Psychiatrists in 75033
Jolyn Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75033
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
I obtained my Masters of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington where I was the recipient of the Ella Kate and Wallace Ralston graduate nursing scholarship award. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation in order to diagnose and then partner with my patients to formulate the best-individualized plan of treatment. I have worked in a variety of practice settings including: inpatient, residential treatment, community health, private practice, and nursing homes.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I’m here to support your mental health journey with care that’s personalized, holistic, and grounded in evidence. My focus is on helping you discover your inner strength, encouraging self-care, and empowering you to take charge of your well-being. Together, we’ll explore treatment options tailored to your needs, whether through counseling or simple, effective medication plans. I’ll ensure you feel fully informed and supported every step of the way, always keeping your goals at the heart of your care. Let’s work together to help you heal and thrive.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I’m here to support your mental health journey with care that’s personalized, holistic, and grounded in evidence. My focus is on helping you discover your inner strength, encouraging self-care, and empowering you to take charge of your well-being. Together, we’ll explore treatment options tailored to your needs, whether through counseling or simple, effective medication plans. I’ll ensure you feel fully informed and supported every step of the way, always keeping your goals at the heart of your care. Let’s work together to help you heal and thrive.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Welcome to Lean on Love Psychiatry, where our goal is to offer compassionate, thorough, and individualized mental health services. We know how intimidating it might be to seek professional assistance for mental health issues. Our clinic offers a wide range of services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of mental health conditions. As a result, our team of skilled mental health providers are committed to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for every client who enters our doors. From depression and anxiety, bipolar illness & ADHD, our specialists have the knowledge to help you.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Welcome to Lean on Love Psychiatry, where our goal is to offer compassionate, thorough, and individualized mental health services. We know how intimidating it might be to seek professional assistance for mental health issues. Our clinic offers a wide range of services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of mental health conditions. As a result, our team of skilled mental health providers are committed to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for every client who enters our doors. From depression and anxiety, bipolar illness & ADHD, our specialists have the knowledge to help you.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults. I believe each client needs individualized care, and approach every client with respect and nonjudgmental way. I provide combination of talk therapy, comprehensive evaluation, and medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults. I believe each client needs individualized care, and approach every client with respect and nonjudgmental way. I provide combination of talk therapy, comprehensive evaluation, and medication management.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my treatment approach aims to enhance the adaptive and healing capability of each individual. I encourage self-care and personal responsibility, fostering independence and a sense of empowerment for my patients. After a thorough psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis, and in the event that counseling alone is not enough, psychiatric medication regimens can be explored and are kept as simple as possible. Patients are educated on medication risks, benefits and available treatment options, to allow informed decision-making and to provide patient-centered care.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my treatment approach aims to enhance the adaptive and healing capability of each individual. I encourage self-care and personal responsibility, fostering independence and a sense of empowerment for my patients. After a thorough psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis, and in the event that counseling alone is not enough, psychiatric medication regimens can be explored and are kept as simple as possible. Patients are educated on medication risks, benefits and available treatment options, to allow informed decision-making and to provide patient-centered care.
Brilliant Mind Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033
I'm a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating a broad spectrum of clients and families with various psychiatric problems including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, mood disorder and PTSD. She provides a combination comprehensive evaluation and medication management. She graduated from University of Texas with her Family Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree (MSN) and Wilmington University with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). Dr. Mamo is member of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society.
I'm a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating a broad spectrum of clients and families with various psychiatric problems including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, mood disorder and PTSD. She provides a combination comprehensive evaluation and medication management. She graduated from University of Texas with her Family Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree (MSN) and Wilmington University with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). Dr. Mamo is member of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society.
Aloha Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I partner with my clients to find the best treatment options for their situations. Having been a Registered Nurse for over 20 years, I know the impact of mental health on the lives of not only our patients but also their families and loved ones. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in all lifespans for treating conditions related to mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, substance use, ADHD, and other behavioral health-related issues. I feel privileged to have the experience of working with diverse populations in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and community settings.
