Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c2979d-048f-4057-9ae7-27ad9c4ba479/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
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 Kandice King, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fa4e44b-9f9b-4ecd-a328-1761d8215e17/2/320x400.png)
Kandice King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with children and adults with various struggles like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral health concerns. She works with the patient to give them the reassurance and support they need to establish a medication regimen that helps them cope with different mental health concerns. She understands the importance of being one’s best self in today's world and works hard to customize the most effective individualized treatment plan.
Kandice King is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with children and adults with various struggles like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral health concerns. She works with the patient to give them the reassurance and support they need to establish a medication regimen that helps them cope with different mental health concerns. She understands the importance of being one’s best self in today's world and works hard to customize the most effective individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Fidelils Atianjoh, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11dbdf9f-f618-4245-938e-3a620ed59c40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fidelils Atianjoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Dr. Fidelis Atianjoh is a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He has a rich background in psychiatry both clinically and academically. He earned a PhD in Neuroscience (Howard University) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with special interest in Psychiatry. Fidelis is a professional with a passion to treat patients of all ages suffering from mental disorders. He is endowed with special attributes like respect, candor, smiles, patience, listening and collaboration which enhance his ability to build therapeutic relationships with his patients.
Dr. Fidelis Atianjoh is a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He has a rich background in psychiatry both clinically and academically. He earned a PhD in Neuroscience (Howard University) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with special interest in Psychiatry. Fidelis is a professional with a passion to treat patients of all ages suffering from mental disorders. He is endowed with special attributes like respect, candor, smiles, patience, listening and collaboration which enhance his ability to build therapeutic relationships with his patients.
![Photo of Dana Foster, NP, DEA, CDS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b31f10ea-831b-42be-80de-2c131ba77f9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, DEA, CDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401 (Online Only)
Ms. Foster is a Family Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides holistic mental-health care. She provides care to individuals seeking medication management to manage their mental health. Healthcare has been her profession of choice since she was an adolescent, that has blossomed into a career of great commitment and compassion for the health and wellness of others. Combining her medical practice and mental health practice, she has provided symptom relief for individuals, seeking care for the mind and body.
Ms. Foster is a Family Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides holistic mental-health care. She provides care to individuals seeking medication management to manage their mental health. Healthcare has been her profession of choice since she was an adolescent, that has blossomed into a career of great commitment and compassion for the health and wellness of others. Combining her medical practice and mental health practice, she has provided symptom relief for individuals, seeking care for the mind and body.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9436ffe7-254d-4ccf-8ad1-96f86f9b80f8/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Stephanie Streb, DNP, MHS, PMNHPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4779e946-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Streb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MHS, PMNHPBC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
No parent likes to see their child sad or suffering. I understand these concerns from my experience as a mental health practitioner and from being a parent. I am Stephanie Streb, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I am a psychiatric mental health provider who focuses on treating children, adolescents, and the family unit. I treat medication responsive psychiatric disorders (e.g. ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar, OCD). I am well liked for my ability to quickly and sincerely connect with, educate, and treat both children and parents, by providing medication and behavior management approaches which make a difference for the entire family.
No parent likes to see their child sad or suffering. I understand these concerns from my experience as a mental health practitioner and from being a parent. I am Stephanie Streb, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I am a psychiatric mental health provider who focuses on treating children, adolescents, and the family unit. I treat medication responsive psychiatric disorders (e.g. ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar, OCD). I am well liked for my ability to quickly and sincerely connect with, educate, and treat both children and parents, by providing medication and behavior management approaches which make a difference for the entire family.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c4bfe6a-2a4d-4250-9a0d-156ab42100c8/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9aa4652-8ebd-4a42-bab9-952c8bc3cd9d/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 Tina Safavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dc2c7f5-c15d-4567-a09c-514b68799608/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone who values their mental health and understands the importance of addressing any mental health concerns to maximize their overall well-being and success in their professional and personal lives. They may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues that are impacting their ability to function at their best. My ideal client is also someone who values discretion and privacy, as they may be hesitant to seek mental health support due to concerns about their reputation or professional standing. They appreciate a safe and supportive place.
My ideal client is someone who values their mental health and understands the importance of addressing any mental health concerns to maximize their overall well-being and success in their professional and personal lives. They may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues that are impacting their ability to function at their best. My ideal client is also someone who values discretion and privacy, as they may be hesitant to seek mental health support due to concerns about their reputation or professional standing. They appreciate a safe and supportive place.
