Psychiatrists in 21045
![Photo of Nicolas Kuiate Tekam - NKT Behavioral Health Services, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9b4bb1b-ff69-403c-82a6-25424b8f3ed1/1/320x400.jpeg)
NKT Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. I manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health ailments. I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. I am compassionate and dedicated to my patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. My motivation is to make a difference in people’s lives and in my community.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. I manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health ailments. I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. I am compassionate and dedicated to my patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. My motivation is to make a difference in people’s lives and in my community.
![Photo of Suzzette Van-Lare, DMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb85fbe-10a3-41cc-a885-7f886a15c13e/1/320x400.png)
Suzzette Van-Lare
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Dr. Suzzette Van-Lare, DMSc, PA-C is a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Physician Associate in Maryland. She received her Doctorate in Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg and Masters in PA Practice from Campbell University. She has a decade of experience managing behavioral health conditions. She is very experienced with ketamine and offers ketamine treatment to qualified candidates. She has expertise in the management of a range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and more.
Dr. Suzzette Van-Lare, DMSc, PA-C is a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Physician Associate in Maryland. She received her Doctorate in Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg and Masters in PA Practice from Campbell University. She has a decade of experience managing behavioral health conditions. She is very experienced with ketamine and offers ketamine treatment to qualified candidates. She has expertise in the management of a range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and more.
![Photo of Selam Tekie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cbfafd5-66ab-4e79-b6f3-c1ea4d64cf31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
Hi there! I’m Selam Tekie, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I am thrilled to welcome new patients, ages 6 and up, to my practice! My passion is providing wholehearted care to individuals struggling with mental health. I take a holistic approach, blending evidence based practice with empathy and understanding.
![Photo of Olajumoke Rotimi - Better You Healthcare Services, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75fc62d-f9a5-44b6-bedf-f42307b3bcb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Better You Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
My name is Olajumoke Rotimi. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am licensed in Maryland, DC, and VA. I am very excited to join this community with other mental health professionals. I work with all ages across the lifespan. I am available to see private pay clients. My primary areas of focus for medication management include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD.
![Photo of Dr. Biliki Douglas, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e59d0bc-f9d1-4b1d-a53b-e94c64e6f60f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Biliki Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
Accepting New Patients! My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a neutral ground to patients.
![Photo of Ana C Duarte, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02b0ed11-5be2-4ef3-886b-f02e2bacb0db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Ana C. Duarte and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been in practice for over 14 years, providing medication management for individuals across the lifespan, focusing on adolescents through adults.
Hello! My name is Ana C. Duarte and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been in practice for over 14 years, providing medication management for individuals across the lifespan, focusing on adolescents through adults.
![Photo of Kayla Scrandis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a22e11c7-9251-4aa2-a598-da0b86303bbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Scrandis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Are you depressed, anxious, have difficulty focusing, or have mood swings? Are you wondering if medicine is right for you? Together we can explore that option. During our first meeting you and I can come up with a plan that is right for you.
Are you depressed, anxious, have difficulty focusing, or have mood swings? Are you wondering if medicine is right for you? Together we can explore that option. During our first meeting you and I can come up with a plan that is right for you.
![Photo of Lighthouse Mental Health Services - Lighthouse Mental Health Services, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d0a8c45-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lighthouse Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients! Are you tired of trying one medication after another to get relief from your symptoms? Let us work together to get to the root cause of your problems and make your life healthier and happier with and without medications. Let's meet over a FREE 15 minute consultation to see what we can do together to improve your life. Ask for the Deep Dive consultation.
Currently accepting new patients! Are you tired of trying one medication after another to get relief from your symptoms? Let us work together to get to the root cause of your problems and make your life healthier and happier with and without medications. Let's meet over a FREE 15 minute consultation to see what we can do together to improve your life. Ask for the Deep Dive consultation.
![Photo of Laurette Abunaw - Mindsense Serenity LLC, PMHNP, BC, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c944798-6f8d-486f-a53b-9bebdabb754b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindsense Serenity LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Mindsense Serenity LLC is a nurse practitioner-led mental health practice. Our clinic provides psychiatric and behavioral health services such as psychiatric consultations, evaluations, diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy to children and adults. We are dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimum mental wellness through their everyday mental health struggles. We provide Virtual and In-person services. Please visit our "Website" to explore our services and book an appointment . We are accepting "New Patients".
