Psychiatrists in Towson, MD
![Photo of Julie Brownley, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ffa9e38-e9ff-4cc2-8d21-ea1492fbd74b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
![Photo of Natalie Beaty, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48353379-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
![Photo of Dr. Janet Smith Stasiak - You Matter Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, ASDCS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2202399-477b-4554-8718-f4cc9764f021/1/320x400.jpeg)
You Matter Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
Accepting Clients! I'm a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist & provide diagnosis and treatment for adults on the spectrum. I also offer Neurodivergent specific individual and couples therapy. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, & other disorders with medication & holistic treatment options based on your preferences & goals. I'm experienced with complex medical issues & offer advanced options including genetic testing. At the end of your visit you should feel comfortable with the plan, listened to, and that your mental health matters.
Accepting Clients! I'm a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist & provide diagnosis and treatment for adults on the spectrum. I also offer Neurodivergent specific individual and couples therapy. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, & other disorders with medication & holistic treatment options based on your preferences & goals. I'm experienced with complex medical issues & offer advanced options including genetic testing. At the end of your visit you should feel comfortable with the plan, listened to, and that your mental health matters.
![Photo of Tenicia Washington - Millennium , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04231508-4e8e-48cb-9b8e-1cb09d0e1df0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Millennium Inc, is an organization that provides counseling and psychiatry services for all, including individual, family and group therapy for youth and adults. Our team of skilled therapists and psychiatric professionals offer support to help navigate life’s challenges. Whether it’s an acute or chronic disorder or your seeking mental clarity, Millennium commits to partnering with you. Our collaborative approach, blending evidence-based practices and compassionate care, aims to empower you. Scheduling an appointment with Millennium isn’t just seeking help; it’s a proactive step towards a more fulfilling life.
Millennium Inc, is an organization that provides counseling and psychiatry services for all, including individual, family and group therapy for youth and adults. Our team of skilled therapists and psychiatric professionals offer support to help navigate life’s challenges. Whether it’s an acute or chronic disorder or your seeking mental clarity, Millennium commits to partnering with you. Our collaborative approach, blending evidence-based practices and compassionate care, aims to empower you. Scheduling an appointment with Millennium isn’t just seeking help; it’s a proactive step towards a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Lindsey Burd, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c02301f-9aa0-4085-a209-72c308568aca/1/320x400.jpeg)
NOW Accepting New Patients- Affordable Fee Schedule. Reaching out for help and a starting medication can be an overwhelming, daunting task- but it doesn't have to be. I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths are always considered. I work with patients to offer collaborative and integrative mental health care, with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan.
NOW Accepting New Patients- Affordable Fee Schedule. Reaching out for help and a starting medication can be an overwhelming, daunting task- but it doesn't have to be. I work with you to offer holistic treatment, meaning you are treated as more than a diagnosis. Your lifestyle, unique challenges, and strengths are always considered. I work with patients to offer collaborative and integrative mental health care, with your needs and goals as part of the treatment plan.
![Photo of Elizabeth F Hughes, CRNP, PMH-BC, BSN, BFA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fca55dd0-fed1-4570-9166-f5a886d42055/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth F Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH-BC, BSN, BFA
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
Tired of waiting weeks to be seen? Give me a call today and lets get you feeling better soon, on the right medication, and with the least side effects! My clinical style is friendly & direct. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my care is always thorough and evidence-based. We work collaboratively to bring you short and long-term symptom relief so you can live fully engaged and get back to life. Compassionate and thorough, with a bit of humor thrown in when we can- I have years of experience that enhance my ability to help you, effectively & quickly.
Tired of waiting weeks to be seen? Give me a call today and lets get you feeling better soon, on the right medication, and with the least side effects! My clinical style is friendly & direct. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my care is always thorough and evidence-based. We work collaboratively to bring you short and long-term symptom relief so you can live fully engaged and get back to life. Compassionate and thorough, with a bit of humor thrown in when we can- I have years of experience that enhance my ability to help you, effectively & quickly.
![Photo of Lawretta Jinadu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f95ae0e-cc62-4a5e-9f07-d5eee088f1ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lawretta Jinadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who acknowledges each client's individuality and provides a holistic remedy based on personal needs. I am specialized in treating, Depressive disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Adult psychiatry using an evidence-based approach.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who acknowledges each client's individuality and provides a holistic remedy based on personal needs. I am specialized in treating, Depressive disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Adult psychiatry using an evidence-based approach.
