Psychiatrists in 20902

Photo of Kathryn Novak - WeCarePsychiatricServices, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
WeCarePsychiatricServices
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kathryn is a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a focus on holistic and mutually agreed upon treatment and medication, providing care to clients in the Silver Spring, its surrounding areas, including the entire state of Maryland. WeCare providers are non-judgmental, honoring honesty, trust and respect for a truly therapeutic relationship. I am an empathetic practitioner providing medication management to treat the whole person or family needs. Kathryn is a member of the Nurse Practitioner Association of Maryland (NPAM).
Kathryn is a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a focus on holistic and mutually agreed upon treatment and medication, providing care to clients in the Silver Spring, its surrounding areas, including the entire state of Maryland. WeCare providers are non-judgmental, honoring honesty, trust and respect for a truly therapeutic relationship. I am an empathetic practitioner providing medication management to treat the whole person or family needs. Kathryn is a member of the Nurse Practitioner Association of Maryland (NPAM).
(301) 265-2963 View (301) 265-2963
Photo of Jason Eliassaint, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jason Eliassaint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
My name is Jason, I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), specializing in anxiety, panic disorder, depression, trauma, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and schizophrenia. My goal is to create strong and trusting relationships with my patients in order to pursue the best course of effective treatment. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. My sympathetic, kindhearted, and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues and empowers them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery
My name is Jason, I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), specializing in anxiety, panic disorder, depression, trauma, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and schizophrenia. My goal is to create strong and trusting relationships with my patients in order to pursue the best course of effective treatment. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. My sympathetic, kindhearted, and caring approaches to each individual patients make me capable of reaching the core of each of my patients’ issues and empowers them to enhance their awareness of their potentials in dealing with treatment and recovery
(240) 209-9881 View (240) 209-9881
Photo of Constantine Lewko, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Constantine Lewko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hi, my name is Constantine Lewko, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience working with patients and families from adolescents to geriatrics with various mental health illnesses. I treat patients with ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Psychotic Disorders. Mental Health illness is difficult for you as the patient, and it is as difficult for family and friends watching your loved one suffer. I am talking to you by experience due to my own family mental health struggles, but with the right provider who is willing to listen, remission is achievable. Let's work together.
Hi, my name is Constantine Lewko, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience working with patients and families from adolescents to geriatrics with various mental health illnesses. I treat patients with ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Psychotic Disorders. Mental Health illness is difficult for you as the patient, and it is as difficult for family and friends watching your loved one suffer. I am talking to you by experience due to my own family mental health struggles, but with the right provider who is willing to listen, remission is achievable. Let's work together.
(240) 540-5704 View (240) 540-5704
Photo of Jae Hoon Kim - JaeHoon Kim, PMHNP, Lazarus Psychiatry LLC, PMHNP, MSN, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
JaeHoon Kim, PMHNP, Lazarus Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Would it be possible to be a family practitioner who has a kind bedside manner, is on a first-name basis with many patients and also, when needed, can make house calls? This is what I used to watch when I grew up, Marcus Welby, M.D. He left me an image of a doctor with humanity in his office as well as mature medical craftmanship. Managed care environment makes this type of practice difficult, but this is my goal to provide compassionate care, filling the gap in the healthcare system whether it is caused by stigma, culture, or finance.
Would it be possible to be a family practitioner who has a kind bedside manner, is on a first-name basis with many patients and also, when needed, can make house calls? This is what I used to watch when I grew up, Marcus Welby, M.D. He left me an image of a doctor with humanity in his office as well as mature medical craftmanship. Managed care environment makes this type of practice difficult, but this is my goal to provide compassionate care, filling the gap in the healthcare system whether it is caused by stigma, culture, or finance.
(240) 202-3387 View (240) 202-3387
Photo of Beserat Kibret - Psychiatry Utopia , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatry Utopia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you experiencing persistent sadness, excessive worry, intrusive thoughts, difficulty regulating emotions, insomnia, impaired social functioning or challenges in daily activities and requiring professional help to address these Concerns? We are here to help and explore different treatment options. We perform comprehensive assessments to better understand the factors that contributes to your difficulties including biological, psychological, social factors and work with you to improve your wellbeing.
