Psychiatrists in White Marsh, MD
![Photo of Ebun Akinyemi, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/119563b9-ba61-4982-b050-4e158cb3cef9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ebun Akinyemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162 (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Elizabeth. I am a board-certified PMHNP with three years of experience working with adults 18 years and older struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, trauma, and stressor-related disorders.
Hello there, I'm Elizabeth. I am a board-certified PMHNP with three years of experience working with adults 18 years and older struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, trauma, and stressor-related disorders.
![Photo of Michael Nwandu - MNC Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13666679-c449-4fc5-b2d3-6cccc5eb1c30/3/320x400.jpeg)
MNC Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Michael Nwandu. Dedicated, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including ADHD, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, mood disorders and personality disorders. I believe successful medication management is based on open communication between myself and you. Strong focus on listening to you and addressing your concerns and answering all your questions.
My name is Dr. Michael Nwandu. Dedicated, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including ADHD, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, mood disorders and personality disorders. I believe successful medication management is based on open communication between myself and you. Strong focus on listening to you and addressing your concerns and answering all your questions.
![Photo of Victoria Mojibola, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eadeb405-248b-43fc-8765-288cde5a0331/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Mojibola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162
Regardless of the psychiatric-mental health need or issue presented, the utmost objective of the PMHNP-BC is to assist the client in coordinating and managing their mental health necessities using the techniques of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery appropriate to the client’s culture and developmental stage.
Regardless of the psychiatric-mental health need or issue presented, the utmost objective of the PMHNP-BC is to assist the client in coordinating and managing their mental health necessities using the techniques of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery appropriate to the client’s culture and developmental stage.
![Photo of Deborah Cline, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cf5238b-1d8f-4877-b6d1-54b0f05b956e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Cline
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Marsh, MD 21162 (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Deborah but I go by Deb. I have 12 + years of nursing experience and am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing compassionate client-centered mental health care and medication management.
Hi there! My name is Deborah but I go by Deb. I have 12 + years of nursing experience and am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing compassionate client-centered mental health care and medication management.
Christopher Bertsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
White Marsh, MD 21162 (Online Only)
We can accept patients FAST and work with ALL private insurance policies! No gimmicky or ridiculously brief "telehealth appointments" here; to ensure our patients are comfortable with their questions answered and needs met, our medication management evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes and follow-ups for 30 minutes. We offer low cash pricing, accept some insurance in-network, can assist with out-of-network reimbursement (for any private policy with out-of-network benefits), and accept HSA/FSA cards to reduce your cost further.
We can accept patients FAST and work with ALL private insurance policies! No gimmicky or ridiculously brief "telehealth appointments" here; to ensure our patients are comfortable with their questions answered and needs met, our medication management evaluations are scheduled for a full 90 minutes and follow-ups for 30 minutes. We offer low cash pricing, accept some insurance in-network, can assist with out-of-network reimbursement (for any private policy with out-of-network benefits), and accept HSA/FSA cards to reduce your cost further.
![Photo of Frances Onyilagha, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a0636bc-cea0-4a18-b7ae-fb0486c88148/1/320x400.jpeg)
Frances Onyilagha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162
If you are looking for an integrative and culturally competent approach to medication management, then you have found the nurse practitioner for you. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment; one that empowers individuals to take ownership of their mental well being in hopes of achieving the quality of life you deserve.
If you are looking for an integrative and culturally competent approach to medication management, then you have found the nurse practitioner for you. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment; one that empowers individuals to take ownership of their mental well being in hopes of achieving the quality of life you deserve.
![Photo of Tessa S Perry - TSG Mental Health Services, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/541d0fb9-3f66-4e56-8bd1-6366d2f90750/1/320x400.jpeg)
TSG Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Marsh, MD 21162 (Online Only)
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in private practice, who is also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My belief is that the patient benefits most by following the psychiatric evaluation with a dynamic and in-depth plan of action which is focused on the emotional and physical health of the patient. My duel degrees and clinical experience, provides a wealth of knowledge in medication management.
I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in private practice, who is also a certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My belief is that the patient benefits most by following the psychiatric evaluation with a dynamic and in-depth plan of action which is focused on the emotional and physical health of the patient. My duel degrees and clinical experience, provides a wealth of knowledge in medication management.
![Photo of Latoya Victor - Mindful Haven , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d7a5857-01f8-4d6a-820d-63bd474d4b56/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Mindful Haven, our mission is to provide effective psychiatric care through a comprehensive approach to mental health. We are committed to collaborating with our patients to develop tailored treatment plans and fostering a supportive environment where each individual can achieve optimal well-being and personal growth. We strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
At Mindful Haven, our mission is to provide effective psychiatric care through a comprehensive approach to mental health. We are committed to collaborating with our patients to develop tailored treatment plans and fostering a supportive environment where each individual can achieve optimal well-being and personal growth. We strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
![Photo of Antonio Herold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d6d96b-bfd3-4d83-b5f1-f638152e20b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Antonio Herold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162
We all have bad days or periods of time with increased struggles, conflicts, sadness, or adjustments to life that may leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, anxious and just out of sorts. A person is made up of many unique qualities, which when put together, form a complex individual with accomplishments and also desires to improve one or more aspects of their life. At Well Life, we believe that we all have internal strengths, that when realized, can result in prolonged happiness and contentment in life and we can help you strengthen your foundation in life and facilitate healthy changes that will allow you to grow and succeed.
