Psychiatrists in Ijamsville, MD
![Photo of Caroline Anderson, MSN, CRNP-, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f59216c-c867-4987-8208-9746e1fae040/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP-, PMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ijamsville, MD 21754
If you have ever felt like you tried everything and that therapy just isn't enough, I welcome you to our practice. You may already have a medication that has worked in the past, or maybe you just want to talk through some new options. If you are hesitant, I am committed to providing care to those who seek medications but also for those who may be skeptical and hesitant. I enjoy working with anyone struggling with relationship issues, work/life balance, and life transitions/stressors as well as those with mood/anxiety disorders and previous trauma.
If you have ever felt like you tried everything and that therapy just isn't enough, I welcome you to our practice. You may already have a medication that has worked in the past, or maybe you just want to talk through some new options. If you are hesitant, I am committed to providing care to those who seek medications but also for those who may be skeptical and hesitant. I enjoy working with anyone struggling with relationship issues, work/life balance, and life transitions/stressors as well as those with mood/anxiety disorders and previous trauma.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Nguyen Faith, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cfe8959-5efc-4c8e-925f-76bbc5cdd624/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nguyen Faith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
As a board certified in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have passionately dedicated my clinical career to take care of individuals across lifespan. My specialty including but not limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood related disorders . I provide client-based psychiatric evaluation, psychosocial intervention, care coordination, referrals, and medication management for individuals from age 6 and older. In-person or telehealth appointments available. Call us for appointment within the week! Visit us at zenbeespsychiatry.com
![Photo of Ty Fagbenro - LivingWaters Integrative Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49de17d7-7fe5-4504-9023-7f66e8f2d374/2/320x400.jpeg)
LivingWaters Integrative Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703
Are you feeling sad or lonely lately? Do you have problems with anxiety or issues with self-esteem? If you do, you may benefit from the services of our health professionals. They are well-experienced in providing behavioral health support for various disorders which may include medications and therapy sessions. This journey is client-driven and we feel honored when clients invite us to be a part of their journey to renew and restore their mental health. We will not only treat your current and existing mental health conditions, but we will also educate you on different ways to prevent other mental health conditions from occurring.
Are you feeling sad or lonely lately? Do you have problems with anxiety or issues with self-esteem? If you do, you may benefit from the services of our health professionals. They are well-experienced in providing behavioral health support for various disorders which may include medications and therapy sessions. This journey is client-driven and we feel honored when clients invite us to be a part of their journey to renew and restore their mental health. We will not only treat your current and existing mental health conditions, but we will also educate you on different ways to prevent other mental health conditions from occurring.
![Photo of Chinyere Ugwanyi - Newlife Aspiration Behavioural Health Services, PMHNP, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d32979b8-e6d1-49e3-8688-1cfb4d23218c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Newlife Aspiration Behavioural Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704
Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 14 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degree of mental illness. She has expertise in treating adolescent and adult patients.
Chinyere is a Board Certified licensed, Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a BSN degree from Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, an MSN degree from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA. Chinyere has 14 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse and 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, providing psychiatric evaluation, treatment and medication management to patients with varying degree of mental illness. She has expertise in treating adolescent and adult patients.
![Photo of Stacey Lambour, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b77014c6-7938-4dae-954f-ad94f5966710/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Lambour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Virginia. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluation, ongoing individual therapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation and monitoring to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you customize a plan that enables you to find lasting change. This plan may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Ultimately, developing a collaborative treatment plan with you is the best way to meet your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Virginia. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluation, ongoing individual therapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation and monitoring to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you customize a plan that enables you to find lasting change. This plan may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Ultimately, developing a collaborative treatment plan with you is the best way to meet your needs.
![Photo of Ozan Toy, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91696325-7ad4-4a78-aa9f-d23c6ef09c5d/1/320x400.png)
Ideal client is someone who desires a partner in addressing their mental health. I view the patient-doctor relationship as a shared decision making process that will facilitate an individually tailored approach to achieve optimal mental health. I use a holistic approach and consider biological, psychological, and social aspects of a client's life to determine the best treatment paradigms. Whether you are looking for a skilled talk therapist or need assistance with medications, I am confident that I can help you achieve your goals.
