Psychiatrists in Barnesville, MD
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Maryland below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Brian West-Pearson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f3d3026-a648-4e9a-ad93-899c9ca31f0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian West-Pearson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Dr. West-Pearson has a 25-year career in nursing, urgent care, and addiction treatment with a mental health specialty in addiction medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, both from Wilmington University. He additionally obtained a Post Certification (PMHNP) and Masters in Public Administration from Wilkes University and Wilmington University, followed by a Masters in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner) and a Doctoral in Nursing Practice from Walden University.
Dr. West-Pearson has a 25-year career in nursing, urgent care, and addiction treatment with a mental health specialty in addiction medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, both from Wilmington University. He additionally obtained a Post Certification (PMHNP) and Masters in Public Administration from Wilkes University and Wilmington University, followed by a Masters in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner) and a Doctoral in Nursing Practice from Walden University.
![Photo of Barbara Eloisa Mai - Mai Center for Wellness and Energy Therapies, PhD, APRN, BC-P, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/536839cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mai Center for Wellness and Energy Therapies
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, BC-P
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Our veterans and their family members are a priority to me. I also welcome clients and their pets who have been dealing with chronic medical illness and pain. I have seen clients for many years who are managing addiction and related couple/family issues. I spent decades in hospital settings seeing clients with all sorts of grieving concerns. From health, lifestyle, legal, and stress management to end-of-life challenges, I am delighted to assist clients to approach situations in a hopeful, pragmatic, and strategic manner with the goal of achieving greater mind, body, and spirit health and wellness.
Our veterans and their family members are a priority to me. I also welcome clients and their pets who have been dealing with chronic medical illness and pain. I have seen clients for many years who are managing addiction and related couple/family issues. I spent decades in hospital settings seeing clients with all sorts of grieving concerns. From health, lifestyle, legal, and stress management to end-of-life challenges, I am delighted to assist clients to approach situations in a hopeful, pragmatic, and strategic manner with the goal of achieving greater mind, body, and spirit health and wellness.
![Photo of Ida Konchou - Tida Healthcare, M, H, N, P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c54ebd2-8f61-4a25-832d-fe0dd503bdb7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tida Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, M, H, N, P
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse Practitioner with more than 5 years of experience. I am licensed in the state of Maryland, and I have worked in different settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and group homes.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse Practitioner with more than 5 years of experience. I am licensed in the state of Maryland, and I have worked in different settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and group homes.
![Photo of Jennifer Sims, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75fbe74a-9a3d-4451-a3e7-dfc0e6de9c5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Meseret Asfaw, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c032e25f-98a2-4ae9-9f82-0fb9ff9d28ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Meseret Asfaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
Dr. Meseret Asfaw is a board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioner with more than two decades of nursing expertise. She earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Sacred Heart Catholic University. She also has a master's and bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from George Mason University and a post-master's degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan (PMHNP-BC) from Wilkes University in Pennsylvania.
Dr. Meseret Asfaw is a board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioner with more than two decades of nursing expertise. She earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Sacred Heart Catholic University. She also has a master's and bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from George Mason University and a post-master's degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner across the Lifespan (PMHNP-BC) from Wilkes University in Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Emem Ibanga, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08592b7d-750c-4334-bc78-2d031fb70441/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emem Ibanga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
A healthy mental state is essential in every stage of life – from childhood, adolescent, to adulthood. Throughout a lifetime, an individual can experience mental health issue at any point. Not only can this impact their mood and behavior, but can change their way of thinking, looking at life, and facing challenges. As a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner I specialize in treating patients with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and ADHD.
A healthy mental state is essential in every stage of life – from childhood, adolescent, to adulthood. Throughout a lifetime, an individual can experience mental health issue at any point. Not only can this impact their mood and behavior, but can change their way of thinking, looking at life, and facing challenges. As a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner I specialize in treating patients with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and ADHD.
![Photo of Dana Gorsche, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab2d8671-b28c-4df3-a18d-1c7a677bec8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Gorsche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Dr. Daná Gorsche DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Rush University School of Nursing. Daná has training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan with a special focus on adults, older adults, military, and first responders.
