Psychiatrists in 75032

Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(469) 557-4748 View (469) 557-4748
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(469) 746-3544 View (469) 746-3544
Photo of Blessy Anu Kuncheria, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Blessy Anu Kuncheria
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I'm passionate about providing high quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. My goal in treating my patients is to help them reclaim their mental health in a setting which offers quality individualized care where my patients come first.
I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I'm passionate about providing high quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. My goal in treating my patients is to help them reclaim their mental health in a setting which offers quality individualized care where my patients come first.
(214) 544-6870 View (214) 544-6870
Photo of Deborah Baum - Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
New location now open in Rockwall, TX! Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated (SMHWI) is a center of excellence in providing premier psychiatric stabilization and substance use treatment. We offer the following clinical services: General Psychiatric Treatment, therapy, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for relief of symptoms of major depression along with other diagnoses. SMHWI offers compassionate care for those needing mental health services or struggling with substance abuse. We also offer tele-health services from the comfort of your home.
New location now open in Rockwall, TX! Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated (SMHWI) is a center of excellence in providing premier psychiatric stabilization and substance use treatment. We offer the following clinical services: General Psychiatric Treatment, therapy, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for relief of symptoms of major depression along with other diagnoses. SMHWI offers compassionate care for those needing mental health services or struggling with substance abuse. We also offer tele-health services from the comfort of your home.
(469) 485-7097 View (469) 485-7097
Photo of Ankit A Parmar, Psychiatrist, MD, MHA
Ankit A Parmar
Psychiatrist, MD, MHA
Verified Verified
Online Only
We provide personalized treatment for various psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, DMDD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia and other Psychotic Disorders across all age-groups. By combining modern and holistic medicine, we strive to find the perfect balance of various therapeutic modalities to promote well-being and happiness of our patients and their families. We also provide genetic testing for our existing clients.
We provide personalized treatment for various psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, DMDD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia and other Psychotic Disorders across all age-groups. By combining modern and holistic medicine, we strive to find the perfect balance of various therapeutic modalities to promote well-being and happiness of our patients and their families. We also provide genetic testing for our existing clients.
(214) 466-1652 View (214) 466-1652
Photo of Ayuk Obale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Ayuk Obale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heath, TX 75032
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you have loss of interest, or why you consistently have low energy? Do you wonder why one day you are happy and the next day you are sad. Do you wonder why you consistently worry about everything, and you feel like your thoughts are racing in your head? If you answered yes to these questions, I would love to help. I have experience treating individuals from age 14- 99 years old. My focus is anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, and thought disorders. I work collaboratively with my patients and value feedback
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Texas! Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you have loss of interest, or why you consistently have low energy? Do you wonder why one day you are happy and the next day you are sad. Do you wonder why you consistently worry about everything, and you feel like your thoughts are racing in your head? If you answered yes to these questions, I would love to help. I have experience treating individuals from age 14- 99 years old. My focus is anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, and thought disorders. I work collaboratively with my patients and value feedback
(214) 888-3679 View (214) 888-3679
Photo of Dr. Nicole Gutierrez, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Nicole Gutierrez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
After losing over 90 pounds with GLP-1 and guiding others on their weight loss journeys, one key takeaway stands out above all. Weight loss isn’t just about diet and exercise—it’s also deeply tied to how you feel about yourself. The psychological skills required for quick weight loss go far beyond the scale; they can transform your entire life. Leading to you strengthen your relationship with your partner, helping you break generational trauma cycles to create a better future for yourself and your children, while empowering you to live a more fulfilling, joyful life
After losing over 90 pounds with GLP-1 and guiding others on their weight loss journeys, one key takeaway stands out above all. Weight loss isn’t just about diet and exercise—it’s also deeply tied to how you feel about yourself. The psychological skills required for quick weight loss go far beyond the scale; they can transform your entire life. Leading to you strengthen your relationship with your partner, helping you break generational trauma cycles to create a better future for yourself and your children, while empowering you to live a more fulfilling, joyful life
(469) 896-8025 View (469) 896-8025
Photo of Kosi Ngozi-Ibeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kosi Ngozi-Ibeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
Are you looking for a caring and compassionate partner on your mental health journey? Do you need a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings without judgment? Do you want guidance on treatment options, medication management, and strategies for coping with life's challenges? I'm here to guide you, providing the tools and support you need to achieve your goals. Let's work together to build the future you desire!
Are you looking for a caring and compassionate partner on your mental health journey? Do you need a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings without judgment? Do you want guidance on treatment options, medication management, and strategies for coping with life's challenges? I'm here to guide you, providing the tools and support you need to achieve your goals. Let's work together to build the future you desire!
(469) 754-9546 View (469) 754-9546
Photo of Deepti Vats, Psychiatrist, MD
Deepti Vats
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Deepti Vats M.D. is a compassionate and dedicated physician who has been in the field of Psychiatry for the past ten years. She is board certified in General and Forensic Psychiatry and licensed to practice in Texas. She is well versed with medication management of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and other psychiatric illness.
Deepti Vats M.D. is a compassionate and dedicated physician who has been in the field of Psychiatry for the past ten years. She is board certified in General and Forensic Psychiatry and licensed to practice in Texas. She is well versed with medication management of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and other psychiatric illness.
(972) 217-8131 View (972) 217-8131
Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Michael has over a decade of experience as a Nurse Practitioner in various mental health clinic settings. Michael's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults and geriatric adults facing challenges with mental health, intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.
Michael has over a decade of experience as a Nurse Practitioner in various mental health clinic settings. Michael's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults and geriatric adults facing challenges with mental health, intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.
(469) 345-7590 View (469) 345-7590
Photo of Kimberly Dobbins, Psychiatrist, MD
Kimberly Dobbins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Dobbins brings over a decade of experience and is double board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. In addition to her previous experience as a professor at UT Southwestern in Dallas, her experience comes from multiple care settings to include high acuity Psychiatric ER, VA outpatient mental health clinic and a community Child Psychiatry clinic. Dr. Dobbins will lead the BasePoint Academy’s client treatment as well as seeing patients individually in BasePoint Psychiatry and Wellness.
Dr. Dobbins brings over a decade of experience and is double board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. In addition to her previous experience as a professor at UT Southwestern in Dallas, her experience comes from multiple care settings to include high acuity Psychiatric ER, VA outpatient mental health clinic and a community Child Psychiatry clinic. Dr. Dobbins will lead the BasePoint Academy’s client treatment as well as seeing patients individually in BasePoint Psychiatry and Wellness.
(972) 430-6151 View (972) 430-6151
Photo of Dr. Micah Duke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Dr. Micah Duke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Micah is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming. Micah specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addiction for all age groups.
Micah is a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in the state of Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming. Micah specializes in medication management and psychotherapy for PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addiction for all age groups.
(469) 437-7829 View (469) 437-7829
Photo of Arif K Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, Psychiatrist, MD
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... 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.
Welcome to VPPclinic.com ... 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.
(726) 227-1205 View (726) 227-1205
Photo of Tiruwork M Hiruy - Integrated Psychiatry Services, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Integrated Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.
My ideal client is someone actively seeking mental health support and dealing with issues like mood disorders or trauma. They value a holistic approach, combining medication and psychotherapy. I appreciate clients who engage in collaborative, judgment-free sessions. Their goals include improving overall quality of life, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. I aim to empower them to achieve positive change and navigate life's challenges through a strong therapeutic alliance.
(469) 218-4330 View (469) 218-4330
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Arthur-Mensah - Dr. Kimberly Arthur-Mensah @ Hamada Healing Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Kimberly Arthur-Mensah @ Hamada Healing Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Available AFTER-HOURS & Weekends - Accepting New Clients. I'm Dr. Kimberly Arthur-Mensah, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for supporting both children and adults who are facing a range of mental and physical health challenges. I hold my Master’s and Doctorate in Nursing from Ohio State University.
Available AFTER-HOURS & Weekends - Accepting New Clients. I'm Dr. Kimberly Arthur-Mensah, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for supporting both children and adults who are facing a range of mental and physical health challenges. I hold my Master’s and Doctorate in Nursing from Ohio State University.
(972) 449-9438 View (972) 449-9438
Photo of Valmy Fotendong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Valmy Fotendong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
(940) 314-5534 View (940) 314-5534