I partner with my clients to find the best treatment options for their situations. Having been a Registered Nurse for over 20 years, I know the impact of mental health on the lives of not only our patients but also their families and loved ones. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in all lifespans for treating conditions related to mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, substance use, ADHD, and other behavioral health-related issues. I feel privileged to have the experience of working with diverse populations in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and community settings.
Raigina Preston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75033
I understand that seeking mental health treatment can sometimes seem like a task. Whether it’s your first time opening up or you’ve seen someone before, and now you have to retell your story all over again. Either way, you’ve taken a step in the right direction, and that’s to start the process of feeling better because MENTAL HEALTH IS NOT A TREND. IT IS A LIFESTYLE.
I understand that seeking mental health treatment can sometimes seem like a task. Whether it’s your first time opening up or you’ve seen someone before, and now you have to retell your story all over again. Either way, you’ve taken a step in the right direction, and that’s to start the process of feeling better because MENTAL HEALTH IS NOT A TREND. IT IS A LIFESTYLE.
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
I enjoy treating patients aged 16 and older. I treat all mental health conditions, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD and Bipolar disorder. My non-judgmental approach helps individuals and families understand that there should be no shame or guilt associated with mental illness.
Star Legacy Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033
A peaceful mind is a blessing in disguise. We are here to help all those looking to achieve a sound, happy, and productive state of mind. We truly believe all issues are treatable and we take pride in being by your side during the journey. At Star Legacy we diagnose, educate, and treat psychiatric disorders with consultation and medication management. Our goal is to provide evidence based care in efforts to give patients the necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health function.
A peaceful mind is a blessing in disguise. We are here to help all those looking to achieve a sound, happy, and productive state of mind. We truly believe all issues are treatable and we take pride in being by your side during the journey. At Star Legacy we diagnose, educate, and treat psychiatric disorders with consultation and medication management. Our goal is to provide evidence based care in efforts to give patients the necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health function.
Domikah Olateru-Olagbegi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033
Domikah Burks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient's unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington -- where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings
Domikah Burks is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She combines an evidence-based approach alongside a holistic approach to adult psychiatry and is able to use her experience to better understand each patient's unique dynamic. She received her education (MSN) and training from the University of Texas at Arlington -- where she received training in both inpatient and outpatient settings
15 Second Videos
The Healed Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033
Alvin Ndubuisi is a board certified psychiatric mental health NP. He has been in practice for over 5 years. He takes patient care, views, and opinions regarding their mental health management very seriously. His practice is evidenced- based, and using holistic approach, comes up with the best treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to the patient.
Alvin Ndubuisi is a board certified psychiatric mental health NP. He has been in practice for over 5 years. He takes patient care, views, and opinions regarding their mental health management very seriously. His practice is evidenced- based, and using holistic approach, comes up with the best treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to the patient.
Jonathan Ariel Kaminar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Excel Psychiatry servicing all of Texas. We are located in McKinney, TX near Prosper and Frisco. I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy to adults from ages 18-65. I work with my clients to find a treatment plan that best suits them, and incorporate both medication and psychotherapy to meet their needs. For those with complex or chronic mental health needs, we offer both Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatments. Visit our website and book with me at www.excel-psychiatry.com or look for me on Zocdoc!
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Excel Psychiatry servicing all of Texas. We are located in McKinney, TX near Prosper and Frisco. I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy to adults from ages 18-65. I work with my clients to find a treatment plan that best suits them, and incorporate both medication and psychotherapy to meet their needs. For those with complex or chronic mental health needs, we offer both Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatments. Visit our website and book with me at www.excel-psychiatry.com or look for me on Zocdoc!
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
I know your time is valuable. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with Fellowships in Psychoanalysis and Mindfulness based treatments. I provide individualized treatment for those dealing with concerns about mood, anxiety, or struggles in one or more areas of life. While I offer short sessions of psychiatric care, my area of expertise is long sessions integrating treatments such as psychoanalysis talk therapy, exercise, mindfulness, and medications when indicated.
