Psychiatrists in Nottingham, MD
![Photo of Chinyere Kalu - Anya MedSpa & Behavioral Health Center, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e72ccef-b7d6-4c4f-ab30-d8943c05e6af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anya MedSpa & Behavioral Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nottingham, MD 21236
*WE ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! BOOK TODAY AND BE SEEN WITHIN 24 HOURS! Addiction | ADHD | SCHIZOPHRENIA* Here at Anya MedSpa and Behavioral Health Center we have one of Prince George’s Counties’ best child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrists to diagnose and treat our clients, leading to improved mental well being. We utilize skills acquired over the past decade and integrated with knowledge of the newest technology and medication to provide you with compassionate care.
*WE ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! BOOK TODAY AND BE SEEN WITHIN 24 HOURS! Addiction | ADHD | SCHIZOPHRENIA* Here at Anya MedSpa and Behavioral Health Center we have one of Prince George’s Counties’ best child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrists to diagnose and treat our clients, leading to improved mental well being. We utilize skills acquired over the past decade and integrated with knowledge of the newest technology and medication to provide you with compassionate care.
![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
Nottingham, MD 21236
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.
![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
Nottingham, MD 21236
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 Moise Yomb - Devoted Health Care Services LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ee2bfd6-f5aa-45cb-8b6e-57041638863e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Devoted Health Care Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
Please be assured that you are not alone in your struggles. You can definitely get help and treatment by connecting with the right psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Please be assured that you are not alone in your struggles. You can definitely get help and treatment by connecting with the right psychiatric nurse practitioner.
![Photo of Talia Griffin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b2ffe51-bcb1-4b76-91c8-6fd3987da604/1/320x400.jpeg)
Talia Griffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. My goals are your goals and I will be with you every step of the way.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. My goals are your goals and I will be with you every step of the way.
![Photo of Asia Douglas, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60dbc18d-5652-44c6-814e-c9051cc6719a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Asia Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
Asia Douglas specializes in medication management for multiple mental health disorders. She is passionate about the overall care of the whole individual with a focus on mental, physical, and emotional wellness. Asia received her bachelor’s in nursing from Coppin State University in Maryland. She went on to work at the University of Maryland Medical Center in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for 5 years before obtaining her Master’s in Nursing for Family Nurse practitioners from Walden University.
Asia Douglas specializes in medication management for multiple mental health disorders. She is passionate about the overall care of the whole individual with a focus on mental, physical, and emotional wellness. Asia received her bachelor’s in nursing from Coppin State University in Maryland. She went on to work at the University of Maryland Medical Center in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for 5 years before obtaining her Master’s in Nursing for Family Nurse practitioners from Walden University.
![Photo of Camila Lavalle Cammarota, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fff90e65-67ae-4075-b9d4-882377efabac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Camila Lavalle Cammarota
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
My ideal client is someone who understands that medications alone will not lead you to optimal mental health. My specialty is medication management, but I tell all my clients that medications are only 25 percent of the puzzle piece. The other 75 percent is focusing on diet, exercise, sleep, healthy relationships, reducing stressors, work-life balance, time management, focusing on self-care, and doing more of the things you love! Medications can help empower you to get out of bed, help you to focus, help improve motivation but they are just one tool to help aid you. The path to optimal mental health is not one you have to do alone.
My ideal client is someone who understands that medications alone will not lead you to optimal mental health. My specialty is medication management, but I tell all my clients that medications are only 25 percent of the puzzle piece. The other 75 percent is focusing on diet, exercise, sleep, healthy relationships, reducing stressors, work-life balance, time management, focusing on self-care, and doing more of the things you love! Medications can help empower you to get out of bed, help you to focus, help improve motivation but they are just one tool to help aid you. The path to optimal mental health is not one you have to do alone.
![Photo of Dr. Patrick K Nganga, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8272d3e6-c250-4053-8279-c8cb95b1fc9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Patrick K Nganga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
I am a nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience taking care of adult patients with multiple medical problems and people of all ages with psychiatric disorders. I have dual masters one in acute care and the other one in psychiatric and mental health. Currently I am only taking care of patients with mental health problems.
I am a nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience taking care of adult patients with multiple medical problems and people of all ages with psychiatric disorders. I have dual masters one in acute care and the other one in psychiatric and mental health. Currently I am only taking care of patients with mental health problems.
![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
Nottingham, MD 21236
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 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
Nottingham, MD 21236
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 Blessing Iwuh, CRNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d655dc33-988e-4b05-8261-e4cdab010bc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blessing Iwuh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Nottingham, MD 21236
Blessing is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health NP (PMHNP) who uses a patient-centered holistic approach and evidenced-based research to treat patients across the lifespan. She is a highly-skilled professional with 12 years of overall nursing experience. She has 8 years of experience in psychiatry and worked with diverse populations in various mental health settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. Her treatment modalities include a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology to create an individualized treatment plan effective to her client's needs.
Blessing is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health NP (PMHNP) who uses a patient-centered holistic approach and evidenced-based research to treat patients across the lifespan. She is a highly-skilled professional with 12 years of overall nursing experience. She has 8 years of experience in psychiatry and worked with diverse populations in various mental health settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. Her treatment modalities include a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology to create an individualized treatment plan effective to her client's needs.
