Psychiatrists in Pikesville, MD
![Photo of Christiana Ikome - Resilience Behavioral Health LLC, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42be4180-a179-4798-85eb-5d6d3b06c0b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Resilience Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Christiana is a board-certified Family, Psychiatric, and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CRNP-PMH, FNP-BC, FNP-C), located in Pikesville, Maryland. Christiana offers non-emergent personalized mental & behavioral health services, including but not limited to initial psychiatric evaluation and treatment, medication management across the lifespan. Credentialed with Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurances, Christiana provides mental health services from ages six-years old, pre-teens, teens and adults. When life throws curveballs at us, we need someone we can trust. That is where Christiana comes in to support you.
Christiana is a board-certified Family, Psychiatric, and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (CRNP-PMH, FNP-BC, FNP-C), located in Pikesville, Maryland. Christiana offers non-emergent personalized mental & behavioral health services, including but not limited to initial psychiatric evaluation and treatment, medication management across the lifespan. Credentialed with Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurances, Christiana provides mental health services from ages six-years old, pre-teens, teens and adults. When life throws curveballs at us, we need someone we can trust. That is where Christiana comes in to support you.
![Photo of Belinda Okoruwa - RCC Community Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93b54388-e262-40ff-a8e7-b6e0538758bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
RCC seeks to serve clients who need hope and second chances. We strive to reach patients who are ready to take hold of their addiction and mental health and conquer the difficulties they face. Clinically, we specialize in substance abuse treatment and we desire to guide patient's to recovery of their addiction through a range of flexible options.
RCC seeks to serve clients who need hope and second chances. We strive to reach patients who are ready to take hold of their addiction and mental health and conquer the difficulties they face. Clinically, we specialize in substance abuse treatment and we desire to guide patient's to recovery of their addiction through a range of flexible options.
![Photo of Keysha Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5906f7c5-6271-4537-b888-ea7f43a4bb40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keysha Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric nurse practitioner with 19 years of experience in health care. I completed undergraduate studies at Stevenson University and then received an MSN from Simmons University. After working with individuals suffering with mental illness and other co-occurring disorders, I began to see how the care was fragmented and marginalized. I am very passionate about addressing an individual’s health in its entirety, so I decided to obtain a post-graduate Psychiatric Certification from Wilkes University.
I am a dually certified Family and Psychiatric nurse practitioner with 19 years of experience in health care. I completed undergraduate studies at Stevenson University and then received an MSN from Simmons University. After working with individuals suffering with mental illness and other co-occurring disorders, I began to see how the care was fragmented and marginalized. I am very passionate about addressing an individual’s health in its entirety, so I decided to obtain a post-graduate Psychiatric Certification from Wilkes University.
![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 Tom Dennis Gates - GMH Psychiatry, LLC, FPMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417387ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
GMH Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I am a family psychiatric nurse practitioner treating a variety of patients across the lifespan. I perform diagnostic evaluations and or medication management. I see children to elderly treating diagnosis such as; depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am experienced in seeing children as well as adults. Culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality. Goal is to get client to optimum mental health. Now a Cannabis Certification Provider!
I am a family psychiatric nurse practitioner treating a variety of patients across the lifespan. I perform diagnostic evaluations and or medication management. I see children to elderly treating diagnosis such as; depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I am experienced in seeing children as well as adults. Culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality. Goal is to get client to optimum mental health. Now a Cannabis Certification Provider!
![Photo of Dr. Linda Arobieke, DNP, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f24c711c-1e09-4e6f-bda7-4cf5c544165b/3/320x400.png)
Dr. Linda Arobieke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am doctoral-prepared board certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health psychiatry, experiencing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, mood, disorders, substance abuse problems, trauma. I will identify the primary causes of their challenges, and client would benefit from a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. Dr. Linda is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Association (ANA), International Society of Psychiatric Mental Nurses (ISPN), American Psychiatric Association (APA), Maryland Nursing Association and American Psychiatric Nurse Association
I am doctoral-prepared board certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health psychiatry, experiencing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, mood, disorders, substance abuse problems, trauma. I will identify the primary causes of their challenges, and client would benefit from a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. Dr. Linda is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Association (ANA), International Society of Psychiatric Mental Nurses (ISPN), American Psychiatric Association (APA), Maryland Nursing Association and American Psychiatric Nurse Association
![Photo of Tessa George-Perry - TSG Mental Health Services, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5cb1d21-4c51-4e75-bb40-dc38e5745e11/1/320x400.jpeg)
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in private practice, who is also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My belief is that the patient benefits most by following the psychiatric evaluation with a dynamic and in-depth plan of action which is focused on the emotional and physical health of the patient. My duel degrees and clinical experience, provides a wealth of knowledge in medication management.