Aparna Iyer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75033
Not accepting new clients
I firmly believe in the therapeutic value of trusting and respectful relationship with my patient. With a holistic, non-judgmental and gentle approach, I focus my efforts on getting to understand the patient prior to formulating a treatment plan. My approach is thorough, exploring a patient's biological, psychological and social factors before determining the next best step, which may or may not include medications. I treat all adult mental health illnesses with a special interest in women's mental health, including those patients who are pregnant and postpartum. Follow us on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aparnaiyermd
I firmly believe in the therapeutic value of trusting and respectful relationship with my patient. With a holistic, non-judgmental and gentle approach, I focus my efforts on getting to understand the patient prior to formulating a treatment plan. My approach is thorough, exploring a patient's biological, psychological and social factors before determining the next best step, which may or may not include medications. I treat all adult mental health illnesses with a special interest in women's mental health, including those patients who are pregnant and postpartum. Follow us on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aparnaiyermd
It can be challenging to navigate the unique circumstances in your life alone. At Prosper Family Psychiatry, we're committed to providing compassionate and empathetic mental health care, guiding each patient on their journey toward healing. We believe treatment begins with a foundational patient-doctor relationship that is built on trust. Our aim is to walk with patients to help them discover their purpose and work towards building a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
It can be challenging to navigate the unique circumstances in your life alone. At Prosper Family Psychiatry, we're committed to providing compassionate and empathetic mental health care, guiding each patient on their journey toward healing. We believe treatment begins with a foundational patient-doctor relationship that is built on trust. Our aim is to walk with patients to help them discover their purpose and work towards building a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
I provide a unique integrated bio-psycho-social-spiritual-nutritional approach to mental well-being. Personalized and comprehensive services in an atmosphere of respect and compassion to help create healthy communities. One-stop for all your mental health needs that includes psychiatry med management (anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, geriatric disorders, dementia); individual and family therapy (marital, addiction, anger management, behavior modification, stress management, work-life balance; adult/adolescent Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) - (mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, women's issues). TMS.
I provide a unique integrated bio-psycho-social-spiritual-nutritional approach to mental well-being. Personalized and comprehensive services in an atmosphere of respect and compassion to help create healthy communities. One-stop for all your mental health needs that includes psychiatry med management (anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, geriatric disorders, dementia); individual and family therapy (marital, addiction, anger management, behavior modification, stress management, work-life balance; adult/adolescent Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) - (mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, women's issues). TMS.
I am Jenny Haney, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years of experience treating adolescents and adults in outpatient and inpatient settings. I take pride in building lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients to provide confident, high-quality care. I provide a thorough evaluation by utilizing excellent communication and interpersonal skills to diagnose and develop a treatment plan based on a conservative approach to medication management while integrating psychotherapy. Take the first step towards mental wellness and schedule an appointment with me today.
I am Jenny Haney, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years of experience treating adolescents and adults in outpatient and inpatient settings. I take pride in building lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients to provide confident, high-quality care. I provide a thorough evaluation by utilizing excellent communication and interpersonal skills to diagnose and develop a treatment plan based on a conservative approach to medication management while integrating psychotherapy. Take the first step towards mental wellness and schedule an appointment with me today.
Hello, I am Dr. Anderson from Anderson Psychiatric Services in Texas. My goal is to help you achieve "Health and Happiness." Whether you are facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adult ADHD, PTSD, or thought disorders, we can work together to regain control over your life and embark on a journey toward mental well-being—all from the comfort of your own home. I understand that each individual is unique, so I will work closely with you to create personalized treatment plans that combine medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and other holistic practices to help you become the best version of yourself.
Hello, I am Dr. Anderson from Anderson Psychiatric Services in Texas. My goal is to help you achieve "Health and Happiness." Whether you are facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adult ADHD, PTSD, or thought disorders, we can work together to regain control over your life and embark on a journey toward mental well-being—all from the comfort of your own home. I understand that each individual is unique, so I will work closely with you to create personalized treatment plans that combine medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and other holistic practices to help you become the best version of yourself.
See more therapy options for 75033
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 75033
20+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in 75033 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
95% | Depression |
90% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
90% | Medication Management |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Aetna |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 75033 see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 75033?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.