The ideal client for Prevail Mental Health Services is someone seeking help for mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression psychosis and other mental health issues, who values mental health and is motivated to work towards achieving better wellness. They need a safe, non-judgmental space, tailored evidence-based treatments, and respect for their cultural background. Their goals include reducing symptoms, improving coping, relationships, and quality of life. We strive to provide a supportive environment where we work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve these goals.
The ideal client for Prevail Mental Health Services is someone seeking help for mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression psychosis and other mental health issues, who values mental health and is motivated to work towards achieving better wellness. They need a safe, non-judgmental space, tailored evidence-based treatments, and respect for their cultural background. Their goals include reducing symptoms, improving coping, relationships, and quality of life. We strive to provide a supportive environment where we work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve these goals.
![Photo of Lisa Kebejian, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f74e404-458f-4d52-855d-e6c6b25ca51e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Kebejian
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Towson. My practice emphasizes a collaborative process of exploration and understanding. I would seek to help you to understand yourself better, including your feelings and conflicts that may drive behaviors or get in the way. I believe that insight has the potential to lead to change. I see adults who may seek treatment for symptoms of depression or anxiety, for support as they work through life transitions or stressors in their lives, or for a variety of other reasons.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist in private practice in Towson. My practice emphasizes a collaborative process of exploration and understanding. I would seek to help you to understand yourself better, including your feelings and conflicts that may drive behaviors or get in the way. I believe that insight has the potential to lead to change. I see adults who may seek treatment for symptoms of depression or anxiety, for support as they work through life transitions or stressors in their lives, or for a variety of other reasons.
![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 Solomon Ola Adekola - Goldenmemory mental Health and Behavioral Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1647b9dd-5099-4231-bba8-9aa123ab73e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Goldenmemory mental Health and Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286 (Online Only)
Hi. I'm a licensed and board certified psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner based in the state of Maryland. I received my Masters from Walden University and have been practicing for years now. I help young adult and older adult struggling with mental health overcome and become the best versions of themselves.
Hi. I'm a licensed and board certified psychiatry mental health nurse practitioner based in the state of Maryland. I received my Masters from Walden University and have been practicing for years now. I help young adult and older adult struggling with mental health overcome and become the best versions of themselves.
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![Photo of Tarleen K Weston, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/742dc4d5-efbe-4dab-aba7-f0890f504d01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tarleen K Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) working in a NP-owned outpatient office in Towson, MD. The typical age range of my clients is older adolescents (16+) to adults below age 65. I provide care for many conditions including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I also provide care for survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse/neglect.
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) working in a NP-owned outpatient office in Towson, MD. The typical age range of my clients is older adolescents (16+) to adults below age 65. I provide care for many conditions including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I also provide care for survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse/neglect.
![Photo of Luisito Torregosa, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/000b7447-eaaf-45c5-b232-bd3b38a346fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients - I have a 30-year career in the health care field, starting as a nurse working in different areas, including emergency care, and currently practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My various and lengthy experiences caring for people gave me the skills to communicate with clients compassionately. My dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, I believe in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
Accepting New Clients - I have a 30-year career in the health care field, starting as a nurse working in different areas, including emergency care, and currently practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My various and lengthy experiences caring for people gave me the skills to communicate with clients compassionately. My dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, I believe in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
![Photo of Shailoah Wilson, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b923b23-ddff-493c-9f9e-2048883e24c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shailoah Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a prescriber who will see you and evaluate you as whole person? Here at Rooted and Grounded Wellness Services we are dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey to wellness. We use a holistic approach and integrate therapy techniques/modalities in order to create the best treatment plan for you.
Are you looking for a prescriber who will see you and evaluate you as whole person? Here at Rooted and Grounded Wellness Services we are dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey to wellness. We use a holistic approach and integrate therapy techniques/modalities in order to create the best treatment plan for you.
![Photo of Kristin Huntley, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c7c294d-5768-4067-a64a-e3f8712cd4f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Charito V Quintero-Howard - Child and Adult Psychiatry LLC., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4506d86a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Here at Child & Adult Psychiatry we believe mental health treatment is so much more than medication and psychotherapy. When you come to our office you will be welcomed by a warm greeting and genuinely cared for as if you were family. We recognize that with the right balance of treatment that anyone can find the quality of life they want. We offer Medication Management, Individual, Couples, Family & Group Therapy in a comfortable, non-judgmental, outpatient setting.