Are you experiencing persistent sadness, excessive worry, intrusive thoughts, difficulty regulating emotions, insomnia, impaired social functioning or challenges in daily activities and requiring professional help to address these Concerns? We are here to help and explore different treatment options. We perform comprehensive assessments to better understand the factors that contributes to your difficulties including biological, psychological, social factors and work with you to improve your wellbeing.
(301) 828-2348 View (301) 828-2348
Photo of Benjamin Dahunsi-Bright Care Solutions, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benjamin Dahunsi-Bright Care Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
SCHEDULE ONLINE TODAY, AFFORDABLE PRICES, EXCELLENT SERVICE. Welcome to Bright Care Solutions, a practice established by Benjamin Dahunsi, a licensed Nurse Practitioner with multiple years of experience in mental health care. Bright Care Solutions services the metro area.
SCHEDULE ONLINE TODAY, AFFORDABLE PRICES, EXCELLENT SERVICE. Welcome to Bright Care Solutions, a practice established by Benjamin Dahunsi, a licensed Nurse Practitioner with multiple years of experience in mental health care. Bright Care Solutions services the metro area.
(443) 222-8109 View (443) 222-8109
Photo of Dr. Scott G Williams, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Scott G Williams
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Williams earned his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University and completed a combined residency in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry at Walter Reed. He is board-certified in Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, and Sleep Medicine by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Williams is recognized as a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and as a Fellow of both the ACP and the AASM.
Dr. Williams earned his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University and completed a combined residency in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry at Walter Reed. He is board-certified in Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, and Sleep Medicine by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Williams is recognized as a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and as a Fellow of both the ACP and the AASM.
(240) 759-2631 View (240) 759-2631
Photo of Evlyn Billy-Eko, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evlyn Billy-Eko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with managing your mental health, feeling overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with your daily life? Do you long for effective support and treatment tailored to your unique needs? I specialize in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Neurodevelopmental disorder, Schizophrenia spectrum, and other psychotic disorders. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate these challenges and reclaim a sense of well-being. You don't have to face these challenges alone.
Are you struggling with managing your mental health, feeling overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with your daily life? Do you long for effective support and treatment tailored to your unique needs? I specialize in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Neurodevelopmental disorder, Schizophrenia spectrum, and other psychotic disorders. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate these challenges and reclaim a sense of well-being. You don't have to face these challenges alone.
(240) 343-4744 View (240) 343-4744
Photo of Anna Richards - Calliope Health Ketamine, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatrist
Calliope Health Ketamine
Psychiatrist, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
We provide psychiatric medication as well as ketamine infusions to relieve anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD. We offer psychotherapy that enhances your treatment, in a safe and comfortable environment. Anna Richards, CRNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Registered Nurse Practitioner. She brings her 10+ years of experience treating trauma disorders, mood disorders, and substance abuse as well as extensive work in crisis stabilization. She provides general psychiatry as well as ketamine-assisted therapy through infusions at our Bethesda clinic.
We provide psychiatric medication as well as ketamine infusions to relieve anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD. We offer psychotherapy that enhances your treatment, in a safe and comfortable environment. Anna Richards, CRNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Registered Nurse Practitioner. She brings her 10+ years of experience treating trauma disorders, mood disorders, and substance abuse as well as extensive work in crisis stabilization. She provides general psychiatry as well as ketamine-assisted therapy through infusions at our Bethesda clinic.
(240) 759-2171 View (240) 759-2171
Photo of Rohul Amin, MD, DFAPA, FACP, Psychiatrist
Rohul Amin
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, FACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am accepting new patients now in Maryland and Virginia. In-network (CareFirst BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, Quest, Carelon, self pay). Concerns addressed: depression, anxiety, trauma or PTSD, anger, irritability, OCD, alcohol and substance use, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other cognitive concerns such as dementia. I also care for patients with sexual disorders, and personality disorders such as borderline or avoidant personality disorders. I specialize in caring for women either planning pregnancy, during, or with postpartum depression, OCD, or anxiety symptoms. I welcome patients from the veteran and the LGBTQ+ community.
