Psychiatrists in Lutherville, MD
![Photo of Paul Giannandrea, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7ee75d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
For 20 years, I was a full-time faculty member at the University of Maryland, School of Medicine teaching medical students and training residents. I have 32 years experience in private practice assisting persons with substance use disorders, major psychiatric disturbances and behavioral addictions, including sexual addiction and gambling. As a Board certified psychiatrist in Addiction Medicine, Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatrist, I deal with the negative consequences of a variety of disorders alone and in combination, as well as relationship issues not related to addictions. I am particularly trained and experienced in the use of medication for these problems and their symptoms.
For 20 years, I was a full-time faculty member at the University of Maryland, School of Medicine teaching medical students and training residents. I have 32 years experience in private practice assisting persons with substance use disorders, major psychiatric disturbances and behavioral addictions, including sexual addiction and gambling. As a Board certified psychiatrist in Addiction Medicine, Addiction Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatrist, I deal with the negative consequences of a variety of disorders alone and in combination, as well as relationship issues not related to addictions. I am particularly trained and experienced in the use of medication for these problems and their symptoms.
![Photo of Kristen Nagl, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3076f557-b45c-4111-b2d7-06c4d60df4d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated mental health provider and I have completed a fellowship at the University of Maryland focusing on children and adolescent psychiatry. Throughout my career, I have gained invaluable personal experience working with children diagnosed with autism, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. In my practice, I adopt a holistic approach to care, taking into consideration the individual's past traumas and how they impact their overall functioning, relationships, and well-being. By addressing these underlying factors, I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate support to each child and adolescent under my care.
I am a dedicated mental health provider and I have completed a fellowship at the University of Maryland focusing on children and adolescent psychiatry. Throughout my career, I have gained invaluable personal experience working with children diagnosed with autism, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. In my practice, I adopt a holistic approach to care, taking into consideration the individual's past traumas and how they impact their overall functioning, relationships, and well-being. By addressing these underlying factors, I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate support to each child and adolescent under my care.
![Photo of Dr. Enrique B. Olivares, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c2fcd8b-1d41-427a-8d38-1aa776a4c72c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a University of Maryland trained psychiatrist, board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma issues, schizophrenia, substance use disorders and conditions associated to immigration. I treat individuals 18 years and older, and 16 years and older with parental permission. During my 23+ years in practice, I have worked at state psychiatric facilities, outpatient mental health centers, as a Chief Psychiatrist for an academic-affiliated medical center and as a Medical Director for a nationwide behavioral health company.
I am a University of Maryland trained psychiatrist, board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma issues, schizophrenia, substance use disorders and conditions associated to immigration. I treat individuals 18 years and older, and 16 years and older with parental permission. During my 23+ years in practice, I have worked at state psychiatric facilities, outpatient mental health centers, as a Chief Psychiatrist for an academic-affiliated medical center and as a Medical Director for a nationwide behavioral health company.
![Photo of Gabriel Obu, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10259833-1e3d-449e-8b3f-2a889def3d3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriel Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville, MD 21093 (Online Only)
I diagnose and treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep disorder, PTSD, Social anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, and offer laboratory testing to rule out any organic cause. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. I am currently accepting new patients from Texas, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maryland, and New Mexico. You can self-schedule at I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
I diagnose and treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep disorder, PTSD, Social anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, and offer laboratory testing to rule out any organic cause. No Waitlist. Appointments are within 24-48 hours. I am currently accepting new patients from Texas, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maryland, and New Mexico. You can self-schedule at I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My treatment philosophy is rooted in a holistic, integrative, and collaborative approach to achieving my patient holistic goals.
![Photo of Kevin D. Strouse - Kevin D. Strouse, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f344db2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and a Johns Hopkins faculty member with a private practice in Baltimore at Green Spring Station. I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and OCD, for adults, ages 18 and older. I provide evidence-based medication management and personalized therapy. I have a comprehensive approach to patient care that focuses on understanding the whole person. Life events, temperament, behavior, and biology are carefully considered when formulating a diagnosis and individualized treatment plan. Telemedicine appointments are an option via a secure and confidential video platform.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and a Johns Hopkins faculty member with a private practice in Baltimore at Green Spring Station. I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and OCD, for adults, ages 18 and older. I provide evidence-based medication management and personalized therapy. I have a comprehensive approach to patient care that focuses on understanding the whole person. Life events, temperament, behavior, and biology are carefully considered when formulating a diagnosis and individualized treatment plan. Telemedicine appointments are an option via a secure and confidential video platform.
