietary 3R ReTreatment program, we do more than just prescribe medicines, we also prescribe hope. On the cutting edge of novel neurohealth treatments, Dr. Bergina prescribes Spravato (Esketamine), Ketamine Assisted Therapy, and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
Are you tired of being depression, again?!? Is your loved one suffering and you don't know what else to do? Dr. Bergina and the Led Life team believe that there is a cure for hard to treat depression, which can be like cancer of the soul. With our proprietary 3R ReTreatment program, we do more than just prescribe medicines, we also prescribe hope. On the cutting edge of novel neurohealth treatments, Dr. Bergina prescribes Spravato (Esketamine), Ketamine Assisted Therapy, and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
![Photo of Dr. Gedeon Longtchi, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9356760b-b13c-48c0-bdc8-d0e9f871d605/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gedeon Longtchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Dr. Gideon, and I am here to serve you in a relatable way to get you back to feeling like yourself again—patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Relationship issues, or other mood-related symptoms. We aim to provide you with clinical expertise for mental, emotional, and spiritual stability. I manage patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Eating disorders, OCD, personality disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more.
Hi, I am Dr. Gideon, and I am here to serve you in a relatable way to get you back to feeling like yourself again—patients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Relationship issues, or other mood-related symptoms. We aim to provide you with clinical expertise for mental, emotional, and spiritual stability. I manage patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Eating disorders, OCD, personality disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and many more.
![Photo of Joy Eghaghe, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dfd006b-09d8-4e87-b1fe-7da08893f346/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Eghaghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
![Photo of Gideon Nyambiya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d383183-1c9f-4b70-8458-ba2e7933fe5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gideon Nyambiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
My name is Gideon Nyambiya (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-PMHNP-BC) Board Certified. I am a provider at Restorative Counseling and Wellness Center LLC, with a specific focus on medication management. My responsibilities include: 1) Prescribing medications for various mental health disorders by applying evidence based practice; 2) Educating clients on the safest way of taking prescribed medications; 3) Providing psychotherapy as needed and working with you.
My name is Gideon Nyambiya (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-PMHNP-BC) Board Certified. I am a provider at Restorative Counseling and Wellness Center LLC, with a specific focus on medication management. My responsibilities include: 1) Prescribing medications for various mental health disorders by applying evidence based practice; 2) Educating clients on the safest way of taking prescribed medications; 3) Providing psychotherapy as needed and working with you.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb2b5330-1047-4cf9-bca2-3a64d999122c/1/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Dr. Paulo J Negro, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b5feb7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find it difficult to manage stress? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement for many years. I provide concierge psychiatric care for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and other challenges. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, and create healthy habits. In-person medication management and brief therapy are available in Columbia, MD. Online psychiatric care is available in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
Do you find it difficult to manage stress? Do you need an assessment for medication for anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Medication, or medication combined with therapy, can support significant improvement for many years. I provide concierge psychiatric care for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and other challenges. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, and create healthy habits. In-person medication management and brief therapy are available in Columbia, MD. Online psychiatric care is available in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
![Photo of Stephanie Durruthy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c54623-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life is full of surprises. Having a mental health issue was never you game plan. Smart people like yourself should be able to control their emotions. But here, you find yourself struggling with this new reality. It was your prior belief that mental illness happens to other people. What is the next step? Healing starts with your decision to fully understand your condition in order to achieve optimal wellness. Recovery requires time for self-discovery and awareness. Mental illness is not a choice, but your response to this situation is personal.
Life is full of surprises. Having a mental health issue was never you game plan. Smart people like yourself should be able to control their emotions. But here, you find yourself struggling with this new reality. It was your prior belief that mental illness happens to other people. What is the next step? Healing starts with your decision to fully understand your condition in order to achieve optimal wellness. Recovery requires time for self-discovery and awareness. Mental illness is not a choice, but your response to this situation is personal.
![Photo of Yolana Young, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1949db49-99f8-43ed-ad53-ffb0afe6ee34/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome prospective clients! I am currently offering telepsychiatry visits only. I hope that I can help you progress to your optimal self and understand the complicated dynamics of your emotions. I have almost 11 years of experience treating patients. I would love to work on your strengths, weaknesses and help you gain insight into your overall sense of self. Depending on the individual, this may happen quickly or require time and patience. Based on your needs, we will determine if you will benefit from therapy and/or medications. I primarily provide medication management for difficulties that warrant psychotropic intervention.
Welcome prospective clients! I am currently offering telepsychiatry visits only. I hope that I can help you progress to your optimal self and understand the complicated dynamics of your emotions. I have almost 11 years of experience treating patients. I would love to work on your strengths, weaknesses and help you gain insight into your overall sense of self. Depending on the individual, this may happen quickly or require time and patience. Based on your needs, we will determine if you will benefit from therapy and/or medications. I primarily provide medication management for difficulties that warrant psychotropic intervention.