We all have bad days or periods of time with increased struggles, conflicts, sadness, or adjustments to life that may leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, anxious and just out of sorts. A person is made up of many unique qualities, which when put together, form a complex individual with accomplishments and also desires to improve one or more aspects of their life. At Well Life, we believe that we all have internal strengths, that when realized, can result in prolonged happiness and contentment in life and we can help you strengthen your foundation in life and facilitate healthy changes that will allow you to grow and succeed.
![Photo of Charlotte Nwogwugwu, DrPH, MPH MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5dc079d-9b31-4cab-9ed9-7478eb4d1719/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Nwogwugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrPH, MPH MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Marsh, MD 21162
As a seasoned mental health professional, I am dedicated to providing exceptional care to clients grappling with burnout, anxiety, performance anxiety, and depression. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing and wellness encompass both the mind and the body. Therefore, I offer a unique, integrative approach that blends advanced holistic strategies with traditional psychiatric methods. I employ a treatment models that includes functional nutrition, laboratory testing, ensuring a deep understanding of your unique physiological makeup, mind-body practices and the cultivation of healthy lifestyle habits.
As a seasoned mental health professional, I am dedicated to providing exceptional care to clients grappling with burnout, anxiety, performance anxiety, and depression. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing and wellness encompass both the mind and the body. Therefore, I offer a unique, integrative approach that blends advanced holistic strategies with traditional psychiatric methods. I employ a treatment models that includes functional nutrition, laboratory testing, ensuring a deep understanding of your unique physiological makeup, mind-body practices and the cultivation of healthy lifestyle habits.
![Photo of Helen Loeffler, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f58dc3-cfbb-4872-82aa-a361367818a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Loeffler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162
If you are looking for an integrative, compassionate, and personalized approach to medication management, then you have found the nurse practitioner for you. I view medication as only one piece of a personalized approach to mental health, best used in combination with therapy and holistic wellness care.
If you are looking for an integrative, compassionate, and personalized approach to medication management, then you have found the nurse practitioner for you. I view medication as only one piece of a personalized approach to mental health, best used in combination with therapy and holistic wellness care.
![Photo of Diana Pieterson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c3e3442-5a26-49e9-846a-9c7629a3ee9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am delighted that you are considering mental health treatment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years over 10 years of nursing experience. I am passionate about helping individuals cope with their everyday challenges. I conduct psychiatric evaluation and with your help, we will develop a treatment plan that may include medication to help manage your symptoms. I work closely with your therapist and other mental health specialist to help you on your journey of healing and recovery.
I am delighted that you are considering mental health treatment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years over 10 years of nursing experience. I am passionate about helping individuals cope with their everyday challenges. I conduct psychiatric evaluation and with your help, we will develop a treatment plan that may include medication to help manage your symptoms. I work closely with your therapist and other mental health specialist to help you on your journey of healing and recovery.
![Photo of Janet Adetola, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d89edbc6-e70f-4a28-8cb2-f6b416d89c2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Adetola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
This is the right time to take care of your mind. Caring is what I do. My name is Janet Adetola, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, board-certified and when your mind needs some help, I am readily available to come to your aid. We can walk through your issues together, whether it be anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder. I work with clients compassionately in a collaborative manner to understand their backgrounds, experiences and expectations to develop a plan for positive outcome by assessing and managing your symptoms with respect and dignity - you will be heard and listened to. I am able to deliver a safe service.
![Photo of Angela D Long - Long Integrated Psychiatric Services, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5295324-e496-43ed-97d3-a7863aa9088c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Long Integrated Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Marsh, MD 21162
We understand that health and wellness is particularly difficult with all the struggles we face today. Long Integrated hopes to provide behavioral health care to adolescents and adults suffering from depression, insomnia, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. We currently have five psychiatric nurse practitioners that are working to help you on your journey to be the best version of your self.
We understand that health and wellness is particularly difficult with all the struggles we face today. Long Integrated hopes to provide behavioral health care to adolescents and adults suffering from depression, insomnia, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. We currently have five psychiatric nurse practitioners that are working to help you on your journey to be the best version of your self.
![Photo of Lydia Gugsa - Counseling On Call, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23733691-ee0f-4300-a32d-28f9480f616e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lydia Gugsa - Counseling On Call
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Marsh, MD 21162
Hi, I'm Lydia. I'm happy you found me! I am fully dedicated and attentive to each of my patients in helping them find the best medication regimen for them! I utilize my knowledge and expertise in the mental health field to provide individual-centered care for every patient I see. My experience includes depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and mental rehabilitation.
