Psychiatrists in 75007
A-1 Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
3 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75007
I am Joy Ichie, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of psychiatric experience. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals ages 10 and adults of all ages across the entire state of Texas via telehealth and in person appointment at the Carrollton, Tx office.
I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Briar Cliff University, and completed my MSN and BSN at the University of Texas at Arlington. My approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and individualized.
I am Joy Ichie, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of psychiatric experience. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals ages 10 and adults of all ages across the entire state of Texas via telehealth and in person appointment at the Carrollton, Tx office.
I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Briar Cliff University, and completed my MSN and BSN at the University of Texas at Arlington. My approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and individualized.
Star Legacy Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Carrollton, TX 75007
A peaceful mind is a blessing in disguise. We are here to help all those looking to achieve a sound, happy, and productive state of mind. We truly believe all issues are treatable and we take pride in being by your side during the journey. At Star Legacy we diagnose, educate, and treat psychiatric disorders with consultation and medication management. Our goal is to provide evidence based care in efforts to give patients the necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health function.
A peaceful mind is a blessing in disguise. We are here to help all those looking to achieve a sound, happy, and productive state of mind. We truly believe all issues are treatable and we take pride in being by your side during the journey. At Star Legacy we diagnose, educate, and treat psychiatric disorders with consultation and medication management. Our goal is to provide evidence based care in efforts to give patients the necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health function.
Are you suffering from ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or any other mental health issue? Are you tired of waiting to see a mental health provider? Do you need medication management for an already diagnosed issue? Are you seeking a second opinion or an advice? Are you tired of trying/taking several medicines? Pinnacle Psychiatry can help provide immediate treatment. Call 940-629-7201 for more information. Schedule an appointment online with just a few clicks at www.pinnacle-psychiatry.com. We provide virtual/telemedicine visits to adults but can also accommodate an in-person visit.
Are you suffering from ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or any other mental health issue? Are you tired of waiting to see a mental health provider? Do you need medication management for an already diagnosed issue? Are you seeking a second opinion or an advice? Are you tired of trying/taking several medicines? Pinnacle Psychiatry can help provide immediate treatment. Call 940-629-7201 for more information. Schedule an appointment online with just a few clicks at www.pinnacle-psychiatry.com. We provide virtual/telemedicine visits to adults but can also accommodate an in-person visit.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges? I help kids, teens, and adults find clarity, confidence, and relief through holistic, personalized treatment. Whether it’s difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, or burnout, these struggles can make daily life exhausting. You don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll build the tools you need to manage emotions, strengthen resilience, and regain a sense of control—so you can move forward with confidence and ease.
I am deeply committed to helping individuals with mental illness achieve healthy, fulfilling lives by providing compassionate, holistic care that addresses both mind and body. My approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with thoughtful medication management, as needed, to ensure that each person receives a personalized treatment plan that supports their unique needs. I understand that mental health is complex, and no two journeys are the same. It is essential that I take the time to truly listen and collaborate with my clients, creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where they can feel heard, valued, and empowered.
I am deeply committed to helping individuals with mental illness achieve healthy, fulfilling lives by providing compassionate, holistic care that addresses both mind and body. My approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with thoughtful medication management, as needed, to ensure that each person receives a personalized treatment plan that supports their unique needs. I understand that mental health is complex, and no two journeys are the same. It is essential that I take the time to truly listen and collaborate with my clients, creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where they can feel heard, valued, and empowered.
Lucy Changwe is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, offering compassionate support to individuals across Texas. She provides personalized care for teens, adults, and seniors navigating a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. With a focus on individualized therapy and medication management, Lucy helps her clients develop effective coping strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their overall wellbeing.
