Psychiatrists in 75032

Photo of Blessy Anu Kuncheria, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Blessy Anu Kuncheria
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
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 Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Rockwall, TX 75032
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.
(469) 557-4748 View (469) 557-4748
Photo of Ayuk Obale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Ayuk Obale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
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 Ankit A Parmar, Psychiatrist, MD, MHA
Ankit A Parmar
Psychiatrist, MD, MHA
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 Joseph Wanyoike Nyambura, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Joseph Wanyoike Nyambura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Rockwall, TX 75032
My path to psychiatry has been shaped by years of working at the intersection of crisis, trauma, and resilience. In emergency and inpatient psychiatric settings, I learned to make decisions under pressure, to listen deeply even when words were scarce, and to recognize that healing often begins long before medication is prescribed. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have had the privilege of walking alongside patients through some of the most vulnerable chapters of their lives. I have seen how untreated mental illness fractures families, disrupts identity, and steals potential. I have also witnessed the extraordinary
My path to psychiatry has been shaped by years of working at the intersection of crisis, trauma, and resilience. In emergency and inpatient psychiatric settings, I learned to make decisions under pressure, to listen deeply even when words were scarce, and to recognize that healing often begins long before medication is prescribed. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have had the privilege of walking alongside patients through some of the most vulnerable chapters of their lives. I have seen how untreated mental illness fractures families, disrupts identity, and steals potential. I have also witnessed the extraordinary
(430) 259-5994 View (430) 259-5994
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Rockwall, TX 75032
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.
(469) 746-3544 View (469) 746-3544
Photo of Kosi Ngozi-Ibeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kosi Ngozi-Ibeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 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 Blake Serpa - BasePoint Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
BasePoint Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
BasePoint Psychiatry & Wellness is unlike any other practice in the Dallas Area. Since our inception over a decade ago, the caring licensed counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurse practitioners, and psychiatrists at BasePoint have provided high-quality professional mental health counseling, life coaching, and medication management services to thousands of individuals, couples, and families in Forney, and the greater Dallas area.
BasePoint Psychiatry & Wellness is unlike any other practice in the Dallas Area. Since our inception over a decade ago, the caring licensed counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurse practitioners, and psychiatrists at BasePoint have provided high-quality professional mental health counseling, life coaching, and medication management services to thousands of individuals, couples, and families in Forney, and the greater Dallas area.
(469) 617-5843 View (469) 617-5843
Photo of Andrea Alexander, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Andrea Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Stress and difficult times hit us all; it's how we manage our challenges and access resources that makes the difference. I thrive by partnering with clients to help them achieve their goals and optimize their mental health. I treat a variety of mental health conditions, but I am particularly skilled and passionate about assisting people with depression, anxiety, and trauma. My goal is that clients leave with a solid understanding of their treatment plan, tools to help them cope better with their life challenges, and with personalized medication management focusing on their symptoms with minimal adverse effects.
Stress and difficult times hit us all; it's how we manage our challenges and access resources that makes the difference. I thrive by partnering with clients to help them achieve their goals and optimize their mental health. I treat a variety of mental health conditions, but I am particularly skilled and passionate about assisting people with depression, anxiety, and trauma. My goal is that clients leave with a solid understanding of their treatment plan, tools to help them cope better with their life challenges, and with personalized medication management focusing on their symptoms with minimal adverse effects.
(469) 988-6256 View (469) 988-6256
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
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 Kimberly Dobbins, Psychiatrist, MD
Kimberly Dobbins
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Dobbins is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry with over a decade of experience. Her clinical background spans psychiatric ERs, VA mental health clinics, and community child psychiatry. As a former professor at UT Southwestern, she combines academic insight with compassionate, personalized care. At BasePoint Academy, she provides evidence-based treatment to support emotional regulation, mental clarity, and long-term wellness—especially for teens and young adults.
Dr. Dobbins is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry with over a decade of experience. Her clinical background spans psychiatric ERs, VA mental health clinics, and community child psychiatry. As a former professor at UT Southwestern, she combines academic insight with compassionate, personalized care. At BasePoint Academy, she provides evidence-based treatment to support emotional regulation, mental clarity, and long-term wellness—especially for teens and young adults.
(972) 430-6151 View (972) 430-6151
Photo of Deepti Vats, Psychiatrist, MD
Deepti Vats
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Danielle Gipson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Danielle Gipson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
If you’re struggling to complete daily tasks, care for your children, stay present with your partner, or keep up at work, you’re not alone and you’re not failing. What may look like laziness is often burnout, depression, anxiety, or unresolved trauma. You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns you can’t break. Anxiety can keep your mind racing, while depression can make simple tasks feel heavy. You might be canceling plans, struggling to focus, or feeling disconnected from others and yourself. These are not flaws, they’re signs you need support.
If you’re struggling to complete daily tasks, care for your children, stay present with your partner, or keep up at work, you’re not alone and you’re not failing. What may look like laziness is often burnout, depression, anxiety, or unresolved trauma. You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns you can’t break. Anxiety can keep your mind racing, while depression can make simple tasks feel heavy. You might be canceling plans, struggling to focus, or feeling disconnected from others and yourself. These are not flaws, they’re signs you need support.
(972) 895-7472 View (972) 895-7472
Photo of Barbara Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Barbara Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia related to mental disorder. My approach combines medication management with supportive therapy, tailored to each individual's needs. I strive to create a warm, collaborative environment where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to reach their goals. Together, we'll focus not only on reducing symptoms, but also on building resilence and improving overall quality of life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and insomnia related to mental disorder. My approach combines medication management with supportive therapy, tailored to each individual's needs. I strive to create a warm, collaborative environment where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to reach their goals. Together, we'll focus not only on reducing symptoms, but also on building resilence and improving overall quality of life.
(972) 636-4271 View (972) 636-4271
Photo of Mildred Okumu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Mildred Okumu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you searching for a supportive and understanding partner to walk alongside you in your mental health journey? Do you need a space where you can share openly, feel heard, and be met with compassion instead of judgment? Are you looking for help navigating treatment options, managing medications, or building practical ways to handle everyday challenges? I’m here to support you every step of the way—offering guidance, encouragement, and tools tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a path forward that feels empowering, balanced, and aligned with the life you want to build.
Are you searching for a supportive and understanding partner to walk alongside you in your mental health journey? Do you need a space where you can share openly, feel heard, and be met with compassion instead of judgment? Are you looking for help navigating treatment options, managing medications, or building practical ways to handle everyday challenges? I’m here to support you every step of the way—offering guidance, encouragement, and tools tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a path forward that feels empowering, balanced, and aligned with the life you want to build.
(214) 305-8043 View (214) 305-8043
Photo of Joel Lynn Smith - Primal Recovery and Wellness Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Adm, APRN, PMHNP
Primal Recovery and Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Adm, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Marine Corps Veteran, I studied Biology at the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas and received a Masters of Science in Nursing-Administration and PMHNP Post-Masters certificate at the University of Texas at Tyler. I am dedicated to your Whole-Health as team member in your total recovery.
I am a Marine Corps Veteran, I studied Biology at the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas and received a Masters of Science in Nursing-Administration and PMHNP Post-Masters certificate at the University of Texas at Tyler. I am dedicated to your Whole-Health as team member in your total recovery.
(469) 972-3274 View (469) 972-3274
Photo of Ngozi Onyia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ngozi Onyia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Theresa Onyia, your dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve your health goals. I obtained my Post-Master's and my Master's degree from Walden University. With my top-tier training as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to ensuring you receive the best possible care to help you achieve your health goals. I can't wait to team up with you on this health journey. Let's take on the path to wellness with zest and trust.
Hello, my name is Theresa Onyia, your dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve your health goals. I obtained my Post-Master's and my Master's degree from Walden University. With my top-tier training as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to ensuring you receive the best possible care to help you achieve your health goals. I can't wait to team up with you on this health journey. Let's take on the path to wellness with zest and trust.
(469) 336-3490 View (469) 336-3490