Here at Child & Adult Psychiatry we believe mental health treatment is so much more than medication and psychotherapy. When you come to our office you will be welcomed by a warm greeting and genuinely cared for as if you were family. We recognize that with the right balance of treatment that anyone can find the quality of life they want. We offer Medication Management, Individual, Couples, Family & Group Therapy in a comfortable, non-judgmental, outpatient setting.
![Photo of Pearl Rucker - Brilliance Psychiatry and Wellness, LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f077d32a-0e6e-4090-b6ae-3c2b52568096/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brilliance Psychiatry and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
Welcome to Psychiatry's dream team. We have created a breathtaking backdrop for your mental wellbeing. Enjoy access to progressive stylish venues, lounges, and delicious surrounding cuisine. Culture and environment are key to creating relationship, balance and establishing goals and dreams for one's lifetime. We offer you creative life design from the inside out. We extend an invitation for you to join the Brilliance Psychiatry community as your authentic self. We specialize in helping you create balance, bliss, and self efficacy. As mental health experts, we help you to self-actualize and earnestly believe in yourself.
Welcome to Psychiatry's dream team. We have created a breathtaking backdrop for your mental wellbeing. Enjoy access to progressive stylish venues, lounges, and delicious surrounding cuisine. Culture and environment are key to creating relationship, balance and establishing goals and dreams for one's lifetime. We offer you creative life design from the inside out. We extend an invitation for you to join the Brilliance Psychiatry community as your authentic self. We specialize in helping you create balance, bliss, and self efficacy. As mental health experts, we help you to self-actualize and earnestly believe in yourself.
![Photo of Candice Caesar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15a463ca-82fa-4a84-b0e0-93426ca1b331/1/320x400.jpeg)
Candice Caesar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client is someone facing various significant mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, etc., yet is motivated to improve their well-being. They show the courage and willingness to seek help and work towards a better life. They need a provider who can provide empathetic, personalized care and empower them with the tools and support necessary to achieve their goals and enhance their overall well-being. Together, we will develop an individualized treatment plan and gain effective coping strategies.
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client is someone facing various significant mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, etc., yet is motivated to improve their well-being. They show the courage and willingness to seek help and work towards a better life. They need a provider who can provide empathetic, personalized care and empower them with the tools and support necessary to achieve their goals and enhance their overall well-being. Together, we will develop an individualized treatment plan and gain effective coping strategies.
![Photo of Marilyn Lydia Martin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba2a754-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst I feel privileged to work with people on their journey to discoverying how they can live more fulfilling lives. I practice psychiatry, psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, and find that when people seek me out they are coping to the best of their current abilities. Therapy and or medication, with courage and hard work and an empathic clinician by their side may give them the opportunity to make new and healthier choices in their lives.
As a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst I feel privileged to work with people on their journey to discoverying how they can live more fulfilling lives. I practice psychiatry, psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, and find that when people seek me out they are coping to the best of their current abilities. Therapy and or medication, with courage and hard work and an empathic clinician by their side may give them the opportunity to make new and healthier choices in their lives.
![Photo of Dominic J Maxwell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7db4eee4-5b6a-4292-942f-653b0c94c3ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment focus begins with a comprehensive evaluation with the explicit goal of making an accurate clinical diagnosis. A treatment plan that will address the underlying problem/s as well as the specific symptoms of the patient is then formulated. I use Psychopharmacology (medication management) and/or Psychotherapy to treat my patients - depending upon the condition and the your individual preference. I am currently offering treatment both via video link or in person.
My treatment focus begins with a comprehensive evaluation with the explicit goal of making an accurate clinical diagnosis. A treatment plan that will address the underlying problem/s as well as the specific symptoms of the patient is then formulated. I use Psychopharmacology (medication management) and/or Psychotherapy to treat my patients - depending upon the condition and the your individual preference. I am currently offering treatment both via video link or in person.
See more therapy options for Towson
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Towson, MD
100+
Average cost per session
$205
Psychiatrists in Towson, MD who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | ADHD |
76% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
82% | CareFirst |
78% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Towson, MD see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Towson?
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.