Lucy Changwe is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, offering compassionate support to individuals across Texas. She provides personalized care for teens, adults, and seniors navigating a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. With a focus on individualized therapy and medication management, Lucy helps her clients develop effective coping strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their overall wellbeing.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Are you looking for a safe and non-judgemental environment where your mental health needs will be met through a holistic approach? Meet Chioma Anwukah, a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Washington State, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Connecticut and Nevada. She has over 9 years of experience in psychiatry. Mrs. Anwukah has worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, and outpatient mental health clinics.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Are you looking for a safe and non-judgemental environment where your mental health needs will be met through a holistic approach? Meet Chioma Anwukah, a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Washington State, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Connecticut and Nevada. She has over 9 years of experience in psychiatry. Mrs. Anwukah has worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, and outpatient mental health clinics.
You deserve mental health care that sees all of you, not just a diagnosis. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with adults in their 20s, 30s, and beyond living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and complex mood or thought related concerns. Trained at Ohio State and Vanderbilt, I bring experience from hospital dual diagnosis work and a high volume private practice. In sessions I slow things down, get to know what you enjoy and hope for, and partner with you to build a plan that fits real life.
You deserve mental health care that sees all of you, not just a diagnosis. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with adults in their 20s, 30s, and beyond living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and complex mood or thought related concerns. Trained at Ohio State and Vanderbilt, I bring experience from hospital dual diagnosis work and a high volume private practice. In sessions I slow things down, get to know what you enjoy and hope for, and partner with you to build a plan that fits real life.
Seeking care should feel human. I bring a calm, judgment free approach shaped by years in healthcare since age seventeen, from CNA to psychiatric nurse practitioner. Psychiatry became my calling while supporting patients on a dual diagnosis unit, where I learned that feeling heard often heals first. In sessions we talk openly, review your history with care, and design a plan that fits your life. I blend practical lifestyle strategies with evidence based medications when helpful, explain every option, and invite your questions. Adults and kids are welcome. My goal is simple: help you feel better and move forward with confidence.
Seeking care should feel human. I bring a calm, judgment free approach shaped by years in healthcare since age seventeen, from CNA to psychiatric nurse practitioner. Psychiatry became my calling while supporting patients on a dual diagnosis unit, where I learned that feeling heard often heals first. In sessions we talk openly, review your history with care, and design a plan that fits your life. I blend practical lifestyle strategies with evidence based medications when helpful, explain every option, and invite your questions. Adults and kids are welcome. My goal is simple: help you feel better and move forward with confidence.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Care should feel human from the first hello. With a doctorate in nursing and nearly three decades in healthcare, I practice psychiatry the way people heal best through connection, clarity, and steady follow up. Sometimes a simple conversation matters more than any pill. We start with your story and goals, then use the least medication that truly helps, paired with practical skills, supportive therapy, and lifestyle strategies. After any change I check in quickly, monitor progress, and adjust with you so you feel better, not just treated.
Care should feel human from the first hello. With a doctorate in nursing and nearly three decades in healthcare, I practice psychiatry the way people heal best through connection, clarity, and steady follow up. Sometimes a simple conversation matters more than any pill. We start with your story and goals, then use the least medication that truly helps, paired with practical skills, supportive therapy, and lifestyle strategies. After any change I check in quickly, monitor progress, and adjust with you so you feel better, not just treated.
When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.
When my father fell ill, I saw firsthand the power of compassionate care—it changed my life. After years in the neuro ICU caring for patients facing profound physical and emotional struggles, I knew psychiatry was my calling. Today, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer that same compassion to teens and adults facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and many other mood disorders. My approach is holistic, deeply personal, and focused entirely on your story and your healing journey.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Care that feels attentive, warm, and effective. I began nursing in 2008, earned my family nurse practitioner degree from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in 2013, then trained as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. In care with me you are listened to fully and invited into every decision. I blend evidence based medicine, coping skills, and therapy. Medication is used thoughtfully when it is truly needed. Together we build a plan that fits your life and helps you move forward with confidence.
Care that feels attentive, warm, and effective. I began nursing in 2008, earned my family nurse practitioner degree from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in 2013, then trained as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. In care with me you are listened to fully and invited into every decision. I blend evidence based medicine, coping skills, and therapy. Medication is used thoughtfully when it is truly needed. Together we build a plan that fits your life and helps you move forward with confidence.
