Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD
![Photo of Somya Abubucker - Gestell Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92803ed-f437-47fe-9c9e-f1f5ced6d583/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - At Gestell Psychiatry, we take a holistic approach to mental health. We treat a broad spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, psychotic, dissociative, somatic, and neurodevelopmental. We see patients ages 18 and above for medication management. (Primarily virtual. Limited availability in-person.) For more information: www.GestellPsychiatry.com
Accepting New Patients - At Gestell Psychiatry, we take a holistic approach to mental health. We treat a broad spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, psychotic, dissociative, somatic, and neurodevelopmental. We see patients ages 18 and above for medication management. (Primarily virtual. Limited availability in-person.) For more information: www.GestellPsychiatry.com
![Photo of Charles Wangui - Overcare Psychiatry &Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/716d90fd-3f2b-45b7-9d85-70c8016cb6fd/1/320x400.png)
We have great experience providing psychiatry treatment over the years at John Hopkins, Lifebridge Health, Sheppard Pratt, and University of Maryland among others. We treat various conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, Bipolar, Mood Disorders, Psychotic disorders, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Substance Abuse such as Addiction, and Medical Cannabis ID certification/Renewal among others. We provide direct clinical care to patients presenting for initial or follow-up diagnostic assessment and treatment recommendations. Care is provided through therapeutic interventions.
We have great experience providing psychiatry treatment over the years at John Hopkins, Lifebridge Health, Sheppard Pratt, and University of Maryland among others. We treat various conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, Bipolar, Mood Disorders, Psychotic disorders, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Substance Abuse such as Addiction, and Medical Cannabis ID certification/Renewal among others. We provide direct clinical care to patients presenting for initial or follow-up diagnostic assessment and treatment recommendations. Care is provided through therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Michele Mba - Total care and health services, NP, BNS, MSN, PMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1db83a9d-9443-4c23-917e-fc4f9270fec7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Total care and health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, BNS, MSN, PMNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21231
At total care & health services, we strive to help eliminate the stigma associated with mental health and encourage people to get the treatment that they need. We value each of our clients privacy and we keep their information anonymous.
At total care & health services, we strive to help eliminate the stigma associated with mental health and encourage people to get the treatment that they need. We value each of our clients privacy and we keep their information anonymous.
![Photo of Amy Grammas, CRNP, RN, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c81ddf96-22c8-45e4-9675-fe70cdbd1d45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Grammas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, RN, MS
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230 (Online Only)
Amy Grammas is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that has over 20 years’ experience in the mental health field. She received her post-Master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health from The University of Maryland, School of Nursing and has a Master's degree from Loyola College in Clinical Psychology. She performs thorough psychiatric evaluations that may be required by other institutions, providers medication management, and is a licensed medical marijuana provider.
Amy Grammas is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that has over 20 years’ experience in the mental health field. She received her post-Master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health from The University of Maryland, School of Nursing and has a Master's degree from Loyola College in Clinical Psychology. She performs thorough psychiatric evaluations that may be required by other institutions, providers medication management, and is a licensed medical marijuana provider.
![Photo of Christiana Akinboye - Transformation Healthcare INC, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbcafe2b-73e5-48e3-b61e-517a7472f2e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformation Healthcare INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Hello, I am Bola Osunkiyesi a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the health wellness-illness continuum and lifespan: adolescent, adult, and the geriatric population in the community. I love to read my bible, pray, and encouraging others. During my free time, I love to stay indoors with my family, and prepare traditional meals
Hello, I am Bola Osunkiyesi a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the health wellness-illness continuum and lifespan: adolescent, adult, and the geriatric population in the community. I love to read my bible, pray, and encouraging others. During my free time, I love to stay indoors with my family, and prepare traditional meals
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73b5fc4-91de-4af6-89a6-556a45bb7371/1/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Dr. Jade Goodloe, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a75477f-f0c2-4492-bfeb-a78642c65073/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
![Photo of Alexa Burley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41553d84-4e6f-46d5-8abc-8d227a2a2071/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Burley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my clients are seeking a compassionate partner on their mental health journey. Many face challenges from mood disorders to complex psychiatric conditions, desiring a holistic approach beyond symptom relief, and seeking a safe space where their voice is heard and valued. They aspire to collaborate on a treatment plan aligned with life goals. They are motivated by open dialogue, they appreciate evidence-based interventions and a person-centered approach. Their goal extends beyond symptom relief to resilience, growth, and a meaningful life journey.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my clients are seeking a compassionate partner on their mental health journey. Many face challenges from mood disorders to complex psychiatric conditions, desiring a holistic approach beyond symptom relief, and seeking a safe space where their voice is heard and valued. They aspire to collaborate on a treatment plan aligned with life goals. They are motivated by open dialogue, they appreciate evidence-based interventions and a person-centered approach. Their goal extends beyond symptom relief to resilience, growth, and a meaningful life journey.
