Psychiatrists in Timonium, MD
![Photo of Munachim Uyanwune, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/517da5be-b133-4bfd-ab4a-1d4986d80b44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel anxious, depressed, have difficulty concentrating, or feel you are not quite where you should be, difficulty functioning? If so, Dr. Uyanwune (popularly known as 'Dr. U') is who you need to see! Dr. Uyanwune brings a holistic approach in her treatment of behavioral health problems. She believes in wellness & uses both therapy and medication in treating clients. She believes "less is more" and strives to use medication only when needed and the minimal amount of it to best target symptoms. Dr. Uyanwune takes time to educate her clients as well.
Do you feel anxious, depressed, have difficulty concentrating, or feel you are not quite where you should be, difficulty functioning? If so, Dr. Uyanwune (popularly known as 'Dr. U') is who you need to see! Dr. Uyanwune brings a holistic approach in her treatment of behavioral health problems. She believes in wellness & uses both therapy and medication in treating clients. She believes "less is more" and strives to use medication only when needed and the minimal amount of it to best target symptoms. Dr. Uyanwune takes time to educate her clients as well.
![Photo of Alfred W Forrester, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42aa24cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Most of my clinical time is spent in assessing patients, making pharmacologic recommendations in the management of major psychiatric disorders, and providing follow-up medication management. Areas of interest include the management of affective disorders - major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders, PTSD and OCD; adult ADHD; the interface of major medical illness and psychiatric response; and a variety of adjustment disorders resulting from lifestyle issues. I also have experience in the management of substance use disorders and am the Medical Director of a nationally acclaimed addiction program in Towson.
Most of my clinical time is spent in assessing patients, making pharmacologic recommendations in the management of major psychiatric disorders, and providing follow-up medication management. Areas of interest include the management of affective disorders - major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders, PTSD and OCD; adult ADHD; the interface of major medical illness and psychiatric response; and a variety of adjustment disorders resulting from lifestyle issues. I also have experience in the management of substance use disorders and am the Medical Director of a nationally acclaimed addiction program in Towson.
![Photo of Janet Adetola, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d89edbc6-e70f-4a28-8cb2-f6b416d89c2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Adetola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
![Photo of Mariel V Otter, DNP, , CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec66fc5b-9c43-4280-8836-a7edde90bbe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariel V Otter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
![Photo of Frank Michael Copeli, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12baccde-f99b-402e-8c62-ad8548bcec8f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Copeli is a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and medication management for patients located in Massachusetts and Maryland via telemedicine. Dr. Copeli emphasizes collaborative care with patients to find a targeted treatment approach that emphasizes your well-being and physical health. Requests for consultation will be considered on a rolling basis as availability opens. Dr. Copeli has considerable experience in geriatric psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, and adult psychiatry.
Dr. Copeli is a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and medication management for patients located in Massachusetts and Maryland via telemedicine. Dr. Copeli emphasizes collaborative care with patients to find a targeted treatment approach that emphasizes your well-being and physical health. Requests for consultation will be considered on a rolling basis as availability opens. Dr. Copeli has considerable experience in geriatric psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, and adult psychiatry.
![Photo of Rachel Townsend, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0a96a2a-9e9d-4c3b-bec4-421fb9eeaa1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health is an important part of our well-being. It is one of the most vital parts of life that impacts our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions at every stage of life. I believe in working together to determine the best treatment plan for you. I provide a warm and supportive environment that allows you to express your concerns without the fear of being judged.
Mental health is an important part of our well-being. It is one of the most vital parts of life that impacts our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions at every stage of life. I believe in working together to determine the best treatment plan for you. I provide a warm and supportive environment that allows you to express your concerns without the fear of being judged.
![Photo of Miziana Raoofi, PMHNP, FNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/640ae533-fe60-47be-8252-5a2c68fa1a70/1/320x400.png)
Miziana Raoofi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Miziana and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Miziana strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, aiming to create open conversations. She pursued a specialization in mental health, further fueling her passion for compassionate care. Her mission is rooted in empathy, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to guide patients on their road to recovery, fostering a non-judgmental and caring environment every step of the way. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Miziana and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Miziana strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, aiming to create open conversations. She pursued a specialization in mental health, further fueling her passion for compassionate care. Her mission is rooted in empathy, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to guide patients on their road to recovery, fostering a non-judgmental and caring environment every step of the way. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Margaret Knight, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e14add0e-82d3-4655-8cae-b04106acf5f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
Your concerns matter! I provide a compassionate space to safely explore mental health matters for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 0-through 21 years. Let's work together to develop a personalized tool-kit for your life's journey. As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with Pediatric Mental Health speciality I'm licensed to care for Clients 0- through 21years; therefore can not take clients 22 years of age or older.
Your concerns matter! I provide a compassionate space to safely explore mental health matters for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 0-through 21 years. Let's work together to develop a personalized tool-kit for your life's journey. As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with Pediatric Mental Health speciality I'm licensed to care for Clients 0- through 21years; therefore can not take clients 22 years of age or older.
![Photo of David Mwangi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56f80762-c941-45f2-9aa3-1b17c2231445/2/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with extensive clinical experience in mental health. I graduated from Maryville University and have a passion to assist clients find their strength in navigating through various mental health challenges.
