Psychiatrists in Catonsville, MD

Photo of Francess Kall-Sesay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Francess Kall-Sesay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Francess Kall-Sesay. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive care for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I create individualized care plans that integrate both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches tailored to each patient's unique needs. I emphasize collaboration, taking the time to listen and work closely with patients to empower them in their mental health journey.
My name is Francess Kall-Sesay. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive care for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I create individualized care plans that integrate both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches tailored to each patient's unique needs. I emphasize collaboration, taking the time to listen and work closely with patients to empower them in their mental health journey.
(443) 331-2252 View (443) 331-2252
Photo of Dr. Catherine Nwah - Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Amazing Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Catonsville, MD 21228
** Accepting New Patients** Our commitment is to provide you with amazing, efficient, cost-effective, evidence-based care via Telehealth or in our outpatient clinic. We provide outpatient, comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, consultation, and medication management. At Amazing Behavioral Health Services, we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all type of treatment. We respect the uniqueness of each patient and this allows them to be a part of their own treatment plan. Our goal is to help our patients to achieve a level of optimum stability and remission from symptoms of mental health problems.
** Accepting New Patients** Our commitment is to provide you with amazing, efficient, cost-effective, evidence-based care via Telehealth or in our outpatient clinic. We provide outpatient, comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, consultation, and medication management. At Amazing Behavioral Health Services, we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all type of treatment. We respect the uniqueness of each patient and this allows them to be a part of their own treatment plan. Our goal is to help our patients to achieve a level of optimum stability and remission from symptoms of mental health problems.
(410) 498-6305 View (410) 498-6305
Photo of Benneth Ekwe - Balanced life and counselling services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
Balanced life and counselling services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
At Balanced Life behavioral health and counseling services, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services to our community. Our mission is to support individuals on their journey to emotional well-being and mental clarity. We understand that seeking help can be a significant step, and we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all our patients. Our team of experienced mental health providers and psychologists employs evidence-based practices to ensure the highest standard of care. We believe in a holistic approach, considering not just the symptoms, but the individual as a whole.
At Balanced Life behavioral health and counseling services, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services to our community. Our mission is to support individuals on their journey to emotional well-being and mental clarity. We understand that seeking help can be a significant step, and we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all our patients. Our team of experienced mental health providers and psychologists employs evidence-based practices to ensure the highest standard of care. We believe in a holistic approach, considering not just the symptoms, but the individual as a whole.
(410) 453-8543 View (410) 453-8543
Photo of Paula Ohiku - Process of Changes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP-FP
Process of Changes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP-FP
Catonsville, MD 21228
I currently practice at Process of Changes (POC) a multifaceted, inclusive behavioral health care facility that offers high quality transformative services, by highly qualified team. The services offered at POC includes Outpatient Mental Health (OMHC)Services; Outpatient treatment Program for substance use disorder, (SUD); Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program, (IOP); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Adults, (PRP-A); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Minors, (PRP-M), and a family medical Clinic in the same location. We are a “ONE STOP SHOP” outpatient facility for your mental health and medical care needs.
I currently practice at Process of Changes (POC) a multifaceted, inclusive behavioral health care facility that offers high quality transformative services, by highly qualified team. The services offered at POC includes Outpatient Mental Health (OMHC)Services; Outpatient treatment Program for substance use disorder, (SUD); Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program, (IOP); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Adults, (PRP-A); Psychiatric Rehabilitation for Minors, (PRP-M), and a family medical Clinic in the same location. We are a “ONE STOP SHOP” outpatient facility for your mental health and medical care needs.