15 Second Videos
Talia Griffin
Camila Lavalle Cammarota
Patrick K Nganga
Ariel Nickerson
Janet Smith Stasiak
![Photo of Chantal Tchoumba - Devoted Healthcare Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503d74a9-4d22-411e-a347-2b4602ec1fa5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Devoted Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
Dr. Chantal Tchoumba 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 perform diagnostic evaluations and medication management. I am culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality.
Dr. Chantal Tchoumba 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 perform diagnostic evaluations and medication management. I am culturally competent to see people from all walks of life no matter religion, race, or sexuality.
![Photo of Sylvie Fon - Devoted Health Care Services LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9788c3ed-c3cd-48df-a89a-7fd5f61fc1cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Devoted Health Care Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236 (Online Only)
My name is Sylvie Fon PMHNP-BC, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, psychosis and personality disorders.
My name is Sylvie Fon PMHNP-BC, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a wide range of medication management experience across the lifespan, including Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, eating disorders, substance use disorders, OCD, psychosis and personality disorders.
![Photo of Ariel Nickerson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ef5b3f1-05fc-4496-9c0c-2adb7d3fa536/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ariel Nickerson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. I want to be a part of your journey in living the life you deserve. Every person in the world deserves that.
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. I want to be a part of your journey in living the life you deserve. Every person in the world deserves that.
![Photo of Janet Smith Stasiak, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc558c92-9484-4d8e-9ee3-d163f1abc4db/1/320x400.png)
Janet Smith Stasiak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Nottingham, MD 21236 (Online Only)
Janet Smith has a Doctorate in Nursing and as both a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She strongly believes in the mind-body connection and a holistic approach to mental health. She specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorder, diagnosing Autism in adults and teens, and high-functioning or Asperger’s Syndrome. She also is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, and many other conditions. Janet welcomes diversity and is an ally for LGBTQIA+ as well as a lifelong supporter of all minorities, religious beliefs, and backgrounds.
Janet Smith has a Doctorate in Nursing and as both a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. She strongly believes in the mind-body connection and a holistic approach to mental health. She specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorder, diagnosing Autism in adults and teens, and high-functioning or Asperger’s Syndrome. She also is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, and many other conditions. Janet welcomes diversity and is an ally for LGBTQIA+ as well as a lifelong supporter of all minorities, religious beliefs, and backgrounds.
![Photo of Paula Ison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/577e54c0-1940-4fb1-a236-b761a3d9d14b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. I want to be a part of your journey in living the life you deserve. Every person in the world deserves that.
Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. I want to be a part of your journey in living the life you deserve. Every person in the world deserves that.
![Photo of Evelyne Imah - Devoted Health Care Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb6d0b3c-d719-49ba-a4a7-b4b29c6a1c90/4/320x400.jpeg)
Devoted Health Care Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
Dr. Evelyne Imah is a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions. Dr. Evelyne Imah is a dedicated nursing professional with 12+ years demonstrated expertise in providing comprehensive nursing patient care and mental health services for patients in clinical, hospital, and family practice environments. As an experienced healthcare professional, she is committed to health and wellness goals relating to mind, body, and soul to all her patients and will make their mental health needs a priority.
Dr. Evelyne Imah is a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various mental health conditions. Dr. Evelyne Imah is a dedicated nursing professional with 12+ years demonstrated expertise in providing comprehensive nursing patient care and mental health services for patients in clinical, hospital, and family practice environments. As an experienced healthcare professional, she is committed to health and wellness goals relating to mind, body, and soul to all her patients and will make their mental health needs a priority.
![Photo of Tracy Bearsch - Devoted Health Care Services LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488179c2-d706-4abf-b361-1dc2b906cd06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Devoted Health Care Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236
My name is Tracy Bearsch PMHNP-BC, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric services such as psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individual psychotherapy.
My name is Tracy Bearsch PMHNP-BC, highly motivated psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric services such as psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individual psychotherapy.
![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 Quinton Myers - Myers Health and Wellness LLC, MSN, RN, CRNP-PM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5a11fbc-b3e8-4dab-9e09-3fd4a0990270/2/320x400.jpeg)
Myers Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CRNP-PM
Verified Verified
Nottingham, MD 21236 (Online Only)
QUINTON MYERS, CRNP-PMH, PMHNP-BC, MSN, RN Quinton is a graduate of the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program at the University of Maryland- Baltimore, School of Nursing. He has over 10 years of mental health experience ranging from crisis stabilization, dual diagnosis, neurocognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, nursing research, and education.
QUINTON MYERS, CRNP-PMH, PMHNP-BC, MSN, RN Quinton is a graduate of the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program at the University of Maryland- Baltimore, School of Nursing. He has over 10 years of mental health experience ranging from crisis stabilization, dual diagnosis, neurocognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, nursing research, and education.
See more therapy options for Nottingham
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Nottingham, MD
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Nottingham, MD who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
85% | ADHD |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Medication Management |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
62% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | CareFirst |
85% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Nottingham, MD see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nottingham?
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.