Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD
![Photo of Dympna Ndelle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f2d7629-4b16-4930-abfe-ae18941c770a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dympna Ndelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21223 (Online Only)
I have known loss, sadness, anxiety, and feelings/emotions I cannot understand, and I know how empowering it has been for me to get someone to help make sense of them. I can empower you to find solutions to some or all of these emotions and feelings you might be battling. I have been trained in and acquired specialized skills to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and a host of other mental and behavioral disorders for people of all ages.
I have known loss, sadness, anxiety, and feelings/emotions I cannot understand, and I know how empowering it has been for me to get someone to help make sense of them. I can empower you to find solutions to some or all of these emotions and feelings you might be battling. I have been trained in and acquired specialized skills to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and a host of other mental and behavioral disorders for people of all ages.
![Photo of Angela Awuah - Dominion healthcare services inc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e52cc987-275f-4053-b7e2-bddcffff0434/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dominion healthcare services inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21229
Dominion healthcare services provides telehealth and in person psychiatric services in Maryland . We are an all inclusive practice and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step in their journey to their better self
Dominion healthcare services provides telehealth and in person psychiatric services in Maryland . We are an all inclusive practice and welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life who are ready to take the next step in their journey to their better self
![Photo of Lindsay R Standeven, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5679e692-60cb-447f-bc27-9865dd16d7b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, with advanced training from Johns Hopkins Hospital. Earlier in my career I worked as the Clinical and Education Director at the Johns Hopkins Reproductive Mental Health Center, where I oversaw clinical staff and taught residents. I’m passionate about teaching and advocating for women’s mental health.
I’m a board-certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, with advanced training from Johns Hopkins Hospital. Earlier in my career I worked as the Clinical and Education Director at the Johns Hopkins Reproductive Mental Health Center, where I oversaw clinical staff and taught residents. I’m passionate about teaching and advocating for women’s mental health.
![Photo of Kenneth G Muthee, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df197c1-34a2-4e41-a736-b3d5053fb4d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kenneth G Muthee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
My name is Kenneth Muthee, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner dedicated to providing respectful, passionate and evidenced based care to my clients. I utilized a holistic approach in providing psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and treatment of disorders such as schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Panic attacks, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Eating disorders among others. I build therapeutic relationship with my clients and their families so that their needs can be well addressed. I partner with my clients to create individualized treatment plans that help those clients to achieve
My name is Kenneth Muthee, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner dedicated to providing respectful, passionate and evidenced based care to my clients. I utilized a holistic approach in providing psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and treatment of disorders such as schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Panic attacks, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Eating disorders among others. I build therapeutic relationship with my clients and their families so that their needs can be well addressed. I partner with my clients to create individualized treatment plans that help those clients to achieve
![Photo of Christopher Bertsch - Baltimore Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5385b3c5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Baltimore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Online Only)
FAST evaluations as early as same-day (when available) and we can work with ALL private insurance! Fast: Book on our website www.BaltimorePsychiatry.com 24/7. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with e-prescriptions. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with appointment lengths 50% longer than the typical public practice (and without added cost). Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can help you submit out-of-network claims, or offer you our low cash pricing - whichever is most beneficial for you.
FAST evaluations as early as same-day (when available) and we can work with ALL private insurance! Fast: Book on our website www.BaltimorePsychiatry.com 24/7. Convenient: Evening & weekend appointments with e-prescriptions. Genuine care: It's easy to make bold claims or promises and many practices do. Instead, we demonstrate our commitment to meeting our patient's needs with appointment lengths 50% longer than the typical public practice (and without added cost). Affordable: We accept some insurance in-network, we can help you submit out-of-network claims, or offer you our low cash pricing - whichever is most beneficial for you.
![Photo of Tywanna Hamilton, PFNP-DC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b39278e-59b4-4ccd-94bf-fd699f2c3b1f/1/320x400.png)
Tywanna Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PFNP-DC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210 (Online Only)
Tywanna Hamilton is a dual-certified Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner (PFNP-DC) who has over 9 years of experience treating a range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and PTSD. In this role, she performs comprehensive assessments offering patients an opportunity to discuss current symptoms and concerns about their mental health. Tywanna provides patients and their families with education about disease processes, working with teens, adults, and seniors. She is here to educate, treat, celebrate, encourage and assist her clients in growing into the person they have always desired.
Tywanna Hamilton is a dual-certified Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner (PFNP-DC) who has over 9 years of experience treating a range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and PTSD. In this role, she performs comprehensive assessments offering patients an opportunity to discuss current symptoms and concerns about their mental health. Tywanna provides patients and their families with education about disease processes, working with teens, adults, and seniors. She is here to educate, treat, celebrate, encourage and assist her clients in growing into the person they have always desired.