![Photo of Siana Brown, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d424db25-bbf8-4d64-a17c-f3f7be34c360/1/320x400.jpeg)
Siana Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my special interests include neurodevelopmental disorders and I am committed to neurodivergent-affirming practices. My journey is both professional and personal, shaped by my own experiences with neurodevelopmental disorders and complex childhood trauma. Transparency is crucial in my approach, creating a safe space where clients feel seen and heard. I believe effective help comes from someone who understands from the inside out. Together, we explore underlying factors and develop strategies for healing and growth. I'm here to support your journey toward mental wellness!
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my special interests include neurodevelopmental disorders and I am committed to neurodivergent-affirming practices. My journey is both professional and personal, shaped by my own experiences with neurodevelopmental disorders and complex childhood trauma. Transparency is crucial in my approach, creating a safe space where clients feel seen and heard. I believe effective help comes from someone who understands from the inside out. Together, we explore underlying factors and develop strategies for healing and growth. I'm here to support your journey toward mental wellness!
![Photo of Jokotola Ayoajayi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eb21443-fb02-4c8d-a3ad-b01770f0bd98/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with a strong background in nursing and a passion for helping individuals achieve and maintain their optimal psychological well-being. With a Bachelor of Nursing from Coppin State University, where I was honored as the Dean awardee and graduated in the top 5% of my class in 2014, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my practice. Professional Credentials: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with a strong background in nursing and a passion for helping individuals achieve and maintain their optimal psychological well-being. With a Bachelor of Nursing from Coppin State University, where I was honored as the Dean awardee and graduated in the top 5% of my class in 2014, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my practice. Professional Credentials: Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
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![Photo of Nicholas Scotto - The Mood Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe2b91e2-4ae4-49b9-bc6a-d34a7846545b/1/320x400.png)
The Mood Center blends tried-and-true methods with cutting-edge science and wellness practices to create the ultimate healing experience. Our highly trained medical professionals deliver unsurpassed care tailor-made for each patient. We recognize the importance of restoring the architecture of the mind through medical treatment with spiritual and emotional therapeutic support. We specialize in treating Depression, MDD, TRD, Suicidal Ideation, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Chronic Pain, Migraines, and many other conditions.
The Mood Center blends tried-and-true methods with cutting-edge science and wellness practices to create the ultimate healing experience. Our highly trained medical professionals deliver unsurpassed care tailor-made for each patient. We recognize the importance of restoring the architecture of the mind through medical treatment with spiritual and emotional therapeutic support. We specialize in treating Depression, MDD, TRD, Suicidal Ideation, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Chronic Pain, Migraines, and many other conditions.
![Photo of Amoah Asante, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5c8a146-8d89-40c7-b3a7-b58b6d04a00f/1/320x400.png)
Amoah Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
My ideal client is an adult who is struggling with adult ADHD & depression. You may feel overwhelmed and struggle to complete tasks and you may experience a lack of motivation and energy that makes it challenging to engage in these tasks or daily activities. You might find it difficult to get out of bed or take care of basic tasks due to depressive symptoms.
![Photo of Maria Trent Corey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4af7998b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
**I am out of network with all insurances.** Hello and welcome to Elite Excellence Psychiatry. I am Dr. Maria Trent Corey, MD, a double board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I'm warm, friendly and I'm here to help you get through some of life's most difficult moments. I'm committed to educating you about your mental health, your treatment options, and ways to maintain your overall health and wellness. My goal is to empower you to achieve your most elite, excellent existence through consistent, balanced care of the mind, body, and spirit.
**I am out of network with all insurances.** Hello and welcome to Elite Excellence Psychiatry. I am Dr. Maria Trent Corey, MD, a double board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I'm warm, friendly and I'm here to help you get through some of life's most difficult moments. I'm committed to educating you about your mental health, your treatment options, and ways to maintain your overall health and wellness. My goal is to empower you to achieve your most elite, excellent existence through consistent, balanced care of the mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Jane Tsamoh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a420286b-e728-4b01-8735-147fd42f8403/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jane Tsamoh, PMHNP Jane Tsamoh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2019. She has Master of Science in Nursing. Jane conducts psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and treats individuals with psychiatric mental health disorders. She is a people's person who uses her interpersonal skills to develop good rapports and build collaborative therapeutic partnerships with individuals in treatment. Jane values and practices person-centered, trauma-informed, recovery-focused, culturally competent, and innovative care. In her spare time, Jane enjoys cooking and traveling.
