Psychiatrists in Lanham, MD

Photo of Dr. Lovelyn Bialose, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lovelyn Bialose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Dr. Lovely is a Provider that delivers answers to client issues, she uses evidence based practices to guide patient care. She addresses their needs, and focuses on building collaboration with clients for better outcomes/Relief of symptoms, she provides support for the clients, and She is respectful, reliable and listens to the needs of individuals and solves the problem. she builds focused short term and long-term goals.
Dr. Lovely is a Provider that delivers answers to client issues, she uses evidence based practices to guide patient care. She addresses their needs, and focuses on building collaboration with clients for better outcomes/Relief of symptoms, she provides support for the clients, and She is respectful, reliable and listens to the needs of individuals and solves the problem. she builds focused short term and long-term goals.
(301) 433-7683 View (301) 433-7683
Photo of Ndidiamaka Mbakpuo - Chivic Healthcare Services , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chivic Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Dr. Ndidiamaka Mbakpuo (Dr. Didi) has over 13 years experience in the healthcare industry. She is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and PMHNP-BC. The need for mental wellbeing is more important now than ever. The worldwide impact of COVID-19 has left millions of people in despair. Many people have lost loved ones or impacted negatively as a result of COVID-19. Depression, anxiety, and break in mental health are on the rise. Young and old are confused and in despair. Many have not been able to grieve or come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. You mental wellbeing is as important as your physical health.
Dr. Ndidiamaka Mbakpuo (Dr. Didi) has over 13 years experience in the healthcare industry. She is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and PMHNP-BC. The need for mental wellbeing is more important now than ever. The worldwide impact of COVID-19 has left millions of people in despair. Many people have lost loved ones or impacted negatively as a result of COVID-19. Depression, anxiety, and break in mental health are on the rise. Young and old are confused and in despair. Many have not been able to grieve or come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. You mental wellbeing is as important as your physical health.
(240) 209-9877 View (240) 209-9877
Photo of Loveline N Mentonga - Althec Behavioral Health Services, LLC, PMH-BC, CRNP, APRN, MSN, BSN-RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Althec Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-BC, CRNP, APRN, MSN, BSN-RN
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a mental health nurse practitioner, I understand the challenges and struggles faced by individuals dealing with various mental health disorders. I see clients across the lifespan from as young as 6 years old to elderly, who need relief from symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, trouble focusing, and flashbacks from trauma.
As a mental health nurse practitioner, I understand the challenges and struggles faced by individuals dealing with various mental health disorders. I see clients across the lifespan from as young as 6 years old to elderly, who need relief from symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, trouble focusing, and flashbacks from trauma.
(240) 448-6884 View (240) 448-6884
Photo of .olayinka .sogbola - Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness, MSN,, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN,, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, sadness, shame or guilt? Do you find yourself battling anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you worried about your child or adolescent? Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness provides child and adult psychiatric services. Our providers believe in collaborative and person-centered care as each individual is unique, and we strive to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to meet each individual's specific needs and goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, sadness, shame or guilt? Do you find yourself battling anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you worried about your child or adolescent? Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness provides child and adult psychiatric services. Our providers believe in collaborative and person-centered care as each individual is unique, and we strive to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to meet each individual's specific needs and goals.
(301) 895-7853 View (301) 895-7853
Photo of Ndidiamaka Ezinne Mbakpuo - Chivic Healthcare Services , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chivic Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
Dr. Ndidiamaka Mbakpuo (Dr. Didi) has over 13 years experience in the healthcare industry. She is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and PMHNP-BC. The need for mental wellbeing is more important now than ever. The worldwide impact of COVID-19 has left millions of people in despair. Many people have lost loved ones or impacted negatively as a result of COVID-19. Depression, anxiety, and break in mental health are on the rise. Young and old are confused and in despair. Many have not been able to grieve or come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. You mental wellbeing is as important as your physical health.
Dr. Ndidiamaka Mbakpuo (Dr. Didi) has over 13 years experience in the healthcare industry. She is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and PMHNP-BC. The need for mental wellbeing is more important now than ever. The worldwide impact of COVID-19 has left millions of people in despair. Many people have lost loved ones or impacted negatively as a result of COVID-19. Depression, anxiety, and break in mental health are on the rise. Young and old are confused and in despair. Many have not been able to grieve or come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. You mental wellbeing is as important as your physical health.
