Psychiatrists in Waldorf, MD
![Photo of Charlotte Ayuk Nkem, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e721b05f-3351-428f-acb3-72512c6063ac/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Oasis of Hope Behavioral Healthcare, I see children and adults with different mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, substance abuse etc. There is no waiting list, appointments are made at your earliest convenience. I love helping people, and I promise that you will be in safe hands. I also have 10 years of working experience in acute and outpatient mental health settings, including substance abuse. Some renowned hospitals where she gained work experience include the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Group, MedStar, and the Recovery Centers of America.
At Oasis of Hope Behavioral Healthcare, I see children and adults with different mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, substance abuse etc. There is no waiting list, appointments are made at your earliest convenience. I love helping people, and I promise that you will be in safe hands. I also have 10 years of working experience in acute and outpatient mental health settings, including substance abuse. Some renowned hospitals where she gained work experience include the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Group, MedStar, and the Recovery Centers of America.
![Photo of Gloria Alice Johnston - https://headway.co/providers/gloria-johnston?utm_s, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bca0271a-8c7b-4709-915d-6beae9764dba/3/320x400.png)
https://headway.co/providers/gloria-johnston?utm_s
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20601 (Online Only)
I am a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My professional journey encompasses extensive experience in both critical and acute care settings, enabling me to provide you with a unique blend of holistic and evidence-based care tailored to each patient's needs.
I am a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My professional journey encompasses extensive experience in both critical and acute care settings, enabling me to provide you with a unique blend of holistic and evidence-based care tailored to each patient's needs.
![Photo of Jacinta Madu, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/531b2f0d-c4e1-439a-ae4e-139589cfb25b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacinta Madu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20603 (Online Only)
I am the lead board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), at GOFAN Healthcare Services LLC. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illnesses including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach to working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health stigma.
I am the lead board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), at GOFAN Healthcare Services LLC. I have a passion for mental health. As a PMHNP, I work with clients through compassion, empathy, respect, humility, and hope to restore dignity and reduce mental health stigma. I enjoy treating patients with all kinds of mental illnesses including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia. My compassion and nonjudgmental approach to working with individuals and families builds hope and reduces mental health stigma.
![Photo of Siyami Takha - Awesome Experience Psychiatric Services, LLC, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/054bf387-e905-4af2-b726-43e665cb75bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Awesome Experience Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602
I treat patients with a variety of mental health conditions: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Schizophrenia, SUD, BPD. I have the privilege to work with a diverse population providing culturally competent care and eliminate stigmas associated with mental health. I will be honored to help you navigate your mental health. We will empower you with coping skills to lead a productive life. It is always challenging when your life changes direction, whether anticipated or not. Sometimes we need some new tools to help us dealing with these changes. We assess, diagnose, treat mental health conditions.
I treat patients with a variety of mental health conditions: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Schizophrenia, SUD, BPD. I have the privilege to work with a diverse population providing culturally competent care and eliminate stigmas associated with mental health. I will be honored to help you navigate your mental health. We will empower you with coping skills to lead a productive life. It is always challenging when your life changes direction, whether anticipated or not. Sometimes we need some new tools to help us dealing with these changes. We assess, diagnose, treat mental health conditions.
![Photo of Nji Julius Fru - F&M Behavioral Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c548a10-1ba7-417e-a01a-01b49f2ce7f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
F&M Behavioral Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20601 (Online Only)
DR. Nji Fru is a board-certified Psychiatrist Mental Health /Family Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the life span. Practicing Since: 2017, Dr. Fru has an extensive track record of achievement in administering medical /psychiatric services with diverse populations, including pediatrics, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Dr. Nji is able to provide patient care for any type of psychiatric disorder. Experienced in psychiatric medications-Psychopharmacology.