Psychiatry Specialties Clinics Is here to serve you, your family, and our community. Each of us have Unique life experiences, cultures, beliefs, values, strengths, and difficulties. We strive to combine different treatment approaches because each of us also have our own unique requirements to be Happy and stay Healthy. Our goal is to understand, along with our patients, their illness, monitor their symptoms, and be involved in the shared decisions about their treatment. We empower our patients to stay healthy and happy.
Psychiatry Specialties Clinics Is here to serve you, your family, and our community. Each of us have Unique life experiences, cultures, beliefs, values, strengths, and difficulties. We strive to combine different treatment approaches because each of us also have our own unique requirements to be Happy and stay Healthy. Our goal is to understand, along with our patients, their illness, monitor their symptoms, and be involved in the shared decisions about their treatment. We empower our patients to stay healthy and happy.
![Photo of Bikash Sharma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54417674-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sharma is licensed in MD and VA. We are providing Telepsychiatry during this Pandemic situation to ensure safety of our patients- We also offer Initial Psychiatric Evaluation through Telepsychiatry within a week of your intake- Additional services we provide include: Esketamine ( Spravato) assisted psychotherapy for hard to treat ( treatment resistant) depression. If you are concerned about the cost, do not worry. We have been able to get Spravato approved through commercial insurance. Therefore the cost for Spravato is very affordable. We also offer Opioids and Alcohol addiciton treatment ( Vivitrol, Suboxone, Sublocade).
Dr. Sharma is licensed in MD and VA. We are providing Telepsychiatry during this Pandemic situation to ensure safety of our patients- We also offer Initial Psychiatric Evaluation through Telepsychiatry within a week of your intake- Additional services we provide include: Esketamine ( Spravato) assisted psychotherapy for hard to treat ( treatment resistant) depression. If you are concerned about the cost, do not worry. We have been able to get Spravato approved through commercial insurance. Therefore the cost for Spravato is very affordable. We also offer Opioids and Alcohol addiciton treatment ( Vivitrol, Suboxone, Sublocade).
![Photo of Nadimire Jules-Dole, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b22f3c24-b05d-495a-8b13-372cae268286/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help children, adolescents, and adults achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach. You deserve the best and I strive to work with you to provide exceptional service that is guided by science, compassion, and hope. I treat the whole person combining holistic techniques including nutritional supplements, herbal/plant-based medicine, laboratory testing, mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric modalities like psychotropic medication and psychotherapy.
I help children, adolescents, and adults achieve optimal mental health and well-being using a holistic approach. You deserve the best and I strive to work with you to provide exceptional service that is guided by science, compassion, and hope. I treat the whole person combining holistic techniques including nutritional supplements, herbal/plant-based medicine, laboratory testing, mind-body medicine with traditional psychiatric modalities like psychotropic medication and psychotherapy.
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While I was training at Johns Hopkins, I found that many people from outside Baltimore were traveling into the city to find excellent psychiatric care. After finishing residency, I started the Maryland Anxiety and Depression Treatment Center to increase access to care in Howard County. If you feel that life is hopeless or that you have lost your sense of well-being, I am happy to help you to know joy again.
While I was training at Johns Hopkins, I found that many people from outside Baltimore were traveling into the city to find excellent psychiatric care. After finishing residency, I started the Maryland Anxiety and Depression Treatment Center to increase access to care in Howard County. If you feel that life is hopeless or that you have lost your sense of well-being, I am happy to help you to know joy again.
![Photo of Kristin Dominguez, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c0f2079-f881-4b0e-a86d-7fd14b064f82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Dominguez
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Dominguez and I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing in the outpatient setting. Currently I am only seeing patients via telehealth. I take a comprehensive, holistic approach to determine an individualized treatment plan for each client.
My name is Dr. Dominguez and I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing in the outpatient setting. Currently I am only seeing patients via telehealth. I take a comprehensive, holistic approach to determine an individualized treatment plan for each client.
![Photo of Yang Roby, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81df34a4-72d3-42fd-b8c8-570ce69ca49a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Innerpeace Psychiatric Services, led by Dr. Yang Roby, a board-certified psychiatrist in Howard County, Maryland. With a Ph.D. in Human Genetics and neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University and extensive psychiatry residency training at the University of Iowa, she horns her expertise in treating various psychiatric conditions spanning five years of outpatient care. she integrates principles of evidence-based pharmaceutical treatments with her practice with Satir transformation therapy and mindfulness techniques, ensuring personalized, patient-centered care to guide individuals on their path to find inner peace.
Innerpeace Psychiatric Services, led by Dr. Yang Roby, a board-certified psychiatrist in Howard County, Maryland. With a Ph.D. in Human Genetics and neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University and extensive psychiatry residency training at the University of Iowa, she horns her expertise in treating various psychiatric conditions spanning five years of outpatient care. she integrates principles of evidence-based pharmaceutical treatments with her practice with Satir transformation therapy and mindfulness techniques, ensuring personalized, patient-centered care to guide individuals on their path to find inner peace.