(240) 201-2541 View (240) 201-2541
Photo of Dieudonne Metombe - Hope For Living Healthcare LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hope For Living Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
It is our mission to provide mental and behavioral health services to our clients, aiming for the betterment of their overall health. Our assessments, treatment plans, and evidence-based methods are therapeutic and holistic and aid our client's individual needs.
It is our mission to provide mental and behavioral health services to our clients, aiming for the betterment of their overall health. Our assessments, treatment plans, and evidence-based methods are therapeutic and holistic and aid our client's individual needs.
(240) 716-6284 View (240) 716-6284
Photo of Shaundra Parsley - State of Mind Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
State of Mind Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
Are you looking for a provider that actually gives a damn about you? If so, you might want to stop here! Whatever your problem, issue, or concern just know that we are confident we can work through it together! If you’re feeling hopeless, stressed, having relationship issues; overwhelmed with school, work or family related problems, and experiencing low self-esteem/low self-worth we are here to listen to you and give you the tools needed to manage. With over 22 years of experience in healthcare, Shaundra Parsley, CRNP-PMH has an extensive background with helping people like you.
Are you looking for a provider that actually gives a damn about you? If so, you might want to stop here! Whatever your problem, issue, or concern just know that we are confident we can work through it together! If you’re feeling hopeless, stressed, having relationship issues; overwhelmed with school, work or family related problems, and experiencing low self-esteem/low self-worth we are here to listen to you and give you the tools needed to manage. With over 22 years of experience in healthcare, Shaundra Parsley, CRNP-PMH has an extensive background with helping people like you.
(301) 857-4882 View (301) 857-4882
Photo of Rita Chioma, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rita Chioma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Hi, my name is Dr. Rita Chioma! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse and Acute Care Nurse (PHMNP-BC, ACNP-BC) in Maryland and the District of Columbia, with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am patient-oriented and committed to providing optimum care to psychiatric mental health patients via telehealth to meet their needs. As a mental health specialist, I believe it is of the utmost importance to be open-minded, listen attentively to my patients, and take pleasure in maintaining the well-being of my patients!
Hi, my name is Dr. Rita Chioma! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse and Acute Care Nurse (PHMNP-BC, ACNP-BC) in Maryland and the District of Columbia, with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am patient-oriented and committed to providing optimum care to psychiatric mental health patients via telehealth to meet their needs. As a mental health specialist, I believe it is of the utmost importance to be open-minded, listen attentively to my patients, and take pleasure in maintaining the well-being of my patients!
(301) 381-1696 View (301) 381-1696
Photo of Eucharia Mbagwu, DNP, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eucharia Mbagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Dr. Eucharia Mbagwu, a doctorally prepared PMHNP-BC with over 25 years of healthcare experience and privileges to practice in Maryland, Washington DC and partnership in Virginia. I specialize in compassionate psychiatric evaluations, personalized medication management, and therapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, etc. My dedication to holistic care extends beyond clinical practice. My professional ethos is rooted in fostering trusting relationships and promoting comprehensive health outcomes for all individuals under my care.
I am Dr. Eucharia Mbagwu, a doctorally prepared PMHNP-BC with over 25 years of healthcare experience and privileges to practice in Maryland, Washington DC and partnership in Virginia. I specialize in compassionate psychiatric evaluations, personalized medication management, and therapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, etc. My dedication to holistic care extends beyond clinical practice. My professional ethos is rooted in fostering trusting relationships and promoting comprehensive health outcomes for all individuals under my care.
(240) 448-6804 View (240) 448-6804
Photo of Dr. Mabel Nsagha - May's Healthcare Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
May's Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Meet Dr. Mabel Nsagha, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and DC, with a zeal to provide compassionate and personalized care to individuals seeking support for their mental health. With 13 years of experience working in diverse healthcare settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice. I specialize in medication management and talk therapy, offering a holistic approach, rooted in evidence-based practices and tailored to meet your specific goals. Together, we will work to identify effective coping strategies and develop skills
Meet Dr. Mabel Nsagha, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and DC, with a zeal to provide compassionate and personalized care to individuals seeking support for their mental health. With 13 years of experience working in diverse healthcare settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice. I specialize in medication management and talk therapy, offering a holistic approach, rooted in evidence-based practices and tailored to meet your specific goals. Together, we will work to identify effective coping strategies and develop skills
(301) 381-1318 View (301) 381-1318
Photo of Courage Kwi-Mancho, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Courage Kwi-Mancho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Desire Healthcare LLC is a private medical provision practice based in the state of Maryland and founded by Dr. Courage Kwi-Mancho DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHNP-BC in 2019. The practice provides accessible preventive, wellness, acute/chronic, medical and behavioral health services to residents of the state of Maryland, with an emphasis on preventive, wellness, acute/chronic, and several medical/behavioral health services; with consideration to the numerous barriers, such as Covid-19, busy lifestyle, misinformation, underinsured, uninsured… etc., that prevent people from accessing medical care they need.