DR. Nji Fru is a board-certified Psychiatrist Mental Health /Family Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the life span. Practicing Since: 2017, Dr. Fru has an extensive track record of achievement in administering medical /psychiatric services with diverse populations, including pediatrics, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Dr. Nji is able to provide patient care for any type of psychiatric disorder. Experienced in psychiatric medications-Psychopharmacology.
![Photo of Gabriela Amaya, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd8de7d3-e7e3-4fd7-b130-097e686702f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriela Amaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20603
Promoting optimal mental and emotional well-being by providing compassionate care. Empowering individuals to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
Promoting optimal mental and emotional well-being by providing compassionate care. Empowering individuals to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Edner Charles - EdChA Behavioral Health, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/286aaf15-ff17-4aaa-bf71-fc6e21ac59ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
EdChA Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602
We perform psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults experiencing mental health symptoms or suffering from various type of mental illness including Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and more.
We perform psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults experiencing mental health symptoms or suffering from various type of mental illness including Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and more.
![Photo of Nicola Clarke Wallen - Atlas Behavioral Health Services, DNP, PMHNP, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be8de800-9feb-492b-8b1a-bff7d4d9f807/1/320x400.jpeg)
Atlas Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CCM
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602 (Online Only)
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health Services, where clients are treated with respect, utilizing evidence-based practices and individualized plans of care. My name is Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen DNP and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland, DC and Virginia to treat patients with mental health needs.
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health Services, where clients are treated with respect, utilizing evidence-based practices and individualized plans of care. My name is Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen DNP and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland, DC and Virginia to treat patients with mental health needs.
![Photo of Saffie Conteh - Headway, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c52cb43-0e53-42ae-935e-893ad4c313dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Saffie Conteh, NP, PHMP, your psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care, including diagnosis, treatment, and therapy for a range of psychiatric conditions. I am dedicated to helping clients achieve mental wellness through personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs. I believe in a collaborative approach, ensuring you feel heard and empowered throughout your journey to better mental health.
I'm Saffie Conteh, NP, PHMP, your psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care, including diagnosis, treatment, and therapy for a range of psychiatric conditions. I am dedicated to helping clients achieve mental wellness through personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs. I believe in a collaborative approach, ensuring you feel heard and empowered throughout your journey to better mental health.
![Photo of Tashekia Williamson, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5a9d6c6-f9fb-44ef-96fd-2be8220972f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tashekia Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602 (Online Only)
Southern Comfort Psychiatric Services, LLC is a mental and behavioral health organization that aims to provide services to members of he community from ages 6 - 65+. We take a holistic approach to care as we aspire to help each client to approach and overcome obstacles that affect the mind, body and spirit. We are committed to taking culturally appropriate evidence based approaches in order to help each client reach optimal functionality within their everyday lives. I believe it is important for me to have a collaborative professional relationship with each client so that we can collectively meet the client's needs.
Southern Comfort Psychiatric Services, LLC is a mental and behavioral health organization that aims to provide services to members of he community from ages 6 - 65+. We take a holistic approach to care as we aspire to help each client to approach and overcome obstacles that affect the mind, body and spirit. We are committed to taking culturally appropriate evidence based approaches in order to help each client reach optimal functionality within their everyday lives. I believe it is important for me to have a collaborative professional relationship with each client so that we can collectively meet the client's needs.
![Photo of Samuel Koroma - AIH Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a79540d-831d-4e89-a52b-21cfb3ce2b55/3/320x400.jpeg)
AIH Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602 (Online Only)
If you are struggling with a mental health condition that is causing distress or pain in your life, you are not alone. Millions of Americans deal with the same issues; which are made worse by the pandemic. Some find it more difficult to seek appropriate care.
If you are struggling with a mental health condition that is causing distress or pain in your life, you are not alone. Millions of Americans deal with the same issues; which are made worse by the pandemic. Some find it more difficult to seek appropriate care.