Dr. Daná Gorsche DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Rush University School of Nursing. Daná has training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan with a special focus on adults, older adults, military, and first responders.
![Photo of Meredith Barrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb674580-46c2-447c-86c8-ab453393b08e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Barrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling to get by each day? Do you feel like you keep hitting a wall? Or that no matter what you do, you cannot climb your way out of the hole? To struggle is to be human, but it is possible to find balance. It is possible to find contentment and joy. It is possible to discover release, to experience freedom from mental anguish. Unrelieved mental and emotional hurdles make our worlds small, and tend to propel us further and further into isolation. I am here to listen, and to help you achieve mental wellness by giving you the tools you need to regain control of your life.
Do you find yourself struggling to get by each day? Do you feel like you keep hitting a wall? Or that no matter what you do, you cannot climb your way out of the hole? To struggle is to be human, but it is possible to find balance. It is possible to find contentment and joy. It is possible to discover release, to experience freedom from mental anguish. Unrelieved mental and emotional hurdles make our worlds small, and tend to propel us further and further into isolation. I am here to listen, and to help you achieve mental wellness by giving you the tools you need to regain control of your life.
![Photo of Jaclyn Daugherty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7b35375-d220-4867-9942-c7ad2a19d1b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Jackie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of experience as a NP and 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in settings including residential programs, acute psychiatric hospitals for both children and adults, outpatient offices, and a crisis walk-in clinic. I graduated in 2011 from UMD with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, in 2012 from Shenandoah University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and in 2019 from Shenandoah University with a Master of Science in Nursing.
Hi, I'm Jackie. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of experience as a NP and 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in settings including residential programs, acute psychiatric hospitals for both children and adults, outpatient offices, and a crisis walk-in clinic. I graduated in 2011 from UMD with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, in 2012 from Shenandoah University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and in 2019 from Shenandoah University with a Master of Science in Nursing.
![Photo of Kristene Smith, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d20b9859-7b4c-44a9-a0ad-cfa4274643de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristene Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I diagnose, prescribe, treat, and manage patients with mental health illnesses such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD. I have over 15 years of nursing experience that includes medical-surgical, telemetry and psychiatry. I believe that one of my advantages as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is my extensive history and background within those various settings. I view each patient as an individual and take an integrative approach to treatment.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I diagnose, prescribe, treat, and manage patients with mental health illnesses such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD. I have over 15 years of nursing experience that includes medical-surgical, telemetry and psychiatry. I believe that one of my advantages as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is my extensive history and background within those various settings. I view each patient as an individual and take an integrative approach to treatment.
![Photo of Edward Gelber, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4063aecb-01ee-4373-a38e-df1bd62afa7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
![Photo of Paul Ackah, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3830f017-361d-4ddc-8b11-fd106bfaedbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health issues are conditions that affect a person's thinking, mood, behavior, and overall well-being. These issues can range from mild to severe and can impact a person's ability to function in their daily life. Some common mental health issues include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Mental health issues can also co-occur with other medical conditions, such as substance abuse or chronic pain. Meeting the needs of individuals with mental health issues can involve a range of approaches, including medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support from friends and family.
Mental health issues are conditions that affect a person's thinking, mood, behavior, and overall well-being. These issues can range from mild to severe and can impact a person's ability to function in their daily life. Some common mental health issues include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Mental health issues can also co-occur with other medical conditions, such as substance abuse or chronic pain. Meeting the needs of individuals with mental health issues can involve a range of approaches, including medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support from friends and family.
![Photo of Mimi Valencia Jimenez, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1395756d-6f4c-4774-8e58-7a50602094dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mimi Valencia Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Me llamo Mimi, soy Enfermero Practicante en Psiquiatría con experiencia en el tratamiento de pacientes de habla hispana. Durante mi carrera, me he dedicado a proporcionar atención psiquiátrica integral, culturalmente sensible y basada en la evidencia a individuos y familias. Mi objetivo es mejorar la salud mental y el bienestar de mis pacientes mediante el uso de terapias individualizadas y colaborativas.
Me llamo Mimi, soy Enfermero Practicante en Psiquiatría con experiencia en el tratamiento de pacientes de habla hispana. Durante mi carrera, me he dedicado a proporcionar atención psiquiátrica integral, culturalmente sensible y basada en la evidencia a individuos y familias. Mi objetivo es mejorar la salud mental y el bienestar de mis pacientes mediante el uso de terapias individualizadas y colaborativas.
