Psychiatrists in Frederick, MD
![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 Dana Nearman, PMHNP, BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9c83b0e-110b-4b40-94de-0d778e1feec4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dana is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with special interest in child and adolescent behavioral health. She has over 17 years of professional nursing experience in a variety of settings including Medicine and Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. She completed an internship at Johns Hopkins Children's Mental Health Center. In addition to her extensive clinical experience, Dana also has an outstanding academic background that includes two Bachelor's degrees (a BS in Psychology and a BSN in Nursing) and a Master of Science in Nursing.
Dana is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with special interest in child and adolescent behavioral health. She has over 17 years of professional nursing experience in a variety of settings including Medicine and Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. She completed an internship at Johns Hopkins Children's Mental Health Center. In addition to her extensive clinical experience, Dana also has an outstanding academic background that includes two Bachelor's degrees (a BS in Psychology and a BSN in Nursing) and a Master of Science in Nursing.
![Photo of Ritu Goel - Maryland Wellness and Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b55e30a-e20e-4019-9b04-7546e53593c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maryland Wellness and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Have you been treated for these symptoms and have experienced failed medication trials? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs.
![Photo of Oluwatosin O Arowosegbe - Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC, MSN, CRNP, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63b73814-c891-41fc-a326-507b02be29c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, APNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts, eating disorder, substance abuse, compulsions, and many more? If yes, it’s time to seek professional help. Would you like to participate in meaningful guided interactions? I believe that our regular one-on-one detailed psychiatric evaluation is what you need. Reflect on it. You are in the best position to assess your needs. At Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC, Our goal is to find the cause of a problem and find a way to neutralize its influence on our clients.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts, eating disorder, substance abuse, compulsions, and many more? If yes, it’s time to seek professional help. Would you like to participate in meaningful guided interactions? I believe that our regular one-on-one detailed psychiatric evaluation is what you need. Reflect on it. You are in the best position to assess your needs. At Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC, Our goal is to find the cause of a problem and find a way to neutralize its influence on our clients.
![Photo of Maria Mbeboh, PMHNNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28f58735-1493-427e-92b5-27bba662520b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Mbeboh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
Dr Maria Mbeboh has extensive experience in nursing care. She is driven by her thirst for knowledge and dedication to delivering exceptional care. She is passionate about assisting others and has been actively involved in community service through non-profit organizations. She has taken part in medical missions abroad, delivering healthcare services to underserved populations with various medical/mental health problems. She believes in healthy therapeutic relationships between the provider and client to deliver higher quality care and make informed shared decisions. She is committed to examining psycho-social factors that affect the
Dr Maria Mbeboh has extensive experience in nursing care. She is driven by her thirst for knowledge and dedication to delivering exceptional care. She is passionate about assisting others and has been actively involved in community service through non-profit organizations. She has taken part in medical missions abroad, delivering healthcare services to underserved populations with various medical/mental health problems. She believes in healthy therapeutic relationships between the provider and client to deliver higher quality care and make informed shared decisions. She is committed to examining psycho-social factors that affect the
![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 Enjoh Yokwan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37e1dca3-122e-461f-8b59-c267b26e41b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Enjoh Yokwan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
Enjoh Yokwan is a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive nursing experience spanning diverse healthcare settings. Specializing in telehealth services, Enjoh delivers exceptional care to patients in Maryland.
Enjoh Yokwan is a certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive nursing experience spanning diverse healthcare settings. Specializing in telehealth services, Enjoh delivers exceptional care to patients in Maryland.
![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 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 Evelyn K Ogendi - Brookfield Health services, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5163b39b-d4d0-49e9-92a2-2ecf68244d00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brookfield Health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
At Brookfield health services, we seek to promote excellent, evidence based and compassionate care to every client we serve. We provide medication management and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health disorders i.e Anxiety, Bipolar, Major depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, ADHD, substance use disorders among others. We complete detailed assessments, evaluations and diagnosis before prescribing medication. We have extensive mental health experience in a variety of settings. Our primary goal is to partner and collaborate with clients to improve/restore levels of functioning. Contact use today for a free 15-minute consultation.
At Brookfield health services, we seek to promote excellent, evidence based and compassionate care to every client we serve. We provide medication management and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health disorders i.e Anxiety, Bipolar, Major depression, PTSD, Schizophrenia, ADHD, substance use disorders among others. We complete detailed assessments, evaluations and diagnosis before prescribing medication. We have extensive mental health experience in a variety of settings. Our primary goal is to partner and collaborate with clients to improve/restore levels of functioning. Contact use today for a free 15-minute consultation.
