Psychiatrists in Bel Air, MD
![Photo of Robert Timothy Paine, DO , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/993638c4-76f8-4933-8315-e99c2dd02f6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an osteopathic physician, my clinical approach is truly holistic, carefully considering the individual and families' strengths, areas of concern, and life stressors that have motivated their search for mental health support. My goal is to create a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment for children, adolescents, and adults seeking psychiatric care.
As an osteopathic physician, my clinical approach is truly holistic, carefully considering the individual and families' strengths, areas of concern, and life stressors that have motivated their search for mental health support. My goal is to create a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment for children, adolescents, and adults seeking psychiatric care.
![Photo of Leslie Taylor, CRNP-BC, MSN, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9296a7e1-13bc-440e-b799-d66b3b22e490/1/320x400.jpeg)
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reported that every year about 43.8 million American adults suffer from some mental illness, enduring conditions such as chronic stress, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, thus the pressing need for psychiatry services. We wholeheartedly believe in the need for mental health wellness of which cannot be overestimated as it influences how one thinks, feels, and behaves in daily life. Because of this community need, Metis Psychiatry Associates, LLC was established.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reported that every year about 43.8 million American adults suffer from some mental illness, enduring conditions such as chronic stress, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, thus the pressing need for psychiatry services. We wholeheartedly believe in the need for mental health wellness of which cannot be overestimated as it influences how one thinks, feels, and behaves in daily life. Because of this community need, Metis Psychiatry Associates, LLC was established.
![Photo of Wendy Strong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a98eb6e3-7c23-419e-8724-933935f3f8ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Clients for Medication Management. Wendy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, to include emergency department and outpatient clinics. Her education includes a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization, from Walden University. Wendy has been a nurse for 14 years with most of her experience being in the emergency department taking care of the sickest of mental health patients.
Now Accepting New Clients for Medication Management. Wendy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, to include emergency department and outpatient clinics. Her education includes a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization, from Walden University. Wendy has been a nurse for 14 years with most of her experience being in the emergency department taking care of the sickest of mental health patients.
![Photo of Vincent Renna, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3a6afb2-36cf-4ba8-b24c-4db43d2affed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients with appointments available within 48 hours, serving Maryland through telepsychiatry. Offering both medication management and therapy to provide comprehensive care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress management, life changes, or a chronic mental illness, support is tailored to address your overall well-being.
Accepting new patients with appointments available within 48 hours, serving Maryland through telepsychiatry. Offering both medication management and therapy to provide comprehensive care. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress management, life changes, or a chronic mental illness, support is tailored to address your overall well-being.
![Photo of Asia Douglas - CarePlus , MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d4cec92-c516-4d67-a413-be7da743b037/1/320x400.jpeg)
CarePlus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21015 (Online Only)
CarePlus is accepting NEW clients! Appointments are available in as soon as 1 week. CarePlus uses a patient centered approach, ensuring all care is tailored to the individual needs of the patient. The uses of the latest research and proven treatment methods as well as other comprehensive services (talk therapy, medication management, and crisis interventions) are essential in how CarePlus provides high quality patient care. CarePlus is committed to improving patient outcomes and enhancing patient satisfaction through providing an environment that is comfortable, safe, and easily accessible to clients across the lifespan.
CarePlus is accepting NEW clients! Appointments are available in as soon as 1 week. CarePlus uses a patient centered approach, ensuring all care is tailored to the individual needs of the patient. The uses of the latest research and proven treatment methods as well as other comprehensive services (talk therapy, medication management, and crisis interventions) are essential in how CarePlus provides high quality patient care. CarePlus is committed to improving patient outcomes and enhancing patient satisfaction through providing an environment that is comfortable, safe, and easily accessible to clients across the lifespan.
![Photo of Barbara Page, MSN, AGPNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbfada34-8486-4384-8114-f1f50e19e167/1/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Page
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015 (Online Only)
Let's work together to accomplish the most successful outcome. We can develop and conquer both short-term and long-term goals. Collaboration has proven to be the best approach and key to success.
Let's work together to accomplish the most successful outcome. We can develop and conquer both short-term and long-term goals. Collaboration has proven to be the best approach and key to success.
![Photo of Dr. Temi Akinpetide, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aff95d4-f9cd-4d03-9f44-b55caa76cb19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Temi Akinpetide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014 (Online Only)
Mental health issues are a part of us. This doesn't make us weak; it just makes us human and what's important is that we get help and keep moving forward. Remember, you don't have to hold it all in, you're not alone in this journey. We are here to help, and you can share your experience with us anytime by scheduling a session with us.
Mental health issues are a part of us. This doesn't make us weak; it just makes us human and what's important is that we get help and keep moving forward. Remember, you don't have to hold it all in, you're not alone in this journey. We are here to help, and you can share your experience with us anytime by scheduling a session with us.