![Photo of Onyeanwuna Patrick Okpah - Transformation Healthcare INC, MS, CRNP-PM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed48355d-2900-4484-b632-6374d0821298/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformation Healthcare INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, CRNP-PM
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212
I'm Patrick Okpah, a proud alumnus of Frostburg State University in Maryland, where I specialized in psychiatric mental health. My life is enriched by the presence of a wonderful family, including a supportive and amazing wife. My purpose is to extend effective, high-quality care and support to individuals facing mental health challenges. I eagerly look forward to collaborating with you on your path to enhanced mental well-being.
I'm Patrick Okpah, a proud alumnus of Frostburg State University in Maryland, where I specialized in psychiatric mental health. My life is enriched by the presence of a wonderful family, including a supportive and amazing wife. My purpose is to extend effective, high-quality care and support to individuals facing mental health challenges. I eagerly look forward to collaborating with you on your path to enhanced mental well-being.
![Photo of Michelle Blackston, CRNP, FNP, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b22b1fe6-32cc-41c0-89f2-6eb9224c0101/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Blackston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, FNP, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
Catering to the adults and adolescents in the Baltimore Metropolitan area, we work with individuals suffering from mental health issues, as well as patients struggling with substance use disorders. Our mission is to provide professional, compassionate care for people battling mental health or substance use issues by employing a holistic approach to treatment.
Catering to the adults and adolescents in the Baltimore Metropolitan area, we work with individuals suffering from mental health issues, as well as patients struggling with substance use disorders. Our mission is to provide professional, compassionate care for people battling mental health or substance use issues by employing a holistic approach to treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Tai Ajani, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d310a600-fd6e-40e2-bee3-67d73a0fb9a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tai Ajani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202
Dr. Tai Ajani, DNP, PMHNP-BC is doctoral-prepared, dual board-certified in psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology nurse practitioner. She has more than 20 years of experience as a healthcare provider and has delivered high-quality health care to multicultural patients in outpatient and inpatient settings. At MindBodyPinnacle Health in Maryland, she offers holistic psychiatric care to individuals over the age 10 years.
Dr. Tai Ajani, DNP, PMHNP-BC is doctoral-prepared, dual board-certified in psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology nurse practitioner. She has more than 20 years of experience as a healthcare provider and has delivered high-quality health care to multicultural patients in outpatient and inpatient settings. At MindBodyPinnacle Health in Maryland, she offers holistic psychiatric care to individuals over the age 10 years.
![Photo of Dr. Martin Atta, DNP, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f57e7d0-d351-4fe2-a03c-150203217042/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Martin Atta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21216
At Compassion Behavioral health ,We offer customized treatment services for each of our clients. With this, we can ensure that our services are focused on addressing their unique needs and are encouraging their strengths .We have extensive experience treating clients with various psychiatric conditions including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, ADHD ,Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and neurocognitive disorders. Medication Management, Psychotherapy/counseling ,and addiction treatment.
At Compassion Behavioral health ,We offer customized treatment services for each of our clients. With this, we can ensure that our services are focused on addressing their unique needs and are encouraging their strengths .We have extensive experience treating clients with various psychiatric conditions including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, ADHD ,Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and neurocognitive disorders. Medication Management, Psychotherapy/counseling ,and addiction treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Jaymie Fields, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3795103-a969-4cfd-9061-8218cfe292b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jaymie Fields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Fields and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh & studied behavioral health and psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
Hello! My name is Dr. Fields and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh & studied behavioral health and psychiatry at the University of Virginia.
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![Photo of Lisa Johnson - Thrivewell Health, (Medication Management), MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dca0481-dd1f-4652-81ff-cc42d3ca6308/2/320x400.png)
Thrivewell Health, (Medication Management)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-c
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, sadness, shame or guilt? Do you find yourself battling anxiety, depression, or low self esteem? Struggling with life transitions (career counseling), lack of motivation and procrastination, or peer relationships? Thinking ADHD might be the cause? Medication management... Is this something you are considering or not? It's time to focus on your self-care and to discover the answers you've been searching for. Our ideal client is someone who is highly motivated to collaborate with us on their journey to mental health wellness. I’m here to offer you a compassionate approach to mental health.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, sadness, shame or guilt? Do you find yourself battling anxiety, depression, or low self esteem? Struggling with life transitions (career counseling), lack of motivation and procrastination, or peer relationships? Thinking ADHD might be the cause? Medication management... Is this something you are considering or not? It's time to focus on your self-care and to discover the answers you've been searching for. Our ideal client is someone who is highly motivated to collaborate with us on their journey to mental health wellness. I’m here to offer you a compassionate approach to mental health.