Hi, I'm Lydia. I'm happy you found me! I am fully dedicated and attentive to each of my patients in helping them find the best medication regimen for them! I utilize my knowledge and expertise in the mental health field to provide individual-centered care for every patient I see. My experience includes depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and mental rehabilitation.
![Photo of Dr. Berthe Chagang - Devoted Health Care Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5e85694-3512-4676-b839-8ff9274261ed/3/320x400.jpeg)
Devoted Health Care Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
White Marsh, MD 21162
Dr. Berthe Chagang is a doctoral-prepared and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating patients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, PTSD, and other mental health problems. I provide diagnostic examinations as well as medication management. I am culturally competent to see people of different religions, races, and sexual orientations.
Dr. Berthe Chagang is a doctoral-prepared and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating patients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, PTSD, and other mental health problems. I provide diagnostic examinations as well as medication management. I am culturally competent to see people of different religions, races, and sexual orientations.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Natalie Hollobaugh, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b3edc5e-4e54-4b8a-af0d-3f60ffffc878/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Hollobaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middle River, MD 21220
My name is Natalie Hollobaugh and I have been a nurse for over 19 years. I started at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center on the adolescent floor before becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. At Johns Hopkins, I primarily cared for teenagers with medical/surgical and psychiatric issues. It was here I saw the immense need for psychiatric providers.
My name is Natalie Hollobaugh and I have been a nurse for over 19 years. I started at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center on the adolescent floor before becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. At Johns Hopkins, I primarily cared for teenagers with medical/surgical and psychiatric issues. It was here I saw the immense need for psychiatric providers.
![Photo of L. Brown - E-Psychiatriq LLC, Telepsychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-NC, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a526464c-afd5-4ddf-904f-91aa4382ce15/15/320x400.jpeg)
E-Psychiatriq LLC, Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-NC, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perry Hall, MD 21128 (Online Only)
E-Psychiatriq LLC provides telehealth behavioral services throughout Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Idaho, via tele-video conferencing. We treat a wide range of mental and psychological disorders and can provide patients with the same treatment just as if they were on-site. We also collaborate with organizations to provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for sole proprietorship's, and medical providers interested in implementing a virtual collaborative care model within their practice. We offer self- scheduling on our website at www.epsychiatriq.com, visit us today!
E-Psychiatriq LLC provides telehealth behavioral services throughout Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Idaho, via tele-video conferencing. We treat a wide range of mental and psychological disorders and can provide patients with the same treatment just as if they were on-site. We also collaborate with organizations to provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for sole proprietorship's, and medical providers interested in implementing a virtual collaborative care model within their practice. We offer self- scheduling on our website at www.epsychiatriq.com, visit us today!
![Photo of Chris Bertsch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84206eeb-2e17-4c5f-b840-c7523023ce69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Bertsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Perry Hall, MD 21128 (Online Only)
Schedule on our website NOW for an evaluation potentially as early as same-day anywhere in Maryland for medication management. My practice philosophy is to treat my patients the same way I would want my family to be treated. I evaluate patients holistically and genuinely listen. We work together formulating a treatment plan you are happy with. Rather than just dictating treatment, I prefer to explain reasonable options and let you choose what you are comfortable with. Evaluations are scheduled for 90 minutes and follow-up appointments for a full 30 minutes. To ensure your needs are fully met, appointments are never rushed.
Schedule on our website NOW for an evaluation potentially as early as same-day anywhere in Maryland for medication management. My practice philosophy is to treat my patients the same way I would want my family to be treated. I evaluate patients holistically and genuinely listen. We work together formulating a treatment plan you are happy with. Rather than just dictating treatment, I prefer to explain reasonable options and let you choose what you are comfortable with. Evaluations are scheduled for 90 minutes and follow-up appointments for a full 30 minutes. To ensure your needs are fully met, appointments are never rushed.
![Photo of Celeste Saunders, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/957ef240-57eb-42f4-90a7-3317b70ae4bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Celeste Saunders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middle River, MD 21220
Do you struggle with anxiety, mood swings, or difficulty making decisions that affect your ability to function in day-to-day life, relationships, or work? Do you feel alone, lost, overwhelmed, or exhausted by the thought that no one understands what it means to be you? Are you ready to make a change and take control of your life? My patients say they feel heard, understood, and respected. My singular goal is to help people achieve their maximum level of mental health through evidence-based interventions in a safe, non-judgmental, and support atmosphere.
Do you struggle with anxiety, mood swings, or difficulty making decisions that affect your ability to function in day-to-day life, relationships, or work? Do you feel alone, lost, overwhelmed, or exhausted by the thought that no one understands what it means to be you? Are you ready to make a change and take control of your life? My patients say they feel heard, understood, and respected. My singular goal is to help people achieve their maximum level of mental health through evidence-based interventions in a safe, non-judgmental, and support atmosphere.
See more therapy options for White Marsh
Nearby Searches for White Marsh
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in White Marsh, MD
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in White Marsh, MD who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
94% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | CareFirst |
75% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in White Marsh, MD see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in White Marsh?
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.