![Photo of Brandon Joseph Phillips - Harford Health And Wellness, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcf53850-30a5-4d58-99b8-f1d7c2c38aeb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harford Health And Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
At Harford Health & Wellness, we believe in a holistic and personalized approach to mental health treatment. We provide a broad array of quality psychiatric services, including medication management, substance use services, therapy for individuals, groups, and families.
At Harford Health & Wellness, we believe in a holistic and personalized approach to mental health treatment. We provide a broad array of quality psychiatric services, including medication management, substance use services, therapy for individuals, groups, and families.
Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Shazia Khan has over 10 year experience in the field of Psychiatry. She completed her adult residency at Delaware Psychiatry Center in 2013. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Dr. Khan understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness and she provides a safe and non judgemental space for her patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. Her approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence -based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Shazia Khan has over 10 year experience in the field of Psychiatry. She completed her adult residency at Delaware Psychiatry Center in 2013. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Dr. Khan understands the unique challenges that come with mental illness and she provides a safe and non judgemental space for her patients to explore their feelings and work towards healing. Her approach is tailored to each individual, using evidence -based techniques to provide effective and personalized care.
![Photo of Mark Ison - Wellness Legacy, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9537f861-b4dc-48a1-b2ae-be56df12fdcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellness Legacy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** My ideal client is someone who understands that psychiatric illnesses are complex. They come from biological, environmental and genetic stressors that can be very difficult in treating but with time and resolve can hopefully be figured out. It can be a short or lengthy process, but I will never give up in trying to help you achieve your goals and needs. I work with adolescents and adults exhibiting a wide range of psychiatric symptoms. I believe in providing collaborative care, and would like to involve clients and their families to provide best available treatment.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** My ideal client is someone who understands that psychiatric illnesses are complex. They come from biological, environmental and genetic stressors that can be very difficult in treating but with time and resolve can hopefully be figured out. It can be a short or lengthy process, but I will never give up in trying to help you achieve your goals and needs. I work with adolescents and adults exhibiting a wide range of psychiatric symptoms. I believe in providing collaborative care, and would like to involve clients and their families to provide best available treatment.
![Photo of Latoya Victor - Harford Health & Wellness, PMHNP, FNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c619a6e-716e-4101-8913-f90f83d8aa69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harford Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014
There are many individuals that are suffering today. Many are concerned and uncertain about the present, what the future holds, and overall everyday life. This becomes stressful and very overwhelming which translates to emotional distress which impacts life drastically.
There are many individuals that are suffering today. Many are concerned and uncertain about the present, what the future holds, and overall everyday life. This becomes stressful and very overwhelming which translates to emotional distress which impacts life drastically.
![Photo of Mika Riley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a4a3cb2-b0f4-463d-b8eb-5c669f63b29c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of old feelings and patterns getting in the way and preventing you from achieving your goals? Are you ready to work hard and make changes, but you’re not sure where to start? I can help guide you. I work with adolescents and adults who want to take risks and live meaningful lives and are open to looking at past patterns that just aren’t working anymore. I will help you figure out where you want to get to, what is holding you back and how to get there.
Are you tired of old feelings and patterns getting in the way and preventing you from achieving your goals? Are you ready to work hard and make changes, but you’re not sure where to start? I can help guide you. I work with adolescents and adults who want to take risks and live meaningful lives and are open to looking at past patterns that just aren’t working anymore. I will help you figure out where you want to get to, what is holding you back and how to get there.
![Photo of David Stewart, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7bec6d8-916a-4b27-b82e-3e6d239cea1a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a holistic and personalized approach to mental health treatment. I provide a broad array of quality psychiatric services, including medication management, substance use services, therapy for individuals, groups, and couples. I am now accepting new clients. Day, evening, and some limited weekend appointments are available.
I believe in a holistic and personalized approach to mental health treatment. I provide a broad array of quality psychiatric services, including medication management, substance use services, therapy for individuals, groups, and couples. I am now accepting new clients. Day, evening, and some limited weekend appointments are available.
![Photo of Elizabeth Quill, CRNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a81be72f-894e-4868-bda5-f193d2dc4680/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Quill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
We all exist along a continuum of mental health and wellness. There are times we need a little more help. Life today is hard! If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, or other mental health concern, I am here to help. I will walk alongside you on your journey to total wellbeing.
We all exist along a continuum of mental health and wellness. There are times we need a little more help. Life today is hard! If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, or other mental health concern, I am here to help. I will walk alongside you on your journey to total wellbeing.
![Photo of Sandra Anoruo, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/955c5ef5-7dc6-4d7b-b4aa-22cb94663d44/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Anoruo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
Mental Health and Wellness requires individualized approach. My goal of treatment is to collaborate with the client, identify and improve client's strengths while working with them to identify and work on areas of weakness. There is no magic pill to take away stress, but it’s effect on our mental health can be effectively managed using joint effort. Limitations exist solely within us, we can realize our full potential with adequate support and the right mind-set.