![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
Lutherville, MD 21093
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 Anastasia L Tusa, CRNP-P, CRNP-AG, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e86e425f-dc42-4ecc-b6c5-86332174d192/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anastasia L Tusa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-P, CRNP-AG
Verified Verified
Lutherville, MD 21094
Ms. Tusa provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to adolescents and adults. Her approach is conservative and evidence-based and she stays current with the latest developments in psychiatry and neuroscience. Research indicates that the best treatment response occurs when medication is combined with therapy, and as a nurse practitioner, she is very comfortable with, and believes strongly in, a multidisciplinary approach.
Ms. Tusa provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to adolescents and adults. Her approach is conservative and evidence-based and she stays current with the latest developments in psychiatry and neuroscience. Research indicates that the best treatment response occurs when medication is combined with therapy, and as a nurse practitioner, she is very comfortable with, and believes strongly in, a multidisciplinary approach.
![Photo of Christine Tran-Boynes, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/150b4ab8-9836-470d-9d8c-e57ef34a2a29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Tran-Boynes
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville, MD 21094
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new patients at this time. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in Towson, MD who specializes in medication management for adults 18 years old and over. As such, if you are already working with a psychologist, therapist, or counselor for therapy, I would be happy to collaborate. Telehealth appointments are offered to patients physically present in Maryland at the time of the session.
Not accepting new patients at this time. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in Towson, MD who specializes in medication management for adults 18 years old and over. As such, if you are already working with a psychologist, therapist, or counselor for therapy, I would be happy to collaborate. Telehealth appointments are offered to patients physically present in Maryland at the time of the session.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dominic J Maxwell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7db4eee4-5b6a-4292-942f-653b0c94c3ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment focus begins with a comprehensive evaluation with the explicit goal of making an accurate clinical diagnosis. A treatment plan that will address the underlying problem/s as well as the specific symptoms of the patient is then formulated. I use Psychopharmacology (medication management) and/or Psychotherapy to treat my patients - depending upon the condition and the your individual preference. I am currently offering treatment both via video link or in person.
My treatment focus begins with a comprehensive evaluation with the explicit goal of making an accurate clinical diagnosis. A treatment plan that will address the underlying problem/s as well as the specific symptoms of the patient is then formulated. I use Psychopharmacology (medication management) and/or Psychotherapy to treat my patients - depending upon the condition and the your individual preference. I am currently offering treatment both via video link or in person.
![Photo of Brittany Ullman, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4d7a67e-91f9-495a-b406-a28a1f768bf4/1/320x400.png)
Brittany Ullman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
Brittany Ullman is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her years of experience, she faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. Brittany has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Her mission is to help and advocate for patients who struggle to be heard and understood, and to manage their treatment with empathy and compassion. In addition to her practical experience, Brittany has a unique ability to connect with individuals, a capacity to understand them, and the empathy to meet them where they are.
Brittany Ullman is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her years of experience, she faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. Brittany has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Her mission is to help and advocate for patients who struggle to be heard and understood, and to manage their treatment with empathy and compassion. In addition to her practical experience, Brittany has a unique ability to connect with individuals, a capacity to understand them, and the empathy to meet them where they are.
![Photo of Mohammed Younus, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fa61a9b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you suffer from Anxiety, Social phobia, Depression or ADHD, you are not alone, these are treatable illnesses and I have expertise to help you. Whether, you have never been treated or not totally satisfied with current treatment, there is help available. I treat Adults, Adolescents and Children
If you suffer from Anxiety, Social phobia, Depression or ADHD, you are not alone, these are treatable illnesses and I have expertise to help you. Whether, you have never been treated or not totally satisfied with current treatment, there is help available. I treat Adults, Adolescents and Children
![Photo of Christiana Akinboye - Transformation Healthcare INC, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbcafe2b-73e5-48e3-b61e-517a7472f2e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformation Healthcare INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21204
Hello, I am Bola Osunkiyesi a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the health wellness-illness continuum and lifespan: adolescent, adult, and the geriatric population in the community. I love to read my bible, pray, and encouraging others. During my free time, I love to stay indoors with my family, and prepare traditional meals
Hello, I am Bola Osunkiyesi a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the health wellness-illness continuum and lifespan: adolescent, adult, and the geriatric population in the community. I love to read my bible, pray, and encouraging others. During my free time, I love to stay indoors with my family, and prepare traditional meals
![Photo of Nelly Kangethe, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d17ffc38-b0ed-43b7-8789-13e866ce37a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nelly Kangethe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
Nelly Kangethe, is a healthcare provider with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. She has worked in several healthcare settings including emergency room, acute care, long-term care, homecare, case management, insurance company and outpatient clinics. With her extensive experience, she understands the importance of offering genuine and quality care.