![Photo of Julie Ernst, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bfe7c78-4855-4050-8ee3-5c55e832ce0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a PMHNP, I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health conditions through medication management, supportive therapy and an integrative care model focused on holistic health. While medication can be important, it doesn't address the full complexity of mental health, which is shaped by factors like environment, relationships, trauma, and lifestyle. A holistic approach that includes therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support is often needed for lasting well-being. I joined the Complete Wellness team because I deeply value collaborative care with other mental health professionals.
As a PMHNP, I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health conditions through medication management, supportive therapy and an integrative care model focused on holistic health. While medication can be important, it doesn't address the full complexity of mental health, which is shaped by factors like environment, relationships, trauma, and lifestyle. A holistic approach that includes therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support is often needed for lasting well-being. I joined the Complete Wellness team because I deeply value collaborative care with other mental health professionals.
![Photo of Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/794dc08a-ccb2-4d08-bdd1-3b64f5f3eec4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21225
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, MSN, CRNP-PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8years of experience treating patients with mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global). she is the founder of Noble Health & Behavioral Cares Services, LLC. She provides mental health services for all age groups, all gender, and all ethnic groups. Her organization provides comprehensive services for persons experiencing behavioral and mental illness, in-person and telehealth.
Dr. Esther Chikwe-Onyejekwe, DNP, ARNP, MSN, CRNP-PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 8years of experience treating patients with mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global). she is the founder of Noble Health & Behavioral Cares Services, LLC. She provides mental health services for all age groups, all gender, and all ethnic groups. Her organization provides comprehensive services for persons experiencing behavioral and mental illness, in-person and telehealth.
![Photo of Dolapo F Ayodele - Oasis Wellness Center MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/930a9433-aa58-41c0-bbf4-e48cbed18d81/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oasis Wellness Center MD
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215 (Online Only)
Joy has worked for 12 years as Psychiatric Nurse with all ages and in different settings. These include inpatient, community, nursing home and group home settings. Joy is a culturally sensitive provider, a good listener, empathetic and always ready to help. Joy has a passion for serving those who need mental health services such as Mental Health Assessments, providing appropriate psychiatric diagnoses, providing therapy, medication management, developing treatment plans with a multidisciplinary team, and utilizing evidence-based approach in her practice.
Joy has worked for 12 years as Psychiatric Nurse with all ages and in different settings. These include inpatient, community, nursing home and group home settings. Joy is a culturally sensitive provider, a good listener, empathetic and always ready to help. Joy has a passion for serving those who need mental health services such as Mental Health Assessments, providing appropriate psychiatric diagnoses, providing therapy, medication management, developing treatment plans with a multidisciplinary team, and utilizing evidence-based approach in her practice.
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![Photo of Dr. Abdul Malik Fofanah, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87ca6e6d-b35d-4aba-b786-37e2ac4a09d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Abdul Malik Fofanah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218
I will be deeply committed to raising awareness about behavioral and mental health issues, I will actively engages in community outreach initiatives, advocating for destigmatization and promoting access to quality mental health services.
I will be deeply committed to raising awareness about behavioral and mental health issues, I will actively engages in community outreach initiatives, advocating for destigmatization and promoting access to quality mental health services.
![Photo of Gideon Jun Oberio, CRNPPMH, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfd3c217-1fc9-4e36-af08-943b6bd671aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gideon Jun Oberio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNPPMH, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I believe in being respectful of your mind and body while improving your quality of life through medication management. I enjoy working with patients to develop treatment goals to optimize their medication management plan. I am here to listen to you and make recommendations on our journey together. I love to work with people from age six through adulthood. I also work with many different diagnoses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, mood disorders, and schizophrenia.
I believe in being respectful of your mind and body while improving your quality of life through medication management. I enjoy working with patients to develop treatment goals to optimize their medication management plan. I am here to listen to you and make recommendations on our journey together. I love to work with people from age six through adulthood. I also work with many different diagnoses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, mood disorders, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of John Devine, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b11414ac-449d-461b-9d15-194f35529cbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
During my last 10 years of practice, mental health means adjusting to life’s changes and challenges in an emotionally healthy way. Mental health means overcoming barriers to activate our highest self and being emotionally in touch and stable. Mental health is a balance in our quality of life: work, love, spiritual, and leisure aspects, while working to accomplish our goals. Mental health is a daily practice that establishes a positive routine and a lifestyle that optimizes lasting joy.
During my last 10 years of practice, mental health means adjusting to life’s changes and challenges in an emotionally healthy way. Mental health means overcoming barriers to activate our highest self and being emotionally in touch and stable. Mental health is a balance in our quality of life: work, love, spiritual, and leisure aspects, while working to accomplish our goals. Mental health is a daily practice that establishes a positive routine and a lifestyle that optimizes lasting joy.
![Photo of Alicia Medina - Greater Chesapeake, CRNP, LCSW-C, LCPC, RN, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22306745-9f8f-4e4a-b95a-ca447d364fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Greater Chesapeake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, LCSW-C, LCPC, RN, MD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21239
Now accepting adults and children in office or via telehealth. We offer medication management, therapy, and case management services. We treat a variety of mental health disorders including psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We also offer Suboxone/Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and other medications to treat addictions. We partner with other agencies such as Mental Health Court, IOPs, PRPs, and hospitals. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and can help patients with no insurance. Contact us: 443-438-6893 or email via the link on this page.