15 Second Videos
https://headway.co/providers/gloria-johnston?utm_s
Awesome Experience Psychiatric Services, LLC
Atlas Behavioral Health Services
Atlas Behavioral Health Services
Peace & Positivity Mental Health Services, LLC
Clarence Johnson
Synchrony Behavioral Health Services LLC
Nirvana Mental Healthcare Services, Inc
Biliki Douglas
Melissa Shepard
Sarah Keenan
Tai Ajani
Yetunde Precious Rotimi
![Photo of Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen - Atlas Behavioral Health Services, DNP, PMHNPBC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/564e18e8-fdc8-437f-8c36-90542d59600e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Atlas Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CCM
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602 (Online Only)
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health Services, where clients are treated with respect, utilizing evidence-based practices and individualized plans of care. My name is Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen DNP and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland to treat patients with mental health needs across the lifespan. As a graduate of the Wilmington University, I have over 12 years of experience in nursing and have worked with pediatric through geriatrics in various specialties, including mental health settings, community health, in-patient hospital, and out-patient clinic settings.
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health Services, where clients are treated with respect, utilizing evidence-based practices and individualized plans of care. My name is Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen DNP and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland to treat patients with mental health needs across the lifespan. As a graduate of the Wilmington University, I have over 12 years of experience in nursing and have worked with pediatric through geriatrics in various specialties, including mental health settings, community health, in-patient hospital, and out-patient clinic settings.
![Photo of Yetunde Rotimi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c20db3-92e8-41d8-9146-adc11cea93bb/2/320x400.png)
Ideal clients: individuals with mental health issues who feel like they have not been seen or listened to. Having difficulty dealing with their condition and looking to gain insight into their problem. The initial contact includes understanding the client's approach to the current illness, past medical history, family, psychosocial, childhood, and psychiatric history are examined.
Ideal clients: individuals with mental health issues who feel like they have not been seen or listened to. Having difficulty dealing with their condition and looking to gain insight into their problem. The initial contact includes understanding the client's approach to the current illness, past medical history, family, psychosocial, childhood, and psychiatric history are examined.
![Photo of Yunlay Bridges, MHA, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65830827-7b16-445a-a859-350107aa25c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yunlay Bridges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHA, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603 (Online Only)
Each of us will experience life stressors (depression, anxiety, grief and trauma), which are part of the humanistic experience. Working together can allow us to unpack unhealthy behaviors. Therapy can be the pathway to finding the root cause and uncovering triggers to develop positive strategies to maneuver through life’s challenging moments.
Each of us will experience life stressors (depression, anxiety, grief and trauma), which are part of the humanistic experience. Working together can allow us to unpack unhealthy behaviors. Therapy can be the pathway to finding the root cause and uncovering triggers to develop positive strategies to maneuver through life’s challenging moments.
![Photo of Charles Okorom - Zitel Healthcare Services Inc, DNP, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e5319e1-7c98-4b56-a7cd-4736715d49f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zitel Healthcare Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602
Do you experience mood swings, depression, and anxiety that interferes with your daily life and work life? Have you been lacking interest in activities once enjoyed or do you feel anxious in every situation. A mood disorder presents in many forms and requires treatment. At Zitel Healthcare Services where your mental health matters, we provide patient-centered care with holistic approach to treatment in person or with confidential Telepsychiatry sessions in state of Maryland.
Do you experience mood swings, depression, and anxiety that interferes with your daily life and work life? Have you been lacking interest in activities once enjoyed or do you feel anxious in every situation. A mood disorder presents in many forms and requires treatment. At Zitel Healthcare Services where your mental health matters, we provide patient-centered care with holistic approach to treatment in person or with confidential Telepsychiatry sessions in state of Maryland.
