Psychiatrists in 75028

Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(972) 853-6219 View (972) 853-6219
Photo of Deanna Dial, Psychiatrist, DO
Deanna Dial
Psychiatrist, DO
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Dr. Dial's practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable, and confidential environment to explore options for the evaluation and management of emotional and behavioral concerns. Our services include a thorough evaluation, medication management, patient education and may serve as a complement to a patient's current treatment team. We work with a wide range of behavioral and emotional disorders and also provide medication prescription and management. We believe that psychiatric evaluation, in addition to complementary therapeutic approaches (medication, counseling/psychotherapy) provide the best outcome for the patient. Dr. Dial develops specialized treatment plans that are evidenced based.
Dr. Dial's practice offers patients and families a calm, comfortable, and confidential environment to explore options for the evaluation and management of emotional and behavioral concerns. Our services include a thorough evaluation, medication management, patient education and may serve as a complement to a patient's current treatment team. We work with a wide range of behavioral and emotional disorders and also provide medication prescription and management. We believe that psychiatric evaluation, in addition to complementary therapeutic approaches (medication, counseling/psychotherapy) provide the best outcome for the patient. Dr. Dial develops specialized treatment plans that are evidenced based.
(972) 833-2137 View (972) 833-2137
Photo of Christine Yap, Physician Assistant, PA
Christine Yap
Physician Assistant, PA
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I began my career as a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry in April 2024, working in an outpatient clinic. My interest in psychiatry developed through my experiences in family medicine, internal medicine, and other specialties, where I often observed that mental health was underemphasized—despite its integral connection to overall well-being. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals newly diagnosed with ADHD or bipolar disorder. I work closely with patients to help them establish realistic, sustainable routines at work and home, allowing lifestyle changes and medications to work together more effectively.
I began my career as a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry in April 2024, working in an outpatient clinic. My interest in psychiatry developed through my experiences in family medicine, internal medicine, and other specialties, where I often observed that mental health was underemphasized—despite its integral connection to overall well-being. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals newly diagnosed with ADHD or bipolar disorder. I work closely with patients to help them establish realistic, sustainable routines at work and home, allowing lifestyle changes and medications to work together more effectively.
(682) 452-3193 View (682) 452-3193
Photo of Adeline Monger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Adeline Monger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 1 year in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Groups, Families and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), and Schizophrenia. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide advanced specialty medical care with a dual emphasis on intervention through psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 1 year in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Groups, Families and I address Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), and Schizophrenia. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide advanced specialty medical care with a dual emphasis on intervention through psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
(682) 628-0959 View (682) 628-0959
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(972) 846-9933 View (972) 846-9933
Photo of Sheila Trish Morgan-Freeman - Whole Life Behavioral Health/ Trish Morgan-Freeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Whole Life Behavioral Health/ Trish Morgan-Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.
I am a board certified psychiatric provider who is culturally sensitive and focused on quality and compassion when providing care to my patients. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders, OCD, psychosis, traumatic stress and more. My goal is to empower my patients and equip them with the tools and strategies they need to improve their mental health and achieve their goals.
(972) 736-8223 View (972) 736-8223
Photo of Vivek Poudel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Vivek Poudel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Flower Mound, TX 75028
As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer compassionate care, utilizing my years of experience with diverse patient populations to assess, prescribe medications, and implement personalized therapeutic interventions for individuals with mental health concerns.
As an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer compassionate care, utilizing my years of experience with diverse patient populations to assess, prescribe medications, and implement personalized therapeutic interventions for individuals with mental health concerns.
(682) 384-4356 View (682) 384-4356
Photo of Dr. Zian Omene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Dr. Zian Omene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
Your condition does not define you. If you're looking for a trusted Christian provider who listens and offers treatments that address the root problem, consider medication as an option, not the only option. For Christians, we co-create a Kingdom Bible-based plan to help you live your best life.
(972) 597-0798 View (972) 597-0798
Photo of Christiana Omamegbe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Christiana Omamegbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 5 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Families and I address Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Mood Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Christy is a Psychiatric Nurse practitioners who sees all age groups. She works with client who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 5 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Families and I address Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Mood Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Christy is a Psychiatric Nurse practitioners who sees all age groups. She works with client who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD.
(682) 382-9985 View (682) 382-9985