Mindsense Serenity LLC is a nurse practitioner-led mental health practice. Our clinic provides psychiatric and behavioral health services such as psychiatric consultations, evaluations, diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychotherapy to children and adults. We are dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimum mental wellness through their everyday mental health struggles. We provide Virtual and In-person services. Please visit our "Website" to explore our services and book an appointment . We are accepting "New Patients".
![Photo of Andy Mattai - Innovative Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c40a9f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT APPOINTMENTS FOR ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS! We believe that mental health and well-being can be achieved by addressing the myriad factors that contribute to psychological distress. Coping with stress, feelings of sadness, grief, or anger, changing behavior patterns, and medication management are all part of our comprehensive approach to treatment. At Innovative Psychiatry, we strive to meet our patients' individual needs through assessment, medication evaluation, and psychotherapy. The goal of our patient-centered approach is to ensure that your treatment plan is designed to meet your needs.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT APPOINTMENTS FOR ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS! We believe that mental health and well-being can be achieved by addressing the myriad factors that contribute to psychological distress. Coping with stress, feelings of sadness, grief, or anger, changing behavior patterns, and medication management are all part of our comprehensive approach to treatment. At Innovative Psychiatry, we strive to meet our patients' individual needs through assessment, medication evaluation, and psychotherapy. The goal of our patient-centered approach is to ensure that your treatment plan is designed to meet your needs.
![Photo of Dr. Suneeta Kumari, MD, MPH, CCDS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df3111f7-6374-4316-85e3-06d7f6432625/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
15 Second Videos
Biliki Douglas
Mindsense Serenity LLC
Renew your Mind Wellness Services LLC- Katia Coley
Kim Jones-Fearing, MD
Andrea Papa-Molter
Shannon Bucciarelli
Allen Masry
Michelle McCarthy
Michelle McCarthy
Aaron Padron
Allen Masry
Allen Masry
Shannon Bucciarelli
Andrea Papa-Molter
Andrea Papa-Molter
Innovative Mindset Mental Health Services LLC
Restoration LLC (Behavioral Health Clinic)
![Photo of Esteban Toledo-Carrion, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d44eed4-5230-4663-8101-bbff2fb83f80/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Esteban Toledo-Carrion is a bilingual, board certified adult and addiction psychiatrist with training in psychodynamic psychotherapy. He was born and raised in Ecuador and completed his medical training in his home country, where his interest and commitment to helping diverse populations began. He complemented his medical studies with a research fellowship through the International Research Initiative and the P.A.I.N. group at Boston Children's Hospital, studying and authoring the impact of traumatic brain injury in children.
Dr. Esteban Toledo-Carrion is a bilingual, board certified adult and addiction psychiatrist with training in psychodynamic psychotherapy. He was born and raised in Ecuador and completed his medical training in his home country, where his interest and commitment to helping diverse populations began. He complemented his medical studies with a research fellowship through the International Research Initiative and the P.A.I.N. group at Boston Children's Hospital, studying and authoring the impact of traumatic brain injury in children.
![Photo of Andy A Mattai, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd18283-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Don't wait for an appointment! Are you looking for more personalized psychiatric care? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a strong interest in ADHD and mood disorders. My training includes completion of a clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Mental Health. As a result, I am a strong proponent of evidence-based psychiatric treatments and using innovative techniques to help the improve the quality of life for my patients. Please call our office for an appointment.
Don't wait for an appointment! Are you looking for more personalized psychiatric care? I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a strong interest in ADHD and mood disorders. My training includes completion of a clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Mental Health. As a result, I am a strong proponent of evidence-based psychiatric treatments and using innovative techniques to help the improve the quality of life for my patients. Please call our office for an appointment.
![Photo of Shanya S Hardie, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bac59ad-f8cd-4d14-b9af-91b1dbf9653a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shanya S Hardie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.
“It's time to rethink mental health”. Our Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner seeks to make each client experience unique by combining the latest evidence-based practices and technology to guide medication management and other healing options. Our provider recognizes the importance of customizing psychiatric care based on the individual characteristics, needs, and preferences of clients. We are happy to support you as you embrace your mental health and quality of life. Our behavioral health approach assists with the navigation of stress, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other concerns.