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in private practice, who is also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My belief is that the patient benefits most by following the psychiatric evaluation with a dynamic and in-depth plan of action which is focused on the emotional and physical health of the patient. My duel degrees and clinical experience, provides a wealth of knowledge in medication management.
![Photo of Joy Eghaghe, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dfd006b-09d8-4e87-b1fe-7da08893f346/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Eghaghe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I believe in creating an atmosphere that is focussed on helping clients feel safe protected and heard. I believe in a solution-focused approach in managing my clients who happen to be my absolute priority. I will work with you without bias or judgement. Be rest assured that during therapy/treatment, I will provide evidence based methods to help you achieve balance through collaborative efforts. I have discovered personalized solutions that work. Let's do it!
![Photo of Tiffany Ross - IAW Behavioral Health & Wellness, MSN, Ed, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e67f585-6e7b-42d9-979e-a20b5897068e/2/320x400.jpeg)
IAW Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, Ed, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Hello there! I'm Tiffany Ross, Founder & CEO of IAW (I am Worthy) Behavioral Health & Wellness. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving Maryland residents aged 6 and above, I am dedicated to delivering thorough and cohesive care. I prioritize collaborative decision-making, partnering closely with you to tailor a personalized care plan that reflects your input and preferences. My expertise spans the management of various mental health conditions, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hello there! I'm Tiffany Ross, Founder & CEO of IAW (I am Worthy) Behavioral Health & Wellness. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving Maryland residents aged 6 and above, I am dedicated to delivering thorough and cohesive care. I prioritize collaborative decision-making, partnering closely with you to tailor a personalized care plan that reflects your input and preferences. My expertise spans the management of various mental health conditions, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
![Photo of Robert Byron Lehman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54bb3f4f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise is in the area of diagnosis and psychopharmacology. My office is a private practice setting and there is strong staff support for scheduling, medication refills, and for consultation with referring therapists . I have more than 30 years experience in the field and have an interest and involvement in pharmacology research through my company, Pharmasite Research. I have numerous publications in the field of psychopharmacology and lecture frequently in the area of psychopharmacology.
My expertise is in the area of diagnosis and psychopharmacology. My office is a private practice setting and there is strong staff support for scheduling, medication refills, and for consultation with referring therapists . I have more than 30 years experience in the field and have an interest and involvement in pharmacology research through my company, Pharmasite Research. I have numerous publications in the field of psychopharmacology and lecture frequently in the area of psychopharmacology.
Are you interested in an integrated, holistic approach to coping with life's problems that feel overwhelming? Need help dealing with anxiety, depression, or spiritual issues? Deeper issues may include trauma, PTSD, panic, aging, loss, cancer, physical disorders, sensitive to life (HSP), and relationship issues. Treatments involve a range of psychodynamic modalities, EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, and meditation. These may be coupled with spiritual direction to help someone who is spiritually depressed or depleted. Helping you to achieve wholeness of body/mind/spirit/soul so that you can come alive to being your best self.
Are you interested in an integrated, holistic approach to coping with life's problems that feel overwhelming? Need help dealing with anxiety, depression, or spiritual issues? Deeper issues may include trauma, PTSD, panic, aging, loss, cancer, physical disorders, sensitive to life (HSP), and relationship issues. Treatments involve a range of psychodynamic modalities, EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, and meditation. These may be coupled with spiritual direction to help someone who is spiritually depressed or depleted. Helping you to achieve wholeness of body/mind/spirit/soul so that you can come alive to being your best self.
![Photo of Bolaji O Olugboja, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5083ad-1689-43f8-9b4b-812ddbfcc7bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bolaji O Olugboja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in two states; Maryland and Florida. I have been providing nursing services for over 14years. In my practice, an individual's mental health symptoms are not only addressed, we believe in a holistic approach, whereby an individual's mental and social factors are taken into consideration. Consequently, my utmost goal is to restore individuals to normal lives and foster a HEALTHIER YOU
I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in two states; Maryland and Florida. I have been providing nursing services for over 14years. In my practice, an individual's mental health symptoms are not only addressed, we believe in a holistic approach, whereby an individual's mental and social factors are taken into consideration. Consequently, my utmost goal is to restore individuals to normal lives and foster a HEALTHIER YOU
![Photo of Docia Owusu - Absolute Mental Healthcare Solutions, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e24cc77-1484-4bcf-9d67-99a675746a32/3/320x400.jpeg)
Absolute Mental Healthcare Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208 (Online Only)
I am PMHNP-Board Certified, committed to offering mental health treatment and support to families and individuals struggling with depression, Anxiety, trauma-related issues, sleep disturbance, mood instability, psychosis, addiction, emotional distress, cognitive decline-related behaviors, and Hyperactivity in children. My GOAL is to provide Optimal mental healthcare for all through comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based interventions. Currently accepting new patients via Telehealth, initiate help via video or telephone consultation.