(410) 807-8943 View (410) 807-8943
Photo of Mercy Ijoma, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Mercy Ijoma
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Catonsville, MD 21228
I’ve been practicing medicine for 8 years, and my passion for helping people improve their health and well-being continues to grow every day. I specialize in Primary and Urgent Care, Mental Health, Opioid Addiction Treatment, and Medical Weight Loss, and I’m deeply committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
I’ve been practicing medicine for 8 years, and my passion for helping people improve their health and well-being continues to grow every day. I specialize in Primary and Urgent Care, Mental Health, Opioid Addiction Treatment, and Medical Weight Loss, and I’m deeply committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
(410) 656-4151 View (410) 656-4151
Photo of Erika Stewart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, CRNP, PMHNP, PMH-C
Erika Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, CRNP, PMHNP, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Now Accepting New Clients! My name is Erika Stewart and I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. My specialties are perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms. I see clients from ages 18 and up. I currently have immediate openings for telehealth only. I have been a nurse since 2009 and I absolutely love what I do! I provide a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health. I just do not focus on medication, but I look at all aspects of your life and to determine what changes need to be made for you to feel better. Call me today if you are ready for a change
Now Accepting New Clients! My name is Erika Stewart and I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. My specialties are perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms. I see clients from ages 18 and up. I currently have immediate openings for telehealth only. I have been a nurse since 2009 and I absolutely love what I do! I provide a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health. I just do not focus on medication, but I look at all aspects of your life and to determine what changes need to be made for you to feel better. Call me today if you are ready for a change
(443) 383-3462 View (443) 383-3462
Photo of Dr. Gloria N Nnah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Dr. Gloria N Nnah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Catonsville, MD 21228
Hello, My name is Dr. Gloria Nnah, I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner Board certified in Maryland. I have been in the healthcare system for 16 years, and I have been an adjunct faculty member at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing for many years. I have been in the mental health field for so long and, I ministered to myself, that I might as well treat and prescribe medication, so I ended up going back to school to obtain my certificate as a licensed nurse practitioner to help more in our community needs.
Hello, My name is Dr. Gloria Nnah, I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental health Nurse practitioner Board certified in Maryland. I have been in the healthcare system for 16 years, and I have been an adjunct faculty member at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing for many years. I have been in the mental health field for so long and, I ministered to myself, that I might as well treat and prescribe medication, so I ended up going back to school to obtain my certificate as a licensed nurse practitioner to help more in our community needs.
(443) 672-5838 View (443) 672-5838
Photo of Alicia Scott Darden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP PM
Alicia Scott Darden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP PM
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I want to support you into being your best self. Helping others is something I enjoy doing. Inspired by my own resilience through life’s challenges,I am driven to help others improve their mental health and lives. I draw from my professional and personal experiences.
I want to support you into being your best self. Helping others is something I enjoy doing. Inspired by my own resilience through life’s challenges,I am driven to help others improve their mental health and lives. I draw from my professional and personal experiences.
(443) 941-0899 View (443) 941-0899
Adedayo Omobo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a mental health provider, I believe in a thorough, integrative approach to mental health and overall wellness. I work closely with my patients to understand their individual needs and goals, and I utilize a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies to address underlying issues.
As a mental health provider, I believe in a thorough, integrative approach to mental health and overall wellness. I work closely with my patients to understand their individual needs and goals, and I utilize a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies to address underlying issues.
(443) 331-9510 View (443) 331-9510
Photo of Olayemi Ebenezer Olajuyigbe - Restoration LLC (Behavioral Health Clinic), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP
Restoration LLC (Behavioral Health Clinic)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CRNP
Catonsville, MD 21228
"WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS" Olayemi Olajuyigbe is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience in health care services in the Baltimore/Washington DC area. A self-motivated outcome-oriented provider giving the best human support to life utilizing psychiatric skills with strong clinical experience through evidence-based practice. Providing medication management to children and adults . His focus is on restoring wellness to individuals and families with different psychiatric disorders through customized and holistic patient-centered care.
"WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS" Olayemi Olajuyigbe is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of experience in health care services in the Baltimore/Washington DC area. A self-motivated outcome-oriented provider giving the best human support to life utilizing psychiatric skills with strong clinical experience through evidence-based practice. Providing medication management to children and adults . His focus is on restoring wellness to individuals and families with different psychiatric disorders through customized and holistic patient-centered care.