Ideal client is someone who desires a partner in addressing their mental health. I view the patient-doctor relationship as a shared decision making process that will facilitate an individually tailored approach to achieve optimal mental health. I use a holistic approach and consider biological, psychological, and social aspects of a client's life to determine the best treatment paradigms. Whether you are looking for a skilled talk therapist or need assistance with medications, I am confident that I can help you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Glory A Tataw - Glory Tataw, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/335834f3-08dc-4e67-bf86-d494170cae29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Glory Tataw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Accepting New Clients. Virtual and in person. 'No waiting list" Congratulations on this huge step on contacting and trusting Glory with your health. Seeking Mental Health could be a daunting task. Glory just want you to know that mprovement and living a quality life is possible. Just say yes to treatment and Glory will support you to achieve your goals. She will meet you where you are to help you become Who you want to be. Mental health is a continous journey take one step at a time. Glory will be wirh you each step of the way. Same day appt is possible. Schedule appt via website. Call for weekend and late evening appointments.
Accepting New Clients. Virtual and in person. 'No waiting list" Congratulations on this huge step on contacting and trusting Glory with your health. Seeking Mental Health could be a daunting task. Glory just want you to know that mprovement and living a quality life is possible. Just say yes to treatment and Glory will support you to achieve your goals. She will meet you where you are to help you become Who you want to be. Mental health is a continous journey take one step at a time. Glory will be wirh you each step of the way. Same day appt is possible. Schedule appt via website. Call for weekend and late evening appointments.
![Photo of Mary Ann Dameron, MSN, FNP, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9bfba64-756c-4c7a-bae6-c2e3184d26fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Ann Dameron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
We are dedicated to enhancing mental health care access in Frederick County and surrouning areas. We promote mental wellness, providing integrated care and support for all age groups. Your journey to well-being begins here.
We are dedicated to enhancing mental health care access in Frederick County and surrouning areas. We promote mental wellness, providing integrated care and support for all age groups. Your journey to well-being begins here.
![Photo of Evelyn K Ogendi, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5163b39b-d4d0-49e9-92a2-2ecf68244d00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evelyn K Ogendi
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 Melissa Ward, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/183bfc74-6854-4baa-a2fd-0eeb8c5e3e72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
Melissa Ward, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner is originally from Ohio, where she attended Ohio University and obtained her bachelors in Psychology. She then relocated to Charleston, SC and attended the Medical University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelors in Nursing. Upon completion of her nursing degree she worked on the oncology unit at University of Maryland Medical Center.
![Photo of Mone't Ince-Amara, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb278bff-b546-498a-8692-824e28df0018/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mone't Ince-Amara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21703 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Struggling with depression, anxiety, body image issues, low self-esteem, or the complexities of trauma? You're not alone. The journey to recovery begins with a single, courageous step. Imagine each day as a step toward healing. What if you had a compassionate guide, someone who truly understands your burdens and is dedicated to helping you overcome them? Together, we can navigate the path to recovery, addressing the roots of your struggles and fostering genuine, lasting well-being.
Accepting New Patients. Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Struggling with depression, anxiety, body image issues, low self-esteem, or the complexities of trauma? You're not alone. The journey to recovery begins with a single, courageous step. Imagine each day as a step toward healing. What if you had a compassionate guide, someone who truly understands your burdens and is dedicated to helping you overcome them? Together, we can navigate the path to recovery, addressing the roots of your struggles and fostering genuine, lasting well-being.
![Photo of Crystal Martinez - Zen Mind, PMHNP, BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cda9722-3493-4ad0-8946-bee25e543675/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zen Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Crystal Martinez and I want to help you be at your best! I have an affinity for Addictions, infertility, mood and anxiety disorders.