![Photo of Tamina Dixon Umana, RN, BSN, RYT-500, MCPC, TCTSY-F, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90ccc7f0-847d-4177-9b4d-4b21a0ce1c09/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamina Dixon Umana
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, BSN, RYT-500, MCPC, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
You may be a good fit for our offerings if you are a member of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community and a survivor of toxic stress/ trauma who seeks to develop a more profound sense of grounding and tolerance of the present moment for improved self-compassion, stress management, and social connection. Our ideal client wishes to explore compassionate inquiry, mindfulness, and intuitive movement on their journey to meet their wellness goals. Our ideal client values compassion, connection, curiosity, choice, and care. Our ideal client is committed to growth, healing, and the coaching process.
You may be a good fit for our offerings if you are a member of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community and a survivor of toxic stress/ trauma who seeks to develop a more profound sense of grounding and tolerance of the present moment for improved self-compassion, stress management, and social connection. Our ideal client wishes to explore compassionate inquiry, mindfulness, and intuitive movement on their journey to meet their wellness goals. Our ideal client values compassion, connection, curiosity, choice, and care. Our ideal client is committed to growth, healing, and the coaching process.
![Photo of Dr. Zivago Bunting - Oak Tree Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, HSLM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/611d028c-4b7c-4e3d-8a9e-c99c23c888d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oak Tree Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, HSLM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.
Dr. Zivago Bunting is a Nationally Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He earned his doctorate degree at the University of Maryland School of Nursing; licensed in MD, VA and District of Columbia. He evaluates research to foster high-quality, evidence-based patient-centered mental health care. Dr. Bunting's humble beginning, combined with twenty-two years of medical and mental health clinical experience, fosters his non-judgment listening skills. His role as your mental health provider is considered a privilege and an honor. Therefore, a partnership in your mental health journey is not taken lightly.
![Photo of Laurette Abunaw, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/542f712f-bf5d-46bf-98ff-6c75f615afae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurette Abunaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience as a nurse and nurse practitioner working in a variety of clinical settings. With this diverse background, I have served as a contributing nurse practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric mental health services. Are you seeking a supportive space to explore your mental health and work towards a fulfilling life? I am dedicated to providing a warm, empathetic environment where you can find the support and guidance you need when dealing with emotional disturbances.
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in psychiatry. I have over 17 years of combined clinical experience as a nurse and nurse practitioner working in a variety of clinical settings. With this diverse background, I have served as a contributing nurse practitioner at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital providing psychiatric mental health services. Are you seeking a supportive space to explore your mental health and work towards a fulfilling life? I am dedicated to providing a warm, empathetic environment where you can find the support and guidance you need when dealing with emotional disturbances.
![Photo of Jacqueline Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee693c61-79c8-4bd1-b1ff-8fccd2a0f2de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Jacqueline Williams is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She Graduated with a Master's in Science in Nursing, is currently practicing in Maryland, and sees patients mainly via telemedicine.
Jacqueline Williams is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She Graduated with a Master's in Science in Nursing, is currently practicing in Maryland, and sees patients mainly via telemedicine.
![Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/395385b4-2455-499e-885e-e4457aab288a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Katia Coley - Renew your Mind Wellness Services LLC- Katia Coley, DNP, MSN , FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c30b070d-6418-4ced-b5b8-b5e992547332/1/320x400.jpeg)
Renew your Mind Wellness Services LLC- Katia Coley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN , FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Hello there, are you sensing something doesn't feel right in your life, are you tired of the one size fit all medication management. My philosophy is that every person is a unique individual that deserves time and respect to be heard. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my goal is to increase the quality of life with a uniquely personalized and comprehensive approach to care. I am also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner which allows me to provide more non-medical holistic care as I can give consideration to your medical issues.
Hello there, are you sensing something doesn't feel right in your life, are you tired of the one size fit all medication management. My philosophy is that every person is a unique individual that deserves time and respect to be heard. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my goal is to increase the quality of life with a uniquely personalized and comprehensive approach to care. I am also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner which allows me to provide more non-medical holistic care as I can give consideration to your medical issues.
See more therapy options for 21045
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 21045
60+
Average cost per session
$210
Psychiatrists in 21045 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | ADHD |
72% | Medication Management |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
86% | CareFirst |
How Psychiatrists in 21045 see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 21045?
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.