(410) 498-6622 View (410) 498-6622
Photo of Nicole D Hawkins - Be Well Mental Health Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Be Well Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Be Well Mental Health Services strives to support the mental and behavioral health of children and adolescents. Symptoms of mental health disorders often present very differently in children. For example, a sudden drop in grades, insomnia, change in appetite or onset of chronic physical aliments - such as headaches and stomachaches. Be Well MHS specializes in taking a holistic approach to treatment which includes a psychiatric evaluation and medication management if needed. We educate parents/guardians regarding diagnoses and give referrals for therapy as well as supporting parents/guardians in the special education process.
Be Well Mental Health Services strives to support the mental and behavioral health of children and adolescents. Symptoms of mental health disorders often present very differently in children. For example, a sudden drop in grades, insomnia, change in appetite or onset of chronic physical aliments - such as headaches and stomachaches. Be Well MHS specializes in taking a holistic approach to treatment which includes a psychiatric evaluation and medication management if needed. We educate parents/guardians regarding diagnoses and give referrals for therapy as well as supporting parents/guardians in the special education process.
(410) 936-6323 View (410) 936-6323
Photo of Anissa Salerno - Mental Health Calmness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP'S
Mental Health Calmness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP'S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We are licensed in DE Maryland New York Oregon & Pennsylvania. As psychiatric nurse practitioners, we pay special attention to the individual needs of a client providing medication mgt, psychiatric evaluations, mood assessments, diagnostics to improve mental health & behaviors. All clients are met with a judgement- free environment, allowing the professional relationship to develop. This approach has been successful in meeting the needs and desired outcome of each client. Clients will work collaboratively with us to ensure they receive the highest quality of care when assessing their behaviors and moods to find the best treatment.
We are licensed in DE Maryland New York Oregon & Pennsylvania. As psychiatric nurse practitioners, we pay special attention to the individual needs of a client providing medication mgt, psychiatric evaluations, mood assessments, diagnostics to improve mental health & behaviors. All clients are met with a judgement- free environment, allowing the professional relationship to develop. This approach has been successful in meeting the needs and desired outcome of each client. Clients will work collaboratively with us to ensure they receive the highest quality of care when assessing their behaviors and moods to find the best treatment.
(443) 637-6313 View (443) 637-6313
Photo of Chantal Tchoumba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chantal Tchoumba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Chantal. I am a dedicated, highly motivated Family Nurse Practitioner / Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in clinical nursing field. Committed to practice nursing using a holistic approach. My approach is to provide a holistic, patient-centered to mental healthcare, emphasizing the integration of mind, body, and spirit. My focus is to develop a comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of mental health. The first session typically begins with the provider introduction. Followed by a thorough patient assessment.
My name is Dr. Chantal. I am a dedicated, highly motivated Family Nurse Practitioner / Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in clinical nursing field. Committed to practice nursing using a holistic approach. My approach is to provide a holistic, patient-centered to mental healthcare, emphasizing the integration of mind, body, and spirit. My focus is to develop a comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of mental health. The first session typically begins with the provider introduction. Followed by a thorough patient assessment.
(443) 238-0567 View (443) 238-0567
Photo of Dr. Dorothy M. Kalyanapu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Dorothy M. Kalyanapu
Psychiatrist, MD
Catonsville, MD 21228
Dr. Dorothy Kalyanapu, MD, is an Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist and founder of Rethink Psychiatry who offers a holistic, comprehensive approach to psychiatric care, unique in her field. While she is extensively trained in child psychiatry, she works with complex patients of all ages, especially those who defy traditional classification. Using a foundation in integrative medicine, she uses standard and specialty lab testing, including genetics, to uncover the source of your issues and then tailors an individualized treatment plan to your specific needs.
Dr. Dorothy Kalyanapu, MD, is an Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist and founder of Rethink Psychiatry who offers a holistic, comprehensive approach to psychiatric care, unique in her field. While she is extensively trained in child psychiatry, she works with complex patients of all ages, especially those who defy traditional classification. Using a foundation in integrative medicine, she uses standard and specialty lab testing, including genetics, to uncover the source of your issues and then tailors an individualized treatment plan to your specific needs.
