Psychiatrists in Lutherville, MD
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Baltimore Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
FAST new patient appointments across Maryland! We can work with ALL private insurance policies. Baltimore Psychiatry provides medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other disorders. Our practice was designed with an emphasis on quality, convenience, and affordability for our patients. Our evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes to ensure thorough treatment. We want our patients to be comfortable with their questions answered and needs met. Low cash pricing is available to those not using insurance. We offer evening and weekend hours to complement our patients busy schedules, rather than disrupt them.
FAST new patient appointments across Maryland! We can work with ALL private insurance policies. Baltimore Psychiatry provides medication management for ADHD, depression, anxiety, and many other disorders. Our practice was designed with an emphasis on quality, convenience, and affordability for our patients. Our evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes to ensure thorough treatment. We want our patients to be comfortable with their questions answered and needs met. Low cash pricing is available to those not using insurance. We offer evening and weekend hours to complement our patients busy schedules, rather than disrupt them.
Synergy Strive
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
Synergy Strive is a diverse team of solution-focused clinicians dedicated to helping adults, teens, adolescents, and children uncover their true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can help you get on a path of healthy discovery. If you're looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation, we’re ready to work with you to achieve your goals. As Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, our patients benefit from the cohesiveness of meeting with one provider for both talk therapy and medication management during a 50 minute session.
Synergy Strive is a diverse team of solution-focused clinicians dedicated to helping adults, teens, adolescents, and children uncover their true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can help you get on a path of healthy discovery. If you're looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation, we’re ready to work with you to achieve your goals. As Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, our patients benefit from the cohesiveness of meeting with one provider for both talk therapy and medication management during a 50 minute session.
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?
Hello, My name is Linda! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University. Furthermore, I have about 7 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric mental health care.
Hello, My name is Linda! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University. Furthermore, I have about 7 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric mental health care.
Samantha Rogers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
At Synergy Strive, we are a team of solution-focused clinicians with the goal of helping you, your child, or your family uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
At Synergy Strive, we are a team of solution-focused clinicians with the goal of helping you, your child, or your family uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Kristin Mary Sorensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
Myndpathpsychiatry and Medical Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , FNP-C
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
My name is Mandi Rhone. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I am eager to assist you in managing your mental healthcare needs and will play a key role in working with you to lower your stress and anxiety. It is my duty in Psychiatry to understand my patients mental health issues on a personal and emotional level. I bring a diverse range of experience as a clinician over the past 16 years approximately five of which has been in a more autonomous role as a Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner and more recently in Psychiatry.
My name is Mandi Rhone. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I am eager to assist you in managing your mental healthcare needs and will play a key role in working with you to lower your stress and anxiety. It is my duty in Psychiatry to understand my patients mental health issues on a personal and emotional level. I bring a diverse range of experience as a clinician over the past 16 years approximately five of which has been in a more autonomous role as a Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner and more recently in Psychiatry.
Dr. Lisa Swords
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cockeysville, MD 21030
I am a doctoral-prepared, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with children/adolescents/adults with mood and anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse and a variety of other diagnoses. I strive to empower individuals to reach their goals and highest potential. With the development of an individualized treatment plan, I prescribe medications along with providing psychotherapy in my private practice located in Hunt Valley, MD. PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL ONLY (NOT PHONE) SO THAT I MAY ASSIST YOU IN SCHEDULING A NEW PATIENT APPT WITH ME. I ACCEPT THE INSURANCES LISTED BELOW. THANK YOU
I am a doctoral-prepared, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with children/adolescents/adults with mood and anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse and a variety of other diagnoses. I strive to empower individuals to reach their goals and highest potential. With the development of an individualized treatment plan, I prescribe medications along with providing psychotherapy in my private practice located in Hunt Valley, MD. PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL ONLY (NOT PHONE) SO THAT I MAY ASSIST YOU IN SCHEDULING A NEW PATIENT APPT WITH ME. I ACCEPT THE INSURANCES LISTED BELOW. THANK YOU
Michelle L. Briggs, Nurse Practitioner, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner with 30 years experience in the field. I am a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland Schools of Nursing. I have practiced in inpatient, emergency room, mobile crisis, home care, day hospital, and out patient settings. I am licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy to ages 16 and over. I have specialized in geriatric, adult and young adult , substance misuse, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, adoption, grief, gender identity and family crisis. I recently became certified as a psychedelic assisted therapist.
I am a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner with 30 years experience in the field. I am a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland Schools of Nursing. I have practiced in inpatient, emergency room, mobile crisis, home care, day hospital, and out patient settings. I am licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy to ages 16 and over. I have specialized in geriatric, adult and young adult , substance misuse, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, adoption, grief, gender identity and family crisis. I recently became certified as a psychedelic assisted therapist.
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
Kristin Huntley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
Kristin Huntley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field. Kristin is a graduate from Walden University, where she obtained her Master’s of Science in Nursing. She has experience in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and psychotic disorders among children, adolescents, and adults.
Kristin Huntley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field. Kristin is a graduate from Walden University, where she obtained her Master’s of Science in Nursing. She has experience in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and psychotic disorders among children, adolescents, and adults.
Elizabeth Omopariola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to providing holistic and person-centered mental health care. With over 5 years of experience in the mental health field, I have developed a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the impact it has on individuals' lives. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I possess a unique blend of nursing expertise and advanced psychiatric knowledge.Through a comprehensive and collaborative approach, I strive to deliver exceptional care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspect. I am licensed in Maryland and Washington DC
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to providing holistic and person-centered mental health care. With over 5 years of experience in the mental health field, I have developed a profound understanding of the complexities of mental health and the impact it has on individuals' lives. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I possess a unique blend of nursing expertise and advanced psychiatric knowledge.Through a comprehensive and collaborative approach, I strive to deliver exceptional care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspect. I am licensed in Maryland and Washington DC
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 |
80% | Aetna |
80% | 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.