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Dallas, TX 75225
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.
(469) 871-7383 View (469) 871-7383
Photo of Dr. Elo Edith Omakor - Supreme Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Supreme Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Desoto, TX 75115
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington. Your mental health needs is our priority at Supreme Psychiatry. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stressful life events and finding it difficult to function in your day-to-day life? Current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. I specialize in treating both children, preteens, adolescents, and Adult
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington. Your mental health needs is our priority at Supreme Psychiatry. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stressful life events and finding it difficult to function in your day-to-day life? Current life events have highlighted the need for increased access to mental health care. I specialize in treating both children, preteens, adolescents, and Adult
(469) 436-9272 View (469) 436-9272
Photo of Jane Miles, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP
Jane Miles
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP
Dallas, TX 75230
Parents flock to Dr. Miles because, prior to switching to child and adolescent psychiatry (ages 2 and up), she has practiced pediatrics in the first half of her career – and thus provides a much more comprehensive care to their children. This dual expertise allows her to provide truly comprehensive care—understanding not only the emotional and behavioral challenges young people face, but also the broader health context that shapes their well-being. Dr. Miles creates a safe, supportive environment where children and teens can express themselves openly begin the process of healing and growth.
Parents flock to Dr. Miles because, prior to switching to child and adolescent psychiatry (ages 2 and up), she has practiced pediatrics in the first half of her career – and thus provides a much more comprehensive care to their children. This dual expertise allows her to provide truly comprehensive care—understanding not only the emotional and behavioral challenges young people face, but also the broader health context that shapes their well-being. Dr. Miles creates a safe, supportive environment where children and teens can express themselves openly begin the process of healing and growth.
(469) 923-2137 View (469) 923-2137

See more therapy options for 75032

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 75032

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 75032 who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
82% Anxiety
82% Bipolar Disorder
65% Trauma and PTSD
59% ADHD
59% Sleep or Insomnia
59% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 75032 see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% 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.