![Photo of Kristin Kelly, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5326b7aa-07ab-410d-8cc9-684afa474dab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Kelly is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Minnesota where she also studied Integrative Health and Healing.
Kristin Kelly is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Minnesota where she also studied Integrative Health and Healing.
![Photo of Jordan Doehner, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05f6a775-38ef-4902-bfa1-92eb64c28060/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable to share their story and feel heard. I focus on treating the entire client rather than just focusing on a diagnosis and have received positive feedback on the way I educate clients on the medications I recommend. I work with ages 16+ and am currently accepting new clients.
I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable to share their story and feel heard. I focus on treating the entire client rather than just focusing on a diagnosis and have received positive feedback on the way I educate clients on the medications I recommend. I work with ages 16+ and am currently accepting new clients.
![Photo of Esther Anyatonwu, DNP-PMH, NP-BC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/076c4d72-2378-4af0-8633-9f627b4c90f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esther Anyatonwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-PMH, NP-BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
![Photo of Elizabeth Omopariola, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2051456-4046-4a4e-a25e-a946af323ee0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Omopariola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093 (Online Only)
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
![Photo of Nazli Emadi, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/805a3582-0ec8-4028-85f1-fd8105f878f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Emadi is board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Emadi has been working in the field of Cognitive Neuroscience and psychiatry since 2005. She has done extensive research on brain function during her PhD in cognitive neuroscience and her postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University, CA. She did her psychiatry residency at Yale school of medicine, CT. She enjoys applying her knowledge of the human brain in clinical practice of psychiatry. Dr. Emadi worked at Psych Associates of Maryland as a clinical director for two years (2020-2022) before starting her own private practice.
Dr. Emadi is board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Emadi has been working in the field of Cognitive Neuroscience and psychiatry since 2005. She has done extensive research on brain function during her PhD in cognitive neuroscience and her postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University, CA. She did her psychiatry residency at Yale school of medicine, CT. She enjoys applying her knowledge of the human brain in clinical practice of psychiatry. Dr. Emadi worked at Psych Associates of Maryland as a clinical director for two years (2020-2022) before starting her own private practice.
![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 Jolie Carter Diaz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb349769-d12d-41c8-a05c-4e8e80129627/3/320x400.jpeg)
**VIDEO & PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE TO ALL MD RESIDENTS** It’s hard to be happy when your life is out of balance. You’re a young woman, college student, or teenager struggling with depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship problems, or family issues. You’re almost constantly feeling not good enough inside; like you’re falling short of finding love, the career, the friends, and the life you’ve aimed for. Maybe you’re a young woman who has discovered that “adulting” is a lot harder than you thought. It’s time for a change.
**VIDEO & PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE TO ALL MD RESIDENTS** It’s hard to be happy when your life is out of balance. You’re a young woman, college student, or teenager struggling with depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship problems, or family issues. You’re almost constantly feeling not good enough inside; like you’re falling short of finding love, the career, the friends, and the life you’ve aimed for. Maybe you’re a young woman who has discovered that “adulting” is a lot harder than you thought. It’s time for a change.
![Photo of Audra Worthington, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1c21f7-a7a4-4bd7-8562-81d7707a9117/2/320x400.jpeg)
Audra Worthington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21094 (Online Only)
Millions of people suffer from mental health problems every year, but many don't seek help because they don't know where to turn. Mental health is a huge issue, and it's only getting worse. Too many people are suffering in silence. Sage Mental Wellness is here to help. We offer affordable mental health services for anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD etc. We have a team of qualified and experienced providers who can help you get your life back on track.
Millions of people suffer from mental health problems every year, but many don't seek help because they don't know where to turn. Mental health is a huge issue, and it's only getting worse. Too many people are suffering in silence. Sage Mental Wellness is here to help. We offer affordable mental health services for anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD etc. We have a team of qualified and experienced providers who can help you get your life back on track.
![Photo of LeeAnn Goodson, MSN, CRNP, PMHP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30be277a-c741-42cd-8c50-f8554bd8fff5/1/320x400.jpeg)
LeeAnn Goodson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHP-BC
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093
You matter. Your mental health impacts all other areas of your life and is just as important as a physical illness. It can be scary talking to someone for the first time and you may fear that you will be judged or misunderstood. I realize that it can take a lot of time for trust to be established and I want you to know that I am open to giving you all of the time that you need. This is your journey and I would be honored to walk beside you. You can submit contact information to schedule an appointment on my website. www.hopespringspsychiatryllc.com
You matter. Your mental health impacts all other areas of your life and is just as important as a physical illness. It can be scary talking to someone for the first time and you may fear that you will be judged or misunderstood. I realize that it can take a lot of time for trust to be established and I want you to know that I am open to giving you all of the time that you need. This is your journey and I would be honored to walk beside you. You can submit contact information to schedule an appointment on my website. www.hopespringspsychiatryllc.com
More Psychiatrists Nearby
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.
![Photo of Talia Griffin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b2ffe51-bcb1-4b76-91c8-6fd3987da604/1/320x400.jpeg)
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. My goals are your goals and I will be with you every step of the way.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. My goals are your goals and I will be with you every step of the way.
See more therapy options for Timonium
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Timonium, MD
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Timonium, MD who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | ADHD |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
73% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Timonium, MD see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Timonium?
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.