Hello, my name is Crystal Martinez and I want to help you be at your best! I have an affinity for Addictions, infertility, mood and anxiety disorders.
![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 Joe Love, CRNP-PM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35344dea-53ec-4204-b896-cf7500346b86/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes just making it to your first appointment is a major victory! Anxiety, fear, and wondering if you are going crazy are everyday life. Perhaps your goal is to survive another day, but what if you can thrive someday? What would it look like if panic no longer stops you? What if depression no longer keeps you in bed? During our time together we celebrate the small victories, slow down the racing thoughts, stop nightmares, find words to explain what you feel, find joy, and so much more.
Sometimes just making it to your first appointment is a major victory! Anxiety, fear, and wondering if you are going crazy are everyday life. Perhaps your goal is to survive another day, but what if you can thrive someday? What would it look like if panic no longer stops you? What if depression no longer keeps you in bed? During our time together we celebrate the small victories, slow down the racing thoughts, stop nightmares, find words to explain what you feel, find joy, and so much more.
![Photo of Mariah Vorce, MSN, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c857a0fb-aa02-4e11-b32f-4dda100872b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariah Vorce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701 (Online Only)
Mariah is a Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Mariah specializes in mental health and works with individuals ranging from 4 years old to 21 years old. She provides medication management for those with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, mood disorders, eating disorders, anger, OCD, ODD, trauma, and PTSD.
Mariah is a Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Mariah specializes in mental health and works with individuals ranging from 4 years old to 21 years old. She provides medication management for those with ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, mood disorders, eating disorders, anger, OCD, ODD, trauma, and PTSD.
![Photo of josyane M Kengni - Kema Health Services, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2133ffdf-d502-4436-a2dd-38ca4f836ebc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kema Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Josyane Kengni, CRNP, PMH is a board-certified nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. She has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in nursing with years of nursing experience in a variety of settings. Our prescriber will work with you in the way that works best for you because her outcome is to find the right solution to your problem. Josyane draws on her experience as a medical nurse to rule out any possible medical conditions that could be affecting a patient’s mental health before treating a psychiatric condition. "Being our patient means that you have found the right fit"
Josyane Kengni, CRNP, PMH is a board-certified nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. She has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in nursing with years of nursing experience in a variety of settings. Our prescriber will work with you in the way that works best for you because her outcome is to find the right solution to your problem. Josyane draws on her experience as a medical nurse to rule out any possible medical conditions that could be affecting a patient’s mental health before treating a psychiatric condition. "Being our patient means that you have found the right fit"
![Photo of Ic Health Services - IC Health Services Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7beb3543-5b82-46c4-9003-4227c7809363/1/320x400.png)
IC Health Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-837-7511
Have you been feeling down lately? Have you been diagnosed with a behavioral health condition but stopped getting treatments? We are here to give you the support that you need. At IC Health Services, Inc., we take a holistic approach in our services by providing various forms of treatments to address a variety of mental and behavioral health problems and to meet the unique needs of each client. Want to learn more about our practice? Feel free to give us a call at 443-837-7511
![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 Laurette Abunaw, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/542f712f-bf5d-46bf-98ff-6c75f615afae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurette Abunaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21703
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience as a nurse and nurse practitioner working in a variety of clinical settings. With this diverse background, I have served as a contributing nurse practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric mental health services. Are you seeking a supportive space to explore your mental health and work towards a fulfilling life? I am dedicated to providing a warm, empathetic environment where you can find the support and guidance you need when dealing with emotional disturbances.
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience as a nurse and nurse practitioner working in a variety of clinical settings. With this diverse background, I have served as a contributing nurse practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric mental health services. Are you seeking a supportive space to explore your mental health and work towards a fulfilling life? I am dedicated to providing a warm, empathetic environment where you can find the support and guidance you need when dealing with emotional disturbances.
See more therapy options for Ijamsville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ijamsville, MD
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ijamsville, MD who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Dual Diagnosis |
50% | Child |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Ijamsville, MD see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ijamsville?
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.