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cathrine Guidry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cathrine Guidry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide a holistic approach to life long mental health and wellness. This comprehensive approach includes both traditional and alternative methods. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to all patients that focus on treating the whole self by utilizing the latest pharmaceutical remedies as well as lifestyle enrichment through education and realistic goal setting. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of multiple disorders and mental health conditions. It is a humbling privilege to accompany my patients on their journey to improved living.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I strive to provide a holistic approach to life long mental health and wellness. This comprehensive approach includes both traditional and alternative methods. I am committed to providing individualized treatment to all patients that focus on treating the whole self by utilizing the latest pharmaceutical remedies as well as lifestyle enrichment through education and realistic goal setting. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of multiple disorders and mental health conditions. It is a humbling privilege to accompany my patients on their journey to improved living.
(682) 243-7630 View (682) 243-7630
Photo of Ivy Jones - IvyMed Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
IvyMed Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Dr. Ivy Jones holds a Doctorate of Nursing Degree & is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She is a highly-skilled professional clinician with over 5 years of providing direct patient care to persons receiving treatment for psychiatric disorders, & over 13 years of Registered Nursing. Dr. Ivy' holistic approach & evidenced based treatment modalities include pharmacologic management and psychotherapeutic interventions. She's skilled in addressing acute and chronic illnesses while maintaining a collaborative, warm and non-judgmental stance
Dr. Ivy Jones holds a Doctorate of Nursing Degree & is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She is a highly-skilled professional clinician with over 5 years of providing direct patient care to persons receiving treatment for psychiatric disorders, & over 13 years of Registered Nursing. Dr. Ivy' holistic approach & evidenced based treatment modalities include pharmacologic management and psychotherapeutic interventions. She's skilled in addressing acute and chronic illnesses while maintaining a collaborative, warm and non-judgmental stance
(425) 428-4382 View (425) 428-4382
Photo of Pablo Cueto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Pablo Cueto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240
Evening and weekend appointments available in English or Spanish. From the comfort of your home, we can connect and begin your journey to recovery. I can assist with issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, PTSD, ADHD and mood disorders.
Evening and weekend appointments available in English or Spanish. From the comfort of your home, we can connect and begin your journey to recovery. I can assist with issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, PTSD, ADHD and mood disorders.
(469) 277-9335 View (469) 277-9335
Photo of Gwen Shipe, Psychiatrist, MD
Gwen Shipe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
My patients find me because they want someone to listen and make sense of their journey. They have usually tried and failed several medications. Functional Medicine Psychiatry can usually help. Prior to your 90m initial evaluation you will fill out an extensive online health history. During our visit we may decide together to order diagnostic labs (insurance billing if appropriate). You will follow up to review these labs with a Functional Medicine and Board Certified Nutritionist and Health Coach. Medication management follow-ups, 25m, are with myself or a Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and doctoral candidate.
(972) 441-5967 x7 View (972) 441-5967 x7

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75032

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 75032 who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
88% Anxiety
81% Trauma and PTSD
81% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
69% ADHD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% BlueCross and BlueShield
92% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 75032 see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 75032?

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.