I am PMHNP-Board Certified, committed to offering mental health treatment and support to families and individuals struggling with depression, Anxiety, trauma-related issues, sleep disturbance, mood instability, psychosis, addiction, emotional distress, cognitive decline-related behaviors, and Hyperactivity in children. My GOAL is to provide Optimal mental healthcare for all through comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based interventions. Currently accepting new patients via Telehealth, initiate help via video or telephone consultation.
![Photo of Thecla Asoluka, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddef6512-688f-47de-aefd-64cc28652704/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thecla Asoluka as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings empathy, an easygoing communication style, and a sweet sense of humor, making it easy for her to talk to patients and family members. A typical day for Thecla includes assessing and diagnosing patients on mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, or those who struggle with substance abuse or the heartbreak of dementia.
Thecla Asoluka as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, brings empathy, an easygoing communication style, and a sweet sense of humor, making it easy for her to talk to patients and family members. A typical day for Thecla includes assessing and diagnosing patients on mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, or those who struggle with substance abuse or the heartbreak of dementia.
![Photo of Victoria Adaramaja, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/882b892c-2446-4534-a6fc-063ec8aad87d/2/320x400.png)
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting you where you are in life.
I am a doctoral prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My goal is to provide individualized mental health treatment plan. I strive to provide quality care in a collaborative, supportive, and non-judgment manner. Like I always tell my primary care patients; Life is full of seasons and each season prepare you for the next! My approach is very warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and kindness. I will tailor our sessions and your treatment plan to your individual needs and meeting you where you are in life.
![Photo of Bolaji Olugboja, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1454d6e1-668f-4596-b1c8-1a6012df74c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
I am a trained family and mental healthcare provider who believes in patient-centered care despite cultural diversities. I have my specializations in primary/family care as well as mental and behavioral health medications management. I am mostly referred to as Dr. B. I started my medical career as a registered nurse and worked in different capacities, as a nursing home nurse, various hospitals, dialysis nurse, and an advocate for the proper health and well-being of diverse people requiring adequate healthcare.
![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 Natalie Marchione, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/642e7b8b-58c4-4843-bbd0-f90a3b410b3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Let’s be honest, they don’t talk about how hard motherhood or ‘adulting’ really is. You love your family, but nobody said it would be this hard! You braced yourself for the sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and tantrums, but the emotional impact of being a mother has caught you off guard. You didn’t anticipate feeling a perpetual sense of unease due to persistent worries, overwhelming sadness from a perceived loss of your former self, and guilt or hopelessness for not living up to the mother (or person) you think you should be. No matter where you may currently be physically or emotionally, you are here seeking treatment!
Let’s be honest, they don’t talk about how hard motherhood or ‘adulting’ really is. You love your family, but nobody said it would be this hard! You braced yourself for the sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and tantrums, but the emotional impact of being a mother has caught you off guard. You didn’t anticipate feeling a perpetual sense of unease due to persistent worries, overwhelming sadness from a perceived loss of your former self, and guilt or hopelessness for not living up to the mother (or person) you think you should be. No matter where you may currently be physically or emotionally, you are here seeking treatment!
![Photo of David Censits, MD, MAPP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fdcf4cb-5e50-4eda-9215-034ca87fc68c/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Censits is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2006. He earned his Master in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, graduated Medical School from Jefferson Medical College/Sydney Kimmel Medical College, and completed his Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Sleep Disorders Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
David Censits is a Psychiatrist in Maryland who has been practicing since 2006. He earned his Master in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, graduated Medical School from Jefferson Medical College/Sydney Kimmel Medical College, and completed his Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Sleep Disorders Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
Homestead Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, RN
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with inpatient and oupatient including ACT mental health experience. I am passionate about behavioral health practice having familiar with various mental health issues. In addition, the ongoing COVID 19 related mental health issues trigger clients' anxiety and depressive episode thus require immediate attention through psychiatric evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with inpatient and oupatient including ACT mental health experience. I am passionate about behavioral health practice having familiar with various mental health issues. In addition, the ongoing COVID 19 related mental health issues trigger clients' anxiety and depressive episode thus require immediate attention through psychiatric evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy.
See more therapy options for Pikesville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pikesville, MD
30+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Pikesville, MD who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | ADHD |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Medication Management |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Aetna |
85% | CareFirst |
81% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Pikesville, MD see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pikesville?
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.