You may be feeling worn down by anxiety, low mood, or constant self-doubt and wondering if things can truly get better. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on my own experience with mental health to appreciate how powerful the right mix of therapy, medication, and support can be. My care is person centered, collaborative, and holistic, grounded in curiosity about what shapes your thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Together we will explore your story, understand the patterns keeping you stuck, and build a plan that honors your values, culture, and strengths so you can move toward a more resilient and satisfying life.
You may be feeling worn down by anxiety, low mood, or constant self-doubt and wondering if things can truly get better. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I draw on my own experience with mental health to appreciate how powerful the right mix of therapy, medication, and support can be. My care is person centered, collaborative, and holistic, grounded in curiosity about what shapes your thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Together we will explore your story, understand the patterns keeping you stuck, and build a plan that honors your values, culture, and strengths so you can move toward a more resilient and satisfying life.
Perhaps you grew up hearing that you should stay strong and keep your feelings to yourself. Yet depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma and ADHD can make even simple days feel heavy. I work with adults who are tired of carrying everything alone and want care that is both compassionate and clear. In our visits I listen closely, notice the details that shape your story, use gentle humor when it helps and explain options in plain language. My practice is culturally sensitive, LGBTQ+ affirming and grounded in a strong therapeutic alliance so you can feel safe, understood and actively involved in each step of your care.
Perhaps you grew up hearing that you should stay strong and keep your feelings to yourself. Yet depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma and ADHD can make even simple days feel heavy. I work with adults who are tired of carrying everything alone and want care that is both compassionate and clear. In our visits I listen closely, notice the details that shape your story, use gentle humor when it helps and explain options in plain language. My practice is culturally sensitive, LGBTQ+ affirming and grounded in a strong therapeutic alliance so you can feel safe, understood and actively involved in each step of your care.
Imagine your ideal client: What would life feel like with steadier days, clearer focus, and care that truly listens? I work with people facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, the effects of trauma, and ADHD. My approach is empathic, evidence based, and centered on your voice. Together we will map what is hard, clarify options in plain language, and choose a plan that respects your story and goals. I care deeply about access for vulnerable communities and offer a nonjudgmental space where you can be an active partner in your mental health. I welcome LGBTQ+ clients and meet you with compassion, skill, and steady follow up.
Imagine your ideal client: What would life feel like with steadier days, clearer focus, and care that truly listens? I work with people facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, the effects of trauma, and ADHD. My approach is empathic, evidence based, and centered on your voice. Together we will map what is hard, clarify options in plain language, and choose a plan that respects your story and goals. I care deeply about access for vulnerable communities and offer a nonjudgmental space where you can be an active partner in your mental health. I welcome LGBTQ+ clients and meet you with compassion, skill, and steady follow up.
You deserve a provider who looks up, listens, and really sees you. I work with adults living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and the impact of trauma. With ten years in nursing across psychiatric care and the ICU, I bring medical skill and deep respect for your story. My approach is holistic and person centered, taking time to understand your symptoms, routines, and relationships. I offer a calm space, LGBTQ+ affirming care, and thoughtful guidance so you feel heard, informed, and supported at every step.
You deserve a provider who looks up, listens, and really sees you. I work with adults living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and the impact of trauma. With ten years in nursing across psychiatric care and the ICU, I bring medical skill and deep respect for your story. My approach is holistic and person centered, taking time to understand your symptoms, routines, and relationships. I offer a calm space, LGBTQ+ affirming care, and thoughtful guidance so you feel heard, informed, and supported at every step.
See more therapy options for 75007
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 75007
50+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 75007 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 96% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 95% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 95% | Medication Management |
| 93% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 91% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 98% | Aetna |
| 96% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 75007 see their clients
| 86% | Online Only | |
| 14% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 93% | Female | |
| 7% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 75007?
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.