Photo of Shaneel Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Shaneel Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hello, Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, board certified in adult psychiatry since 2013 and child & adolescent psychiatry since 2014. For the last fourteen years, I have treated adults, children, and adolescents with mental health challenges. I have also served in the United States Army Reserve as a psychiatrist. I completed my medical school in India. I did my residency in psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. After the residency, I did a child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Mt. Sinai in New York, NY.
Hello, Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, board certified in adult psychiatry since 2013 and child & adolescent psychiatry since 2014. For the last fourteen years, I have treated adults, children, and adolescents with mental health challenges. I have also served in the United States Army Reserve as a psychiatrist. I completed my medical school in India. I did my residency in psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. After the residency, I did a child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Mt. Sinai in New York, NY.
(972) 458-3963 View (972) 458-3963
Photo of Esther Uangbaoje - Hecen Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Hecen Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we offer medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we offer medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
(361) 240-7804 View (361) 240-7804
Photo of Elika Okhovatian, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Elika Okhovatian
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Flower Mound, TX 75028
As a dedicated Psychiatric Physician Assistant, I am deeply passionate about mental health care, firmly believing that mental health deserves the same level of attention and care as physical health. I aim to create a supportive and welcoming environment where patients can seek the help they need without fear of judgment or stigma. By contributing to this field, I aspire to break down barriers and foster a space where individuals can feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Physician Assistant, I am deeply passionate about mental health care, firmly believing that mental health deserves the same level of attention and care as physical health. I aim to create a supportive and welcoming environment where patients can seek the help they need without fear of judgment or stigma. By contributing to this field, I aspire to break down barriers and foster a space where individuals can feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.
(817) 928-3226 View (817) 928-3226
Photo of Dan Coleman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dan Coleman
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
(929) 429-4138 View (929) 429-4138
Photo of Ayako Sugiyama, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Ayako Sugiyama
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP-C
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Ayako Sugiyama is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with experience providing mental health services in both outpatient and in-home settings. She specializes in treating individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Schizophrenia. Born and raised in Japan, Ayako earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Ayako Sugiyama is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with experience providing mental health services in both outpatient and in-home settings. She specializes in treating individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Schizophrenia. Born and raised in Japan, Ayako earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington.
(469) 423-9516 View (469) 423-9516
Photo of Oyebola Bola Oyelade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Oyebola Bola Oyelade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Oyebola ‘Bola’ Oyelade, DNP, Board-Certified PMHNP with over 14 years of experience actively listening and treating clients across various lifespans. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsion disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, psychosis, PTSD, insomnia, and ADHD.
My name is Oyebola ‘Bola’ Oyelade, DNP, Board-Certified PMHNP with over 14 years of experience actively listening and treating clients across various lifespans. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsion disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, psychosis, PTSD, insomnia, and ADHD.
(817) 835-7303 View (817) 835-7303
Photo of Omotayo T Gbengaojo - Rehoboth mental health & psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Rehoboth mental health & psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mental health struggles does not have to be faced alone
Mental health struggles does not have to be faced alone
(817) 396-2592 View (817) 396-2592
Photo of Arif Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, Psychiatrist, MD
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting New Patients from Texas! ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Accepting New Patients from Texas! ... As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(817) 646-8725 View (817) 646-8725

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VISITS AVAILABLE ACROSS TEXAS. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illness is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
(469) 415-1525 View (469) 415-1525
Photo of Dr. H. Ho, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN, DABOM, DABPM
Dr. H. Ho
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN, DABOM, DABPM
Serves Area
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
(781) 786-7351 View (781) 786-7351
Photo of Kimberly Justice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimberly Justice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! I have over 11 years of clinical nursing experience and I am a current board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force Combat Veteran.
Hi! I have over 11 years of clinical nursing experience and I am a current board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force Combat Veteran.
(915) 348-3456 View (915) 348-3456

See more therapy options for 75028

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75028

10+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in 75028 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
82% Anxiety
82% ADHD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Trauma and PTSD
59% Bipolar Disorder
53% Medication Management

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 75028 see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75028?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.