Desire Healthcare LLC is a private medical provision practice based in the state of Maryland and founded by Dr. Courage Kwi-Mancho DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHNP-BC in 2019. The practice provides accessible preventive, wellness, acute/chronic, medical and behavioral health services to residents of the state of Maryland, with an emphasis on preventive, wellness, acute/chronic, and several medical/behavioral health services; with consideration to the numerous barriers, such as Covid-19, busy lifestyle, misinformation, underinsured, uninsured… etc., that prevent people from accessing medical care they need.
(301) 685-7717 View (301) 685-7717
Photo of Titi Anjorin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Titi Anjorin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Hello there, I'm Dr. T. Do you feel stuck and trapped in yourself, unable to blend in? Are you wrestling to have friends at school or at work? Are you going through a life transition? Are you experiencing sleep, energy, appetite, work, school, and social functioning changes? Are you scared or concerned about hurting yourself or the people around you? Do you feel lonely, anxious, or run down easily when doing a task? Do you feel inadequate or struggling with relationships or lack thereof?
Hello there, I'm Dr. T. Do you feel stuck and trapped in yourself, unable to blend in? Are you wrestling to have friends at school or at work? Are you going through a life transition? Are you experiencing sleep, energy, appetite, work, school, and social functioning changes? Are you scared or concerned about hurting yourself or the people around you? Do you feel lonely, anxious, or run down easily when doing a task? Do you feel inadequate or struggling with relationships or lack thereof?
(240) 896-1145 View (240) 896-1145
Photo of Arin Bayote, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arin Bayote
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
Accepting New Patients!. I am Dr. Arin Bayote, a dual certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and FNP licensed in Maryland. I have several years of clinical experience and have worked in several clinical settings broadening my knowledge base. I obtained my Bachelor and Master’s degree from the University of Maryland with focus as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I then obtained a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Grand Canton University, Phoenix, AZ and a post- Doctoral speciality in Paych-Mental Health across the lifespan (PMHNP-BC) at the University of Massachusetts, Irvine CA.
Accepting New Patients!. I am Dr. Arin Bayote, a dual certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and FNP licensed in Maryland. I have several years of clinical experience and have worked in several clinical settings broadening my knowledge base. I obtained my Bachelor and Master’s degree from the University of Maryland with focus as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I then obtained a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Grand Canton University, Phoenix, AZ and a post- Doctoral speciality in Paych-Mental Health across the lifespan (PMHNP-BC) at the University of Massachusetts, Irvine CA.
(301) 970-4132 View (301) 970-4132
Photo of Quinta Manenju - Liberty Behavioral Healthcare, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liberty Behavioral Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
Behavioral wellness is an ongoing process so, Liberty Behavioral Healthcare (LBH) is devoted to providing outstanding Psychiatric care to all their patients and family by using a holistic approach to treatment, taking into account the unique needs of each individual. Due to the misconceptions about mental health, people often suffer in silence and their conditions go untreated and become chronic. At LBH, we provide a safe and supportive environment where our patients can work through their challenges, achieve their goals, and feel safe. We can work with you in your journey toward a better life. All you must do is reach us.
Behavioral wellness is an ongoing process so, Liberty Behavioral Healthcare (LBH) is devoted to providing outstanding Psychiatric care to all their patients and family by using a holistic approach to treatment, taking into account the unique needs of each individual. Due to the misconceptions about mental health, people often suffer in silence and their conditions go untreated and become chronic. At LBH, we provide a safe and supportive environment where our patients can work through their challenges, achieve their goals, and feel safe. We can work with you in your journey toward a better life. All you must do is reach us.