![Photo of Nkechi Achinanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a49034a-7561-457d-8189-e896c9472325/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nkechi Achinanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in helping individuals and families with various mental health challenges. Do you sometimes feel like no one is listening or understanding when all you are trying to do is to communicate your needs? Do not be disturbed anymore as I am here for you. I am here to listen and help you understand that you are not alone in this journey. No matter what your situation is I can help you navigate through this journey. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you stressed out by the numerous demands of work, family, and relationships, I am here to help.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in helping individuals and families with various mental health challenges. Do you sometimes feel like no one is listening or understanding when all you are trying to do is to communicate your needs? Do not be disturbed anymore as I am here for you. I am here to listen and help you understand that you are not alone in this journey. No matter what your situation is I can help you navigate through this journey. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you stressed out by the numerous demands of work, family, and relationships, I am here to help.
![Photo of Andre Gligor, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47a91e9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Services available include psychopharmacology consultations, mental health evaluation and treatment, medication management, psychotherapy and second opinion consultations. Appointment availability is generally between the hours of 1 PM and 8 PM. Areas of special interest include sleep disorders, ADHD, Autism, OCD, Depression and PTSD. Additional services available are Behavior Therapy for OCD and counseling for families of persons with Autism. The goals of the practice are to provide help and solutions for problems that affect a client's quality of life and to help clients continue on life's journey without distress.
Services available include psychopharmacology consultations, mental health evaluation and treatment, medication management, psychotherapy and second opinion consultations. Appointment availability is generally between the hours of 1 PM and 8 PM. Areas of special interest include sleep disorders, ADHD, Autism, OCD, Depression and PTSD. Additional services available are Behavior Therapy for OCD and counseling for families of persons with Autism. The goals of the practice are to provide help and solutions for problems that affect a client's quality of life and to help clients continue on life's journey without distress.
![Photo of Mahlet Abebe - Insight Wellness Center , MSN, BSc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a7d3c49-d49f-4331-b428-aacd089ada06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Insight Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSc
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Are you seeking a safe space where your mental health concerns are met with understanding, empathy, and personalized attention? Look no further than Insight Wellness Center. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing you with the highest standard of compassionate care tailored to your unique need. We believe in the power of personalized treatment plans that honor your individual journey to healing. We're here to walk alongside you every step of the way, offering encouragement, validation, and genuine compassion as you navigate the ups and downs of your mental health journey.
Are you seeking a safe space where your mental health concerns are met with understanding, empathy, and personalized attention? Look no further than Insight Wellness Center. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing you with the highest standard of compassionate care tailored to your unique need. We believe in the power of personalized treatment plans that honor your individual journey to healing. We're here to walk alongside you every step of the way, offering encouragement, validation, and genuine compassion as you navigate the ups and downs of your mental health journey.
![Photo of Jimmy Chen, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b93854d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our approach is tailored to meet each client's need. We provide psychiatric assessment and medication management services. We also provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy for adults, adolescents, and children.
Our approach is tailored to meet each client's need. We provide psychiatric assessment and medication management services. We also provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy for adults, adolescents, and children.
![Photo of David Mwangi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56f80762-c941-45f2-9aa3-1b17c2231445/2/320x400.png)
David Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
![Photo of Dr. Biliki Douglas, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e59d0bc-f9d1-4b1d-a53b-e94c64e6f60f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Biliki Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20875
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
![Photo of Maggie Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3803e551-00ce-4f86-abd3-b62f22de4291/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maggie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Maggie Smith. I am a Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health & Family Medicine. I have 16 years experience as a Nurse, & 9 years as a Nurse Practitioner. I am excited to help you with any steps and goals you have for your mental health.
Welcome! I'm Maggie Smith. I am a Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health & Family Medicine. I have 16 years experience as a Nurse, & 9 years as a Nurse Practitioner. I am excited to help you with any steps and goals you have for your mental health.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Barnesville, MD
< 10
Psychiatrists in Barnesville, MD who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Barnesville, MD see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Barnesville?
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.