![Photo of Cynthia Glover-Singleton, CRNP, PMH, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c31f35f0-ea1a-4787-91a7-2c25afd77da7/1/320x400.png)
Cynthia Glover-Singleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603
Embrace a journey to wellness that transcends the ordinary with Cynthia “Cindy,” your Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over two decades of expertise in emergency care and mental health nursing, Cindy brings a wealth of knowledge and a Master of Nursing Degree from Walden University to your care. Her approach is not just about treating symptoms—it’s a comprehensive, integrative experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Cindy’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “No More Stigma.” She meets you exactly where you are, forging a powerful alliance in your path to mental wellness. It’s not just
Embrace a journey to wellness that transcends the ordinary with Cynthia “Cindy,” your Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over two decades of expertise in emergency care and mental health nursing, Cindy brings a wealth of knowledge and a Master of Nursing Degree from Walden University to your care. Her approach is not just about treating symptoms—it’s a comprehensive, integrative experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Cindy’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “No More Stigma.” She meets you exactly where you are, forging a powerful alliance in your path to mental wellness. It’s not just
![Photo of Ebony Joi Cross - Arise Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d70d739-09d9-4593-9809-0a99be422a64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arise Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20601
At Arise Behavioral Health, we prioritize treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. Our CARF-accredited, state-licensed outpatient mental health clinic offers comprehensive services for adults, adolescents, and children in Southern Maryland and Prince George's County. Our clinic staff includes a diverse group of mental health professionals, including therapists, social workers, nurses, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
At Arise Behavioral Health, we prioritize treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. Our CARF-accredited, state-licensed outpatient mental health clinic offers comprehensive services for adults, adolescents, and children in Southern Maryland and Prince George's County. Our clinic staff includes a diverse group of mental health professionals, including therapists, social workers, nurses, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
![Photo of Dreama Shuler - Peace & Positivity Mental Health Services, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e68aaf6f-ad01-4b27-a07e-6c4c6e253e73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Peace & Positivity Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20601
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you finding it difficult to cope with life’s stressors? Are you noticing that it is difficult to cope with life because of your symptoms? We are all affected by emotional, psychological, or social situations that disturb our mental health. These disruptions cause problems that change our thinking, mood, and behavior. Let us work together to develop a plan to ease your stress and navigate your obstacles. Continue reading to learn how booking a session is the best decision for you.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you finding it difficult to cope with life’s stressors? Are you noticing that it is difficult to cope with life because of your symptoms? We are all affected by emotional, psychological, or social situations that disturb our mental health. These disruptions cause problems that change our thinking, mood, and behavior. Let us work together to develop a plan to ease your stress and navigate your obstacles. Continue reading to learn how booking a session is the best decision for you.
![Photo of Maryann Chinasa Dennis - SOMO Urgent Care, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a32076d4-9d79-46d7-ba09-58de164def2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a caring, compassionate mental health nurse practitioner. I help people by supporting clients who suffer from various mental health conditions; this has given me a foundation to build upon my knowledge and skills in a professional manner as a healthcare assistant.
I am a caring, compassionate mental health nurse practitioner. I help people by supporting clients who suffer from various mental health conditions; this has given me a foundation to build upon my knowledge and skills in a professional manner as a healthcare assistant.
![Photo of Venrice Kerr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/899ef814-bf14-46f1-a90e-acb81ba93a12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venrice Kerr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing difficulty with managing life stressors, career, family, raising a child(ren), physical and mental health? Let me help you take a step to improve your mental health to provide the mental clarity to handle life stressors more efficiently. It brings me joy to help others reach their full potential. Let me help you! I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from SUNY Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Science in nursing in 2004. Shortly thereafter, I obtained my master’s degree while working in an acute care setting for four years.
Are you experiencing difficulty with managing life stressors, career, family, raising a child(ren), physical and mental health? Let me help you take a step to improve your mental health to provide the mental clarity to handle life stressors more efficiently. It brings me joy to help others reach their full potential. Let me help you! I am a dual-board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from SUNY Binghamton University with a Bachelor of Science in nursing in 2004. Shortly thereafter, I obtained my master’s degree while working in an acute care setting for four years.
See more therapy options for Waldorf
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Waldorf, MD
60+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Waldorf, MD who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Aetna |
84% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Waldorf, MD see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Waldorf?
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.