(443) 251-4204 View (443) 251-4204
Photo of Susan Ouellette - Susan Ouellette, CRNP, CSP, RN, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, CSP, RN
Susan Ouellette, CRNP, CSP, RN, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, CSP, RN
Catonsville, MD 21228
I have been a healthcare practitioner for 38 years. I treat teens, adults and elders for short term and chronic mental and physical conditions. I do prescribe meds but offer much more
I have been a healthcare practitioner for 38 years. I treat teens, adults and elders for short term and chronic mental and physical conditions. I do prescribe meds but offer much more
(410) 469-7409 View (410) 469-7409
Photo of Dr. Christy Abumere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Dr. Christy Abumere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), a Family Nurse Practitioner ( FNP), and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with a vast experience in psychiatric nursing. I have served in many roles i.e., Assistant Director of Nursing, Nurse Consultant, as well as a Medical Director in an outpatient mental health clinic.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), a Family Nurse Practitioner ( FNP), and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with a vast experience in psychiatric nursing. I have served in many roles i.e., Assistant Director of Nursing, Nurse Consultant, as well as a Medical Director in an outpatient mental health clinic.
(410) 862-4265 View (410) 862-4265
Photo of Dr. Christian Maurer, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Christian Maurer
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
This is a small, solo practice, which allows me to provide an uncommon level of attention/accessibility to my patients. I have extensive experience across all diagnoses and treatment modalities. I am passionate about my patient's health and I am willing to think outside of the box when indicated. I am accepting patients statewide via telehealth. Please email me or call (443-537-9656) for any requests to join the practice or book directly on Headway. I will soon be expanding the practice to full-time.
This is a small, solo practice, which allows me to provide an uncommon level of attention/accessibility to my patients. I have extensive experience across all diagnoses and treatment modalities. I am passionate about my patient's health and I am willing to think outside of the box when indicated. I am accepting patients statewide via telehealth. Please email me or call (443-537-9656) for any requests to join the practice or book directly on Headway. I will soon be expanding the practice to full-time.
(410) 204-2418 View (410) 204-2418
Photo of Christy Abumere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christy Abumere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Christy Abumere. I have over 30 years of experience working as a health care provider/practitioner. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with a vast experience in psychiatric nursing. I have served in many roles i.e., Assistant Director of Nursing, Nurse Consultant, as well as a Medical Director in an outpatient mental health clinic. My specialty is medication management with supportive therapy.
My name is Dr. Christy Abumere. I have over 30 years of experience working as a health care provider/practitioner. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with a vast experience in psychiatric nursing. I have served in many roles i.e., Assistant Director of Nursing, Nurse Consultant, as well as a Medical Director in an outpatient mental health clinic. My specialty is medication management with supportive therapy.
(443) 419-4480 View (443) 419-4480
Photo of Theresa Uzoukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Theresa Uzoukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catonsville, MD 21228
At D & A Holdings, we understand that life can be rough and overwhelming, especially when juggling numerous things simultaneously. We can help address many daily mental health challenges people face using evidence-based approaches to better health. I am a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience with in-patient and out-patient mental health services. We provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, and teaching self-care activities, care coordination,
At D & A Holdings, we understand that life can be rough and overwhelming, especially when juggling numerous things simultaneously. We can help address many daily mental health challenges people face using evidence-based approaches to better health. I am a Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience with in-patient and out-patient mental health services. We provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, and teaching self-care activities, care coordination,
(410) 989-4662 View (410) 989-4662
Photo of Dr. Theresa Amaka Uzoukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Dr. Theresa Amaka Uzoukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
At D & A Holdings, we recognize that life can feel overwhelming, especially when managing multiple responsibilities. We are here to help tackle everyday mental health challenges through evidence-based strategies for improved well-being. As a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health care, I offer psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management for conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Additionally, we provide self-care guidance and care coordination
At D & A Holdings, we recognize that life can feel overwhelming, especially when managing multiple responsibilities. We are here to help tackle everyday mental health challenges through evidence-based strategies for improved well-being. As a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health care, I offer psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management for conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Additionally, we provide self-care guidance and care coordination
(443) 238-0575 View (443) 238-0575

See more therapy options for Catonsville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Catonsville, MD

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Catonsville, MD who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
80% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Trauma and PTSD
52% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Catonsville, MD see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Catonsville?

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.