Mental Health and Wellness requires individualized approach. My goal of treatment is to collaborate with the client, identify and improve client's strengths while working with them to identify and work on areas of weakness. There is no magic pill to take away stress, but it’s effect on our mental health can be effectively managed using joint effort. Limitations exist solely within us, we can realize our full potential with adequate support and the right mind-set.
![Photo of Nelly Kangethe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7762753-93dc-4081-8c19-e3ddfb98b4f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nelly Kangethe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014 (Online Only)
Hi there, I am Dr. Nelly. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, and unable to fit in the society? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I’m ready to help you manage anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and many other health problems to avoid losing the balance in your in your life. Together, we can identify what’s not working and get to back to balance. Will use the whole self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
Hi there, I am Dr. Nelly. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, and unable to fit in the society? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I’m ready to help you manage anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and many other health problems to avoid losing the balance in your in your life. Together, we can identify what’s not working and get to back to balance. Will use the whole self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Hina Aamir, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c5787ef-4b6e-41b7-838a-5066036153e9/1/320x400.png)
At Aspire Behavioral Health Center , we direct care achieving excellent mental health. I am (Hina Aamir MD) a Board Certified Adult psychiatrist practicing psychiatry and serving Harford county MD, in person and many remote areas of MD through telepsychiatry . I have been part of many esteemed local hospitals and Outpatient practices. I have unique experience of treating mental conditions in collaborative care model, treating as a whole person with Biopsychosocial aspect integration. I have expertise in special care treating Mood disorder, anxiety,PTSD, Neurocognitive disorders, Schizophrenia, Co occurring and all DSM 5 diagnosis.
At Aspire Behavioral Health Center , we direct care achieving excellent mental health. I am (Hina Aamir MD) a Board Certified Adult psychiatrist practicing psychiatry and serving Harford county MD, in person and many remote areas of MD through telepsychiatry . I have been part of many esteemed local hospitals and Outpatient practices. I have unique experience of treating mental conditions in collaborative care model, treating as a whole person with Biopsychosocial aspect integration. I have expertise in special care treating Mood disorder, anxiety,PTSD, Neurocognitive disorders, Schizophrenia, Co occurring and all DSM 5 diagnosis.
![Photo of Thorayia Maraheel, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a22ea480-9697-4cab-b115-1f91553b6abe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thorayia Maraheel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21015 (Online Only)
Struggling with your mental health? You're not alone. Let's work together to find the support and solutions you need. I offer empathetic support and evidence-based solutions tailored to your needs. Whether it's medication management or coping strategies, I'm here to guide you toward lasting wellness.
Struggling with your mental health? You're not alone. Let's work together to find the support and solutions you need. I offer empathetic support and evidence-based solutions tailored to your needs. Whether it's medication management or coping strategies, I'm here to guide you toward lasting wellness.
![Photo of Anastasia L Tusa, CRNP-P, CRNP-AG, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e86e425f-dc42-4ecc-b6c5-86332174d192/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anastasia L Tusa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-P, CRNP-AG
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014
Ms. Tusa provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to adolescents and adults. Her approach is conservative and evidence-based and she stays current with the latest developments in psychiatry and neuroscience. Research indicates that the best treatment response occurs when medication is combined with therapy, and as a nurse practitioner, she is very comfortable with, and believes strongly in, a multidisciplinary approach.
Ms. Tusa provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to adolescents and adults. Her approach is conservative and evidence-based and she stays current with the latest developments in psychiatry and neuroscience. Research indicates that the best treatment response occurs when medication is combined with therapy, and as a nurse practitioner, she is very comfortable with, and believes strongly in, a multidisciplinary approach.
![Photo of Christopher McCracken, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbfb478a-fa75-40e8-800c-8d936bc06321/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in adolescent and young adult patients (ages 16 and older), and I treat adult patients of any age. Prospective patients with any mental health need or previous diagnosis are welcome. I practice in the Harford Health & Wellness office in Bel Air, MD. My background includes 6 years of inpatient behavioral health experience, where I cared for patients with needs ranging from depression to schizophrenia. I have further training and experience in special education. The University of South Alabama granted me the Excellence in Practice Award for the distinguished delivery of quality patient care in 2023.
I specialize in adolescent and young adult patients (ages 16 and older), and I treat adult patients of any age. Prospective patients with any mental health need or previous diagnosis are welcome. I practice in the Harford Health & Wellness office in Bel Air, MD. My background includes 6 years of inpatient behavioral health experience, where I cared for patients with needs ranging from depression to schizophrenia. I have further training and experience in special education. The University of South Alabama granted me the Excellence in Practice Award for the distinguished delivery of quality patient care in 2023.
See more therapy options for Bel Air
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bel Air, MD
40+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Bel Air, MD who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Medication Management |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Aetna |
79% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Bel Air, MD see their clients
51% | Online Only | |
49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bel Air?
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.