Nelly Kangethe, is a healthcare provider with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. She has worked in several healthcare settings including emergency room, acute care, long-term care, homecare, case management, insurance company and outpatient clinics. With her extensive experience, she understands the importance of offering genuine and quality care.
![Photo of Tarleen K Weston, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/742dc4d5-efbe-4dab-aba7-f0890f504d01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tarleen K Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) working in a NP-owned outpatient office in Towson, MD. The typical age range of my clients is older adolescents (16+) to adults below age 65. I provide care for many conditions including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I also provide care for survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse/neglect.
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) working in a NP-owned outpatient office in Towson, MD. The typical age range of my clients is older adolescents (16+) to adults below age 65. I provide care for many conditions including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I also provide care for survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse/neglect.
![Photo of Hamid Tabatabai, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dded68f-155f-4dff-8666-887eefb9d5c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is primarily Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I see few adults who want psychotherapy and may or may not need medication. I provide a comprehensive psychiatric and psychological assessment before I recommend any form of treatment. I am available to my patients round a clock. There are no night time or weekends on call doctors to deal with!
My practice is primarily Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I see few adults who want psychotherapy and may or may not need medication. I provide a comprehensive psychiatric and psychological assessment before I recommend any form of treatment. I am available to my patients round a clock. There are no night time or weekends on call doctors to deal with!
![Photo of Julie Brownley, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ffa9e38-e9ff-4cc2-8d21-ea1492fbd74b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
![Photo of Neil Warres - Neil Warres, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7cb56d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
While always having a private, psychotherapy practice, I was Chief of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland's Shock Trauma Center for 20 years and also Chief of Psychiatry at Kernan Hospital and Montebello Hospital. Now in full-time practice, my office is conveniently located in Pikesville, one block from Reisterstown Road. I am Board Certified and am a past president of the Maryland Psychiatric Society.
While always having a private, psychotherapy practice, I was Chief of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland's Shock Trauma Center for 20 years and also Chief of Psychiatry at Kernan Hospital and Montebello Hospital. Now in full-time practice, my office is conveniently located in Pikesville, one block from Reisterstown Road. I am Board Certified and am a past president of the Maryland Psychiatric Society.
![Photo of Jeaninne Blackwell, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a6e933b-eb00-4372-9cf2-06aef7b0a8de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been dissatisfied with your current psychiatric care due to feeling misunderstood, rushed, or judged? Are you new to treatment and feeling unsure about your options?
Have you been dissatisfied with your current psychiatric care due to feeling misunderstood, rushed, or judged? Are you new to treatment and feeling unsure about your options?
![Photo of Anson Liu - Dr. Anson Liu, M.D. & Dr. Emily Gavett, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d88d92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Anson Liu, M.D. & Dr. Emily Gavett, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, psychotherapy treatment in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Dr. Liu and Dr. Gavett both have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma-related disorders (including PTSD), ADHD, child behavioral problems, personality disorders, Family/Parent-Child/Couple Conflicts and high functioning individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Treatment begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, where we will review biological, social, and psychological contributions to your present concerns.
We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, psychotherapy treatment in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Dr. Liu and Dr. Gavett both have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma-related disorders (including PTSD), ADHD, child behavioral problems, personality disorders, Family/Parent-Child/Couple Conflicts and high functioning individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Treatment begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, where we will review biological, social, and psychological contributions to your present concerns.
![Photo of Sara Vieweg Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44f2f257-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide talk therapy and medication management, as needed. Together, we can learn about how your mind works and put words to feelings that you have. We can also work to identify patterns which may be holding you back and potential shifts which may improve your feelings of efficacy. As you increase your self-understanding, you can find a deeper sense of purpose in your life and more meaningful connections in social and professional relationships. I also provide a sliding scale fee for an intensive talk therapy.
I provide talk therapy and medication management, as needed. Together, we can learn about how your mind works and put words to feelings that you have. We can also work to identify patterns which may be holding you back and potential shifts which may improve your feelings of efficacy. As you increase your self-understanding, you can find a deeper sense of purpose in your life and more meaningful connections in social and professional relationships. I also provide a sliding scale fee for an intensive talk therapy.
See more therapy options for Lutherville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lutherville, MD
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lutherville, MD who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Aetna |
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Lutherville, MD see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lutherville?
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.