![Photo of Kamal Bhatia - Brain Health Solution, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/157b7980-230c-43dd-9dcf-da04dc78716c/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I work with patients to formulate an individualized treatment plan. Timely recognition of symptoms and their treatment is the key to achieving an effective and a satisfactory response. I believe in providing compassionate, ethical and evidence-based care to patients.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I work with patients to formulate an individualized treatment plan. Timely recognition of symptoms and their treatment is the key to achieving an effective and a satisfactory response. I believe in providing compassionate, ethical and evidence-based care to patients.
![Photo of Susan Hagelman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6f2af33-11bd-4332-80d0-7385b078e140/1/320x400.png)
Don't wait to be treated. Susan can get you in within one week. Susan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s Degree in Nursing. She is passionate about providing holistic, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the lifespan with a variety of mental health conditions Susan possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families by using a Humanistic Approach while incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Don't wait to be treated. Susan can get you in within one week. Susan is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s Degree in Nursing. She is passionate about providing holistic, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to patients across the lifespan with a variety of mental health conditions Susan possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families by using a Humanistic Approach while incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
![Photo of Glory A Tataw - Glory Tataw, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/335834f3-08dc-4e67-bf86-d494170cae29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Glory Tataw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Accepting New Clients. Virtual and in person. 'No waiting list" Congratulations on this huge step on contacting and trusting Glory with your health. Seeking Mental Health could be a daunting task. Glory just want you to know that mprovement and living a quality life is possible. Just say yes to treatment and Glory will support you to achieve your goals. She will meet you where you are to help you become Who you want to be. Mental health is a continous journey take one step at a time. Glory will be wirh you each step of the way. Same day appt is possible. Schedule appt via website. Call for weekend and late evening appointments.
Accepting New Clients. Virtual and in person. 'No waiting list" Congratulations on this huge step on contacting and trusting Glory with your health. Seeking Mental Health could be a daunting task. Glory just want you to know that mprovement and living a quality life is possible. Just say yes to treatment and Glory will support you to achieve your goals. She will meet you where you are to help you become Who you want to be. Mental health is a continous journey take one step at a time. Glory will be wirh you each step of the way. Same day appt is possible. Schedule appt via website. Call for weekend and late evening appointments.
![Photo of Samirawit Hailemariam - Nigisiti Health and Wellness , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a93f45e-4448-4e08-9004-6a0dc3a75a89/1/320x400.png)
Nigisiti Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
With a dedicated commitment to mental health and wellness, over 15 years of experience as a registered nursing and as a advanced practice psychiatric provider, I offer my clients a holistic and patient-centered approach to mental health care. For those of us who are working to seek self-understanding and self-development, a support system is invaluable. I take pride in collaborating with folk on their mental health journey. I look forward to meeting you.
With a dedicated commitment to mental health and wellness, over 15 years of experience as a registered nursing and as a advanced practice psychiatric provider, I offer my clients a holistic and patient-centered approach to mental health care. For those of us who are working to seek self-understanding and self-development, a support system is invaluable. I take pride in collaborating with folk on their mental health journey. I look forward to meeting you.
We focus on improving overall health and wellness. We offer NeuroStar TMS - a safe and effective drug-free advanced method to treat depression. We also provide General Psychiatric medication management, Weigh less strategies, and Outpatient medication assisted treatment with Buprenorphine for substance use. Dr. Jermany offers counsel for Medical Cannabis. Call 443-272-1541 for an appointment (in-person and telemedicine).
We focus on improving overall health and wellness. We offer NeuroStar TMS - a safe and effective drug-free advanced method to treat depression. We also provide General Psychiatric medication management, Weigh less strategies, and Outpatient medication assisted treatment with Buprenorphine for substance use. Dr. Jermany offers counsel for Medical Cannabis. Call 443-272-1541 for an appointment (in-person and telemedicine).
![Photo of Mimi Tyson - Cervello-Wellness, LLC, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7485991-a72e-4edd-9e69-7e2c4a7eddba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cervello-Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE HAVE THE LANGUAGE INTERPRETER SERVICES FOR MULTIPLE LANGUAGES. Cervello-Wellness is a psychiatric care practice that uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Our specialty is devoted to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. We successfully treat patients with various mental conditions using a holistic approach by customizing a treatment plan.
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE HAVE THE LANGUAGE INTERPRETER SERVICES FOR MULTIPLE LANGUAGES. Cervello-Wellness is a psychiatric care practice that uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Our specialty is devoted to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. We successfully treat patients with various mental conditions using a holistic approach by customizing a treatment plan.
See more therapy options for Ellicott City
Nearby Searches for Ellicott City
- Catonsville
- Clarksville
- Columbia
- Elkridge
- Hanover
- Laurel
- Maryland City
- North Laurel
- Randallstown
- Severn
- Windsor Mill
- Woodlawn
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | CareFirst |
How Psychiatrists in Ellicott City, MD see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ellicott City?
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.