I am accepting new patients now in Maryland and Virginia. In-network (CareFirst BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, Quest, Carelon, self pay). Concerns addressed: depression, anxiety, trauma or PTSD, anger, irritability, OCD, alcohol and substance use, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other cognitive concerns such as dementia. I also care for patients with sexual disorders, and personality disorders such as borderline or avoidant personality disorders. I specialize in caring for women either planning pregnancy, during, or with postpartum depression, OCD, or anxiety symptoms. I welcome patients from the veteran and the LGBTQ+ community.
(443) 645-4196 View (443) 645-4196
Photo of Ezra Molina, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ezra Molina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Ezra's mission is to guide individuals on their journey toward improved mental health and personal fulfillment. Believing that every person is unique, he works to create individualized treatment plans that emphasize holistic well-being. Building strong therapeutic relationships is a priority, allowing him to better understand each client’s experiences, challenges, and aspirations. In their practice, Ezra empowers clients to take an active role in their healing journey, equipping them with practical tools and strategies.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Ezra's mission is to guide individuals on their journey toward improved mental health and personal fulfillment. Believing that every person is unique, he works to create individualized treatment plans that emphasize holistic well-being. Building strong therapeutic relationships is a priority, allowing him to better understand each client’s experiences, challenges, and aspirations. In their practice, Ezra empowers clients to take an active role in their healing journey, equipping them with practical tools and strategies.
(301) 328-1605 View (301) 328-1605

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Ngetla Mbonuh, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ngetla Mbonuh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
I am Dr. Ngetla Mbonuh, DNP, Walden graduate, and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Maryland. I work with both adults and children across the lifespan, providing care to patients struggle with anxiety, trauma, depression,& addictions. With extensive experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), I’m constantly inspired by the resilience and strength of my patients, and I work to empower them to achieve their maximum potential holistically. My treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practices that focus on the mind-body connection. My goal is to help patients overcome, thrive, & enjoy life.
I am Dr. Ngetla Mbonuh, DNP, Walden graduate, and a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Maryland. I work with both adults and children across the lifespan, providing care to patients struggle with anxiety, trauma, depression,& addictions. With extensive experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), I’m constantly inspired by the resilience and strength of my patients, and I work to empower them to achieve their maximum potential holistically. My treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practices that focus on the mind-body connection. My goal is to help patients overcome, thrive, & enjoy life.
(443) 940-5326 x100 View (443) 940-5326 x100
Photo of O'Kemi Olawuyi - Dr. O' Kem Olawuyi (Hava Oaks Medical), DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. O' Kem Olawuyi (Hava Oaks Medical)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Dr. 'O', as her patients affectionately know her, is a compassionate and experienced mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. She specializes in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, eating disorders, OCD, DMDD, ODD, and substance use disorders. Dr. O's approach combines evident-based medication management and varieties of psychotherapy techniques, and rooted in unconditional positive regard, creating a safe and supportive environment for her patients to heal and thrive.
Dr. 'O', as her patients affectionately know her, is a compassionate and experienced mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. She specializes in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, eating disorders, OCD, DMDD, ODD, and substance use disorders. Dr. O's approach combines evident-based medication management and varieties of psychotherapy techniques, and rooted in unconditional positive regard, creating a safe and supportive environment for her patients to heal and thrive.
(786) 981-0204 View (786) 981-0204
Photo of Michele Mba - Total care and health services, NP, BNS, MSN, PMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(410) 936-5452 View (410) 936-5452
Photo of Sheri Saluga, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheri Saluga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing for 6 years and enjoy seeing patients of all ages for medication management of their mental health issues. By utilizing a thoughtful, individualized, and patient collaborative treatment approach, I help patients reach their highest potential of mental wellbeing.
Welcome, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing for 6 years and enjoy seeing patients of all ages for medication management of their mental health issues. By utilizing a thoughtful, individualized, and patient collaborative treatment approach, I help patients reach their highest potential of mental wellbeing.
(443) 960-8241 View (443) 960-8241
Photo of Leighton Kennedy - Telehealth Only, PMHNP-, BC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leighton Kennedy - Telehealth Only
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, CRNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have over 20 years in psychiatric mental health care, from an RN through being an NP. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am certified to prescribe medications and treat people with mental health challenges from youth through late adulthood. Working with people from a variety of ethnic and economic backgrounds gives me deeper understanding of you. I would love to see how I can help you feel more like you can accomplish your day to day tasks and goals without you feeling overwhelmed by your mood symptoms, anxiety, or challenges managing your behaviors. I am rendering services remotely in Maryland and in Virginia.