Jane Tsamoh, PMHNP Jane Tsamoh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Maryland who has been practicing since 2019. She has Master of Science in Nursing. Jane conducts psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and treats individuals with psychiatric mental health disorders. She is a people's person who uses her interpersonal skills to develop good rapports and build collaborative therapeutic partnerships with individuals in treatment. Jane values and practices person-centered, trauma-informed, recovery-focused, culturally competent, and innovative care. In her spare time, Jane enjoys cooking and traveling.
![Photo of Sylvia Foster, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1be73cc4-fa54-45f1-8601-9ad9b5368605/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sylvia Foster is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing in both the private sector and the hospital setting for over 25 years. She graduated from the Medical College of Pennsylvania, now Drexel University, and went on to complete her residency in adult psychiatry and fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at the same institution. She makes use of her experience, along with her innate empathic approach to understand her patients as a whole, allowing for the most accurate diagnoses and treatment.
Dr. Sylvia Foster is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing in both the private sector and the hospital setting for over 25 years. She graduated from the Medical College of Pennsylvania, now Drexel University, and went on to complete her residency in adult psychiatry and fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at the same institution. She makes use of her experience, along with her innate empathic approach to understand her patients as a whole, allowing for the most accurate diagnoses and treatment.
![Photo of Jacqueline Burke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/808e100e-a372-4870-8dc4-bc62d71fe6e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you lead your healthiest and happiest life. Together, we can find a solution that fits your needs, your lifestyle and your personal goals. I work with children, teenagers and young adults to help them overcome mental health challenges so that they can accomplish their dreams. Sometimes we have all the tools but we can't open the toolbox. Medication can sometimes be the key that helps us unlock the box.
My goal is to help you lead your healthiest and happiest life. Together, we can find a solution that fits your needs, your lifestyle and your personal goals. I work with children, teenagers and young adults to help them overcome mental health challenges so that they can accomplish their dreams. Sometimes we have all the tools but we can't open the toolbox. Medication can sometimes be the key that helps us unlock the box.
![Photo of Tamia Musgrave - Five Star Integrated Health Services, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bbbb87c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Five Star Integrated Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!....Five-Star Integrated Health Services is dedicated to helping people manage their mental health. Tamia Musgrave, the founder of Five-Star Integrated Health Services, has over 27 years of clinical experience in the healthcare industry. As a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), she utilizes a patient-centered approach in treating individuals and families. Our mission is to motivate and empower people to reach their optimal health wellness through an individualized, patient-centered approach.
![Photo of Oluwatoyin Adekeye, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00859e72-06d5-48fc-9444-63b73f6639a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Oluwatoyin Adekeye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Dr. Oluwatoyin Adekeye, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She received her Post-Doctoral Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Brandman University. She also received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. She has double Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Biology from Howard University. Dr. Adekeye has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine and Pain Management.
Dr. Oluwatoyin Adekeye, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She received her Post-Doctoral Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Brandman University. She also received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. She has double Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Biology from Howard University. Dr. Adekeye has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine and Pain Management.
![Photo of Naomi Constantine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9de0311d-61bf-467b-bd09-c61b73332ede/2/320x400.jpeg)
Naomi Constantine is a psychiactric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in mental health disorders across the lifespan. She granduated from the University of Cinncinatti with a post graduate certification in mental health in 2019. She graduated from the University of Maryland with a Masters of Science degree, family nurse prac- titioner in 2007. In addition, she has spent fourteen years in family practice, which enhances her knowledge of the mind-body connection and how underlying physical illness is intertwined with the mental health of an individual. She is a native Marylander and enjoys cooking and gardening.
Naomi Constantine is a psychiactric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in mental health disorders across the lifespan. She granduated from the University of Cinncinatti with a post graduate certification in mental health in 2019. She graduated from the University of Maryland with a Masters of Science degree, family nurse prac- titioner in 2007. In addition, she has spent fourteen years in family practice, which enhances her knowledge of the mind-body connection and how underlying physical illness is intertwined with the mental health of an individual. She is a native Marylander and enjoys cooking and gardening.
See more therapy options for Annapolis
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD
60+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | ADHD |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
79% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
77% | Aetna |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Annapolis, MD see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Annapolis?
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.