![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.
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![Photo of Mandi Rhone - Myndpathpsychiatry and Medical Associates, MSN, PMHNP , FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1333c7b-b819-4535-a93e-304fd027fbee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Myndpathpsychiatry and Medical Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , FNP-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
My name is Mandi Rhone. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I am eager to assist you in managing your mental healthcare needs and will play a key role in working with you to lower your stress and anxiety. It is my duty in Psychiatry to understand my patients mental health issues on a personal and emotional level. I bring a diverse range of experience as a clinician over the past 16 years approximately five of which has been in a more autonomous role as a Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner and more recently in Psychiatry.
My name is Mandi Rhone. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I am eager to assist you in managing your mental healthcare needs and will play a key role in working with you to lower your stress and anxiety. It is my duty in Psychiatry to understand my patients mental health issues on a personal and emotional level. I bring a diverse range of experience as a clinician over the past 16 years approximately five of which has been in a more autonomous role as a Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner and more recently in Psychiatry.
![Photo of Chloe Nichols, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/783215df-c032-41b7-8548-4a1ad391459b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Nichols
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health and primary care nurse practitioner. If you are seeking a compassionate mental health provider who takes time to listen and believes in the importance of the therapeutic relationship, then I may be the provider for you. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, a substance use disorder or other mental health concern, I look forward to getting to know you and working together to help you achieve your goals and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I am a psychiatric mental health and primary care nurse practitioner. If you are seeking a compassionate mental health provider who takes time to listen and believes in the importance of the therapeutic relationship, then I may be the provider for you. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, a substance use disorder or other mental health concern, I look forward to getting to know you and working together to help you achieve your goals and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19de9afd-09ee-4ca7-976b-88973e6e11b0/2/320x400.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 Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce47fcc3-2615-4c08-8b5e-8dc24a8c1868/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
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 Gladstone Psychiatry And Wellness Llc - Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness, LCSW, MD, CRNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e83d971d-ac07-40a7-9034-e953a0201e48/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatrist, LCSW, MD, CRNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Mental Health Care – For Everyone. At Gladstone Psychiatry, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care. We use an individualized approach to help clients get their lives back on track. Our treatment approach is more than just medicine. Our psychiatrists work with you to provide evidence-based treatments, unique to your lifestyle and challenges. We believe in a holistic view of medicine and provide personalized care to each patient, while making it affordable, inclusive and easy to access.
Mental Health Care – For Everyone. At Gladstone Psychiatry, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care. We use an individualized approach to help clients get their lives back on track. Our treatment approach is more than just medicine. Our psychiatrists work with you to provide evidence-based treatments, unique to your lifestyle and challenges. We believe in a holistic view of medicine and provide personalized care to each patient, while making it affordable, inclusive and easy to access.
![Photo of Jackie Dougherty - Brunswick Psychiatry and Wellness Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb75ae00-3f99-4d4e-93f4-f4987aadac3c/1/320x400.png)
Brunswick Psychiatry and Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
We are a team of holistic providers; holistic in that we view people as a whole, not a list of symptoms or boxes to check off. We take pride in working with our patients to find a plan of care that they are comfortable with. We hope that you will consider us approachable and flexible. Our nurse practitioners are working mothers, Frederick County residents and Maryland natives. We understand the demands of raising children and growing families in a post-COVID world and can relate to your worries and needs on a personal level.
We are a team of holistic providers; holistic in that we view people as a whole, not a list of symptoms or boxes to check off. We take pride in working with our patients to find a plan of care that they are comfortable with. We hope that you will consider us approachable and flexible. Our nurse practitioners are working mothers, Frederick County residents and Maryland natives. We understand the demands of raising children and growing families in a post-COVID world and can relate to your worries and needs on a personal level.
![Photo of Francisca Obodo, CRNPPMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b28940bb-1068-4e61-974e-5b5eaecf1663/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in delivering competent and compassionate care with a nursing career spanning over 13 years. My practice philosophy centers on treating the patient as whole and not just based on their symptoms. I believe in empowering my patients to be active participants in matters concerning their own health and tailoring their treatment plans according to their own preference and individual needs and informed by evidence-based practice guidelines.
I am board certified dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in delivering competent and compassionate care with a nursing career spanning over 13 years. My practice philosophy centers on treating the patient as whole and not just based on their symptoms. I believe in empowering my patients to be active participants in matters concerning their own health and tailoring their treatment plans according to their own preference and individual needs and informed by evidence-based practice guidelines.
![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 Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/777a1f8f-1053-44d8-8a43-e5088498db4d/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
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.