I have over 20 years in psychiatric mental health care, from an RN through being an NP. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am certified to prescribe medications and treat people with mental health challenges from youth through late adulthood. Working with people from a variety of ethnic and economic backgrounds gives me deeper understanding of you. I would love to see how I can help you feel more like you can accomplish your day to day tasks and goals without you feeling overwhelmed by your mood symptoms, anxiety, or challenges managing your behaviors. I am rendering services remotely in Maryland and in Virginia.
(240) 363-8882 View (240) 363-8882
Photo of Bruce S Hill, MD, Psychiatrist
Bruce S Hill
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Do you feel disconnected from close relationships, despite being surrounded by technology and social media 24/7? Are anxiety, trauma and low mood robbing you of the joy and spontaneity of life? Together, my clients and I walk through the biological, mental and emotional aspects of these conditions and gain an understanding of their origins as well as hidden strengths each of us has at our core. There is much to be discovered in all of us. With sensitive and timely use of medication and psychotherapy, these struggles and strengths begin to reveal themselves in fulfilling ways that restore meaning and function to our lives.
Do you feel disconnected from close relationships, despite being surrounded by technology and social media 24/7? Are anxiety, trauma and low mood robbing you of the joy and spontaneity of life? Together, my clients and I walk through the biological, mental and emotional aspects of these conditions and gain an understanding of their origins as well as hidden strengths each of us has at our core. There is much to be discovered in all of us. With sensitive and timely use of medication and psychotherapy, these struggles and strengths begin to reveal themselves in fulfilling ways that restore meaning and function to our lives.
(202) 759-8590 View (202) 759-8590
Photo of Sweetie H Doychinov - Sweetie Doychinov, PMHNP, CRNP, PMH, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sweetie Doychinov, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
As a board-certified PMHNP with nearly a decade of experience, I provide comprehensive mental health care to diverse populations. I specialize in diagnosing and treating Mood Disorders (depression, bipolar), Anxiety Disorder (GAD, Panic, PTSD), Substance Use Disorder, and ADD/ADHD disorders using evidence-based interventions and psychopharmacology. My experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization settings. Currently, I serve as Medical Director at a mental health and substance abuse treatment center. I focus on medication management, therapy, and patient education to foster holistic care and improve outcomes.
As a board-certified PMHNP with nearly a decade of experience, I provide comprehensive mental health care to diverse populations. I specialize in diagnosing and treating Mood Disorders (depression, bipolar), Anxiety Disorder (GAD, Panic, PTSD), Substance Use Disorder, and ADD/ADHD disorders using evidence-based interventions and psychopharmacology. My experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization settings. Currently, I serve as Medical Director at a mental health and substance abuse treatment center. I focus on medication management, therapy, and patient education to foster holistic care and improve outcomes.
(443) 533-6821 View (443) 533-6821
Photo of Chidiadi Agoh, PMHNP, FNP- BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chidiadi Agoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP- BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
Are you looking for a psychiatric mental health provider? Fairland Behavioral Health is the right place for you. At Fairland behavioral health, we provide patient centered, culturally sensitive and holistic care that is evidence based. Our nurse practitioner is dual certified in family practice and psychiatry with vast experience in outpatient, inpatient and long-term settings. We treat every patient with respect, compassion and dignity. This aspect ensures that our patients feel loved, thus leading to a quick recovery. We guarantee that very patient has been cared for with love to boost the recovery process.
Are you looking for a psychiatric mental health provider? Fairland Behavioral Health is the right place for you. At Fairland behavioral health, we provide patient centered, culturally sensitive and holistic care that is evidence based. Our nurse practitioner is dual certified in family practice and psychiatry with vast experience in outpatient, inpatient and long-term settings. We treat every patient with respect, compassion and dignity. This aspect ensures that our patients feel loved, thus leading to a quick recovery. We guarantee that very patient has been cared for with love to boost the recovery process.
(301) 478-8823 View (301) 478-8823
Photo of Kristi Muncie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(301) 450-5357 View (301) 450-5357

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 20902

10+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in 20902 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% ADHD
91% Bipolar Disorder
82% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 20902 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Male
40% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 20902?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.