![Photo of Victorine Ngang - Unique Minds Behavioral Health Services, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48babd61-3646-4bdb-82da-2e5793368267/3/320x400.jpeg)
Unique Minds Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215
Victorine (Vicky) Ngang is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialized in treating patients with mental illnesses in and Maryland. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center. After working as a registered nurse in several settings, she decided to further her education with a specialty in mental health. Her inspiration was driven by the stigma associated with mental health illnesses in the communities. She is a community advocate of mental illness and her grit is to bridge the gap between physical and mental health as well as reduce the stigma about mental health.
Victorine (Vicky) Ngang is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialized in treating patients with mental illnesses in and Maryland. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center. After working as a registered nurse in several settings, she decided to further her education with a specialty in mental health. Her inspiration was driven by the stigma associated with mental health illnesses in the communities. She is a community advocate of mental illness and her grit is to bridge the gap between physical and mental health as well as reduce the stigma about mental health.
![Photo of Elizabeth Turin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dadce553-5b1d-4eda-bf36-eaa76b9e3f99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elizabeth Turin is a Christian Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who provides integrative treatment such as therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, diet, education, and coaching.
Dr. Elizabeth Turin is a Christian Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who provides integrative treatment such as therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, diet, education, and coaching.
![Photo of Pamela Pierce - PierCentral Wellness Solutions, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2f66128-172e-450a-a133-a426d2ccab0e/1/320x400.png)
PierCentral Wellness Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
As the sole provider here at PierCentral Wellness Solutions, Pam serves to facilitate a nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore options available for the treatment of symptoms that may impact social and/or occupational functioning. Pam is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has amassed an abundance of experience and education including a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Georgia College & State University, clinical experience with Wellstar Health System in Georgia, and 10 years of experience as a registered nurse working in the mental health setting.
As the sole provider here at PierCentral Wellness Solutions, Pam serves to facilitate a nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore options available for the treatment of symptoms that may impact social and/or occupational functioning. Pam is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has amassed an abundance of experience and education including a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Georgia College & State University, clinical experience with Wellstar Health System in Georgia, and 10 years of experience as a registered nurse working in the mental health setting.
![Photo of Chavonn Davidson-Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84840f46-08cf-4099-8c2f-3ed703aad1f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chavonn Davidson-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years’ experience in healthcare. I completed my graduate studies at Walden University (Minnesota), where I received a Master of Science in Nursing Degree with honors.
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years’ experience in healthcare. I completed my graduate studies at Walden University (Minnesota), where I received a Master of Science in Nursing Degree with honors.
![Photo of David Censits, MD, MAPP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fdcf4cb-5e50-4eda-9215-034ca87fc68c/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Censits is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2006. He earned his Master in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, graduated Medical School from Jefferson Medical College/Sydney Kimmel Medical College, and completed his Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Sleep Disorders Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
David Censits is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2006. He earned his Master in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, graduated Medical School from Jefferson Medical College/Sydney Kimmel Medical College, and completed his Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Sleep Disorders Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
![Photo of Chika Okonkwo, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a03c4b1e-65a1-4405-8708-ae9e8ff2b073/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our specialities include Mood disorder, Anxiety Disorder, ADHD, Personality Disorder, Psychotic Disorder, Eating Disorder,Traumatic related Disorder ,Substance Disorder and so on.
Our specialities include Mood disorder, Anxiety Disorder, ADHD, Personality Disorder, Psychotic Disorder, Eating Disorder,Traumatic related Disorder ,Substance Disorder and so on.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45c21613-617b-4f94-a4f3-d717a940dfe1/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/794dc08a-ccb2-4d08-bdd1-3b64f5f3eec4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21225
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, MSN, CRNP-PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8years of experience treating patients with mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global). she is the founder of Noble Health & Behavioral Cares Services, LLC. She provides mental health services for all age groups, all gender, and all ethnic groups. Her organization provides comprehensive services for persons experiencing behavioral and mental illness, in-person and telehealth.
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, MSN, CRNP-PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8years of experience treating patients with mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global). she is the founder of Noble Health & Behavioral Cares Services, LLC. She provides mental health services for all age groups, all gender, and all ethnic groups. Her organization provides comprehensive services for persons experiencing behavioral and mental illness, in-person and telehealth.
See more therapy options for Baltimore City County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD
300+
Average cost per session
$157
Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | Aetna |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Baltimore City County, MD see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Baltimore City 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.