Now accepting adults and children in office or via telehealth. We offer medication management, therapy, and case management services. We treat a variety of mental health disorders including psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We also offer Suboxone/Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and other medications to treat addictions. We partner with other agencies such as Mental Health Court, IOPs, PRPs, and hospitals. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and can help patients with no insurance. Contact us: 443-438-6893 or email via the link on this page.
![Photo of Marlaine F. Registe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e82469eb-55c6-4998-820b-1184b21c890e/2/320x400.png)
Marlaine F. Registe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling anxious lately? Maybe you are Depressed? Tired and can’t concentrate? Or maybe you’re on a bunch of medications that aren’t working? Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help. My name is Marlaine Registe, and I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of combined nursing experience, with 12 years in advanced practice. I work with patients ages 10-100+ with psychiatric mental health disorders in the Washington DC metro area, seeing patients all across DC, Virginia, and Maryland.
Have you been feeling anxious lately? Maybe you are Depressed? Tired and can’t concentrate? Or maybe you’re on a bunch of medications that aren’t working? Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help. My name is Marlaine Registe, and I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of combined nursing experience, with 12 years in advanced practice. I work with patients ages 10-100+ with psychiatric mental health disorders in the Washington DC metro area, seeing patients all across DC, Virginia, and Maryland.
![Photo of Aanu E Olorunsola - ANHHS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2d4f145-475b-483f-858f-a7b72dd3987e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aanu Olorunsola MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders, to assist the client in coordinating and managing their mental health necessities, using the techniques of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery appropriate to the clients’ culture. I focus on cost effective and solid evidence based practice, providing effective and innovative whole health care for the people and community I serve.
Aanu Olorunsola MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders, to assist the client in coordinating and managing their mental health necessities, using the techniques of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery appropriate to the clients’ culture. I focus on cost effective and solid evidence based practice, providing effective and innovative whole health care for the people and community I serve.
![Photo of Pamela Johnson - Citywide Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecc3cbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
How Can We Help? Where does change begin? At some point in life, we all have challenges that cause us to seek change! Change begins with you selecting Citywide Behavioral Health (CBH). Citywide is a client-focused, culturally competent, strength-based, behavioral health program. We provide mental health and substance abuse services to adults. Citywide offers individualized care for our consumers including psychotherapy, medication management (also injections), psychiatric rehabilitation program (PRP), IOP and OP groups. In addition, we are a licensed residential housing program (3.5-3.1) for adults with dual diagnosis.
How Can We Help? Where does change begin? At some point in life, we all have challenges that cause us to seek change! Change begins with you selecting Citywide Behavioral Health (CBH). Citywide is a client-focused, culturally competent, strength-based, behavioral health program. We provide mental health and substance abuse services to adults. Citywide offers individualized care for our consumers including psychotherapy, medication management (also injections), psychiatric rehabilitation program (PRP), IOP and OP groups. In addition, we are a licensed residential housing program (3.5-3.1) for adults with dual diagnosis.
![Photo of Francis Oduah, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e468f757-5649-40cb-ad52-3652ae278525/2/320x400.jpeg)
Francis Oduah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201 (Online Only)
At Breakthrough Behavioral Health Services, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. Since the beginning of our practice, we have had the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues come second. No matter why you’re visiting us, we provide comprehensive and excellent care. Find out more about our provider and let us take care of you.
At Breakthrough Behavioral Health Services, we’re committed to providing you with the most exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. Since the beginning of our practice, we have had the philosophy that our patients come first, insurance issues come second. No matter why you’re visiting us, we provide comprehensive and excellent care. Find out more about our provider and let us take care of you.
![Photo of Florence Oriakhi - BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b79bba69-11d5-4986-9912-1df7c242b95b/1/320x400.jpeg)
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC provides psychiatric and mental health services to individuals and families in a therapeutic and non-judgmental manner. BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC (BBHS) listens to patients with empathy and passion. Here at BBHS, we assess, evaluate and re-evaluate, perform diagnostic evaluation, diagnose, treat, assist patients to acquire, develop and, maintain therapeutic skills they need for self-empowerment. Our Mission is to assist our patients in managing their symptoms, providing them with the necessary treatments and supports geared toward achieving full remission. BirdView Cares!
BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC provides psychiatric and mental health services to individuals and families in a therapeutic and non-judgmental manner. BirdView Behavioral Health Services, LLC (BBHS) listens to patients with empathy and passion. Here at BBHS, we assess, evaluate and re-evaluate, perform diagnostic evaluation, diagnose, treat, assist patients to acquire, develop and, maintain therapeutic skills they need for self-empowerment. Our Mission is to assist our patients in managing their symptoms, providing them with the necessary treatments and supports geared toward achieving full remission. BirdView Cares!
See more therapy options for Baltimore
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD
400+
Average cost per session
$155
Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Aetna |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Baltimore, MD see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Baltimore?
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.