(301) 781-6950 View (301) 781-6950
Photo of Yvonne McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yvonne McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Hello, I'm Dr. Yvonne. Do you feel pulled in a thousand directions and not able to put it all together? Are you struggling to keep up with your responsibilities? It's time to be kind to yourself and together we will address issues and come to a manageable regimen designed for you. Whether you're dealing with feeling overwhelmed, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help.
Hello, I'm Dr. Yvonne. Do you feel pulled in a thousand directions and not able to put it all together? Are you struggling to keep up with your responsibilities? It's time to be kind to yourself and together we will address issues and come to a manageable regimen designed for you. Whether you're dealing with feeling overwhelmed, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help.
(240) 226-1997 View (240) 226-1997
Photo of Cindy Hatley, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Hatley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
Hello, my name is Cindy Hatley and I am the owner of Empower Mental Health LLC in Maryland. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and I treat adolescents and adults.
(301) 409-5197 View (301) 409-5197
Photo of Dr. Grace B Doh, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-, BSN, ADN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Grace B Doh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-, BSN, ADN
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Grace is a Comprehensive Behavioral Health Service provider for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders, Life Stressors, Crises, and Stress-related Physical Symptoms for all Ages. I am highly trained and experienced board-certified provider licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I offer a wide range of behavioral and mental health services including comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, psychotherapy, medication management and addiction and substance abuse therapy and counseling. I am your trusted provider for Effective and High Quality"compassionate and personalize care.
Grace is a Comprehensive Behavioral Health Service provider for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders, Life Stressors, Crises, and Stress-related Physical Symptoms for all Ages. I am highly trained and experienced board-certified provider licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I offer a wide range of behavioral and mental health services including comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, psychotherapy, medication management and addiction and substance abuse therapy and counseling. I am your trusted provider for Effective and High Quality"compassionate and personalize care.
(301) 945-8172 View (301) 945-8172
Photo of Maria Neh Tancho - Revive Health Care Services: Maria Tancho, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Revive Health Care Services: Maria Tancho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706
Here, you will find a variety of mental health services to help you navigate the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue or simply looking for ways to improve your overall well-being, our team is here to help.
Here, you will find a variety of mental health services to help you navigate the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue or simply looking for ways to improve your overall well-being, our team is here to help.
(301) 679-3538 View (301) 679-3538
Photo of Dr. Brenda Eno, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Brenda Eno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
Empowering minds, transforming lives, driven by a passion for mental health and healing. I am here to support your mental health journey with care and compassion. Providing services to children and adults struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Substance Use overcome the crippling negative self-talk, reclaim their control, confidence and purpose in life by offering an integrative treatment approach that includes medication management, therapy, supplements, sleep hygiene and lifestyle coaching .
Empowering minds, transforming lives, driven by a passion for mental health and healing. I am here to support your mental health journey with care and compassion. Providing services to children and adults struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Substance Use overcome the crippling negative self-talk, reclaim their control, confidence and purpose in life by offering an integrative treatment approach that includes medication management, therapy, supplements, sleep hygiene and lifestyle coaching .
(301) 701-5488 x20706 View (301) 701-5488 x20706
Photo of Coral J Beccles - Chivic Healthcare Services, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chivic Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
My ideal client is someone who is seeking to partner with me to make the necessary changes and help me to support them in their mental health journey. Those that may be struggling with ongoing feelings of anxiety or depression, may have unresolved trauma or past experiences that are affecting their current mental health, or those who need medication management and an understanding how medication can sometimes play a role in returning to optimal functioning. Whatever the needs related to mental and emotional wellness I will utilize evidence-based guidelines blended with varied clinical experiences to work toward long term wellness.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking to partner with me to make the necessary changes and help me to support them in their mental health journey. Those that may be struggling with ongoing feelings of anxiety or depression, may have unresolved trauma or past experiences that are affecting their current mental health, or those who need medication management and an understanding how medication can sometimes play a role in returning to optimal functioning. Whatever the needs related to mental and emotional wellness I will utilize evidence-based guidelines blended with varied clinical experiences to work toward long term wellness.
(301) 450-6612 View (301) 450-6612
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lanham, MD

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Lanham, MD who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
88% ADHD
84% Bipolar Disorder
65% Trauma and PTSD
53% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
82% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Lanham, MD see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

96% Female
4% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lanham?

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.